Category: Skincare Ingredients

I called dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss to ask if she felt glycerin held up to hyaluronic acid, and she went a step further and said she prefers it — it’s an unsung skincare hero that, she says, is better at increasing skin hydration, minimizing water loss, and protecting the skin from irritation. (Because it’s so conditioning, the ingredient can leave your skin feeling a bit sticky afterward. As someone with ultra dry skin, this has never bothered me — but if you have an oilier skin type it’s something to consider.)

The hydration-attracting ingredient has become a staple in both topical and injectable treatments. Experts explain why and who should use it.

So you decided to experiment with a retinoid. Congratulations on trying what dermatologists universally agree to be “the most useful anti-aging ingredient around.” It also helps with acne, so good job on finding a beauty product with actual multi-uses! But a little-known side effect of retinoid is something colloquially known on internet message boards and… Continue reading 7 People on Surviving the ‘Retinoid Uglies’

While we know that vitamins and minerals are essential for both internal and external health, does zinc deserve a place in your beauty routine? RHEA CARTWRIGHT asks the experts

If you’ve never heard of retinol, let me give you a quick rundown: it is a topical treatment that can help stimulate cell turnover, pushing healthier looking, smoother, and more radiant skin to the surface. Retinoids (the umbrella term for any cream derived from vitamin A) are some of the most well-researched and revered ingredients… Continue reading Since We’re All Stuck Inside, Might It Be a Good Time to Try Retinoids?

For countless skincare products, niacinamide is touted as a callout ingredient to help fade dark spots and Dr. Idriss credits the ingredient as able to “decrease hyperpigmentation by minimizing the transfer of melanin to keratinocytes.” Those with sensitized skin may prefer niacinamide to others known to cause irritation in some, like vitamin C, hydroquinone, kojic acid or retinoids.

Remember the great kale takeover that dominated the zeitgeist a few years back? As production of the leafy green grew by more than 60% between 2007 and 2012, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture data, consuming the fiber-, protein-, and vitamin-packed super veggie with every meal (or at least showing your support sartorially, like Beyoncé)… Continue reading 12 Retinol Serums That Will Get You Your Glowiest Skin Ever

When a cream or serum promises that it’s packed full of skin-loving vitamins and minerals, one of them is probably vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide or nicotinamide. While the active ingredient has been around for years, it’s gaining popularity thanks in part to, well, you—the internet skincare obsessive. Unlike its active ingredient counterparts retinol… Continue reading What Does Niacinamide Do?

“Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that helps boost collagen production and aid in cell turnover,” Idriss says. “This results in more even, smoother skin and helps reduce the appearance of sun spots, fine lines, and wrinkles.” It’s because of this rapid cellular turnover that retinol is used in the treatment of acne and has been shown in studies to prevent some cases of skin cancer.

There’s no underestimating the power of nature. From miracle medicines to unparalleled health aids, some of the most incredible ingredients around are products of the plants, flowers, herbs, seeds, nuts, and berries that cover the globe, and skin care is no exception. There’s more demand than ever for clean beauty right now, but it can… Continue reading 10 Botanicals Derms Say Are Legit Active Ingredients