Skin care: ingredients explained simply

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The most important ingredients for clear skin

Azelaic acid: soothes the barrier + slow/well aging + brightening corrective
Centella extract: promotes wound healing
Glycerin: nourishes and moisturizes and soothes the barrier
Glycolic acid (AHA) : slow/well aging + brightening corrective
Salicylic acid (BHA) : slow/well aging + brightening corrective
Panthenol (provitamin B5) : nourishes and moisturizes and soothes the barrier

The benefits of rice water for the skin:

Rice water, left over after rice has been cooked or soaked, is often used as a natural skin care product. Here are some of the potential benefits of rice water for skin:

Moisturizing : Rice water contains proteins and amino acids that can help moisturize the skin and keep it supple.
Skin soothing : Rice water has soothing properties that can help relieve skin irritations. It can be especially beneficial for sensitive or irritated skin.
Lightening Effect : Some studies suggest that rice water may have antioxidant properties that could help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Antioxidant effects : Rice water contains antioxidants that can fight free radicals. This may help protect the skin from premature aging.

The benefits of azelaic acid for the skin:

Azelaic acid is an organic acid derived from wheat, rye, and barley. It is widely used in skin care, particularly for the treatment of acne and rosacea. Here are some of the key effects of azelaic acid on the skin:

Anti-inflammatory properties : Azelaic acid can help reduce redness and inflammation on the skin, especially in inflammatory skin conditions such as acne.
Antibacterial action : Azelaic acid has antibacterial properties, particularly against the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, which is responsible for the development of acne. By reducing the bacterial population, it can help control acne breakouts.
Inhibition of sebum production : Azelaic acid can regulate sebum production in the sebaceous glands. Excessive sebum production is often associated with acne, and controlling sebum production can help reduce the formation of blackheads.

Skin lightening effect : Azelaic acid can also help reduce hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. By inhibiting melanin production, dark spots and discoloration can fade.
Improves skin texture : The use of azelaic acid can help improve the overall texture and structure of the skin. It can refine pores and reduce the appearance of blemishes.
Antioxidant effect: Azelaic acid acts as an antioxidant that can combat free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that can cause oxidative stress in the skin, contributing to premature skin aging.

It is important to note that the effects of azelaic acid can vary from person to person, and results may vary depending on skin type and specific skin condition.

Benefits of Centella extract for the skin:

Centella asiatica, also known as tiger grass or gotu kola, is a plant whose extract is widely used in skincare. Centella extract has various effects on the skin that make it a popular ingredient. Here are some of the main effects:

Soothing Effect : Centella extract has powerful soothing properties. It can help relieve redness and irritation, making it especially beneficial for sensitive or inflamed skin.
Anti-inflammatory properties : Centella asiatica can help reduce inflammation in the skin. This is especially important in the treatment of skin problems such as acne or rosacea.
Promotes wound healing : The plant is traditionally valued for its healing properties. The extract can promote wound healing by stimulating collagen production and supporting skin cell regeneration.
Anti-aging effects : Centella extract may help improve skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging. It does this by promoting collagen production, which can lead to firmer and more youthful-looking skin.
Moisturizing : The extract also has moisturizing properties. It can help hydrate the skin while forming a protective film that prevents water loss.
Antioxidant Effect : Centella asiatica is rich in antioxidants that can help fight free radicals, molecules that can contribute to premature skin aging.
Reduction of scarring : Due to its beneficial effect on collagen production, Centella extract can help reduce the formation of scars and improve the appearance of existing scars.

Centella extract is often used in serums, creams, masks, and other skin care products. It's especially popular in products for sensitive, dry, mature, or acne-prone skin. As with any skin care product, it's important to test your individual skin tolerance and consult a skin care professional if in doubt.

Benefits of glycerin for the skin:

Glycerin is a commonly used ingredient in skin care products, and it has various beneficial effects on the skin. Here are some of the main benefits of glycerin for the skin:

Moisturizing : Glycerin is an excellent moisturizer. It attracts water from the air and helps draw it into the skin, moisturizing it. This is especially beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin.
Barrier function : Glycerin can help strengthen the skin barrier. By locking in moisture, it helps protect the skin from external aggressors such as wind, cold, and pollution.
Soothing effect : Glycerin can also have a soothing effect on the skin. It helps soothe irritation and reduce redness, which is especially beneficial for sensitive skin.
Anti-aging effects : By providing intense hydration, glycerin can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Well-hydrated skin often looks plumper and more youthful.
Help with skin problems : Glycerin can also help relieve various skin problems, including dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis. It alleviates symptoms by moisturizing the skin and improving its barrier function.
Non-pore-clogging : Glycerin is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores. This makes it a suitable option for people with oily or acne-prone skin.
Improves the penetration of other active ingredients : Glycerin can also enhance the penetration of other active ingredients, making it an effective ingredient in skin care products. It helps push other ingredients deeper into the skin.

It's important to note that glycerin doesn't work the same on all skin types. Some people may experience a sensitive reaction to it. Therefore, it's advisable to test new products containing glycerin on a small area of skin first to ensure no irritation occurs.

Benefits of glycolic acid (AHA) for the skin:

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) found in many skincare products, especially exfoliants. Here are some of the main effects of glycolic acid on the skin:

Exfoliation : Glycolic acid is an exfoliating ingredient. It helps remove dead skin cells from the surface, improving skin texture. This process promotes skin renewal and gives the skin a fresher appearance.
Improves skin texture : Through exfoliation, glycolic acid can help improve skin texture. Fine lines, wrinkles, and imperfections can be reduced, resulting in smoother skin.
Skin lightening : Glycolic acid can help reduce hyperpigmentation. It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, and can thus help fade dark spots, sun spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation.
Promotes collagen production : The use of glycolic acid can stimulate collagen production. Collagen is a protein responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. Increased collagen production can lead to firmer and more youthful-looking skin.
Refining pores : By removing dead skin cells and promoting cell renewal, glycolic acid can also help refine pores and reduce the appearance of blackheads.
Acne Treatment : Glycolic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat acne. By removing dead skin cells, it prevents clogged pores, and its anti-inflammatory effect can reduce redness and swelling.

It's important to note that glycolic acid can work differently depending on the concentration and skin type. Some people may be sensitive to it, especially at higher concentrations. It's recommended to use products containing glycolic acid at lower concentrations initially and allow your skin to gradually acclimate to the product. People with sensitive skin should consult a skincare professional before using glycolic acid products.

Benefits of salicylic acid (BHA) for the skin:

Salicylic acid, also known as beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is a widely used ingredient in skincare products due to its diverse beneficial effects on the skin. Here are some of the main effects of salicylic acid:

Exfoliation : Salicylic acid has exfoliating properties that help remove dead skin cells from the skin's surface. This promotes skin renewal and can lead to a more radiant complexion.
Acne Treatment : Salicylic acid is particularly effective in treating acne. It penetrates deep into pores and helps remove excess oil and dead skin cells. This prevents clogs and reduces the appearance of blackheads and pimples.
Anti-inflammatory properties : Salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and swelling. This is especially useful for inflammatory skin conditions like acne.
Improves skin texture : By exfoliating and cleansing pores, salicylic acid can help improve skin texture. This can reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and imperfections.
Skin lightening : Salicylic acid can help reduce hyperpigmentation by regulating melanin production. Dark spots, sun spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation can be reduced.
Pore tightening : By unclogging pores and controlling oil production, salicylic acid can help tighten pores, making it a popular ingredient in products for people with large pores.

It's important to note that salicylic acid can cause skin irritation in some people, especially those with sensitive skin. Therefore, it's recommended to use products containing salicylic acid at lower concentrations initially and observe your skin's reaction. If you're unsure or if you experience persistent skin concerns, consult a skincare professional.

Benefits of panthenol (provitamin B5) for the skin:

Panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is a commonly used ingredient in skin care products. It has various beneficial effects on the skin. Here are some of the main benefits of panthenol:

Moisturizing : Panthenol has a moisturizing effect and can help keep the skin hydrated. It has the ability to bind water, which is especially important for soothing dry skin and keeping it supple.
Soothing effect : Panthenol has soothing properties that can help relieve skin irritation and redness. It's especially effective on sensitive or irritated skin, even after sun exposure.
Promotes skin regeneration : Panthenol can promote skin cell regeneration. It supports the healing of skin lesions, cuts, or minor burns and helps strengthen the skin barrier.
Anti-inflammatory effect : Panthenol also has anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it a suitable ingredient for products used to treat inflammatory skin conditions such as redness or minor irritation.
Supports skin elasticity : Panthenol can improve skin elasticity, which helps skin look firmer and more youthful.
Treating skin problems : Panthenol is often used to treat various skin problems such as eczema, dermatitis, and diaper rash. It helps relieve symptoms and promote the healing process.
Supports wound healing : Panthenol can support wound healing by promoting the formation of new tissue and moisturizing the skin.

Panthenol is used in various skin care products such as creams, lotions, ointments, and serums. It is generally well-tolerated and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. If you have specific skin concerns or are unsure how your skin type reacts to panthenol, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or skin care professional.

The most important ingredients for radiant skin

Snail secretion: hydrated, radiant and wrinkle-free skin
Honey extract : radiant and fresh skin
Niacinamide : soothing barrier + nourishes and moisturizes + slow/well aging + brightening and correcting
Glycerin : nourishes and moisturizes + soothes the barrier
Hyaluronic acid : nourishes and moisturizes
Panthenol : soothing barrier + nourishes and moisturizes + slow/well aging
Aloe Vera and Cucumber : soothing

The benefits of snail secretion for the skin:

Snail slime, also known as snail secretion or snail mucus extract, has gained popularity as an ingredient in skincare products in recent years. Here are some of the potential benefits of snail slime on the skin:

Moisturizing : Snail slime contains hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins, and glycolic acid, which can help moisturize the skin. This is especially beneficial for dry skin.
Skin Regeneration : Snail slime contains proteins, enzymes, and vitamins that can promote skin cell regeneration. This can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Anti-aging effects : By promoting collagen and elastin production, snail slime can help reduce the signs of aging, making skin appear firmer and more youthful.
Anti-inflammatory : The anti-inflammatory properties of snail mucus can help reduce redness and skin irritation. It is especially effective for inflammatory skin conditions such as acne.

Healing skin injuries : Snail mucus contains natural growth factors that can promote wound healing. This is especially useful for minor skin injuries, cuts, or burns.
Skin Soothing : Due to its composition, snail slime may have soothing properties that help calm irritated or sensitive skin.
Skin lightening : Snail mucus contains allantoin, which can help reduce hyperpigmentation and fade dark spots, resulting in a more even skin tone.

When using products containing snail mucus, it is recommended to first conduct a patch test to ensure no allergic reactions occur. If you have specific skin concerns or are unsure, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or skin care professional.

Benefits of honey extract for skin:

Honey extract is valued in skin care for its diverse beneficial properties. Here are some of the possible effects of honey extract on the skin:

Moisturizing : Honey extract is an excellent moisturizer. It can help hydrate the skin and protect it from drying out.
Antibacterial properties : Honey, especially Manuka honey, has natural antibacterial properties. These can help fight bacteria on the skin, thus reducing blemishes and acne.
Antioxidant Effect : Honey is rich in antioxidants that can fight free radicals. Free radicals can contribute to premature skin aging, and honey's antioxidant properties can help prevent this.
Soothing and anti-inflammatory properties : Honey extract has soothing properties that can relieve redness and skin irritation. This makes it especially suitable for people with sensitive or irritated skin.
Skin lightening : Applying honey extract can help reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even skin tone.
Wound healing : Honey has traditionally been shown to have wound-healing properties. The extract can promote skin cell regeneration and aid the healing of cuts, scrapes, and minor injuries.
Exfoliation : Honey contains natural alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which can help remove dead skin cells and exfoliate the skin, resulting in a smoother skin texture.
Improve skin elasticity : The application of honey extract can help improve skin elasticity and thus reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

It's important to note that the exact effects of honey extract depend on the type of honey and other ingredients in a product. Honey is found in various skin care products, such as face masks, creams, and serums. It's recommended to test your skin's sensitivity, especially if you're allergic to honey or other ingredients in a product. If you're unsure or have specific skin concerns, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist or skin care professional.

Benefits of Niacinamide for the skin:

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinamide, is a versatile skincare ingredient that can have various beneficial effects on the skin:

Moisturizing : Niacinamide has a moisturizing effect and can help protect the skin from drying out. It supports the skin barrier by retaining water.
Improves the skin barrier : Niacinamide helps strengthen the skin barrier by promoting the formation of lipids. An intact skin barrier is crucial for healthy skin.
Anti-aging effects : Niacinamide may promote the production of collagen and elastin, two proteins responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. This may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Skin lightening : Niacinamide can help reduce hyperpigmentation and fade the appearance of dark spots, sun spots, and melasma. It inhibits the transfer of melanin into skin cells.
Anti-inflammatory effect : Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and inflammation on the skin. It is therefore especially suitable for people with sensitive skin or skin conditions such as rosacea.
Regulates sebum production : Niacinamide can regulate sebum production, which is especially beneficial for people with oily or acne-prone skin. It can help reduce clogged pores.
Minimizes pore size : By regulating sebum production and improving skin texture, niacinamide can help minimize the size of pores.
Support in the treatment of acne : Due to its anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating properties, niacinamide can help treat acne and reduce the appearance of pimples.

Niacinamide is found in a variety of skin care products, such as serums, creams, and face masks. It is generally well-tolerated and suitable for various skin types. However, people with specific skin concerns should consult a dermatologist before using niacinamide products.

Benefits of hyaluronic acid for the skin:

Hyaluronic acid is a popular skincare ingredient known for its moisturizing properties and ability to improve the appearance of skin. Here are some of the main effects of hyaluronic acid on the skin:

Intensive hydration : Hyaluronic acid is a natural moisturizer. It can bind large amounts of water, helping to deeply hydrate the skin. This is especially important for soothing dry skin and keeping it supple.
Improved skin elasticity : By increasing hydration, hyaluronic acid can help improve skin elasticity, making the skin appear plumper and more youthful.
Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles: Hyaluronic acid can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by locking moisture into the skin, making it appear smoother.
Skin soothing : Hyaluronic acid has soothing properties that can help relieve skin irritations, making it especially suitable for people with sensitive skin.
Regulates sebum production : Although hyaluronic acid is primarily known for its moisturizing properties, it can also help regulate sebum production. This is especially beneficial for people with oily skin.
Accelerates wound healing : Hyaluronic acid can promote wound healing by supporting skin cell regeneration. This is useful for minor cuts, scrapes, or skin irritations.
Antioxidant effect : Some forms of hyaluronic acid have antioxidant properties that can help fight free radicals, which can accelerate skin aging.
Pore refinement : By moisturizing the skin and improving its elasticity, hyaluronic acid can help refine the appearance of pores.

Hyaluronic acid is used in a variety of skin care products such as serums, creams, and masks. It is generally well-tolerated and suitable for various skin types. Because hyaluronic acid can occur in different molecular weights, it penetrates the skin to varying depths. Products containing different types of hyaluronic acid can be selected depending on the desired effect and skin type.

Benefits of Aloe Vera for the skin:

Aloe vera is a popular skincare ingredient and is often used for its soothing and moisturizing properties. Here are the potential effects of these ingredients on the skin:

Moisturizing : Aloe vera contains a high source of water and can help to provide intense moisture to the skin.
Soothing Effect : Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve redness and skin irritation. This makes it especially useful for sunburned or sensitive skin.
Wound healing : Aloe vera can promote skin cell regeneration and support wound healing. It is often used for minor cuts, scrapes, and minor burns.
Anti-aging : Due to its moisturizing and antioxidant properties, aloe vera can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Acne treatment : Aloe vera can also help treat acne. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness, and its moisturizing properties can help prevent skin from drying out.

Many skincare products combine aloe vera and cucumber to harness the moisturizing and soothing benefits of both ingredients. It's important to note that individual skin reactions to these ingredients can vary, and it's recommended to test new products on a small area of skin first.

The most important ingredients for smooth skin

Rice water: refines pores and ensures even skin
Tranexamic acid : soothes the barrier + brightening corrective
Glycolic acid : slow/well aging + brightening corrective
Glycerin : nourishes and moisturizes + soothes the barrier
Niacinamide : soothing barrier + nourishes and moisturizes + slow/well aging + brightening and correcting
Panthenol : nourishes and moisturizes + soothes the barrier

Skin tightening : The starches in rice water can help tighten the skin and give it a firm, youthful appearance.
Exfoliation : Rice water can have a mild exfoliating effect by removing dead skin cells and improving skin texture.
Regulates sebum production : Some sources suggest that rice water may help regulate sebum production, which could be beneficial for people with oily skin.

If you have specific skin problems or are unsure, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist.

Benefits of tranexamic acid for the skin:

Tranexamic acid is an active ingredient used in skincare for its potential effects on hyperpigmentation and inflammation. Here are some of the possible effects of tranexamic acid on the skin:

Inhibition of melanin production : Tranexamic acid can inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. This makes it a promising ingredient for treating hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
Skin lightening : Due to the inhibition of melanin production, tranexamic acid can help clear skin tone and improve the appearance of dark spots, sun spots, and melasma.
Reduces inflammation : Tranexamic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and skin irritation. This can be especially beneficial for inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea or acne.
Refining skin texture : By inhibiting melanin production and reducing inflammation, tranexamic acid can help improve skin texture and refine its appearance.
Anti-aging effects : By reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation and improving skin texture, tranexamic acid can help rejuvenate the overall appearance of the skin and reduce signs of premature aging.

It's important to note that the effect of tranexamic acid depends on the concentration in a product and the individual skin response. When using products containing tranexamic acid, it's recommended to start with lower concentrations to test skin tolerance.

It is also important to use appropriate sun protection while using products containing active ingredients such as tranexamic acid, as the skin may be more sensitive to UV rays.

The most important ingredients for stressed skin

Ginseng extract: stimulates blood circulation and thus promotes skin cell generation
Hyaluronic acid : nourishes and moisturizes
Niacinamide : soothing barrier + nourishes and moisturizes + slow/well aging + brightening and correcting
Glycerin : nourishes and moisturizes + soothes the barrier
Panthenol : nourishes and moisturizes + soothes the barrier
Peptides : soothes the barrier + nourishes and moisturizes + slow/well aging + brightening and correcting

The benefits of ginseng extract for the skin:

Ginseng extract is valued in skincare for its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and revitalizing properties. Here are some of the possible effects of ginseng extract on the skin:

Antioxidant Effects : Ginseng is rich in antioxidants that can help neutralize free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that can damage skin cells and contribute to premature skin aging.
Stimulates collagen production : Ginseng may promote the production of collagen, a structural protein responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. This may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Anti-inflammatory properties : Ginseng has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve redness and skin irritation. This makes it especially useful for sensitive or inflamed skin.
Revitalization and toning : Ginseng is often referred to as an "adaptogen," meaning it can help revitalize the skin and give it a fresh appearance. It can also help tone and firm the skin.

Moisturizing : Ginseng extract can help moisturize the skin, which is especially important for soothing dry skin and maintaining its suppleness.
Skin lightening : Some sources suggest that ginseng may help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, which may lead to a more even skin tone.
Improve skin texture : By promoting collagen production and revitalizing the skin, ginseng can help improve skin texture and make it appear smoother.
Protection from environmental damage : Ginseng may protect the skin from the harmful effects of environmental stressors, including UV rays and pollution.

Ginseng extract is used in a variety of skin care products, including creams, serums, and masks. It's important to note that individual skin reactions to products containing ginseng can vary, and it's recommended to perform patch testing first to rule out possible allergic reactions. If you have specific skin concerns or are unsure, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist or skin care professional.

Benefits of peptides for the skin:

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that serve as the building blocks of proteins. They are valued in skincare for their diverse benefits and their role in supporting various skin functions. Here are some of the possible effects of peptides on the skin:

Stimulating collagen production : Peptides can stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. Increasing collagen production can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Skin firming: Peptides can help tighten and firm the skin. This is especially important for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing sagging.
Moisture binding : Some peptides have the ability to bind moisture. This helps hydrate the skin and protect it from dehydration.
Anti-inflammatory properties : Certain peptides exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and skin irritation. This is especially useful for sensitive or inflamed skin.
Skin lightening : Peptides can help reduce hyperpigmentation and improve the appearance of dark spots or sun spots.
Antioxidant action : Some peptides act as antioxidants that can neutralize free radicals. This helps protect the skin from premature aging and environmental damage.
Improve skin texture : Peptides can improve skin texture, smooth texture, and refine the appearance of pores.
Wound healing : Certain peptides can promote wound healing by supporting the regeneration of skin cells.
Improving the skin barrier: Peptides can help strengthen the skin barrier, which is important for protecting the skin from external influences.

Peptides are commonly used in high-quality skincare products such as serums, creams, and masks. It's important to note that the effectiveness of peptides depends on the type of peptide and the product's formulation. As with any new skincare product, patch testing should be performed before applying to the entire face to rule out possible allergic reactions. If you have specific skin concerns or are unsure, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist or skincare professional.

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Skincare: What are niacinamides?