We are firm believers that beautiful skin can be had at every age. With the innumerous options and wide range of available formulas– some of which regrettably tout illusory claims– the world of anti-aging skincare can be a bewildering place. So how does one navigate the labyrinth of perfectly packaged products and separate the diamonds from the duds? Know your ingredients. There are thousands of skincare ingredients on the market, so we’ll highlight the best anti-aging ingredients with a proven track record.
Stay tuned for our top 5 picks for natural anti-aging skincare ingredients that you’ll want to employ for a complexion as ageless as you are.
IN A NUTSHELL
Main Takeaways: Not all products that claim to be “anti-aging” are created equal. For results you can see, seek out tried and trusted ingredients that are proven to offer the best chance at minimizing the signs of aging.
Good to Know: Effective skincare is more than just the ingredients you use. A solid daily routine, along with proper application and dosage, will give you the best results for healthier, younger looking skin.
Recommended Products: Nectar of the C Vitamin C Serum, Just Dew It Hydrating Serum, ‘A’ Game Retinol Serum, Youth Fairy Retinol Moisturizer, H2 Oh Yeah Hydrating Moisturizer, One Lip Wonder Lip Treatment, and Eyes Eyes Baby Anti-Aging Eye Cream.
Top Five Ingredients for Natural Anti-Aging Skincare
1. Retinol
Retinol is one of the most universally celebrated anti-aging skincare ingredients, with an impressive track record offering undeniable results. A form of vitamin A, it can be found in innumerous and widely accessible over-the-counter products. It is also available in more potent prescription-strength formulas (often referred to as retinoids) through your dermatologist.
One of the most highly studied and clinically proven skincare ingredients out there, retinol is known for its ability to increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen production, which results in much smoother, younger looking skin. This results in a visible reduction of the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.
While retinol has been known to cause irritation and dryness, there are ways you can benefit from this powerful anti-aging skincare ingredient without harsh side effects. Youth Fairy retinol moisturizer contains 0.03% retinol, making it perfect for beginner retinol users and those who are looking for a gentle, clean and vegan alternative. We have included a plethora of skin soothing botanicals to support the anti-aging benefits of retinol while keeping your skin soft and well-nourished.
When you are ready to introduce a higher concentration of retinol to your routine, our ‘A’ Game retinol serum is the answer. With .1% retinol, supported by plant stem cells and rosehip oil, this gentle serum works to effectively smooth and even out your skin.
Retinol is a naturally-derived compound with a variety of origins, some of which are plant based, making said retinol formulas perfect for those committed to a vegan lifestyle. While there is a retinol formula for just about everyone, those who are pregnant or nursing should abstain from use unless otherwise directed by their doctor.
2. Vitamin C
This super vitamin works similarly for your skin as it does for your whole body. It works to protect against environmental stressors and prevents sun exposure from breaking down the integrity of the skin, helping to preserve its youth and vibrancy. In just a matter of weeks, research has shown that the consistent application of vitamin C can increase hydration, brighten and even skin tone, reduce the appearance of dark spots, and minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
Those who plan on using vitamin C regularly, especially those with sensitive skin, should opt for gentler formulas, like Nectar of the C. It is fortified with 10 nourishing actives and a blend of powerful botanicals, but also happens to be mild and non-irritating. This makes it perfect for all skin types. As with all vitamin C serums, be sure to handle with care, close securely, and store away from the sun after use, as air and light can cause oxidation and render this otherwise powerful elixir ineffective.
3. Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant, which means it hydrates by drawing moisture from the atmosphere and delivering it to and through the surface of the skin. This added hydration helps to bring about a plumper complexion with seemingly fewer fine lines and wrinkles - all powered by molecules that can hold up to 1000 times their weight in water. In addition to the extra hydration, some users even report experiencing increased elasticity and firmness in just a matter of weeks.
Like retinol, you can find hyaluronic acid in all kinds of products to cover every step of your routine; you just have to know how to identify it. So avoid a bewildering game of hide and seek by knowing its alternate moniker. Sodium hyaluronate is the water-soluble salt form of hyaluronic acid and allows for deep penetration into the skin. Just Dew It hydrating serum contains hyaluronic acid in the form of sodium hyaluronate, which works to infuse your thirsty skin with the hydration it craves. Supported by soothing botanicals and nourishing antioxidants, this skin-reviving serum helps to plump your skin, resulting in a glowing, healthy complexion.
Seal all of that goodness in with a moisturizer that also contains hyaluronic acid, such as H2 Oh Yeah.
4. Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid, or AHA, derived from sugar cane and is famed for its ability to effectively firm, tighten, and exfoliate skin without physical abrasives. The result is a more youthful, glowing complexion… sometimes almost instantly!
Glycolic acid is made up of exceptionally small molecules, which aids in its effectiveness and ability to penetrate into the deepest layers of the skin. As it works to unstick dead skin cells and resurface the skin, it also helps to support the outermost dermal layers by encouraging protein production for visibly firmer skin with a reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
But as with some of the other ingredients listed here, glycolic acid is pretty powerful, so go slowly when incorporating it into your regimen. To avoid hypersensitivity, consider starting with just a few days per week and increase the frequency with your growing tolerance. Or rather than opting for something like a glycolic cleanser, which calls for repeat use, consider a mask that you could easily insert into your routine at your discretion. Prince Charcoal detox mask, which features glycolic acid, will not only radically help detoxify your skin, but will also work to restore its natural radiance.
Lastly, be sure to tack on an extra layer of SPF when incorporating glycolic acid (or any AHA) into your routine, as photosensitivity may occur.
5. Peptides
Last but certainly not least in our lineup is none other than peptides. Found naturally in the skin as well as in many foods, they are often referred to as “building blocks.” Peptides are small pieces of protein composed of amino acids that are capable of performing different tasks. When certain amino acids are grouped together, they form peptides that perform different functions. Certain peptides might help firm the skin, while others might help minimize the look of fine lines. Generally, you might find a blend of peptides in your skincare formulas, allowing you to gain multiple benefits.
As we mentioned, peptides are found naturally in the skin; but as time goes on– usually around our 30s– they become less effective. That’s why it’s a good idea to incorporate peptides into your skincare routine.
Say bye-bye to dark circles and puffiness and amp up hydration with our peptide-rich Eyes Eyes Baby eye cream. Achieve a youthful, dewy glow and smooth out the most delicate skin on your body without irritation and see visible results that only get better with repeat use.
Your lips are skin, too, and deserve extra attention now and again. You will also find peptides in our One Lip Wonder lip treatment, which works to effectively hydrate, smooth and plump your lips.
So go ahead– get down with these nature-based answers to the clock’s tick tock for healthy skin that glows, no matter how many birthday candles you’re lighting this year.
