Let’s get active! Many of us are spending a lot more time at home, feeling like our lifestyles are a little less vibrant than before. That’s why we spice things up by exploring active ingredients and how they work in your skincare routine!
An active ingredient is similar to the main character in a show or movie. He usually does most of the work and has the most talent. When you take a look at the label, the active ingredient is probably one of the first names on the ingredient list.
Active ingredients are a big deal. It is usually the reason we make an investment in a product, knowing that it will have a special benefit for our skin. The key is to find the active ingredient we want, for the results we need.
We break down four key skin care actives and how they can help activate our skin care goals.
ACTIVE INGREDIENT: Vitamin C
If you want:
We owe our glow to the queen of skincare ingredients, vitamin C. When we’re looking for glowing skin or looking to lighten dark spots and blemishes, we turn to this superstar active ingredient.
Probably one of the most commonly featured active ingredients – in forms suitable even for sensitive and acne-prone skin – vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps fight UV damage and signs of aging. It also quickly treats discoloration and dark spots to achieve an even skin tone and healthy, glowing skin.
Mask with vitamin C
This baby is active, with plenty of vitamin C and fruit enzymes to boost radiance. The active ingredients Sodium Ascorbate and Calcium Ascorbate create a dramatic improvement in skin tone over time, helping to neutralize dark spots.
Papaya and pineapple enzymes support vitamin C to remove dead skin cells and dull skin for a brighter complexion. Camu camu and turmeric infused in this formula work overtime to brighten and lighten for a refreshed, youthful effect.
Vitamin C serum
There’s always room in our routine for another serum, and this one makes our list of all-time favorites. It’s ultra-lightweight with a refreshing aloe base that easily sinks into thirsty skin to quickly transport vitamin C beneath the surface.
One of vitamin C’s superpowers is its ability to support collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines. That’s why a daily product like the serum has a visible impact, showing little signs of improvement with each use. Bright green apple and skin-smoothing broccoli (rich in alpha lipoic acid) play supporting roles to promote firmer, more supple skin.
ACTIVE INGREDIENT: Retinol
If you want:
Many of us know retinol for its popularity in antiaging products, but it’s actually a great active ingredient for all ages. It offers benefits for acne-prone skin, sun damage and aging skin.
Retinol PM Eye Cream
Retinol supports a big boost in collagen production, so those fine lines we see forming around our eyes and mouth can increase. Helping plump and plump, the eye cream’s active ingredient Retinol makes the delicate skin around the eyes appear smoother and younger.
This balanced eye cream features nourishing rosehip seed oil, ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid and restorative vitamin E. Expect eyes to glow with ultimate minimization with regular nighttime use.
Retinol Restorative Overnight Balm
Best for dry to combination skin types, this luscious salve does a lot of the heavy lifting while we sleep. Retinol works to speed up the rate of skin cell turnover, which means younger skin cells faster.
Debris from pores is regularly removed by using retinol and is less likely to clog and cause breakouts. Ultimately, this balm creates a smoother skin texture by preventing dead skin from sticking to the surface and remaining in our pores. With a concentration of 2% retinol, this balm may cause a slight tingling sensation. This is completely normal, but you should always test with any new active ingredient.
Retinol is one of the most powerful active ingredients out there and should always be used in conjunction with a broad spectrum sunscreen.
ACTIVE INGREDIENT: Hyaluronic Acid
If you want:
Believe it or not, hyaluronic acid isn’t just for dry skin types. While it’s true that hyaluronic acid is great for boosting hydration, even those with combination and oily skin types can suffer from hydration imbalances. In other words, look for this active ingredient to restore harmonious moisture levels.
Restorative Sea Culture Replenishing Serum
Hydrating Chia Seed Water supports the active ingredient Hyaluronic Acid to instantly eliminate feelings of discomfort and dryness. With detoxifying and replenishing algae, this serum creates skin that feels completely rejuvenated with all the nourishment it needs to thrive.
Hydra Drench Cream
This revitalizing gel-cream is designed to deeply hydrate all skin types. A sweet skincare accord is created when chia seed gel and hyaluronic acid draw moisture into the skin while toning, plumping and smoothing. Rose hydrosol soothes irritation and redness from dry or hard skin conditions, keeping the overall formula super light and easy to absorb morning or night.
ACTIVE INGREDIENT: Niacinamide
If you want:
Want the 2 for 1 special? This active ingredient is perhaps one of the most versatile, helping to soothe inflammatory skin conditions while seriously minimizing the appearance of pores. This active ingredient is derived from B vitamins, so we can expect a kiss of youth and smoother skin after a few weeks of exclusive use. Niacinamide is also praised for its ability to balance oil production, tone and minimize pores, and strengthen the skin barrier.
Rice Fermented Water Toner
This gentle yet transformative toner works for almost every skin type, thanks to the active ingredient niacinamide. This product makes dark spots and uneven skin a thing of the past with supporting sake and licorice. Witch hazel unclogs pores while niacinamide tones and tightens skin for smoother, younger-looking skin.
Multi-Vitamin + Antioxidants Potent PM Serum
Made to be compatible with all skin types, this carefully formulated serum harmoniously combines niacinamide with some of our other favorite active ingredients like vitamin C and retinol.
This serum delivers great radiance, with an incredible 10% niacinamide, 10% vitamin C and 1% retinol. Vitamins A and C destroy damaging free radicals at every step, while retinol and coenzyme Q10 rapidly transform skin texture and tone.
Already obsessed with active ingredients, but don’t know what other products to try? Use our skincare finder to discover your perfect routine!
ACTIVE INGREDIENT: Peptides
If you want:
- Improved skin elasticity
- Firmer, firmer skin
- Reduced appearance of fine lines
- Enhanced skin barrier
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins such as collagen and elastin. These essential ingredients provide structure and support to your skin. As we age, our natural collagen production decreases, leading to sagging and fine lines. The peptides signal your skin to produce more collagen, helping to restore firmness and elasticity.
Peptides are gentle yet effective, making them suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Incorporating them into your routine can boost hydration, promote healing, and improve overall skin resilience. Unlike exfoliants or acids, peptides work deep within the skin to target structural problems, offering long-term benefits with consistent use.
Tips for using peptides:
- Apply peptides to clean skin to maximize absorption.
- Combine the peptides with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid for a synergistic effect.
- Use peptides daily as they are non-irritating and safe for both morning and evening routines.
Frequently asked questions about active ingredients
1. Can I use multiple active ingredients in one routine?
Yes, but it depends on your skin type and the compatibility of the active ingredients. For example, vitamin C and niacinamide can be layered, but strong active ingredients like retinol and AHAs should be used on alternate days to avoid irritation. Always follow up with a moisturizer and SPF during the day to protect your skin.
2. How do I introduce a new active ingredient into my routine?
Start slow! Test the product on a small area of your skin and use it once or twice a week initially. Gradually increase usage as your skin develops a tolerance. This method minimizes the risk of irritation or side effects.
3. Are the active ingredients suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, but it’s important to choose actives that are mild, such as niacinamide or hyaluronic acid. Avoid high concentrations of retinol or AHAs unless your skin has adapted over time. Always consult a dermatologist if you are unsure.
4. How do I know if an active ingredient is working?
Consistency is key when using active. Visible results, such as reduced fine lines, smoother texture or brighter skin, are usually seen after 4-8 weeks of regular use. For some ingredients, such as retinol, it may take up to 3 months to see significant changes.
5. Can active ingredients be used during pregnancy?
Some active ingredients, such as vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, are generally safe during pregnancy. However, ingredients such as retinol and highly concentrated salicylic acid should be avoided. Always consult a healthcare provider to make sure your routine is safe during pregnancy.
