Skincare can be quite overwhelming, with so many products on the market it can be difficult to know where to begin. Although we appreciate every skin is different, and each person requires different routines, we are sharing 6 of our favourite ingredients for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. These are all fairly universal and work in multiple ways to care for skin overall.
Green Tea
One of the most multi-beneficial and overachieving ingredients available. This is an antioxidant that does more than just protect the skin from environmental aggressors. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, combining the ability to soothe and calm along with helping to reduce sebum and treat breakouts. This is the perfect ingredient for those with acne or oily skin. Our Green Tea Konjac Sponge is specifically designed for city dwellers in mind to help revitalise and provide improved skin clarity.
Aloe Vera
One of nature’s finest, Aloe Vera is an all-encompassing replenishing ingredient that works on multiple levels. Its soothing gel is nutrient packed with a myriad of anti-inflammatory vitamins and minerals. These help to calm skin aggravation and provide a hydrating barrier which protects against moisture loss. There are many healing benefits to Aloe making it particularly fantastic for irritated and sensitive skin. Our Aloe Vera range is the perfect companion for both dry/dehydrated skin as well as those who suffer with breakouts due to its natural antibacterial properties.
Hyaluronic Acid
This is easily one of the best ingredients for optimal skin health. A powerful humectant which protects against moisture loss, this will help you achieve that juicy skin, dewy look. Hyaluronic acid is naturally found within our bodies, and helps to lubricate our skin and joints by holding moisture to keep it hydrated and plump. Like with many things, as we age our ability to produce this decreases. Although there are various ways to stimulate our hyaluronic acid production, namely diet being a huge contributor, there is also skincare. Look for creams and serums that contain it to help with skin elasticity and hydration. We love Flow Cosmetics Hyaluron and Probiotics Deep Moisture Serum which is like an instant drink for your skin! It works on 2 ways, moisturising the surface layer of the skin and penetrating deeper into the skin tissue to plump out fine lines and promote skin barrier function.
Ceramides
For maintaining a healthy skin barrier, ceramides are up there at the top of the list. Similar to hyaluronic acid, they are a naturally occurring ingredient in our skin matrix which decreases as we get older. It is essential we replenish our ceramide levels to keep our skin barrier functioning as it should. They form part of the group of lipids/fats that make up the protective structure of our outer skin layer. It’s crucial they remain intact so that our skin is protected from bacteria and environmental aggressors which can cause irritation. They also lock in moisture and help prevent dryness and dehydration which can lead onto other inflammatory conditions such as eczema, rosacea and acne. Incorporating ceramides into your routine is key for maintaining happy and healthy skin. They are especially beneficial for those who have ageing concerns as they help to improve firmness and elasticity. That said because they are naturally part of your skin, they are ideal for any skin type, and can be used as often as required!
Niacinamide
This is a versatile ingredient that has been in the spotlight for a while and for good reason. It’s another one that is suitable for almost every skin type and has numerous skin loving benefits. Otherwise known as Vitamin B3 this nifty ingredient helps to strengthen and improve your skin barrier, smooth texture and correct uneven skin tone issues, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and promote brighter, radiant skin. If that’s not enough it also encourages the natural production of ceramides within the skin to protect against moisture loss! Research shows the ideal concentration is around 2-5% and at this percentage you will have more success rate with fading red pigmentation marks left over by blemishes.
SPF
This is the most important step in your routine, come rain or shine! Using SPF plays a vital role in protecting your skin from the suns damaging rays, and is the best anti-ageing product you can use! Studies show that around 75% of age-related skin concerns are due to environmental factors, especially UVA rays. Finding one that covers both UVA/UVB protection is key to maintaining healthy skin all year round. As the saying goes, the best SPF is the one you use!