Boost skin health: Use niacinamide, vitamin C, PHAs, peptides to reduce fine lines, prevent acne

Skincare hasn’t looked is an evolving field, and staying updated on the latest ingredients can help you achieve your skin goals. (Image: Canva)

Skincare hasn’t looked is an evolving field, and staying updated on the latest ingredients can help you achieve your skin goals. Whether you’re combating acne, fighting ageing, or maintaining healthy skin, incorporating these ingredients can lead to transformative results.

Do you find that most names in your favourite skincare section belong in the pharmacy? PHA, BHA, Retinol, Peptides… Are you also confused about chemical-sounding skincare available on the market? Worry not, we have you covered.

Skincare in the last few years has surely evolved, and if you find that it’s not necessary to just stick to your favourite moisturiser, This guide covers all the major skincare combinations available in the market and also gives you their benefits and what specifically they do to the skin.

From Niacinamide, which is gentle on the skin, to PHAs that exfoliate gently to reveal smoother skin, Bakuchiol, for those who find the anti-ageing Retinol too harsh, and Kumkumadi Oil to get rid of pigmentation, our exhaustive list will be your guide to choosing the right skincare for you.

While niacinamide is not exactly new, it has skyrocketed in popularity due to its versatility and ability to work with various skin types. Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is a powerhouse ingredient that tackles everything from acne and large pores to uneven skin tone and fine lines.

Benefits: Reduces inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, regulates oil production, minimises large pores, and improves skin texture.

Why it’s trending: Its ability to deliver visible results without irritation makes it a go-to for sensitive skin types.

PHAs are a gentler alternative to AHAs and BHAs. These exfoliants work on the surface of the skin without irritating, making them suitable for sensitive or reactive skin.

Benefits: Gently exfoliates, improves skin texture, enhances hydration, and strengthens the skin barrier.

Why It’s Trending: Perfect for exfoliating without the harsh effects, PHAs are becoming a staple for those seeking smoother skin.

Bakuchiol is a plant-based alternative to retinol, delivering similar anti-ageing benefits without irritation. Derived from the Babchi plant, it helps reduce fine lines, improves elasticity, and promotes a youthful glow.

Benefits: Reduces wrinkles, improves firmness, soothes skin, and is safe for sensitive skin and during pregnancy.

Why it’s trending: As consumers seek natural alternatives to retinol, bakuchiol offers similar benefits with fewer side effects.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as the building blocks for proteins like collagen and elastin. They signal the skin to produce more collagen, resulting in firmer, plumper skin.

Benefits: Boosts collagen, enhances elasticity, reduces wrinkles, and strengthens the skin’s barrier.

Why it’s trending: Peptides are becoming increasingly popular for achieving younger-looking skin without invasive treatments.

While hyaluronic acid has long been a staple, sodium hyaluronate is increasingly being used in skincare due to its smaller molecular size, allowing for deeper penetration.

Benefits: Hydrates, plumps, reduces fine lines, and improves elasticity.

Why it’s trending: As hydration remains a top priority, these ingredients are go-to's for anyone looking to achieve glowing skin.

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Benefits: Known for brightening the skin, reducing hyperpigmentation, and boosting collagen production. Vitamin C also offers antioxidant protection against free radicals.

Where to find: St. Botanica, Klairs, and Mamaearth.

Best for: Dull skin, uneven skin tone, and those looking to fight early signs of ageing.

Benefits: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps control oil, reduces acne, and fights signs of ageing by neutralising free radicals.

Where to find: Innisfree and Plum.

Best for: Oily, acne-prone, and ageing skin.

Benefits: Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it an excellent choice for treating acne. It reduces redness, unclogs pores, and fights acne-causing bacteria.

Where to find: The Body Shop and Mamaearth.

Best for: Acne-prone and oily skin.

Benefits: Rich in saffron, this Ayurvedic oil is renowned for brightening the skin, reducing pigmentation, and improving skin tone. It also nourishes and rejuvenates the skin.

Where to find: Kama Ayurveda and Forest Essentials

Best for: Dull skin, hyperpigmentation, and dry skin.

Staying updated on the latest ingredients can help you achieve your skin goals. Whether you’re combating acne, fighting ageing, or maintaining healthy skin, incorporating these ingredients can lead to transformative results.

Always patch-test new products and consult a dermatologist to tailor your skincare routine to your needs.