on breaking down clean beauty.
It’s the season of new routines, and that includes your skincare!
As much fun as it is, shopping for skincare can be exhausting. And no, it’s not because I could spend hours in Sephora. Analyzing every product we buy to ensure it’s good for us can be such a process that it takes away from the joy of it all when we’re not completely in the know of what to look for and what to avoid. New ingredients and technologies and trends are constantly emerging, and while this can be exciting for beauty lovers, it can also be overwhelming. With so many unfamiliar terms on product labels, it can be difficult to know which products are truly safe and effective for your skin - as well as your overall health.
It’s the season of new routines and refreshing your vibe. To help you navigate the beauty aisle with confidence, and your beauty b.f.f. (me) in your pocket, I’ve outlined some must-know beauty buzzwords to look for the next time you’re shopping or auditing your skincare shelf for fall — and beyond!
Clean Shopping 101 - Ingredients To Love
1. Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient draws moisture to the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated. It's suitable for all skin types, and is especially beneficial for those with dry or dehydrated skin (yes, there’s a difference). You’ll see this ingredient often, but ensure a standalone HA product isn’t using a ton of water or similar fillers, while claiming to be a concentrated product.
2. Ceramides: Ceramides make up a significant part of your skin barrier. They help to keep moisture in and irritants out. Look for products containing ceramides if you have dry, sensitive, or compromised skin.
3. Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide offers a variety of benefits for the skin. It can help to minimize pores, reduce redness and hyperpigmentation, and improve skin texture. You will often find it in serums, moisturizers, and toners!
4. Peptides: This is a huge buzzword right now, so it’s good to understand it. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as messengers in the skin. They can stimulate collagen production, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin firmness. Peptides are often found in anti-aging products, as well as brighteners.
5. Prebiotics and Probiotics: The microbiome on your skin is a community of bacteria that lives there. Prebiotics and probiotics help to nourish and balance the microbiome, which can lead to healthier, more resilient skin. My rule of thumb is balancing using these effectively, without overusing them either which can cause more problems than they help (in that case).
6. Chemical Exfoliants: NOTE: BE CAREFUL AND USE DISCRETIONALLY! Chemical exfoliants use acids to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. They can be effective in brightening the complexion, smoothing rough texture, and minimizing pores. However, it's important to choose the right acid for your skin type and use it correctly to avoid irritation. Popular chemical exfoliants include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid and lactic acid, and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT overuse these, use them on freshly treated skin, or combine them where possible.
7. Centella Asiatica (Cica): Cica is a popular K-beauty skincare ingredient that has been shown to promote healing, soothe inflammation, and reduce redness. It's a great choice for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Using Cica can help calm your skin while restoring and strengthening the skin barrier.
8. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is one of my favourite ingredients, as it’s is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from damage (see: free radicals being tyrants). It can also brighten the complexion and fade hyperpigmentation and scarring. Look for products containing stabilized vitamin C for maximum effectiveness. Similar to HA, ensure your products are free of fillers so that you get the full effects!
9. Retinol: Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that is a proven anti-aging ingredient, and anti-acne assistant. It can stimulate collagen production, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin texture. However, retinol can be irritating to some skin types, so it's important to start slowly and increase usage gradually.
10. SPF: No matter what your skin concerns are, sun protection is essential. Every day. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher and apply it generously every day. Did I say every day? Sunscreen is available in a variety of formulations, including lotions, creams, gels, sprays, and even makeup!
By familiarizing yourself with these key beauty buzzwords, you'll be better equipped to understand what you’re putting on your skin, and choose safe and effective products that meet your individual skincare needs. Remember, it's always a good idea to do your research and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns.
Additional Tips for Choosing Skincare Products
Read the ingredient list carefully: Pay attention to the order of ingredients, as the higher up an ingredient is listed, the more concentrated it is in the product.
Patch test new products: Before applying a new product to your entire face, test it on a small patch of skin to check for any allergic reactions or irritation.
Go waterless: Water-based products are often packed with fillers like water, which can dilute the active ingredients and reduce their effectiveness. Opt for products that provide long-lasting hydration and a luxurious feel, without all the unnecessary fillers.
Learn + consider your skin type: Choose products that are formulated for your specific skin type, whether it's dry, oily, combination, or sensitive.
Look for products with clean ingredients: While synthetic ingredients can be ‘effective’, the long term health effects are sky high. Many people prefer to use products that contain clean and natural, ethically-sourced ingredients.
Avoid products with harsh chemicals: Chemicals, such as parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, can be irritating to the skin. Look for products that are free of these ingredients and your body will feel the difference.
Pay attention to expiration dates: Skincare products can lose their potency over time. Check the expiration date on the product before purchasing it!
By incorporating these factors into your new and improved skincare routine, you can achieve skin that you feel your best in.
Questions? Send me a message!
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