SKIN CARE INGREDIENTS

Get to Know Your Skin Care Ingredients!

The world of skin never ceases to amaze me with its constant stream of new ingredients, with each one claiming to be answer for a radiant, smooth, blemish free complexion. All these terms can be very confusing so I am taking the mystery out of a few of these common skin care ingredients so you can better choose products that are appropriate for your skin.

SKIN CARE INGREDIENT #1: Glycolic Acid

A fruit acid (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) derived from sugar cane.  It has a small molecular structure allowing it to penetrate the surface of the skin more easily. It reduces build up of excess dead skin cells.  Glycolic acid works by getting under the damaged upper layers of skin and eliminating the bond, which holds dead skin to the surface.  Glycolic acid is often used as a natural skin exfoliant and moisturizer.  Glycolic acid products may leave your skin especially sensitive to the sun, so it is imperative that you wear sunscreen daily, no matter what the weather.

SKIN CARE INGREDIENT #2: Salicylic Acid

Comes from plants including white willow back and wintergreen leaves. It is a topical anti-inflammatory and is used to treat many skin disorders, such as acne, dandruff, psoriasis, and dermatitis of the skin and scalp.  Salicylic acid is used in several shampoos used to treat dandruff. It speeds up the shedding of dead skin cells from within the follicle, helping keep the pores clear. It is beneficial for acne as it reduces the number of pore blockages and breakouts. The molecular structure of Salicylic Acid is larger than that of Glycolic Acid and it does not penetrate as deeply as an alpha hydroxy acid into the skin. Salicylic acid products are available in varying strengths and normally involve once daily use.

SKIN CARE INGREDIENT #3: Hyaluronic Acid

Occurs naturally within the body but as we age, the ability of the skin to produce it decreases. Hyaluronic acid helps to bind water and it helps give skin fullness and volume. It also aids in the carrying of nutrients to the cartilage, and the elimination of waste from cells.  Facial injections of hyaluronic acid products such as Juvederm and Restylane help plump up lines and wrinkles.  It is also injected into the knee for relief of osteoarthritis pain. Hyaluronic Acid skin care products can help to maintain or rejuvnate your youthful appearance with contunited use.

Now you are in the know about these popular acids used in skin care products.  Knowledge is always power so you’ll be ready the next time you need to replenish your supply of cleanser, serums or lotions. Knowing your skin care ingredients will help you to make skin care choices that work wonders for you!

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Article Written By: Laura Miller; Laura Miller is a beauty expert and is always on the cutting edge of new products and breakthroughs in the health and beauty industry.