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

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

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

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

“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

In case we haven’t burned it into your brain already: The area around your eyes is super thin and delicate, so it’s important to tend

Chances are, you’ve heard about the wrinkle-reducing benefits of retinol, but might not understand exactly what this hero ingredient is—or everything it can do for

The term ‘active ingredient’ is a real buzzword in the skincare world, often seen on packaging, and all over social media. It’s often associated with

Skin-care devotees and novices alike have heard about the hydrating wonders of hyaluronic acid, and since everyone wants the glowiest, most supple skin possible, there’s

Machiavelli said it was better to be feared than loved, but retinoid wants it both ways. People love it because it’s scientifically proved to be

While it’s true there is no magic bullet when it comes to perfecting skin, one ingredient comes pretty close: retinol. “Prescription Retin-A and Tretinoin and

In the vast universe of skincare formulations, there’s one ingredient that consistently gets name-checked by derms and beauty editors alike: retinol. The vitamin A derivative

Retinol is widely acknowledged as the holy grail/desert island skin-care must-have of many a beauty expert. But before we go any further, a quick skin-care

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

Dermatologists break down the benefits of the game-changing skin-care ingredient known as polyhydroxy acids.

Without fail, every dermatologist we’ve ever spoken to has told us to use retinol (aka retinoids, Retin-A, granactive retinoids). Whether we’re asking for advice on