Identifying your skin type is the starting point for any skincare routine. Without doing so, you risk using the wrong kind of product, which can slow down your skin’s healing and repair.

You can have great skin regardless of your skin type if you follow a good skincare routine, invest in the right products, and make other positive lifestyle choices for your skin and body. While doing this most people are familiar with words like “niacinamide,” “retinol,” “collagen,” “alpha hydroxy acids,” “beta hydroxy acids,” etc., but find it difficult to describe their functions, and who could benefit from them. Not for nothing are they widely regarded as holy grail solutions for many of the most common skin problems that people face. But what are they exactly, and how do they help the skin? Ms. Meghna Ghodawat, Founder of Skin Project explains this in detail. Have a Look.

Niacinamide: A derivative of vitamin B3, it is commonly used in topical skincare products like serums and moisturizers and suggested for those who have skin that is dry, sensitive,old, or prone to acne. Facilitating increased ceramide production, it helps reinforce the skin’s barrier and keeps moisture levels stable. Those troubled by acne and rosacea can also benefit from this ingredient’s anti-inflammatory properties. Niacinamide reduces hyperpigmentation by regulating melanin and pigment formation. It also prevents premature skin aging by boosting collagen production, which reduces wrinkles and discolorations.

Retinol

Although the term retinol is commonly used to refer to any topical product containing a vitamin A derivative, retinol is, in fact, a retinoid, of which there are several types with varying degrees of efficacy. Retinol improves skin texture, minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, and reduces pore size. Effective retinoids boost collagen production and skin cell shedding. Increase skin turnover, regenerative capacity, and cell stickiness to treat acne, blackheads, and clogged pores. Retinol isn’t for all skin types and those with sensitive skin should avoid its use.

Collagen

Collagen, the body’s most abundant protein, plays a key role in skeletal muscle. The loss of muscle mass that occurs with age is called sarcopenia, and studies show that taking collagen supplements can help reverse this condition. Skin health is enhanced as wrinkles and dryness are diminished. Depending on your health objectives, collagen supplements may be a good choice because they are risk-free, simple to use, and beneficial.

The primary function of collagen is to provide structure, strength, and support throughout the body, with a particular focus on providing structure, strength, and elasticity to the skin. It helps replace dead skin cells and provides organs with a protective covering.

Alpha hydroxy acids: Alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs are more suitable for skin concerns associated with aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. They are known for their ability to remove the top layer of dead skin, leaving behind skin that is softer and more uniform in tone. Being water-soluble acids derived from fruit sugars they assist in removing the top layer of the skin so that new, more evenly pigmented skin cells can form in their place. Using AHAs will leave your skin feeling smoother after use.

Beta hydroxy acids: They are commonly used to treat acne and sun damage and are also known as BHAs. Salicylic Acid is the most common BHA and these products penetrate deeply into the hair follicles to remove excess oils and dead skin cells, allowing your pores to breathe again. Because of these effects, BHAs are best suited for combination with oily skin. Because of its soothing properties, it is ideal for sensitive and red skin. BHA application benefits all skin types; however, it is the best ally for combination and oily skin that is prone to inflammation, irritation, and impurities because it allows for deep pore cleansing and normalization of sebum secretion.