Peptides are short chains of amino acids. They help to maintain skin structure such as collagen, elastin, affect inflammation, pigmentation, etc. Some examples of amino acids are arginine, histidine, methionine, lysine, proline, leucine, glycine, alanine, glutamine, etc. There are different types of peptides in the markets and they are made by different companies. They are not the same peptides. Types of Peptides and their functions: Matricins peptides or signaling peptides: These peptides trigger signaling that modulates dermal extracellular melanogenesis. This means that these peptides can stimulate the production of collagen and can reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It can also reduce pigmentation, increase skin elasticity, and makes the skin smooth…

Liposomes are nanocarriers in cosmetics. They are spherical vesicles composed of phospholipids with a core that can be used as a delivery vehicle for actives. Why are liposomes used in cosmetics? The skin barrier is the largest organ in our body and it can prevent a lot of external pollutants, even skincare ingredients to penetrate into the skin. Liposomes can transport these ingredients to the deeper layers of the skin. Different types of nanocarriers in cosmetics: Liposomes Nanospheres Nanoemulsion Cubosomes Nanosilver and Nanogold Dendrimers Hydrogels, etc. Nanotechnology in liposomes: Nanotechnology can increase stability, efficacy, control release, target specific areas, and transport active ingredients. Advantages of Liposomes: Increase stability and efficacy…

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring substance in our skin. It is also naturally found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is one of the most underrated ingredients in the skincare industry. Benefits of using Azelaic acid: Cons of using Azelaic acid: Derivatives of azelaic acid: Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate or Azeclair: azeclair is a derivative of azelaic acid. Who can use it? Azelaic acid is suitable for oily, acne-prone skin, and sensitive skin (rosacea). It is also used for the treatment of acne, melasma, and hyperpigmentation in pregnant women. Azelaic acid is gentle and non-irritating but can lead to irritation in super-sensitive skin and skin of color. Make sure to…

Rice is an ingredient that is used in Asian culture. It is also used by Asian women to cleanse and wash hair. It also contains many nutrients and compounds. Benefits of using rice: Contains phytocompounds: Rice contains many nutrients and compounds such as protein, peptides, fiber, polysaccharides, minerals, and phytocompounds. These phytocompounds are ferulic acid, phytic acid, phenols, fatty acids, gamma oryzanol, anti-tyrosinase peptides, and vitamin E. Antioxidant: rice contains ferulic acid, vitamin E, and phenols (caffeic acid, p-Coumaric acid). Anti-inflammatory: It contains polysaccharides and gamma oryzanol which can decrease inflammation. Brightening: It has phytic acid which is an AHA used for exfoliation. It is a very gentle exfoliant. Anti-androgen:…

Snail mucin is a trending ingredient in Asian skincare. Benefits of using snail mucin: Who all can use Snail mucin? Snail mucin is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin and skin of colour. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-androgen, and anti-melanogenic properties making it suitable for all skin types. How to add Snail mucin to your skincare routine? There are serums, toners, and moisturizers with snail mucin. They can also be used as a compliment to sunscreen to protect against UV-induced photodamage. This ingredient can be used both in the morning and at night. Morning and night routine: What other ingredients can I combine Snail mucin with? Frequently…

Colloidal oatmeal is one of the most underrated ingredients in the skincare industry and is approved by the FDA as an over-the-counter skincare product. Benefits of using Colloidal oatmeal: Humectant: colloidal oatmeal has a high content of beta-glucan and starches that have the ability to retain and hold water in and moisturize the skin. Emollient: the oat oil in oats is high in lipids such as triglycerides and fatty acids. These lipids can act as an emollient which can strengthen the skin barrier. It can make the skin smooth, soft, and fill in the gaps to improve dry skin. Contains Avenanthremides that can calm irritated skin: Oats contain low-molecular-weight, compounds…

Ferulic acid is found in many foods including grains, spinach, parsley, grapes, and cereal seeds. This chemical is an antioxidant used in skincare. Benefits of using Ferulic acid: Who all can use it? Ferulic acid is generally safe for all skin types, but do make sure to conduct a patch test especially if you have sensitive skin and skin of color as it can be irritating. How to add Ferulic acid into your skincare routine? Some things to consider in your skincare routine: Morning routine: Night Routine: Important note: This routine is mainly an example, there are many ways and methods you can modify this routine by yourself. Layering skincare…

Ceramides are naturally occurring compounds in our bodies. They help to hold the upper layers of the skin. The production of ceramides decreases as we age, so it’s essential to replenish them. Benefits of using Ceramides: Who all can use it? Ceramides are suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin and skin of color because it naturally occurs in our body making it safe to use. It can also be used by people suffering from Ichthyosis, Gaucher Disease, and Xerosis. What skincare actives can I combine ceramides with? How can you add ceramides to your skincare routine? How to choose and select the best ceramide products? Products that contain…

Niacinamide is one of the main skincare ingredients used in products and one of the best skincare actives that is suitable for both sensitive skin and skin of color. Benefits of using Niacinamide: Who all can use Niacinamide? Niacinamide is suitable for all skin types. It is mainly used for people with sensitive skin, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, acne skin, and even skin of color. How to use Niacinamide in my skincare routine? Some basic rules to follow in a new skincare routine: Morning routine 1. Choose a gentle, non-foaming cleanser. 2. You can choose a toner of your choice but it not actually compulsory to use one. 3. You can…

Benefits of using caffeine for skin: How to use Caffeine for skin? Caffeine can be used at night, it can also be used in the morning to reduce UV-induced stress. What skincare ingredients can I combine it with? Benefits of using caffeine for hair: How to use Caffeine for hair? Note: if you have light-colored hair, coffee can stain or tint your hair. To use coffee rinse for light-colored hair, use a shampoo and conditioner that has caffeine as an ingredient, instead.