The Science Behind Common Skincare Ingredients: What They Do and How They Work
To choose the right skincare products for your skin type, it is essential to have knowledge about the scientific aspects of popular ingredients in today's skincare industry. Every ingredient has a distinct role in either moisturizing, restoring, or shielding your skin. This blog delves into the scientific explanations of popular skincare ingredients, dissecting their functions and advantages. We will reveal the secrets of hyaluronic acid's moisture-retaining ability, retinol's collagen production stimulation, and niacinamide's anti-inflammatory properties. Discover the molecular interactions between each ingredient and your skin to incorporate them effectively into your skincare regimen for the best results.
SKIN AND HAIR CARE
By Rini Singh
9/8/20243 min read
1. Hyaluronic Acid
o Modern Equivalent: Hyaluronic acid can hold 1000 times its weight in water, helping to retain moisture and maintain the skin's plumpness.
o Indian Alternative: Aloe Vera and Honey, potent moisturizers, are present in Indian skincare customs. Aloe vera calms the skin by maintaining moisture, and honey is a natural humectant that keeps the skin hydrated. These components are commonly utilized in Indian treatments for luminous, pliable skin.
2. (Vitamin A)
o Modern Equivalent: Retinol increases collagen synthesis and accelerates skin cell renewal, resulting in decreased wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.
o Indian Alternative: Carrots, mango butter, and papaya contain beta-carotene, converted by the body into Vitamin A, commonly found in Indian skincare products for skin rejuvenation, blemish reduction, and texture enhancement.
3. Salicylic Acid
o Modern Equivalent: Salicylic acid removes dead skin cells and clears out pores, making it great for targeting acne.
o Indian Alternative: In Indian skincare, Neem, turmeric, and tulsi (basil) are popular for treating acne and reducing inflammation. Neem possesses antibacterial qualities, turmeric diminishes redness and promotes skin healing, and tulsi is recognized for its natural skin cleansing and purifying abilities.
4. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
o Modern Equivalent: Niacinamide aids in enhancing skin brightness, decreasing redness, and managing oil production, ultimately enhancing skin quality.
o Indian Alternative: Besan and yogurt are popular components in Indian facial masks that aid in brightening the skin, minimizing oiliness, and balancing the complexion. They provide natural brightening and balancing benefits, akin to niacinamide.
5. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
o Modern Equivalent: Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that lightens skin, diminishes dark spots, and boosts collagen formation.
o Indian Alternative: Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is considered one of the most abundant sources of Vitamin C in Indian culture. Amla is utilized in topical treatments and dietary supplements to enhance skin tone, diminish pigmentation, and shield the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
6. Ceramides
o Modern Equivalent: Ceramides are fats which create a protective layer on the skin, trapping moisture and shielding it from harmful elements in the environment.
o Indian Alternative: Ghee, coconut oil, and almond oil, all abundant in essential fatty acids, have been commonly utilized in Indian skincare for their moisturizing and nourishing properties. These oils from nature assist in repairing the skin's barrier like ceramides, in addition to offering intense hydration.
7. Peptides
o Modern Equivalent: Peptides enhance the production of collagen and enhance skin flexibility, leading to a decrease in fine lines and wrinkles.
o Indian Alternative: Although direct application is not common in traditional Indian treatments, milk peptides, yogurt, and almonds contain high levels of proteins and amino acids that provide nourishment to the skin. These components are frequently utilized in facial masks and treatments to assist in restoring and revitalizing the skin's firmness and elasticity.
8. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
o Modern Equivalent: AHAs, including glycolic and lactic acid, are applied for skin exfoliation, eliminating dead cells, and enhancing a more even complexion.
o Indian Alternative: AHAs can be found naturally in lemon juice, sugarcane, and tomato. Lemon juice and tomato are combined in facial masks to exfoliate and brighten the skin naturally, and sugarcane juice is popular for its glycolic acid content, effectively getting rid of dead skin cells.
9. Zinc Oxide
o Modern Equivalent: Zinc oxide is utilized in sunscreens for the purpose of shielding against damaging UV rays and avoiding sunburn.
Indian Alternative:Sandalwood, turmeric, and almond oil provide a natural shield against the sun. Sandalwood's cooling properties calm sunburn, turmeric's antioxidants protect against UV damage, and almond oil forms a natural shield against environmental pollutants.
10. Shea Butter
o Modern Equivalent: Shea butter is recognized for its excellent moisturizing and anti-inflammatory qualities, which make it ideal for dry and irritated skin.
Indian Alternative:Coconut oil, almond oil, and mango butter are commonly utilized in Indian skincare due to their hydrating qualities. Coconut oil and almond oil deeply nourish the skin, while mango butter, high in vitamins A and E, enhances skin elasticity and softness.