Feed your skin the right food at the correct age!
At any point pondered when you should begin using anti-ageing ingredients? We have commonly come across AHAs, BHAs, Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, and other active ingredients in skincare. Using a skincare item too soon on your skin might have a negative impact on your skin and also, there’s no use spending chunks of money on something your body doesn’t need at that moment but, there is a perfect time for everything, trust us! Using skincare products, especially actives and skincare acids is one such thing. There’s a right time to using skincare acids and we’ll tell you what it is. Let’s take a look at what skin acids really are!
Skin acids
The word “acid” evokes pictures of crazy science experiments. But when used at the right concentrations, acids are one of the most advantageous ingredients available in skin care.
1. Hyaluronic Acid
About and Benefits- Collagen and elastin fibres are present in our skin in the form of hyaluronic acid. Collagen and elastin ensure tightness and elasticity in your skin. Hyaluronic Acid absorbs water and its molecules have the property to retain moisture ,thus helping in keeping your skin healthy, plump and hydrated.
Right age to begin- 20 years
We recommend- One Thing Hyaluronic Acid Complex
How to use- Use as a primary step in your skin care routine or at the essence step by applying with cotton pad or use as mist by putting into a mist container.
Do-It-Yourself Skincare: Combine a tad bit into your lotion, toner, cream, or purifying water before applying it on your face.
2. Vitamin C
About and Benefits- Vitamin C is also known as the strongest antioxidant for your skin, hair and general health. It provides both external and internal benefits for the skin. Effective utilisation of Vitamin C further induces collagen creation, sun related burns, discolouration, hair growth, and also keeps the appearance of silver hair at bay. Cell turnover and collagen production, incredible properties of Vitamin C make it the best nutrient for the skin.
Right age to begin- 18 years
We recommend- Natural Vibes Ayurvedic Vitamin C Skin Care Serum
How to use- Apply the serum twice a day, morning and night and leave it on. You can also apply the serum before the application of any other product and let it control the damage before it happens.
3. Vitamin E
About and Benefits- Vitamin E is not a single vitamin, but rather a group of fat-soluble vitamins that contain antioxidant effects. Vitamin E is a supplement that your body needs to fortify the immune system and help in the recovery of cells. Its antioxidant properties help in preventing or reducing the harmful effects of free radicals (like pollution, environmental stressors) and also lifestyle choices, on your delicate skin. Numerous skincare items that fight premature ageing also contain Vitamin E as a vital ingredient.
Right age to begin- 20 years
We recommend- Dr. Sheth's Vitamin E & Ginseng Moisturising Cream
How to use- Apply a small amount on your face and neck after cleansing your skin. Gently pat in. Use twice a day for best results.
4. Retinol
About and Benefits- Retinol is a sort of retinoid, which is produced using vitamin A. The small molecules that make up retinol go deep underneath the epidermis (external layer of skin) to your dermis. Once in the centre layer of skin, retinol kills free radicals. This helps support the development of elastin and collagen, which plump your skin and lessen the presence of fine lines, wrinkles, and open pores.
Right age to begin- 25 years
We recommend- Neemli Naturals Retinol & Peptide Serum
How to use- Use 2 – 4 drops of serum on cleansed, toned face and neck. Massage it in and leave it on. Apply moisturiser and other creams after applying serum.
5. Salicylic acid
About and Benefits- Salicylic Acid is a BHA, also called as a Beta Hydroxy Acid derived from Willow Bark. It is usually used to exfoliate & peel skin, to clear up pores, and to assist in tackling skin breakouts. If you have oily skin or have managed skin breakouts in your life, you would have likely utilised an item containing Salicylic acid to remedy the situation. As opposed to AHAs or Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Salicylic Acid is an oil-solvent. As a result, it enters the skin more easily and deeply than an AHA.
Right age to begin- 18 years
We recommend- Earth Rhythm Clear Skin Face Masque with Matcha Green Tea & Salicylic Acid
How to use- Apply the mask on a clean and dry face and leave it on for 15 minutes or until completely dry. Once the mask is dry, gently rinse with water and pat dry with a soft towel. Do not scrub off the mask without water.
6. Glycolic Acid
About and Benefits- Glycolic Acid proves to be an exceptional ingredient to get a glowing complexion and smooth skin. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) which is obtained from natural sources including pineapple, melon, unripe grapes, etc.S ome advantages of alpha hydroxy acid (AHAs) are treating melasma, hyperpigmentation, roughness, age spots, and scars. The benefits of this fruit acid in managing multiple dermatological concerns is commendable.
Right age to begin- 30 years
We recommend-Dr. Sheth's Gulab & Glycolic Toner
How to use- Post cleansing at night, spritz 1-2 pumps on the face or on a cotton pad and apply on your face and neck. Follow with your night cream. Make sure to wear SPF the next morning even if you are indoors. All AHAs make Indian skin more susceptible to UV radiation and pollution so we must apply a generous amount of SPF to keep our skin protected.
7. Azelaic Acid
About and Benefits- Azelaic Acid occurs naturally and is found in grains such as barley, wheat and rye. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which make it compelling in the treatment of skin conditions like breakouts and rosacea. Azelaic acid can help prevent future acne development and can clean microbes from your pores that cause these breakouts.
Right age to begin- 15 years
We recommend- Pulp Ex-Acne Anti Acne Serum
How to use- After cleansing, massage 1-2 drops of serum on dry face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Follow up with your favourite moisturiser + SPF.
The right way to use skincare acids is to first patch test before using them. Read on to know why a patch test is necessary before using skincare products.
Our comprehensive guide to using skincare acids at a specific age will definitely assist you with making a routine that serves you best. While these acids work miraculously in giving you the glowing and clear skin, and targeting specific skin concerns, they also might work differently for different skin types. There’s no defying ageing but what can really help is getting more proactive with your routine.
-Ashi Bansal
