Finder’s Marina Tatas reports on the skincare ingredients you definitely need and how to use them.
Building your very own skincare routine can be an exhausting process. What will the products actually do to my skin? What does all this beauty jargon mean? How do I know what will work for my skin type?
If you’ve found yourself asking these questions once (or twice) before, we’ve put together a handy list of skincare ingredients that we recommend adding to your routine. Dry skin, oily skin, combination, sensitive or acne-prone – find out what skin type these ingredients are best suited to, what they can do for you and how to use them.
SPF
Who it’s good for: All skin types.
What it does: One of the most important skincare products you can use is SPF. No matter how many active ingredients you add to your routine, if your skin is not protected, it will show. Here’s a list of the best face sunscreens for all skin types and budgets.
How to use it: SPF should always be the final step of your skincare routine, before makeup application. The more you use, the better. In fact, it’s recommended to use about a teaspoon amount.
Retinol
Who it’s good for: All skin types, but especially those with mature and acne-prone skin.
What it does: A derivative of vitamin A, retinol is a tried and true powerhouse anti-ageing ingredient. It works to promote skin cell turnover, fight acne, reduce hyperpigmentation and increase collagen production.
How to use it: Always start small and gradually increase the amount and frequency of application. It’s highly recommended to only use retinol at night and to wear plenty of sunscreen during the day, as it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Don’t mix it with: Vitamin C and AHA/BHA.
Niacinamide
Who it’s good for: All skin types, but specifically those with sensitive skin.
What it does: Niacinamide works hard as an anti-inflammatory product. It supports the skin’s barrier, increasing its resiliency, improving texture and reducing oil production.
How to use it: Niacinamide is a pretty safe ingredient. This means it can be used both morning and night and it’s well tolerated by most people.
Don’t mix it with: Vitamin C.
Suitable for all skin types, especially those who want to break the spell of dark circles, puffiness and crow’s feet.
AHA/BHA
Who it’s good for: Most skin types (it just depends on the type of acid).
What it does: Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) include glycolic acids and lactic acids, which are suited to those with normal or dry skin. Beta hydroxy acids (BHA) include salicylic acids, which are ideal for those with oily and acne-prone skin. Both are essential for those looking to renew their skin. They are known as chemical exfoliants, which work to resurface and smooth the skin.
How to use it: We do recommend using AHA/BHA sparingly, as chemical exfoliants can be harsh when used too frequently.
Don’t mix it with: Retinol.
AgeWell Intense Repairing Night Cream 
Vitamin C
Who it’s good for: Most skin types (those with sensitive skin should patch test first).
What it does: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage. It works to fight signs of discoloration and hyperpigmentation and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, all while stimulating collagen production.
How to use it: It’s best used in the morning as it brightens your skin – just make sure to layer it underneath sunscreen. We also recommend looking for a product that comes in a pump-style bottle, as vitamin C can lose its efficacy if exposed to air and light.
Don’t mix it with: Retinol and niacinamide.
Hyaluronic acid
Who it’s good for: All skin types, but especially those with dry skin.
What it does: Looking for hydration? When hyaluronic acid is applied to the skin, it acts as a humectant, absorbing up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It also does a wonderful job at plumping the skin.
How to use it: Hyaluronic acid can fit seamlessly into your routine with just about any other ingredient. If you really want to reap the benefits, use it in the morning for a hydration boost.
Ceramides
Who it’s good for: All skin types, but especially those with dry skin.
What it does: Ceramides act as magnets, forming a protective barrier on the skin’s surface to hold in moisture. They are naturally produced in the skin, but production levels can drop due to factors such as ageing and seasonal changes.
How to use it: Applying ceramides onto damp skin is recommended. That way, all the moisture is locked in and can’t escape.
The Carousel would like to thank Marina Tatas – a shopping writer at Finder – for her article.
