6 New Skincare Ingredients To Try in 2019
1. Charcoal
What is it: Not technically new, but is certainly still creating a stir. We’ve already seen a number of new launches laced with this hero ingredient (even in haircare) and expect to see a few more thanks to its deep cleansing abilities.
What it does: It works like a vacuum. It’s absorbent enough to extract the gunk you don’t want, like pollution and dirt from pores. It comes in face washes, sponges, cleansers and moisturisers. But in order to do its job properly, it needs to sit on the skin for a full minute or two. For that reason, try leaving your cleanser on for a little while longer, or opt for a charcoal-based mask formula.
2. Bakuchiol
What is it: Meet your new plant-based retinol alternative. It’s a bit of a mouthful but it’s so worth having on your radar this year, especially if you find retinol takes its toll on your skin. Derived from a plant extract (psoralea corylifolia for anyone that fancies a Google) Bakuchiol offers the same skin benefits of your usual vitamin A, without any sensitive, reddening effects. The plant has extensive and impressive skincare results and is shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has recently soared in popularity thanks to people seeking out gentler (and vegan) formulas.
What it does: It performs just like your normal vitamin A, working to smooth texture and promote elasticity while increasing cell turnover, therefore stimulating collagen production. The only difference is it’s completely natural, which means sensitive skin types can jump on the retinol train without fear of irritation. It’s also safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding.
3. Blue Algae
What is it: It first started appearing in food and drink, but now this hero ingredient is seeing its way into our skincare. And it’s easy to see why, packed with a cocktail of essential amino acids and minerals, we anticipate it becoming huge this year – you heard it here first.
What it does: Just like seaweed, algae can protect skin. It stimulates sufficient blood flow in the skin to make you glow. Although not as cleansing as a clay or charcoal, it is often mixed with one or both in face masks as it’s a great antioxidant and rich in detoxifying minerals.
5. Vitamin F
What it is: We know all the benefits of vitamin A, C and E, but F is the new kid on the skincare block. It’s actually been around for a while, but the recent buzz and numerous launches have sparked fresh interest. Also known as linoleic acid, it’s rich in omega-6 and crucial for maintaining a strong, healthy, outer layer of skin, which prevents environmental aggressors getting in and causing dehydration and other problematic damage.
What it does: The ‘F’ here actually stands for fat, not very glamorous admittedly, but essential for nourishing and creating great skin, thanks to its ability to restore healthy barrier function. It’s also a useful tool for helping conditions such as eczema and dermatitis which is all down to its emollient, hydrating properties. Think of it as your golden ticket to healthy, plump, glowing skin.
6. Mandelic Acid
What it is: Dubbed the gentlest of all the AHAs (it doesn’t penetrate the skin too deeply), this acid is derived from butter almonds and its core target is to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells for a renewed epidermis.
What it does: It smooths the skin as well as targeting fine lines, wrinkles and mild acne due to the antibacterial punch it packs. It’s also been shown to reduce melasma by as much as 50% in just four weeks – impressive, right?
7.Pumpkin
What is it: You may hate pumpkin when it comes to food and drink, but in your skincare? There’s no denying it’s a new staple. This was confirmed when a recent report stated global skincare launches containing ‘pumpkin’ have increased since 2017. This is due to its high levels of nourishing antioxidants which help to nourish the skin and promote absorption of nutrients.
What it does: Loaded with fruit enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), pumpkin gets to work increasing cell turnover, while brightening and smoothing the skin. It also helps to fight inflammation, reduce pore size and control excess oil. Not to mention the juicy hit of vitamin A and acne-fighting vitamin E it contains. Who knew it could be more than a Halloween prop?
DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@sheerluxe.com.