Hi all! Before my next review I thought it might be nice to take a moment to highlight some of my favorite ingredients. Many of below listed target acne, hyper-pigmentation, uneven skin tone, and sensitivity.
Willow Bark Extract / Salicylic Acid: Both Willow Bark Extract and Salicylic Acid work well to minimize acne and oil excess and gently exfoliate the skin (though Salicylic Acid is more powerful). These ingredients are pretty popular in the skincare world, so you’ll likely come across them at some point.
Niacinamide: Another popular skincare ingredient famous for its anti-acne and anti-hyperpigmentation effects. Though Niacinamide doesn’t combine well with all ingredients, I generally try to always include it in my routine at some point. An easy-win ingredient, definitely start with Niacinamide for your anti-hyperpigmentation needs.
Tranexamic Acid: A new and popular chemical treatment for hyper-pigmentation and acne scars, Tranexamic Acid has quickly become one of my favorite ingredients. Though it’s definitely a bit harder to find, it’s safe for all skin types (but of course, consider your own needs/allergies, etc.) and definitely worth trying out alongside Niacinamide.
Rice Bran Extract: Gently exfoliating your skin for even skin tone, Rice Bran Extract is an all-around great ingredient to compliment the above listed chemicals, because it also has Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid to calm and hydrate the skin as well. Anti-inflammatory, calming, and safe for sensitive skin, it seems as though there’s nothing this ingredient can’t do. A must-have in my routine.
Green Tea / Matcha: Anti-inflammatory, soothing, anti-acne, and skin tone-evening, Green Tea or Matcha is another great ingredient to implement in your routine, especially if you’re dealing with angry acne bumps that demand a gentle touch. If your skin is feeling particularly irritated, look for a product with this ingredient.
Honey / Propolis: Like Green Tea, Honey / Propolis also has anti-inflammatory, soothing, anti-acne properties, however it’s also shown to reverse UV damage and heal skin as well. I’ve mainly used Propolis to keep acne at bay without drying out my skin, so if you struggle with this balance, I’d definitely recommend implementing Honey / Propolis into your routine.
Vitamin C: And of course, the commonly praised Vitamin C – the star of hyper-pigmentation fighting ingredients. This antioxidant is a well-known part many people’s routines, and for good reason. Thickening the skin and protected it from UV damage (although, remember to wear sunscreen on top!), Vitamin C is most powerful when combined with Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid, so try to find a product that has all three (like Paula’s Choice).
Skincare for Introverts 