Our skin is a delicate thing which is made up of multiple layers that serve in protecting our body. The nature of the skin differs from person to person, and many a time, they are prone to problems due to external and internal factors. The most common of these issues are acne, dryness, hyperpigmentation, rashes and many more. The reason for each of this concern varies depending on your skin type, food habits and your overall lifestyle.
To answer our skincare woes and share some expert advice, we have with us Dr Vidya TS, a Dermatologist and Cosmetologist who is currently a consultant at Sagar Hospitals & Skin and Cosmetic Clinic, Jayanagar, Bangalore. She has been practising for the last 24 years and is now the President of Community Dermatology Society. She sheds some light on a handful of ingredients that aid in fighting various skin woes.
What are the most common skin concerns women and men face and why?
Dr Vidya says, “Acne, oiliness, enlarged pores, sun damage, wrinkles, age spots, dryness, pigmentation are some of the common skin concerns common to both men and women.” A few other known skin concerns are lack of lustre, glow, shine and uneven skin colour.
Women get facial hair and pigmentation due to hormonal changes and allergies due to cosmetics. As most of us tend to experiment with new products, at times, we are prone to allergic reactions as certain ingredients might not suit our skin.
What are the benefits of the following ingredients and what skin concerns do they aid?
Below are the views Dr Vidya shares on a few key ingredients which are popularly used in the cosmetic industry.
Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) – Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, Mandelic acid
Very well known in the cosmetic industry for various strengths, they help to reduce wrinkles, make skin soft, firm, bright and also improves the overall look of the skin. With long term use and when used as a peel, it increases the collagen and makes the skin thicker and healthier.
Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) – Gluconolactone, Galactose and Lactobionic acid
They help to exfoliate and hydrate the skin. PHAs acts as an antioxidant and also help reduce photodamage. Photodamage is the result of continuous or intense exposure to the sun.
Glycolic acid
This acid is known to be derived from sugar cane. It is known to reduce wrinkles and aid in reducing photodamage. The acid prevents water loss from the skin, thus increasing the moisture content. Glycolic acid helps decrease pigmentation.
Hyaluronic acid
This trending ingredient boosts hydration. It acts as a lipid barrier and as a humectant (preserving water). Hyaluronic acid protects the skin from environmental pollutants. It gives a tighter, smoother skin with lesser wrinkles.
Aloe vera
Known as one of the go-to natural ingredients since the days of yore, this plant wonder has anti-inflammatory properties and immense moisturising effects. It boosts skin healing and lightens the blemishes on the skin.
Niacinamide
This element is one of the two forms of Vitamin B3, which helps to maintain the skin’s protective barrier. It aids in reducing acne and rosacea as it has anti-inflammatory traits. Niacinamide assists in reducing pigmentation and fine lines. It also minimises the pore appearance and makes the skin smooth and moisturised.
Bakuchiol
This component is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial characteristics. It also works like Retinols, thus is used in the treatment of wrinkles, photo ageing and hyperpigmentation.
Salicylic Acid
This acid removes clogged pores and helps reduce acne and seborrhoea. Salicylic acid exfoliates the skin, making it look fresh and healthy. It is keratolytic, meaning that it assists in treating concerns like calluses, warts and more.
What are the key ingredients you would suggest for the below concerns?
Dr Vidya suggests a few elements that can be found in multiple cosmetic products which aid against various skin issues.
Hydrating skin (Dry skin)
- Hyaluronic acid
- Ceramides
Hyperpigmentation care
- Polyhydroxy acids
- Sunscreens
- Niacinamide
Anti-ageing
- Glycolic acid
- Hyaluronic acid
- Retinols
Irritated skin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Polyhydroxy acids
- Ceramides
Sun protection
- Retinyl palmitate
- Vitamin E
- Beta carotenes
- UVA & UVB filters
Acne-prone skin
- Benzyl peroxide wash or cream
- Salicylic acid wash or cream
- Glycolic acid cream
- Niacinamide
With these key tips and ingredients in mind, one can be sure to pick the right products to aid them to fight skin concerns.
Dr Vidya T S has done her MBBS, MD, FRGUHS (Medical Cosmetology). She is presently working as a Consultant Dermatologist and Cosmetologist at Sagar Hospitals & Skin and Cosmetic Clinic, Jayanagar, Bangalore. She actively participates as a Faculty/ Panelist/ Moderator for various Aesthetics workshops/conferences.
Her interests lie in – Acne, Acne scars, Hair & pigmentary disorders, Botox, Fillers, Chemical peels and Hair lasers. She was the Secretary at Bangalore Dermatological Society from 2011 -2013 and also the President of BDS from 2015 – 2017. She is currently the President for Community Dermatology Society.
Note: If you have severe skin or hair woes, it is always best advised to visit your dermatologist to get insight into your skin and hair related issues and take their recommendations on the type of products to use.
Very useful and informative article Ma’am. Will ask my wife to check the ingredients next time before buying any skin care product.
Thanks