Vitamin C, lactic acid, malachite extract and more: 5 must-have ingredients in your skincare products

Skincare products: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that shields the skin, brightens complexion, and diminishes dark spots (Image: Canva)

To keep your skin healthy and glowing in summer depends a lot on picking the right stuff for your skincare routine. Ingredients are super important for keeping your skin healthy and happy, as each one does a specific job to help your skin stay its best.

When you're choosing products, look for ingredients that match what you need. For example, if you want hydration, look for things like hyaluronic acid. If you want to get rid of acne, products with ingredients like salicylic acid are the best. And if you want to brighten up dull skin in summer, Vitamin C is the go-to ingredient.

Here are five key ingredients that will take your skincare routine to the next level to give you radiant, healthy skin.

Malachite Extract: Used in ancient Egypt for its curative and protective qualities, Malachite Extract is known for its protective and detoxifying traits, says Prachi Bhandari, Co-Founder & Head of Research, Aminu Wellness. It acts as a potent antioxidant, safeguarding against pollution and UV damage. Additionally, it soothes sunburn and irritation with its anti-inflammatory properties, promoting quick healing and restoring the skin's natural balance. Its detoxifying properties further help purify your skin, leaving it radiant and healthy.

Copper peptides: Copper Peptides in skincare products are a game changer because of their unique skin-repairing abilities. "As we age, collagen levels decline, leading to sagging skin, wrinkles, and fine lines. Copper Peptides help to combat these signs of ageing by supporting the skin's natural repairing processes. Additionally, it soothes sunburn and irritation with its anti-inflammatory properties, promoting quick healing and restoring the skin's natural balance," says Bhandari.

Lactic acid: It is a mild exfoliant derived from milk and super effective in removing dead skin cells. It acts as a mild exfoliator and encourages skin cell turnover without irritating. This makes lactic acid suitable for all skin types. Adding it to your skincare routine will help in spot reduction and keep your skin smooth.

Glycolic acid: Being the smallest molecule in the Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) family, Glycolic Acid penetrates deeply into the skin, resulting in exfoliating and renewing the skin's surface, says Bhandari. It prevents your skin from getting dry, keeping it looking full and hydrated.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that shields the skin, brightens complexion, and diminishes dark spots. It also enhances collagen production, maintaining skin's firmness and elasticity. It fights the causes of dull, tired, ageing skin at the root. Its multi-faceted benefits make Vitamin C one of the most valuable ingredients in skincare routines for glowing, healthy skin.