Skincare is quite a purpose-driven endeavour. It’s based on years of research to identify what works and what doesn’t. For instance, everyone knows that a gentle moisturiser is really good for your skin. But what exactly makes it ‘good’? 

Skincare products are precise formulations of very specific ingredients, i.e. active ingredients. So, let’s find out What are active ingredients in skincare? 

What is an Active Ingredient in Skincare Products?

An active skincare ingredient is what makes a certain formulation work. They are ingredients that have research-backed support behind their efficacy. This means that a team of scientists have conducted scientific testing to prove that a certain ingredient actually does treat a specific skin condition. As such, what is an active ingredient is more of a question of “How can this problem be treated?”

What Are Some Popular Active Ingredients in Skincare?

There is a consensus on what makes a good ingredient for skin. Naturally, these have made their way into some very popular products. Here’s a quick list...

Retinol (Vitamin A) - Has anti-ageing properties and promotes collagen production. Common in serums, night treatments, and anti-ageing creams

Hyaluronic Acid - Excellent hydration capacities. Used in moisturisers and hydrating masks.

Vitamin C - As an antioxidant, it brightens the skin and protects against environmental damage. Frequent in moisturisers and masks.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) - Controls oil production and minimises pores. Common in serums, toners, and cleansers.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) - An exfoliant that controls wrinkles by removing dead skin cells. Used in peels and exfoliating serums

Lactic Acid - AHA that exfoliates the skin and improves texture. Used in exfoliating creams, serums, and masks. 

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) - In their most common form, salicylic acid - BHAs penetrate pores to treat acne. It is very common in cleansers and toners.

Benzoyl Peroxide - Antibacterial agent that treats acne by reducing bacteria. Found in acne treatments and cleansers.

Peptides - Short chains of amino acids that stimulate collagen and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Used in serums, creams, and eye treatments.

Active Ingredients vs. Inactive Ingredients

What are active ingredients in skincare, and what are inactive ingredients in skincare? You might have this question considering the long list of potential skincare ingredients included in products. If an active ingredient directly targets and treats specific skin concerns, inactive ingredients help support the overall product! These are also known as excipients. They help deliver active ingredients more effectively to the skin. Here are some common inactive ingredients:

Glycerin - Attracts and retains moisture, helping with hydration. Used in moisturising lotions and serums.

Shea Butter - Rich in fatty acids, helps lock in moisture and develops a soft texture. A must in body butters and hand creams.

Green Tea Extract - Works against free radicals and shields the skin from environmental toxins. Used in antioxidant serums, facial mists, and cleansing foams

Ceramides - Restores the skin barrier and retains moisture. Integrated into moisturisers and cleaning balms.

Which Active Ingredients Should Not Be Present in Kids' Makeup?

While an active skincare ingredient is required to help improve the skin, some common ingredients should not be present in Kid’s Makeup! This risks damaging their sensitive skin, causing irritation and harm. Here are the common ingredients to avoid.

Parabens - Tend to disrupt hormones.

Artificial Dyes and Fragrances - Lead to allergic reactions

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Glitters - These are microplastics that should be completely avoided.

Mineral Oil - New research showcases concerns about long-term effects.

Formaldehyde - A chemical that is a known irritant. 

Additionally, avoid using products with retinol, AHA, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide etc.

Skincare Routine with Active Ingredient for Kids

When developing an effective skincare routine for kids, it’s important to integrate only good ingredients for skin. It’s best to avoid any risks with sensitive and, as-of-now maturing skin.

Gentle Cleansers - Use an Aloe Vera-enriched cleanser for gentle hydration and moisture balance.

Moisturisers - Glycerin is a safe ingredient for hydration as well.

Non-Comedogenic Products - Instead of using salicylic acid, consider natural options like Willow Bark Extract enriched products.

Sunscreen - Zinc oxide is known to be a safe active ingredient for protection against UV rays.

Final Thoughts

Learning what are active ingredients in skincare is quite essential for those looking to develop a healthy skincare routine. However, this can be quite challenging when it comes to children’s skincare. Remember, their skin is quite sensitive and does not have natural defences against toxins. It’s best to use products formulated by the experts at Miss Nella. These products are developed specifically for kids, ensuring their safety and efficacy for young skincare enthusiasts! 

FAQs

1. What should I look for when choosing skin care products based on active ingredients?

The most essential thing to look out for is how safe they are for your skin and check for potential side effects.

2. How long does it typically take to see results from skincare products containing active ingredients?

At least 1 week of consistent usage is necessary for results to be seen!

3. Should I use products with multiple active ingredients, or focus on one at a time?

Usually, products are formulated to treat specific concerns, and thus have a balanced set of ingredients. However, you can opt for products that focus on a single one

4. Can you use too many activities in skincare?

For skincare, simple is best. Identify the problem you wish to counter and form a simple routine around it.

5. Where to find products with the trendiest active ingredients?

Miss Nella stocks some of the best products for skincare, focusing on safe active ingredients!