If you are venturing into the whirlwind of skincare or are even looking to step up your beauty game, chances are that the chatter around the term ’actives’ in beauty has left you a little baffled. With the vote of confidence from our favourite influencers and shelves after shelves being swept clean of active ingredient based products many of us vacillate between wanting to pivot and the scepticism that looms over due to lack of knowledge. “To do or not to do. That is the question.” So, what are these active ingredients that grace the formulations of many beauty products? And more importantly, should you jump ship or steer clear? Fret not as we answer some of your burning questions!
Your Cheat Sheet To Actives
An active, in a product, is the ingredient that helps address specific skin concerns at a molecular level. They seep through the layers of your skin to heal deep-seated distress like acne, dehydration and lacklustre skin. We know that there are varying skin types across the spectrum and it's integral to acknowledge that different skins birth distinct concerns. So, before you consider incorporating active based products in your pre-existing skincare routine, it is of paramount importance to take a deep-dive, identify your skin type and the underlying issues hampering its health and well-being.
Should You Take The Plunge?
A gamut of problems are put to rest with active ingredients in beauty products. If you are grappling with stubborn acne, a toner with salicylic acid can help get rid of the oil pockets on your skin. Don't take just our word for it. Actives or products with actives are tried and tested in laboratories and are bound to alleviate the targeted skin condition in some way shape or form. Even with science backing these products the potential of repair is bound to differ on people. As they say, ‘don't knock it till you’ve tried it!’. Before you start incorporating actives in your beauty rituals, make sure to consult with your dermatologist first.
Trending Actives And Everything In Between
1. Alpha-Hydroxy-Acids(AHAs)
Patchy skin and pigmentation is menacing, we all can agree. AHA based products help you combat recurring dead skin and discolouration with a dab. The most commonly found AHAs in the market are lactic acid (a milk derivative) and glycolic acid (derived from fruit sugar). As lactic acid molecules are larger in comparison, it serves as a milder exfoliant for sensitive skin. Bolster your PM regimen with an AHA based toner or cleanser for younger-looking skin overnight(s).
PRO TIP: Beginners should use a toner with an AHA concentration between 5-10%.
2. Beta-Hydroxy-Acids(BHAs)
If you want to treat acne and blemishes from the very root, a BHA focussed product is your wonder fix. As BHAs are oil-based they penetrate deeper into the skin unclogging pores and helping enhance your skin texture. Gently apply after cleaning your face and top it off with a moisturiser.
PRO TIP: Beginners should set out with 1-2% concentrated products. Cheerio, acne.
3. Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid boasts of magnificent water retention quality making it an elixir for never ageing skin. Its immense hydrating prowess boosts skin resilience and diminishes wrinkle lines. If your skin is dehydrated and dry this is all you should seek!
PRO TIP: You could either go for a serum or a facewash infused with HA for a beautiful, healthy glow!
4. Niacinamide
A popular celebrity favourite, niacinamide, subdues inflammation and stressed skin concerns. Include this water-based serum right before you moisturise your face for supple skin. Niacinamide is a gentle and easy to blend active and can be part of both your AM and PM beauty routine.
PRO TIP: Use a product with 5-10% niacinamide concentration to make inroads to superior skin quality.
Commit To Actives In Your Skincare Routine With These Steps:
Treading obscure territory with skincare can be challenging. But with some practices in place, we can streamline our efforts for the best results. Swear by these tips for seamlessly integrating active based products into your beauty regimen (because they certainly worked for me).
1. SPF On The Reg: Active ingredients make your skin sensitive to UV rays. Slap on some sunscreen to shield yourself on the go.
2. Learn & Layer: To maintain the PH level of your skin, always remember–acid-based products go first!
3. Package Description: Make sure to dissect the contents of the beauty products. Keep away from any active ingredients that trigger your allergies or other health concerns.
