{"id":5284,"date":"2023-10-18T15:51:24","date_gmt":"2023-10-18T14:51:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/?p=5284"},"modified":"2024-01-22T12:36:43","modified_gmt":"2024-01-22T12:36:43","slug":"what-are-active-ingredients-in-skincare","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/what-are-active-ingredients-in-skincare\/","title":{"rendered":"What Are Active Ingredients In Skincare?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/What-are-active-ingredients-in-skincare__.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5292\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Link to share article here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links is-style-default is-layout-flex 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s0.484,1.08,1.08,1.08c0.596,0,1.08-0.484,1.08-1.08S17.401,6.116,16.804,6.116z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">Instagram<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-twitter  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/skinandmehq\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M22.23,5.924c-0.736,0.326-1.527,0.547-2.357,0.646c0.847-0.508,1.498-1.312,1.804-2.27 c-0.793,0.47-1.671,0.812-2.606,0.996C18.324,4.498,17.257,4,16.077,4c-2.266,0-4.103,1.837-4.103,4.103 c0,0.322,0.036,0.635,0.106,0.935C8.67,8.867,5.647,7.234,3.623,4.751C3.27,5.357,3.067,6.062,3.067,6.814 c0,1.424,0.724,2.679,1.825,3.415c-0.673-0.021-1.305-0.206-1.859-0.513c0,0.017,0,0.034,0,0.052c0,1.988,1.414,3.647,3.292,4.023 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class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M21.8,8.001c0,0-0.195-1.378-0.795-1.985c-0.76-0.797-1.613-0.801-2.004-0.847c-2.799-0.202-6.997-0.202-6.997-0.202 h-0.009c0,0-4.198,0-6.997,0.202C4.608,5.216,3.756,5.22,2.995,6.016C2.395,6.623,2.2,8.001,2.2,8.001S2,9.62,2,11.238v1.517 c0,1.618,0.2,3.237,0.2,3.237s0.195,1.378,0.795,1.985c0.761,0.797,1.76,0.771,2.205,0.855c1.6,0.153,6.8,0.201,6.8,0.201 s4.203-0.006,7.001-0.209c0.391-0.047,1.243-0.051,2.004-0.847c0.6-0.607,0.795-1.985,0.795-1.985s0.2-1.618,0.2-3.237v-1.517 C22,9.62,21.8,8.001,21.8,8.001z M9.935,14.594l-0.001-5.62l5.404,2.82L9.935,14.594z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">YouTube<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong><strong><strong>What Are Active Ingredients In Skincare?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s a lot of chatter about \u201cactive ingredients\u201d in the skincare world at the moment. The phrase is popping up everywhere, from social media to TV ads, on packaging and in the press. But are active ingredients really the holy grail we\u2019ve been led to believe \u2013 or is this just another buzz-phrase that doesn\u2019t really deliver?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well, the good news is that this is a skincare trend that is rooted in real results. Yes, you can believe the hype \u2013 dermatologists have been using active ingredients for decades to help their clients see a visible difference in the mirror.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But what actually are active ingredients \u2013 or \u201cactives\u201d, for skincare buffs \u2013 and how can you add them to your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/how-to-build-a-skincare-routine\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3629\">skincare <\/a>routine? Read on to find out about all things active.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Active ingredients vs cosmetic ingredients&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019re pulling back the curtain to introduce you to some skincare industry standards. In the world of dermatology, ingredients can be split into two categories \u2013 \u201cactive\u201d and \u201ccosmetic\u201d.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Active ingredients are powerful enough to really change your skin. They might fight <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/the-skin-and-me-guide-to-acne\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"467\">acne<\/a>, increase collagen production or reduce inflammation, but the thing they all have in common is that they go deep. Certain active ingredients actually work on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/what-is-cellular-skincare\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4757\">cellular level<\/a> to change the structure of your skin, improving its appearance and can even reduce the risk of future damage \u2013 pretty smart right?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And, if you feel like you\u2019ve been hearing more about them recently, then that\u2019s because you probably have. \u201cSkincare consumers have become much more aware of active ingredients over the past few years and have a better understanding of the science behind how they work and this thirst for knowledge is growing,\u201d explains Dr Jason Thomson, Head of Medical at Skin + Me. \u201cAlmost 50% of consumers say that actives are the most important factor when purchasing a skincare product.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, cosmetic ingredients are more surface level. They can provide hydration or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/how-to-brighten-tired-skin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1083\">brighten the ski<\/a>n, but the results are temporary and these products won\u2019t always target the underlying issues behind your skin concerns.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>How can I use active skincare ingredients?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Do your research and pick active ingredients that will specifically target your skin concerns \u2013 you\u2019ll find plenty of reading material right here on The Dose. Choose them carefully and don\u2019t overload your skin \u2013 your routine should support your skin rather than strip it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s very easy to be overwhelmed and tempting to have an over-complicated <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/how-to-build-a-skincare-routine\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3629\">skincare regime<\/a>,\u201d says Dr Jason. \u201cThis is unnecessary, expensive and you risk damaging your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/your-skin-barrier-protection-guide\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2634\">skin barrier<\/a> if you\u2019re applying too many products with powerful active ingredients.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Better still, speak to a professional who can analyse your skin and hand-pick the right active ingredients for you. You could go to an in-person appointment with a dermatologist or use a digital service like Skin + Me, where you submit a consultation form along with photos of your skin. Your personal Dermatology Clinician will review your skin and formulate a personalised skin treatment for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cOur treatments contain scientifically-proven active ingredients which are formulated into unique combinations, and concentrations that gradually increase over time, which help to give the best results, whilst minimising the risk of experiencing any side effects,\u201d explains Dr Jason.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Active skincare ingredients<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, what are some examples of active skincare ingredients? Here are a few of the most common actives used by dermatologists, each with their own benefits and uses. There are many more than those listed below, but these ones are often used by clinicians, including the Skin + Me Dermatology Team.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Retinoids&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/myth-buster-the-difference-between-retinol-and-retinoids\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1954\">Retinoids <\/a>are a family of synthetic and naturally-occurring compounds derived from vitamin A. Retinol, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/tretinoin-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3530\">tretinoin<\/a>, retinaldehyde and retinal are all types of retinoids. They\u2019re the most active form of vitamin A and can tackle several different skin concerns. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/the-skin-and-me-guide-to-acne\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"467\">Acne<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/how-to-brighten-tired-skin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1083\">textured skin<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-can-i-shrink-my-pores\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3206\">enlarged pores<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/hyperpigmentation-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4467\">hyperpigmentation <\/a>and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/skin-ageing-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3061\">early signs of skin ageing<\/a> can all be improved with regular retinoid use. Just a quick word on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/tretinoin-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3530\">Tretinoin <\/a>\u2013 it\u2019s only available on prescription in the UK, and is around 20 times stronger than retinol.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Clindamycin&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-clindamycin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3243\">Clindamycin <\/a>is an antibiotic medication that inhibits the growth and reproduction of bacteria, making it an effective treatment for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/the-skin-and-me-guide-to-acne\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"467\">acne<\/a>. Clindamycin is only available on prescription, and it has proven to be very safe when used under the supervision of a medical professional.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Metronidazole&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-metronidazole\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1283\">Metronidazole <\/a>has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation along with papules and pustules caused by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-how-to-treat-rosacea\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4550\">rosacea<\/a>. It works by targeting the bacteria that thrive in the hair follicles and contribute to the inflammatory response. Metronidazole works against the acne-causing bacteria, propionibacterium acnes, to help promote clearer skin.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hydroquinone<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-hydroquinone\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1558\">Hydroquinone <\/a>is a prescription-only ingredient which lightens patches of the skin. Dermatologists may prescribe it in cases of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/hyperpigmentation-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4467\">hyperpigmentation<\/a>, which is when dark areas appear on the skin as a result of inflammation, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/myth-buster-top-sunscreen-myths-plus-do-spf-tablets-and-aftersun-work\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3107\">sun damage<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/melasma-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1549\">melasma<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Azelaic Acid&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-azelaic-acid\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1236\">Azelaic acid<\/a> is a multitasking active which can be bought over the counter or prescribed. Cosmetic formulations tend to contain azelaic acid at strengths up to 10%, whereas prescription will usually have higher strengths of up to 20%. It\u2019s a great multitasker \u2013 its antibacterial properties combat spots, while it also targets redness and inflammation caused by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-how-to-treat-rosacea\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4550\">rosacea <\/a>or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/the-skin-and-me-guide-to-acne\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"467\">acne<\/a>. By promoting skin cell turnover, azelaic acid can regulate dark spots and promote smoother, more youthful-looking skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Niacinamide&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-niacinamide\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3754\">Niacinamide <\/a>is an antioxidant that tackles a myriad of skin concerns from oil regulation to barrier repair, and boosts cell rejuvenation for a healthy, more radiant complexion. It can be found in many skincare products off the shelf, and mixes well with more potent active ingredients too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Five things you should know before using active skincare ingredients<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Don\u2019t overload your skin<\/strong> \u2013 start with a lower concentration and increase the strength of your active ingredient as your skin adapts. That\u2019s why Skin + Me treatment plans evolve over time, with concentrations only increasing when your skin is able to tolerate it.&nbsp;<br><br><strong>2. Prioritise hydration<\/strong> \u2013 although they can provide amazing results, some active ingredients can make your skin a little dry. Pick your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/skin-and-me-cleansers-and-moisturisers-with-dermatologist-and-head-of-medical-dr-jason-thomson\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2821\">moisturiser <\/a>carefully \u2013 we\u2019d recommend using one that includes <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-hyaluronic-acid\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3864\">hyaluronic acid<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-ceramides\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4560\">ceramides <\/a>to keep your skin feeling supple and soft.&nbsp;<br><br><strong>3. Choose carefully<\/strong> \u2013 the wrong active ingredients can do more harm than good, so make sure that you do your research before putting them on your face. Better still, speak to a dermatology pro \u2013 like the clinicians at Skin + Me, who will select the right ingredients for your skin.&nbsp;<br><br><strong>4. Create a dream routine<\/strong> \u2013 supportive products will help reduce irritation and keep your skin feeling happy. A gentle <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/skincare-101-everything-you-need-to-know-about-cleansing\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4863\">cleanser <\/a>and a soothing moisturiser are a great place to start \u2013 why not try the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/skin-and-me-cleansers-and-moisturisers-with-dermatologist-and-head-of-medical-dr-jason-thomson\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2821\">Skin + Me range<\/a>?&nbsp;<br><br><strong>5. Don\u2019t skip the sunscreen<\/strong> \u2013 everyone should be wearing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/meet-skin-and-me-daily-defence-sunscreen-spf-50\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4587\">sunscreen <\/a>every single day, but it\u2019s even more essential if you\u2019re using active ingredients. Some actives can increase your skin\u2019s sensitivity to sunlight, so you need to be well protected. We\u2019d recommend using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/meet-skin-and-me-daily-defence-sunscreen-spf-50\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4587\">Daily Defence Oil-free SPF 50 Sunscreen<\/a>, which was specifically designed for using alongside actives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Final thoughts<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Active ingredients are the most efficient way to get visible results at home. They work deep in the skin to target your concerns, and the right supporting routine will help keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Just remember to take it easy, especially at first, and don\u2019t go a day without <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/meet-skin-and-me-daily-defence-sunscreen-spf-50\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4587\">sunscreen<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f0f6fb\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#edf5f8\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f0f6fb\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>New to Skin + Me? <\/strong>Get your first month of personalised skincare for \u00a34.99 with promo code DOSE \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/consultation\/sign-up\/create-account\">complete our quick consultation here<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Looking for a routine refresh? <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/login?back=%2Faccount-summary%2Fmanage-upcoming-orders\">Add the Dream Routine to your Skin + Me subscription<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>In need of a restock? <\/strong>Head to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/shop\">The Skincare Shop<\/a> for one-off purchases of your Routine Essentials.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Find out what makes an ingredient &#8220;active&#8221;, and how you can use these powerful multitaskers in your skincare routine. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":179265348,"featured_media":5292,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2196,1,1366],"tags":[1424,1489,1678,1517,1583,1953,1963,1382,1362,1388,1423],"class_list":["post-5284","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ingredients","category-latest-articles","category-routine","tag-active-ingredients","tag-azelaic-acid","tag-clindamycin","tag-expert-advice","tag-hydroquinone","tag-metronidazole","tag-niacinamide","tag-skin-me","tag-skincare","tag-skincare-routine","tag-tretinoin"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5284","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/179265348"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5284"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5284\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5293,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5284\/revisions\/5293"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5292"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5284"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5284"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5284"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}