A-Z of top cosmeceutical ingredients: G-O

In the second of three blogs detailing The Skin To Love Clinic’s A-Z of key cosmeceutical ingredients which are beneficial to your skin, we look at G-O.

G is for Growth Factor

Growth Factors in are proteins that help regulate cellular growth. In skin creams, they play an important part in maintaining healthy skin structure and function by stimulating the biochemical pathways that promote regeneration, promote the formation of collagens and interact with other proteins to aid skin repair and regeneration. Clinical studies have shown that the application of skin creams containing growth factors help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve the appearance of age spots and increase skin softness and elasticity.

H is for Hyaluronic Acid

HA is a viscous substance which helps keep skin tissue supple. The older we get, the less HA the body produces which leads to increased dryness, fine lines and wrinkles. Using HA rich products like Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Serum will help re-establish the skin’s natural hydration.

I is for Iodine

Iodine has been used as a disinfectant and antibacterial on cuts and grazes for years. New research has discovered that putting iodine on a wound after it has formed a scab can be a more effective treatment because it accentuates skin regeneration.

J is for Jojoba

Jojoba is widely used in skin care products because of its moisturising abilities. Unlike most vegetable oils, Jojoba closely resembles sebum, a waxy substance produced by our skin glands. It’s moisturising abilities mean it’s widely used in many skin care products.

K is for Kojic Acid

KA is used in products which help lighten scars and pigment blemishes. KA is an organic compound which makes it kinder than other skin lightening products. Research has shown that kojic acid is both effective and safe when used in creams as a 2% concentration. Do not use if you have cuts, broken skin or peeling.

L is for L-ascorbic Acid

L-ascorbic Acid is more commonly called Vitamin C, helping skin cells metabolise in three different ways, exfoliating and repairing itself as well as rejuvenating collagen fibers, which helps create tighter skin. It helps slow the production of melanin, which prevents dark spots on the face, as well as working as an anti-oxidant which can reduce skin damage on a cellular level, encouraging collagen development so that skin can look and feel firm. When L-ascorbic acid is applied topically on a regular basis, it can help improve skin texture and quality, as well as soothing and calming the skin after sunburn. Vitamin C will remain in the skin for nearly 72 hours.

M is for Mandelic Acid

Mandelic acid is an extract of bitter almonds which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it an ideal ingredient for treating acne and blemish prone skin. It’s safe enough to be used on sensitive skin and people who suffer with rosacea.

N is for Niacin

Niacin is a specific B vitamin which helps skin retain moisture, which means that creams containing this nutrient can help your complexion look plumper and therefore younger.

O is for Omega

Omega-3 and Omega-6 are essential fatty acids found in Vitamin F (see week 1 A-F).

If you would like a consultation to discover which cosmeceutical ingredients will best benefit your skin, contact us to book an appointment.