ACTIVE INGREDIENTS IN SKINCARE (Part 2)

Ashley Ng

27 April 2024

Peptides

Peptides, also called polypeptides, are short chains of amino acids, which build certain proteins. In skincare, peptides deliver specific benefits to the skin by signalling various biological processes.

As active ingredients, peptides help build strong skin barrier and ease inflammation, improve skin firmness, produce anti-aging effects, and enhance overall hydration.

More specifically, polypeptide chains are claimed to make up collagen and elastin, so adding peptides to your routine can stimulate your skin to make collagen and elastin which can lead to firmer, younger-looking skin.

Ceramides

Ceramides are naturally occurring lipids found in the outer skin layer. They play a crucial role in retaining the moisture and skin's barrier function, helping to keep the skin healthy and protected.

Ceramides are used to improve the overall health of skin cells, enhance the skin's natural lipid barrier and bring numerous benefits, such as locking moisture, increased protection against environmental damage, and calming skin.

Vitamin E (tocopherol)

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient with antioxidant properties that can be found in various foods and plant-based oils. In skincare products, Vitamin E supports skin barrier repair, enhances moisturization, and reduce the UV damage to the skin.

Vitamin E is often mixed with Vitamin C and retinoids in skincare products to enhance their overall support and protection.

Licorice Root Extract

Licorice root extract comes from the root of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and could be seen as one of the most oldest herbal remedies. Licorice roots have more than 300 different ingredients that carry potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral effects.

Licorice root extract is commonly used to treat various skin conditions including acne, eczema, hyperpigmentation, redness, and uneven skin tone.

Alpha arbutin

Arbutin is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in plants such as bearberry, cranberry, and pear trees.

Its most commonly known effect is reducing melanin formation leading to its skin-lightening and brightening properties. It can be used in various skincare products for spot treatments, targeting to help with age spots, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.

Sulfur

Sulfur is a natural element and an essential component for all living cells that has been used throughout history for its medicinal and skincare properties.

In skincare ambiance, sulfur is primarily used as a mid-to-moderate acne spot treatment and soothing agent owing to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is also helpful to promote exfoliation, fight bacteria and reduce sebum on the skin.

Because of the possibility of causing dryness and irritation, products containing sulfur should be used with caution. It is crucial to avoid layering sulfur with other acne treatments that may exfoliate or dry out the skin such as salicylic acid, retinoids or benzoyl peroxide.