When it comes to good health, popping little vitamin pills for our body is par for the course. But these essential nutrients are also found in just about every skincare product. And while it is no magic bullet to fix all your skincare concerns, knowing what goes into your skincare cocktail is critical to achieve that healthy, glowing skin. Just read the label on your fave creme a little closer, and look out for these beauty buzzwords.
Vitamin A: The Age-Defying Powerhouse
From left: The Retinol Serum, $530, Augustinus Bader. Radiance Repair Retinol Serum, $270, EVE LOM. 1% Retinol Treatment, $23, Paula's Choice.
Vitamin A, known in the skincare world as retinoids, is a cornerstone element for anti-ageing products. Its efficacy lies in its ability to stimulate collagen production, which is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. On top of that, vitamin A also promotes faster cell turnover, helping to shed dead skin cells and reveal a more even, radiant complexion beneath. This makes the use of retinol particularly effective against signs of ageing, and is also great for improving overall skin texture and reducing the appearance of scars and hyperpigmentation.
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However, the potency of vitamin A means it should be used with care. Initial use can sometimes lead to dryness, peeling, or redness, as the skin adjusts. So it’s best to start with lower concentrations and gradually increase the usage as your skin builds tolerance. Also, vitamin A increases the skin’s susceptibility to UV rays, so diligent use of a high SPF sunscreen is essential when using these products.
Vitamin B3: The Multi-faceted Protector
From left: Niacinamide Serum, $17, The Inkey List. B3 Nice 10% Niacinamide Serum, $107, Sunday Riley. Pure Niacinamide 10 Serum, $84.70, La Roche-Posay.
Vitamin B3, sometimes listed as niacinamide, is a versatile and gentle ingredient suitable for a wide range of skin types and concerns. It’s known for its ability to strengthen the skin’s barrier, enhancing its ability to retain moisture and defend against environmental stressors. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin, as it can help to reduce transepidermal water loss and improve skin hydration. Additionally, niacinamide is effective in managing acne, reducing inflammation and calming redness, making it an essential ingredient for those with acne-prone or reactive skin.
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Beyond its hydrating and soothing properties, niacinamide also helps regulate oil production, reduce the appearance of pores, and improve skin tone marred by hyperpigmentation and sun damage. It’s well-tolerated even by those with sensitive skin, but as with any active ingredient, starting with a lower concentration and gradually increasing the application can minimise potential irritation. The stability and effectiveness of niacinamide in skincare formulations make it a reliable and beneficial component of any skincare routine.
Vitamin C: The Brightening Antioxidant
From Left: Vitamin C Lactic 15% Vitamin C Firm & Bright Serum, $135, Dr. Dennis Gross. Daylight Oasis Vitamin C Brightening Serum, $109, Sigi Skin. Yuzu Vitamin C Bright Eye Cream, $48, Saturday Skin.
Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, is celebrated for its skin brightening and anti-ageing properties. It’s instrumental in collagen synthesis, aiding in skin firmness and resilience, and is effective in mitigating the visible effects of sun damage and hyperpigmentation, contributing to a more even and radiant skin tone. Additionally, its antioxidant properties protect against oxidative stress caused by environmental factors like pollution and UV radiation, which can lead to premature skin ageing.
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However, vitamin C’s efficacy is highly dependent on its formulation. It’s a notoriously unstable ingredient, prone to degradation in the presence of light and air. Therefore, proper packaging, typically in dark or opaque bottles, is crucial to maintain its potency. Likewise, storage in a cool, dark place can extend its shelf life. As vitamin C can increase the skin’s photosensitivity, complementing its use with a broad-spectrum sunscreen is vital to protect the skin from potential UV damage.
Vitamin E: The Nurturing Moisturiser
From left: Super Knights – multi vitamin mask, $55, belif. Vitamin Enriched Face Base, $154 for 100ml, Bobbi Brown. Vitamin E Intense Moisture Cream, $39, The Body Shop.
Vitamin E is known for its moisturising and healing properties, making it an excellent ingredient for dry, irritated, or damaged skin. It’s a natural antioxidant, which helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors. This makes it particularly beneficial in healing and soothing formulations, often found in products designed to calm inflammation and repair skin barrier.
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Vitamin E’s moisturising properties are beneficial for those with dry skin, as it helps to lock in moisture and restore the skin’s natural oil balance. It’s often used in combination with vitamin C in skincare products, as the two vitamins work synergistically to enhance each other’s antioxidant effects. Regular use of vitamin E enriched products can significantly improve skin hydration, texture and overall health.
Balancing Act
While vitamins A, B3, C, and E are each beneficial for skincare, it’s prudent to approach their combination with care. Certain pairings, such as vitamins A and C, may increase the likelihood of skin sensitivity or irritation, particularly for those with more delicate skin. Using these potent vitamins at different times—perhaps one in the morning and the other in the evening—is a strategic way to harness their benefits without overwhelming the skin. The interaction of vitamins B3 and C, though generally safe, might require more care for those with sensitive skin. Always use sunscreens, as several of these ingredients can heighten sun sensitivity. Knowing how these vitamins work and interact allows you to draw up a skincare routine that’s just right for you, so that you not only improve your skin’s health but also its overall appearance.