Science-backed skincare is a growing trend, capturing the attention of discerning consumers. These products are backed by clinical evidence, ensuring they deliver the promised results. With continuous, rigorous research, suppliers can confidently offer these products, knowing they are effective.
The six products we’ll talk about stand apart in a world where many companies tout miracle solutions without scientific basis. They’ve undergone comprehensive research, providing conclusive evidence of their remarkable results.
Essential Oils
Essential oils often claim to help with varying problems, including stomach pain, restlessness or insomnia, lack of concentration, and even menstrual pain, by simply applying it to the skin on the belly or temples. Research has shown that certain essential oils can be incredibly beneficial when applied to the face for skincare purposes.
Essential oils commonly used in skincare include:
- Lavender oil
- Tea tree oil
- Chamomile oil
- Rosehip oil
- Jojoba oil
- Eucalyptus oil
However, remember that when applied directly to the skin on the face, essential oils must be diluted with a carrier oil. Essential oils are too harsh to apply directly to the skin without a carrier oil and can cause irritation.
Retinoids
Retinoids have only recently reached the market for daily skincare use. In the past, retinoids were only prescribed to those with terrible, stubborn acne. Today, retinoids can be purchased over the counter, in a far less concentrated form, for consumers to manage their acne without visiting a doctor.
Stronger retinol products still need to be prescribed by a doctor or dermatologist, along with a list of side effects and cautionary steps. Retinoids are not only great for managing acne. Retinoids can also accelerate cell turnover, unclog pores, reduce hyperpigmentation, improve skin texture, and promote anti-aging effects.
However, retinoids must be used with caution. They can accelerate sun damage and initially cause irritation, redness, and dryness while the skin becomes accustomed to the products.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is applied to the skin as a serum or essence. This is another product that has recently seen a boom in the market. The benefits of vitamin C include antioxidant protection, skin brightening, reduced inflammation, increased collagen production, and a decrease in hyperpigmentation.
Some vitamin C products are prone to oxidation, which can cause discoloration of the skin. However, opting for stabilized forms of the product will reduce this risk.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a product designed to hydrate and moisturize the skin. It typically comes in the form of a serum applied after cleansing, but it can also be found in other skincare products such as cleansers, toners, and moisturizers.
Hyaluronic acid has a long list of benefits, including hydration, moisture retention, minimizing fine lines, and anti-aging properties. Most skin types tolerate hyaluronic acid, so it will almost always be a beneficial addition to any skincare routine.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a product mainly used for acne treatment and prevention. The properties of this product allow it to penetrate pores in the skin and remove or exfoliate dead skin cells. Clogged pores are the biggest culprit of acne breakouts, and salicylic acid is very helpful in these situations.
In addition to being used as an acne treatment, salicylic acid is also used to treat whiteheads and blackheads, improve skin texture, and minimize the appearance of pores on the skin.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is no longer just a product that is applied on sunny days spent outside. It is also used on the face daily to protect the skin and prevent sun damage. Research has shown that the sun causes damage to the skin whenever it is visible, so on days when the UV index is higher, sun damage is more likely, but there is still potential on days when it is lower.
Using sunscreen daily not only helps prevent sunburn but can also prevent premature aging and reduce the risk of skin cancer.