Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is essentially Nature's sponge, as it attracts water and helps to prevent the loss of moisture. It is naturally produced in the body, with 50 per cent of it stored in skin cells, but it depletes as we age. You can replace HA internally in a supplement form and studies have shown that it is also beneficial for joint health at a daily dose of 60-200mg.
Alternatively, it is available in many cosmetic and skincare products in topical form. Brands are now including HA in their foundations, moisturisers and serums as it can promote plumped, hydrated and more glowing skin. The HA molecule itself is too large to penetrate the skin but it can still attract and hold moisture on top of the skin.
* Rodial Dragon's Blood Hyaluronic Moisturiser SPF 15 (50ml), Dh350
* Rodial Dragon's Blood Hyaluronic Night Cream (50ml), Dh415
(Avl at www.beautysolutions-me.com)
Retinol, also referred to as Vitamin A1, has been around for decades and has proven to be a powerful and beneficial anti-ageing and acne-clearing ingredient. Retinol can even out pigmentation and accelerate skin cell renewal. It will take at least three months to see results, so be wary of products claiming instant benefits.
As retinol breaks down in UV light and becomes less active, you should use it in the evenings. There is debate on whether retinol makes skin more photosensitive or not but, in any case, you should always be using an SPF during the day. If you suffer from rosacea, eczema or psoriasis, it can cause inflammation, so it might not be the best option for you.
*Murad Active Retinol Renewal Set, Dh490 (www.ounass.com)
*Rodial Booster Drops with Retinol, Dh415 (www.beautysolutions-me.com)
Glycolic acid, the most popular of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family, is widely used in skincare products. Its main purpose is to exfoliate the surface of the skin, smoothing the texture and evening out skin tone overall. It can aid in the reduction of pigmentation and also stimulate collagen production in skin, which improves the appearance of fine lines.
* Alpha H Liquid Gold with Glycolic Acid, Dh233 (Harvey Nichols)
* Caudalie Glycolic Peel, Dh150 (Sephora)
Salicylic Acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is the go-to product when you feel a pimple coming on, have oily or acne-prone skin, or need to really clear your pores. The molecular size of salicylic acid means that it is small enough to penetrate the pores of the skin and can dissolve dead skin cells, excess oils and other agents clogging your skin at a deeper level. So, say goodbye to your blackheads!
It's more effective on normal to oily skin types, so avoid it if you have very dry skin as well as if you are pregnant, have an aspirin allergy or are using certain medication.
* Filorga Oxygen Peel, Dh185 (www.basharacare.com)
* The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, Dh32 (www.glamazle.com).
wknd@khaleejtimes.com
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