Over the past few years there has been a significant shift in the skincare industry. Consumers are more educated about skincare than ever before, becoming more ingredient-focused and researching the effects they have on the skin, this is thanks to the sharing of skincare knowledge on the internet.
“Shopping for skincare is no longer based on brand names, but rather what ingredients are most beneficial to the skin. There has been a fair share of hype around active ingredients such as retinol, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, but there are some newer, cutting-edge ingredients that are increasing in popularity,” explains Dr Alek Nikolic, renowned specialist in Aesthetic Medicine and Executive Director of high-end online skincare store, SkinMiles.
Below, Dr Nikolic shares his top four active ingredients that skincare fans should be on the lookout for when shopping for skincare.
- Granactive retinol: This is also known as hydroxypinacolone retinoate. It is a less sensitising and non-irritating form of retinol that has the same benefits as prescription-strength tretinoin.
Benefits: Tackles fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes and hyperpigmentation, and helps renew skin plumpness, elasticity and hydration. This active ingredient is formulated for preventing ageing skin concerns and to counteract the signs of UV skin damage and intrinsic skin ageing. It also minimises pores and sebum production and works as an anti-oxidant.
Recommended products: Sk.in avenge| HPR- 5 , Sk.in avenge | HPR- 4 , Sk.in avenge | HPR- 3
- Lipid soluble vitamin C: This is also known as ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate. It is less sensitising and reactive than ascorbic acid, but can be absorbed better through the skin barrier, meaning it stays 40 times longer in the skin than ascorbic acid.
Benefits: Can be used as an antioxidant to improve skin elasticity, boost collagen, treat hyperpigmentation and provide skin-brightening benefits. It also helps to repair and prevent skin ageing concerns such as fine lines, textured skin and a dull complexion.
Recommended products: LAMELLE Correctives Vita C Lipid , sk.in gloss | radiant shot
- Silymarin: This ingredient is a derivative of the milk thistle plant. Not only does it promote healthy skin, but research shows that silymarin has numerous skincare benefit, especially for problematic, ageing and oily skin types.
Benefits: Helps to improve inflammatory skin conditions, anti-aging effects and sebum overproduction that can lead to breakouts. This active ingredient reduces oiliness, refines skin texture and visibly improves skin clarity and fine lines.
Recommended products: SKINCEUTICALS Silymarin CF
- Tranexamic acid: This active ingredient provides a powerful and specific anti-inflammatory action, and inhibits the enzyme responsible for pigment formation. It also blocks tyrosinase synthesis in melanocytes, while blocking the transfer of pigment from pigment producing cells known as melanocytes to the skin cells In the epidermis. Tranexamic acid also calms the skin and helps restore the skin barrier.
Benefits: Helps to fade discolouration, brightens skin and reduces the appearance of acne scars.
Recommended products: MESOESTETIC Melan Tran3x Concentrate and MESOESTETIC Melan Tran3x Gel Cream
Most skincare brands offer personalised skincare services by conducting a skin analysis. This will allow them to see what each individual’s skin needs are and provide product recommendation based on active ingredients and concentrations.
When it comes to any aesthetic medicine everyone should seek advice from industry professionals, such as a skincare therapist, an aesthetic medical doctor or a cosmetic dermatologist, before committing to any decision.
There are also online consultation options available, including live chats and assessments which provide helpful advice and information. SkinMiles.com offers bespoke advice through their Face2Face Assessment. Simply fill in a few questions and attach a photograph of your face, to receive a recommended personal skin product regime from Dr Alek Nikolic himself.
Visit www.skinmiles.com and sign up for your free Face2Face Assessment. Use the promo code skinanalysis5 during the month of April and receive a 5% discount or recommended item.
