Understanding Common Skincare Product Ingredients

Have you ever read the label on your moisturizer and felt totally confused by its long list of ingredients? Many skincare products contain lots of barely-pronounceable ingredients that you may—or may not—want absorbed into your skin. It’s time to find out the truth about the most common skincare ingredients:

[ctt template=”5″ link=”AbG98″ via=”no” ]Parabens are cheap synthetic preservatives that you may not want on your skin[/ctt]

Parabens

Parabens are very cheap synthetic preservatives that companies add to most skin and hair products. These ingredients include methyl, propyl, butyl, and ethyl can cause allergic reactions and even be toxic. If you opt for products without these preserving  parabens, be sure to use them up by their expiration dates.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid already exists naturally in the human body and is therefore a safer alternative to synthetic ingredients. Despite its name, hyaluronic acid isn’t harsh or drying; it actually serves as a moisturizer, to make your skin soft, smooth, and plump. Apply it to the corners of your nose and mouth and under your eyes.

Retinol

Retinol is the active form of vitamin A that’s known to exfoliate the skin to combat signs of sun damage, acne, fine lines, and wrinkles. Retinol also helps increase the body’s production of hyaluronic acid and collagen which can make the skin supple and smooth. Retinol can help your skin appear younger because it both repairs and prevents damage. Only use products containing retinol at night.

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Alpha-hydroxy acids are some of the most common ingredients in over-the-counter skincare products in the United States. These natural acids include glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric and help even skin tone, lessen the appearance of pores, and decrease the appearance of fine lines and age spots. Since AHAs can cause mild irritation and sensitivity to the sun, be sure to use sunscreen every day.

Salicylic Acid

Also known as beta-hydroxyl acid, salicylic acid is most commonly used to treat acne. It is usually found in astringents and is used to dry out stubborn pimples. Although effective, it’s very harsh on the skin and can lead to increased sun sensitivity and skin irritation, often leaving your skin red and dry. For a safer, natural alternative, try tea tree oil.

Check out our weekly Beauty Buzz Blog for more skincare tips. If you’re interested in a career in the beauty industry, Salon Success Academy offers programs in cosmetology and esthetics that give you the hands-on training and extensive State Board preparation you need. We have five convenient locations throughout the Inland Empire in California. Contact us today at 877-987-4247 to learn more.