SKIN-SATIONAL
Another year has passed, but who wants to show it? Whether you’d like to “wash” away fine lines and wrinkles with a cleanser, or keep skin hydrated with a vitamin-packed cream, picking out the perfect products isn’t always easy. (With shelves of beauty booty to choose from, it can be downright maddening!) Ready to look “skin-sational”? We asked the American Academy of Dermatology to give us 411 on the hottest skincare ingredients of the season. Put your best face forward with our get-gorgeous-guide:
PEPTIDES:
For younger, healthy looking skin, and to repair sun damage, try products with peptides. Dr. Ranella Hirsch with the American Academy of Dermatology tells us, "Peptides are chains of amino acids small enough to penetrate the skin and allow the skin to receive the message to produce new collagen and other building block materials." Dr. Hirsch says there is strong, company-based clinical research on this ingredient.
Products with Peptides on Dr. Hirsch’s list:
Lift Activ CxP SPF20 Biolifting Daily Care – Anti-Wrinkle And Firming
Price: $43 on VichyUSA.com
Olay Regenerist Daily Regenerating Serum, Concentrated Amino-Peptide Complex, Fragrance Free
Price: $18.99 on Olay Regenerist With Amino-Peptide Complex
Other products on the list are backed by limited, clinical research. Dr. Patricia Farris, also with the American Academy of Dermatology, says that each one shows a great deal of promise, although more study is needed.
Still, Dr. Farris says, "We need to have those products in the marketplace to really know how effective they’re going to be and whether they’re going to improve the appearance of your skin."
LICORICE ROOT EXTRACT:
Licorice root extract has its roots in Eastern medicine and is a potent anti-inflammatory. Dr. Hirsch says these products can be used on a variety of skin types, particularly those that are sensitive and breakout prone. Look for “Licochalcone A” listed as an ingredient.
Products with Licorice Root (from Dr. Hirsch):
Eucerin Redness Relief Daily Perfecting Skin Lotion SPF 15
Price: $14.99 on Walgreens.com
FEVERFEW:
This natural, calming ingredient is related to chamomile (as in the tea!). It is known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-irritation properties. Dr. Farris says, "It has also been shown to be very effective in treating skin that’s very sensitive and even has been shown to help in patients that have acne."
Products with Feverfew (from Dr. Hircsh):
Aveeno Ultra-Calming Moisturizing Cream Cleanser Fragrance-Free
Price: $7.99 on CVS.com
QUERCETIN:
Quercetin is derived from the bark of the oak tree. It is a super anti-oxidant that promises to protect against free radicals. Dr. Hirsch says it is also believed to be helpful in boosting collagen production.
Products with Quercetin (from Dr. Hirsch):
KORRES Quercetin and Oak Day Cream
Price: $48.00 on KorresUSA.com
GRAPE SEED EXTRACT:
Grape seed extract, another potent anti-oxidant, has its roots in wound healing. Dr. Farris recommends smoothing the ingredient on as a “seal”. "Anti-oxidants can protect your skin from the damage that is caused by the sun."
Products with Grape Seed (from Dr. Hirsch):
Jergens Naturals Daily Moisturizer, Renew
Price: $6.99 on Drugstore.com
Garnier Skin Renew Awakening Face Massager
Price: $11.04 on Ulta.com
The last ingredient in our lineup is also the newest…and has the least science behind it. Dr. Hirsch says that one small study was completed on this product and that additional study is needed. Still, she finds this ingredient exciting and promising.
ACTIVIN BOOSTERS:
Dr. Hirsch says that Activin Boosters literally boost the skin’s ability to heal. "The belief is that the damaged skin is able to repair itself more quickly than usual, allowing for increased turnover of the skin and an overall better appearance."
Products with Activin Boosters (from Dr. Hirsch):
AVON ANEW REVERSALIST Renewal Serum
Price: $39 on Avon.com
Dr. Hirsch and Dr. Farris say it’s important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another. If you can, try and snag some samples at your local drugstore or department store before investing in the deluxe size. Also, keep it simple. Add one new product at a time to your beauty regimen. That way, you’ll be able to tell what works best and what irritates your skin. Finally, if you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask your dermatologist, and bring your beauty bag with you!
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