What do the different active ingredients in skincare actually do? In short, they aim to make your skin feel and look better. Here's how to know which active ingredients are right for you.
There are a variety of ingredients that can make a big difference to your skin. But remember that your skin status and the time of year will determine which actives are good for you right now. Over time, your skin's needs will also change, and you may need to rethink your skincare products. Here we have listed some popular actives found in our skincare.
Hyaluronic acid
Despite its name, it is not an acid but a sugar that forms a gel-like mass. It is an endogenous substance (that is, a substance naturally present in our bodies) that has a great water-binding capacity. Hyaluronic acid fills in between the fibers of the skin, and because it binds moisture, it also makes the skin more supple and elastic. Suitable for all skin types, but is a little extra good for those with dry skin, or during the winter when our skin generally becomes drier.
Squalane
A fat-soluble substance found in our skin barrier (the top layer of the skin). Squalane is a derivative, i.e. a chemical compound, extracted from olive oil and commonly used in skincare. It moisturizes, softens and is quickly absorbed by the skin, leaving it feeling silky and clean. For all skin types - but dry skin loves squalane a little extra.
Kaolin
A fine white clay that is rich in minerals and has a high moisture content. It is good at absorbing excess dirt, grease and sebum. If you want to deep clean your pores, but are also looking for a soothing and healing effect on irritated skin, kaolin is the ingredient for you! The clay also has an astringent effect, which contributes to a smooth skin surface and an even skin tone. Suitable for all skin types, but is especially great for those with combination or oily skin.
AHA acid
An acid extracted from fruits, milk and sugar cane. The acid exfoliates the skin and helps stimulate cell renewal. It reduces fine lines, wrinkles and gives the skin a glow. It also evens skin tone and reduces the appearance of pigmentation. A great ingredient for those who are starting to notice the first signs of ageing. If you have sensitive skin, it is better to avoid AHAs.
PHA acid
Also known as gluconolactone, PHA is a powerful antioxidant that provides many benefits to the skin. Among other things, it helps to restore moisture balance and strengthen the skin barrier. The acid exfoliates the skin's surface by removing dead skin cells. It also has a smoothing effect on the skin's surface, making lines and wrinkles less visible. PHA is a mild acid suitable for all skin types.
Ceramides
Ceramides are fatty acids that occur naturally in the skin and contribute to the skin barrier. A strong barrier preserves the skin's natural moisture levels. As ceramides weaken with ageing, the skin's protection also deteriorates, which can make it both dry and irritated. Ceramides are the most common building blocks of the skin and are a skin-identical ingredient. Suitable for all skin types.
Vitamin C
Is a well-documented antioxidant that evens skin tone, improves elasticity, reduces wrinkles and gives a lot of radiance. Vitamin C also contributes to collagen synthesis in the skin. In other words, it protects the skin against the free radicals that usually break down the cells that form collagen. Suitable for all skin types.
Other ingredients in the Jabushe range
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)
A fatty acid that the body produces in small amounts. ALA is a natural antioxidant, and one of the most powerful, with anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. This ingredient is commonly used in anti-ageing skincare as it also reduces lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores and other signs of ageing. It improves skin texture and elasticity and gives a great glow. In addition, it reduces sun-induced pigmentation changes and stimulates the body's own collagen production. If you're outdoors during the day in the sun - be extra careful to use SPF on top of products containing ALA. An ingredient for aging and sun-damaged skin.
Coenzyme Q10
An enzyme that prevents wrinkles and counteracts premature ageing. It stimulates collagen and elastin and renews our skin cells. It also protects skin cells against oxidative stress and prevents them from being damaged when exposed to free radicals and UV radiation. Helps to keep skin young and vital. For all skin types.
Niacinamide
A form of vitamin B3 that supports and stimulates several important enzyme functions in the skin. It can help to reduce the appearance of pores, improve skin elasticity, strengthen the skin barrier, even out skin tone, reduce visible pigmentation and reduce skin inflammation. It also moisturizes and brightens the skin. The clever thing about this ingredient is that it also slows down the acne bacterium cutibacterium. This is a bacterium that is found on the skin of all humans and causes blackheads, rashes, spots and pimples. Niacinamide is an ingredient for all skin types, and can be used by those with pimples or acne.
Collagen
Is a natural protein and an important building block for the skin. It is also found in the bones, joints, cartilage, hair and nails. Collagen strengthens the elasticity, elasticity and fullness of the skin. By the age of 25, the body's collagen levels start to decline, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles and a loss of skin firmness. For all skin types.