Four Skincare Ingredients that Have Strong Scientific Backing

Retinoids

Used for promoting healthy, youthful skin, retinoids are a class of vitamin A derivatives known for their anti-acne and anti-aging benefits. They are well-studied and have been shown to improve a multitude of skin concerns. These include fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture, and loss of elasticity.

There are different types of retinoid products that suit different concerns. Adapalene, for instance, is a third-generation topical retinoid that can effectively treat acne vulgaris. There are also tretinoin, tazarotene, and isotretinoin for severe acne. There are also retinoids used for improving pigmentation and uneven skin tone and texture.

What can help: A consultation with our aesthetic doctor in Singapore will help determine the right retinol product for you. We offer adapalene and tretinoin prescription medication for treating acne and reducing inflammation in the skin. Do take note that while retinol is effective in preventing acne and reducing fine lines, using it at high strength can result in irritation and other side effects.

Another important thing to know about retinoids is that they can cause peeling and irritation, so it is not ideal for everyone. Those with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea may not be able to tolerate the said ingredient. Some retinoids are also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is why it is best to see a doctor to learn more about the ingredient’s effects.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can combat free radicals and deliver anti-aging benefits. It is also said to help with collagen synthesis and brightening the skin by fading hyperpigmentation. Topical vitamin C is available in different products, but the most common ones are serums.

It is also worth noting that there are different forms of vitamin C. L-ascorbic acid is said to be the preferred one because it is the most active form of vitamin C. It helps neutralize free radicals and minimize signs of skin damage. It should, however, be formulated with low pH levels and have a concentration of between 10 and 20%.

What can help: Dr. Sylvia’s 20% Vitamin C with Ferulic Acid is an anti-oxidizing formula with L-ascorbic acid mixed with tocopherols and ferulic acid. It can reduce oxidative damage caused by UV rays, pollution, and other environmental aggressors. It is suitable for all skin types and has the following benefits:

Reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles
Brightens complexion for an even skin tone
Protects the skin from environmental damage

Niacinamide

A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide is a water-soluble vitamin that has anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. It is said to boost hydration, calm the skin, and support a healthy skin barrier. It can help repair signs of skin damage, as well as reduce enlarged pores, brighten skin, and soften fine lines and wrinkles.

Another great thing about niacinamide is that it works with other skincare ingredients, such as retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. As it hydrates and soothes the skin, it can make retinol easier to use. Niacinamide, furthermore, amplifies the effects of vitamin C, creating a powerful pairing that delivers protective, anti-aging, and brightening benefits for the skin.

What can help: Our 20%VitaGlow C & E is a potent antioxidant formula that has ascorbic acid, vitamin E, and niacinamide. It helps neutralize free radicals and promotes a clearer complexion by fading dark spots and sun damage. It also provides sun and pollution protection, as well as helps boost collagen production.

Benefits include:

Antioxidant and premature aging protection
Fades dark spots, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation
Helps boost and stimulate collagen to improve skin elasticity and firmness

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

AHAs are a group of acids that work as chemical exfoliators. They shed away dead surface skin cells and help destroy old collagen fiber, increasing cell turnover. AHAs are naturally occurring in plants, milk, and certain foods, but are produced in laboratories for use in skincare formulations.

There are different types of alpha hydroxy acids, but the most well-known ones are lactic and glycolic acids. Both exfoliate dead skin cells and improve skin tone and texture by fading hyperpigmentation and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Lactic acid is considered gentle and more suitable for sensitive skin types, while glycolic acid offers a deeper and stronger form of exfoliation.

What can help: Dr. Sylvia’s AHA Resurfacing Serum has glycolic acid that helps exfoliate skin and improve skin texture. It can fade dark spots and reduce the visible signs of aging. Just do take note that the product can increase sensitivity to UV damage, so make sure to use sunscreen every day while using.

If you need help in updating your skincare regimen, do your research to know which ingredients suit your concerns the most. You can also browse through our blog for more skincare recommendations or contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore to schedule a consultation with our aesthetic doctor.

Resources:

https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26435230-900-the-only-four-skincare-ingredients-that-have-been-proven-to-work/

https://www.cutislaserclinics.com/blog/6-skincare-ingredients-that-can-boost-collagen/

https://www.cutislaserclinics.com/blog/can-vitamin-c-serum-fade-hyperpigmentation-even-out-your-skin-tone/

https://drsylviaskincare.com/collections/all