Face serums have a thinner consistency than creams and are designed to penetrate quickly into the skin, so they should typically be applied once or twice daily following cleansing and toning.
Anti-aging serums are designed to target telltale signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture, enlarged pores, redness and discoloration. The best anti-age products include peptides, retinoids and antioxidants that can stimulate collagen production while decreasing hyperpigmentation and fortifying skin barriers.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the most potent anti-aging ingredients, according to dermatologist Jody Comstock. Vitamin C stimulates collagen production, combats oxidative stress and supports the skin barrier function – among many other things. Serums formulated with this ingredient hydrate, brighten and even out discolorations according to Jody Comstock.
Vitamin C serves as an invaluable antioxidant, protecting essential molecules like proteins, lipids and nucleic acids from damage arising during normal metabolism or by active immune cells. Furthermore, its redox recycling capabilities enable it to regenerate other antioxidants as a key element.
Sulwhasoo offers an exceptional ginseng extract serum to add a powerful ingredient like this to your skincare regimen, including herb extracts and vitamin C derivatives to brighten and soften skin complexions. Testers reported it is lightweight, hydrating and easily absorbed without feeling oily; we suggest working up to daily usage until your skin adjusts to this formula and can tolerate it.
Glycolic acid
Glycolic acid is an invaluable ally in skincare regimens, providing smoothing effects while amplifying other ingredients’ effectiveness. It sloughs away dead skin cells to brighten complexions while studies have also demonstrated it helps lessen acne scars. Plus, according to Cleveland Clinic experts long-term use may even firm sagging skin!
Like other alpha hydroxy acids, it acts as a chemical exfoliant by loosening bonds that bind dead skin cells together so they can shed more easily. Furthermore, it stimulates collagen production while acting as a humectant by drawing moisture into your skin.
Glycolic acid may cause skin sensitivity when combined with other exfoliators or moisturizers; so you should start gradually by applying it once or twice weekly, particularly at night, until your skin adapts and determines its needs. When using glycolic acid, avoid exposure to direct sunlight as this could increase its sensitivity.
Peptides
Peptides are short chains of amino acids–the building blocks of proteins–that can promote muscle growth and fat loss, boost energy levels, regulate hormones, and control metabolism. Peptides also possess anti-aging properties.
Palmitoyl oligopeptide stimulates collagen production to improve skin texture and minimize fine lines and wrinkles, as well as copper peptide, which delivers mineral to deeper layers of the skin to accelerate collagen production. Another popular peptide used in skincare products is Matrixyl which may diminish dark spots while simultaneously shrinking pore sizes.
Peptides can be found in protein-rich foods like tofu and edamame, but you can also purchase supplements or seek them out in skincare products. Look out for collagen peptides to boost skin health and slow signs of aging while creatine peptides build strength and enhance athletic performance. Products vary in concentration so always consult your physician prior to consuming any peptide products.
Ferulic acid
Ferulic acid, found in plant cells, boasts many beneficial properties that make it ideal for skin care products. Working well alongside vitamin C and supporting their antioxidant activity in skin care formulations, it acts as an anti-inflammatory that protects against cell damage, sunburn and premature aging.
Antimicrobial properties of turmeric reduce bacteria growth. Furthermore, its cellular regeneration-promoting and blood circulation-improving qualities increase endothelial-dependent vasodilation for improved blood flow. Finally, turmeric also decreases oxidative stress by blocking the activity of NF-kB while simultaneously increasing expression levels for GR protein.
Vitamin D3 can also be taken in supplement form to help combat diabetes, atherosclerosis and cancers. For best results it should be discussed with a health care provider prior to use as it may interact with some medications prescribed to you. It’s generally safe for topical application but as with all new ingredients always test in a small area before spreading over a wider surface area.
