Totalbeauty.com recently published an article on top skin care ingredients. Let’s take a look at the top tier (in no particular order) and SkinPhD’s products containing these ingredients.
1. Ceramides
What they do: Ceramide is the main component of the stratum corneum of the epidermis layer of human skin. Together with cholesterol and saturated fatty acids, ceramides create a water-impermeable, protective layer to prevent excessive water loss due to evaporation as well as a barrier against the entry of microorganisms. With aging there is a decline in ceramide and cholesterol in the stratum corneum. Ceramides are related to our #2 ingredient…
2. Niacinamide
What it does: A form of Vitamin B3, Niacinamide can stimulate new collagen synthesis and up-regulates epidermal ceramide synthesis with concurrent epidermal barrier benefits. Niacinamide is also clinically known to treat pigmented lesions and, through its anti-inflammatory agents, effectively treats acne and rosacea.
SkinPhD Products with Niacinamide
3. Grape Seed/Grape Stem Cell
What it does: High in antioxidant properties, polyphenols, and resveratrol that significantly reduce free-radical damage and combat wrinkles, this ingredient is a powerhouse for anti-aging.
4. Mineral Hematite
What it does: This mineral, known for its energy and high in iron, reinforces the mechanical properties of the skin and rebuilds the fibril network. It helps to re-densify the
epidermis and fights against thinning of the skin. Mineral Hematite is more effective at Type I Collagen Production than is Retinol.
5. Retinol
What it does: Retinol is Vitamin A; it promotes the enzyme activity in the skin, thickens the epidermis, increases collagen resulting in improved texture and enhanced barrier function.
6. Linoleic/ linolenic acids
What they do: These fatty acids replenish the skin’s intercellular matrix and act as a protector. They contain a natural tocopherol concentrate as antioxidant and make the skin look younger while giving it a radiant shine. They soothe dry skin and have anti-inflammatory properties.
SkinPhD Cosmeceutical Day Care Lotion has Linoleic/ linolenic acids and is clinically-endorsed for sensitivity
7. Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
What it does: Extracted from GMO-free soybean, this regenerative active is obtained by gentle hydrolysis ensuring a balanced composition in peptides (rich in essential amino-acids). By increasing the cell energetic potential, it stimulates cellular renewal, thereby helping improve skin radiance. Studies show that these derivatives inhibit environmental damage, reduce irritation, improve skin texture, build collagen and fight sun damage. SkinPhD products that include non-GMO soy protein:
8. Vitamin C
What it does: A free radical scavenger, Vitamin C activates collagen synthesis and influences the metabolism of amino acids. It inhibits the synthesis of melanin that leads to even tone and lighter pigmentation while protecting the cells against UV-damages by scavenging free radicals and preventing the lipids from peroxidase. Encapsulated Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a very stable form of Vitamin C. SkinPhD Products with Vitamin C
9. Alpha Hydroxy Acids
What they do: They work mainly as an exfoliant. They cause the cells of the epidermis to become “unglued” allowing the dead cells to slough off, making room for regrowth of new skin. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) may even stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. The following are the five major types of alpha hydroxy acids found in skincare products and their sources:
- glycolic acid – sugar cane
- lactic acid – milk
- malic acid – apples and pears
- citric acid – oranges and lemons
- tartaric acid – grapes
AHAs are reported to improve wrinkling, roughness and mottled pigmentation of photodamaged skin after months of daily application.
AHA have been shown to promote smoother, younger looking skin by increasing the rate of cell renewal.
