8 Active Ingredients You Must Know

Find the Right Treatment for Your Skin Concerns

In today's world of endless skincare products, finding treatments that truly address your skin concerns can be challenging. A good starting point is understanding which active skincare product ingredients are designed to target which particular issues.

You don’t need to overhaul your entire skincare routine. Many active ingredients are available in everyday products like cleansers and moisturisers, as well as in more concentrated forms like serums, toners, and concentrates. You can even find them in face scrubs and masks. 

However, it’s crucial to know your skin type first so you can choose the right formulation—whether it’s an oil, cream, serum, cleanser, or mask. If you need more information about skin types, check out this article.

Be cautious, though; using multiple active ingredients simultaneously can do more harm than good. Always perform a patch test when introducing a new product, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and gradually incorporate the active ingredient into your routine. 

If you’re using a new treatment during the day, finish with sunscreen or a high SPF moisturiser, as some actives can increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV light and sun damage.

[Always seek professional advice from a dermatologist or GP if you have persistent skin issues]

Common Active Ingredients (‘Actives’) in Skincare Products

Vitamin C

If you're looking to tackle dark spots, pigmentation, or simply want to brighten your skin, look for products containing vitamin C. This powerful antioxidant is available in cleansers, toners, moisturisers, and serums, allowing you to incorporate it easily into your routine. 

Vitamin C can even help brighten dark under-eye circles, making you look more refreshed. It also offers anti-aging benefits and protection against environmental pollutants.

Retinol

Retinol, a milder form of prescription-strength retinoids, is effective for improving fine lines and wrinkles. It stimulates the skin’s natural production of elastin and collagen, helping to repair and maintain youthful-looking skin. While gentler than retinoids, retinol still delivers significant anti-aging benefits with less irritation and dryness.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from pollution and environmental stressors, which can lead to premature ageing. Unlike other antioxidants, Vitamin E also has hydrating properties. 

Including it in your skincare routine helps maintain the skin's natural levels, which decrease with age and sun exposure. It’s often found in sunscreens and skincare products due to its potential to reduce UV damage.

Peptides

Peptides are essential for stimulating collagen production, which helps keep your skin firm and youthful. Since collagen molecules are too large to penetrate the skin, peptides act as messengers, encouraging your skin to produce more collagen. 

This leads to a plumper, firmer appearance. Peptides are gentle and suitable for all skin types, and they’re commonly found in creams and masks. They also help produce elastin, further improving skin elasticity and firmness.

Hyaluronic Acid

If you struggle with dry skin or are seeking a dewy complexion, hyaluronic acid is your go-to ingredient. It binds water to your skin, helping it retain moisture and look more supple. 

Hydrated skin also minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving it a smoother, more youthful look. Hyaluronic acid is not only found in skincare products but also in makeup, like the ByTerry collection, allowing you to combine skincare with your beauty routine.

Beta-Hydroxy Acid (BHA)

Beta-hydroxy acid is a miracle ingredient for reducing and preventing blemishes, breakouts, and mild acne. Salicylic acid, the most popular BHA, works by deeply penetrating the skin to clear and prevent clogged pores. Besides treating acne, it’s also effective in hair care products for tackling dandruff or buildup.

Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA)

AHAs are primarily used for anti-aging and exfoliation. Often referred to as chemical peels, these acids remove dead skin cells, promote skin cell renewal, and improve skin texture. Benefits include minimising wrinkles, brightening dark spots, and treating acne. 

Glycolic and lactic acids are the most researched AHAs, known for their gentle action and effectiveness. By exfoliating the skin, AHAs also increase the absorption of other skincare products, maximising their benefits.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient that locks in moisture, controls oil production, brightens hyperpigmentation, improves skin texture, and reduces redness and the appearance of pores. 

It’s also found in eye care products, where it helps minimise fine lines and wrinkles. Although niacinamide requires time to show noticeable results, consistent use will yield impressive benefits.

By understanding these key active ingredients, you can tailor your skincare routine to effectively address your concerns and achieve healthier, more radiant skin.