Just like in fashion, cosmetics is also governed by the main trends, making us not stop talking about the new asset that promises impeccable skin in a short time of use. The truth is that in cosmetics, if an ingredient works, it will remain forever.
Although some trends last longer than others (such as AHAs), there are somes assets that never go out of style thanks to their effectiveness and the power they have to transform our skin, leaving it more beautiful, luminous and juicy than ever.
One of the main advantages of these assets is that their benefits are so well known and contrasted that we can easily find them in many of the cosmetics that are at our disposal.
1. Collagen
Collagen is a flexible protein (a protein molecule) present in skin tissue and blood vessels. Promotes elasticity and provides moisturizing properties to keep skin healthy. The appearance of our face, body, nails and hair depend on this molecule, and although the body produces it naturally, over the years we must restore collagen levels in our skin tissue.
This active begins to break down as we age. The amount of collagen in our body is directly responsible for the state of our skin. And this fact is not by chance, since collagen is responsible for up to 80% of the volume of our skin. The truth is that when this protein decreases, the skin becomes thinner and less smooth, and that is when lines and wrinkles appear. This phenomenon usually occurs after the age of 30, when collagen production decreases rapidly.
Many creams incorporate this asset in their list of ingredients, among them the Night Source Sleeping Cream of Madara (€44.90). It is formulated based on natural peptides, phytosterols, microalgae and hyaluronic acid.
2. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is undoubtedly known as one of the most effective antioxidant active ingredients on the market, essential for both our health and our skin. Faced with external factors such as sun exposure, stress or environmental pollution, now that we return to the off-road rhythm of the city, this cosmetic asset helps to restore the luminosity and prevent aging premature skin, delaying the visible signs of aging such as wrinkles or spots.
It has numerous benefits: “we helps even out skin tone and contributes to increasing the production of collagen, giving you smoother skin”, says Dr. Marta Vilavella, dermatologist and NAOS collaborator. It is important to know how to use this formula correctly and, for example, it is important not to mix it with retinol.
the serum Intensive Vitamin C² Double Concentrate by Institut Esthederm (€39) is a good option to introduce this vitamin to our routine. It has 2 different forms of vitamin C.
3. Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide that is naturally produced by our body. To give you an idea, more than 50% of the body’s hyaluronic acid is in the skin, bone junctions, joints, and cartilage. The bad news is that a third of it is broken down and synthesized on a daily basis and, moreover, it leaves destroying from the age of 25so it is essential to provide it externally.
“He is able to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in waterwhich is why it is primarily responsible for skin turgidity, elasticity and hydration”, describes Laia Puig, head of cosmetics at LPG. For this reason, including it in our routine is essential.
He Complete Hyaluronic Acid treatment set by saluvital (€19.90) combines a serum and a hyaluronic acid cream with 3 molecular weights (the molecular weight is determined by the size of the polymers. In cosmetics, high molecular weight hyaluronic acid hydrates the most superficial layers of skin and low molecular weight has greater penetrating capacity as it is composed of smaller molecules).
4. Retinol
Retinol (vitamin A) is one of the most loved active ingredients for skin care thanks to its antiaging power. Helps reverse photoaging and regulates sebum production, in addition to preventing hyperpigmentation, helping to eliminate stains or improving skin texture, among other benefits. For these reasons, it is common to see it in cosmetic routines for all ages. It is usually used at night as it is important that UV and UVA rays do not reach retinol-treated skin or blemishes and skin reactions may appear.
5. Niacinamide
This active form of vitamin B3 is capable of improve the appearance of the skin and its elasticity. It can be included in the routine both day and night. If you use it during the day, don’t forget to also apply sun protection. In addition, it is an ingredient that is very well tolerated by all skin types and that penetrates into the deepest layers of the skin, thanks to its low molecular weight, although it is also especially indicated for combination or oily skin prone to acne or skin with hyperpigmentation or melasma.
It is anti-inflammatory and seboregulatory, which helps to reduce and prevent acne. It is also depigmenting and moisturizing thanks to the increase in collagen production and improves skin elasticity. On the other hand, it has an antioxidant effect, since it protects cells from oxidative stress, especially skin exposed to ultraviolet radiation and pollution and, finally, it is a powerful anti-aging agent, since it increases the production of collagen and elastin.
Paula’s Choice has among its collection the famous Clinical Niacinamide 20% Treatment (€54), with a high concentration of niacinamide.
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