From cleansers and creams to moisturizers and masks, consumers can be left wondering which products will truly benefit their skin. By unpacking the ingredients inside skincare products, consumers can learn what ingredients may enhance their own skincare routines. Get under the skin of common skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinol, niacinamide, AHA and BHA and the unique ways they improve skin health. Before using any new skincare products, please consult with a skincare professional or dermatologist. Information about each ingredient was provided by physician assistant Alex Blank.

Hyaluronic acid: the moisture barrier

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring ingredient in the skin, and it strengthens the moisture barrier, acting like the “glue” between our skin cells. Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by the skin but users can also find it in many skincare products. Hyaluronic acid strengthens the skin barrier by serving as a “glue” between skin cells when applied. Adding hyaluronic acid to skin can help prevent moisture loss, making it less dry, and works to maintain healthy skin.

AHA/BHA: daily glow

Alpha hydroxy acid, also known as AHA, and beta hydroxy acid, known as BHA, both   moisturize and exfoliate the skin. When applied, AHA stays on the top layer of the skin, resulting in a more moisturizing effect. While AHA does help to remove old skin cells, it focuses more on hydrating and protecting new cells beneath the skin. BHA penetrates deeper into the skin than AHA and exfoliates by shedding dead skin cells and keeping pores clear, which helps the skin to look fresh.

Retinol: anti-aging

Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, acts like a nutrient for the skin’s “cell factory,” boosting the production of new, healthy skin cells. Retinol sheds older skin cells on the surface by making the newer skin cells healthier by providing nutrients needed to grow. The shedding process promotes clear skin by opening up pores and promoting collagen production, which leaves the skin silky and supple. However, retinol may cause sun irritation if used during the day.

Niacinamide: the color corrector

When applied to the skin, niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is an antioxidant that helps mitigate the effects of DNA-damaging issues like ultraviolet radiation. Niacinamide also works well with melanocytes, cells responsible for producing melanin, which can help reduce blotchy pigmentation, dark spots and post-pimple redness, promoting a more even complexion.