Beauty is an ever-evolving industry. Sometimes, all we need is to blink and there’s a new ingredient or product to obsess over.
As beauty fanatics ourselves, we at SWIISH like to keep ourselves up-to-date with the biggest and brightest on the beauty market, especially when it comes to skincare. (Anything for peachy smooth, glowing skin… right?)
It seems almost overnight a stream of new products has landed on our beauty doorstep that are starting to gain some serious hype.
Beyond AHAs, BHAs, and face oils, here are the new skincare ingredients to acquaint yourself with…
Niacinamide
We are all about this secret beauty weapon, which can benefit every skin-type. A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide works to protect the skin from environmental damage, build proteins in the skin, and lock in moisture. Yep, a total weapon.
Studies have also connected niacinamide with powerful antioxidant properties, protection from sun damage, and reducing proneness to acne and blackheads.
Because of niacinamide’s role in generating proteins – aka the skin’s building blocks, this nutrient works to fortify the skin, and build barriers that can ensure your face keeps its youthful glow.
In simpler terms, niacinamide is something to jump on. Like now.
Bakuchiol – an alternative to retinol
If retinol is getting a little too harsh on your skin, bakuchiol is your back-up. Derived from bakuchi seed oil, this compound works to improve skin cell turnover, hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and overall integrity of the skin – just like retinol.
Used for years in skincare for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant purposes, bakuchiol is a holy grail for keeping skin silky smooth and wrinkle-free.
Moringa oil
Experts say that this beauty is a jack-of-all-trades. Sourced from the seeds of the moringa oleifera tree, and is high in moisturising fatty acids and vitamins A and C. With emollient (easily absorbable), moisturising, and cleansing properties, this oil works to reduce fine lines, improve the appearance of dull, tired skin and soften dry and irritated skin.
In particular, dermatologists recommend this one for those suffering from drying skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis.
Squalene
So while it does conjure images of a squealing piglet, squalene is definitely no source of irritation. In fact, it’s damn genius. Squalene has high emollient properties, and mimics your skin’s natural oils to keep you hydrated and moisturised all day long.
This makes it perfect for dry skin and dry skin conditions, like eczema. A lipid produced by your own skin cells, squalene is applauded for its anti-inflammatory properties, and its ability to balance skin hydration. Research has found that squalene harbours detoxifying properties, and has high levels of antioxidants which helps the skin fight free radical damage and aging.
What’s more? Oil-prone skin need not hesitate to use this moisture-extraordinaire. Compatible with all skin types, this is the perfect alternative if you’re finding other oils too heavy or greasy. Squalene is non-comedogenic, which sounds science-y (and kinda is) but actually just means that it’s lightweight and won’t clog your pores.
