If vitamin A is too harsh for your system, try this oil-free serum which boosts collagen, evens skin tone and fades dark spots while providing essential peptides and hyaluronic acid hydration for your skin.
Contrary to conventional retinol, this plant-based ingredient does not cause irritation; rather it stimulates collagen production and boosts cell turnover for smoother skin without flaking or reddening.
1. Bakuchiol
If you’re familiar with retinol as a popular skin-clearing ingredient, then you may be intrigued to hear of an alternative natural option that has recently gained momentum: Bakuchiol. A plant extract similar to retinol but without the associated irritation and flaking.
Bakuchiol can be used on skin of all kinds and is especially suitable for sensitive or acne-prone individuals. Additionally, it’s more stable than retinol so won’t degrade in products sitting on shelves or exposed to sunlight.
This lightweight serum boasts a blend of bakuchiol, glycolic acid and elderberry extract to remove dead cells and unclog pores, prevent breakouts from elderberries extract, even out skin tone and improve texture without harsh exfoliators. Ideal for clients wanting to reduce hyperpigmentation without aggressive exfoliation treatments.
2. Peptides
Peptides are an effective solution for anti-aging skin care, particularly at reducing fine lines. Furthermore, peptides are scientifically supported compared with other pro-aging ingredients like AHAs. However, there may be certain types of peptides which work better with certain skin conditions than others.
Neurotransmitter peptides target muscle contraction to reduce wrinkles. Enzyme-inhibiting peptides may boost collagen and firm the skin while other can brighten pigmentation spots. Carrier peptides deliver trace minerals into the skin while antioxidant peptides help address oxidative stress while protecting from sun damage.
Peptides work best when used in serum form, since this allows prolonged contact between them and your skin – unlike cleansers that wash away once used. For maximum effectiveness, combine using peptide products alongside staples like vitamin C, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid in skincare regimens like Hailey Bieber’s Rhode skin care line which features several products packed with peptides.
3. Azelaic acid
As well as glycolic and salicylic acids, dermatologists also love using azelaic acid to perfect skin. This exfoliant can unclog pores, brighten skin tone, soothe irritations and even reduce hyperpigmentation.
As it acts as a tyrosinase inhibitor, it helps decrease pigment production that causes dark spots, making it an excellent solution for post-acne pigmentation such as dark marks that remain after breakouts.
Dr. Waldman suggests using it to treat mild to moderate acne by killing bacteria that inflames pores, as well as soothing bumps and redness associated with rosacea treatments, such as serums, gels, and foams containing it. Due to potential irritation issues it’s wise to start slowly by adding just a few drops at night before gradually increasing usage; for best results avoid mixing it with exfoliants and acids in one product until your skin has adjusted and you have found its optimal doses for use.
4. Niacinamide
Niacinamide, commonly referred to as vitamin B3, may not be the newest offering in skin-care, but it remains an invaluable addition. With its multitasking power and the potential to visibly reduce pores, improve uneven skin tone, soften fine lines and wrinkles while smoothing texture all at the same time while stimulating collagen production – Niacinamide should definitely be part of any routine!
Niacinimide can help treat blotchiness, redness and inflammation caused by acne and rosacea conditions like acne; however, it’s equally effective at soothing oily skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis by helping balance excess oil production while simultaneously strengthening moisture barriers for lasting hydration.
If you’re experiencing excess oil or hyperpigmentation, try using a serum with higher concentrations of niacinamide like Inkey List Supersolutions Excess Oil Solution 20% Niacinamide as part of a skincare regime. Additionally, zinc PCA 0.5% to help refine skin texture and 3% Squalane to replenish the moisture barrier are included, with clinical testing showing reduction of excess oil as well as improved tone and texture of skin tone and texture.
