While you might think that in order to get glowing skin you need dozens of products with hundreds of ingredients, those with the best skin often credit a few hero purchases.
Some ingredients are amazing skin champions and should be a staple in your routine.
The ingredients include some that you might already use like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, as well as more unusual ingredients like squalene and glycolic acid.
1. Hyaluronic acid for deep hydration
If you’re not already using hyaluronic acid every morning and evening, you’re doing it wrong.
Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule that occurs naturally in the skin, and helps bind water to collagen, locking it in the skin, so the skin looks more plump, supple, and hydrated.
Some of the best hyaluronic acids on the market include Vichy Mineral Serum 89 (26 euros), as well Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Dew Drop Serum (32€) or more budget friendly Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid (8 euros).
You can reach for hyaluronic acid in a serum or moisturizer, and you should use it on the day you usually moisturize after cleansing.
It’s worth remembering if you’re using a hyaluronic acid serum, you should apply it before other serums and moisturizers, as it helps seal whatever you’re putting on top.
Hyaluronic acid acts as a vacuum – drawing products to the surface of your skin so they can penetrate your pores.
2. Vitamin C for that dewy glow
Vitamin C is the second skincare powerhouse you need to add to your diet, thanks to its ability to clear acne-prone skin and add glow to nearly every complexion.
Vitamin C has also been shown to treat a wide range of inflammatory skin conditions. Reducing redness can result in a more even complexion.
Vitamin C is known for its ability to increase collagen production.
Collagen is a natural protein that gets depleted over time. Low levels of collagen can lead to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
We recommend trying the following vitamin C serums, depending on your budget. Drunk Elephant Day Serum (75 euros) It is a classic game, but it is very expensive. Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Pellets 2% (€5.80) is a more budget friendly option, or we also love La Roche Posay Pure Vitamin C 10 Serum (38 euros).
3. Squalene to nourish your skin making it smooth and plump
One of the most exotic skincare ingredients, squalene is lightweight, non-comedogenic and a rich source of fatty acids and antioxidants.
Squalene mimics your skin’s natural oils, making it an excellent moisturizer for both your skin and hair.
Experts advise using this ingredient to moisturize and nourish your skin.
Our favorite is No7 Squalane Capsules (25 euros) and Ordinary plant derived from Squalane (7.20 euros).
4. Glycolic acid to smooth texture and eliminate dullness
Finally, experts all agree that glycolic acid is a must if you want good skin.
Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (or AHA) derived from sugar cane, and it acts as an exfoliator, helping to slough off dead skin cells and reveal newer, brighter layers underneath.
Glycolic acid is the ingredient to reach for when your skin takes a trip down the dull aisle—like when you apply your foundation and nothing about it feels right.
Powerful glycolic acid helps purify and target pores young loveIt fades and re-appears your complexion, leaving it behind clearerSmoother and infinitely better.
If this is your first time using glycolic acid, experts all recommend that you start with small doses and for short periods, before you are able to use it either every other day or every other day.
A good one to start with Revolution Skincare 2.5% Glycolic Acid Toner (€10.50) or if you’re looking to step it up a bit, the . file Kneipp & Fab Glycolic Fix Extreme 6% (24 euros) great.
It is absolutely necessary to wear SPF Religiously the day or the day after the use of acids.
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