6 Different Types Of Active Ingredients

Whether you’re new to the world of skincare, have heard the term ‘actives’ in passing or are looking to identify particular properties to combat your daily skin concerns, this blog will unpack everything you need to know about active skincare ingredients — so you can determine which formulas to invest in to help you achieve the best long-term, skin-enhancing results. Let’s dive in!

DEFINING THE BASICS — WHAT ARE ACTIVE SKINCARE INGREDIENTS?

Active ingredients are scientifically proven to have a targeted, beneficial effect on the skin. These ingredients work at a cellular level, helping to address various concerns, including aging, acne, pigmentation, melasma and dehydration. Compared to other ingredients that primarily serve to stabilise a formula, add fragrance or provide texture, active skincare ingredients are the heroes that deliver promised results.

UNPACKING THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SKINCARE ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Whether you’re selecting a cleanser, serum or cream, some of the most common actives used in Bespoke Skin Technology’s formulas include:

1. Niacinamide

Also known as Nicotinamide, this active skincare ingredient is a form of vitamin B3 — an essential nutrient for maintaining clear, healthy skin. When applied topically, Niacinamide contains powerful properties that help to reduce skin inflammation and redness, making it a crucial ingredient for those looking to manage conditions such as acne, redness, rosacea and eczema. Additionally, Niacinamide can improve the epidermal barrier function, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Here at Bespoke Skin Technology, niacinamide is infused into a our cleansers, serums and creams, helping to boost skin radiance and keep your complexion feeling soft and supple.

2. Resveratrol

Touted for its antioxidant properties, resveratrol offers several skin-enhancing benefits, including:

Antioxidant protection — Resveratrol helps to shield the skin from free radical damage, UV radiation and oxidative stress — three key factors that heavily contribute to unwanted signs of aging and (sometimes irreversible) skin damage.
Skin brightening — Along with stopping inflammation in its tracks, Resveratrol can reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone and texture, leading to a smoother, clearer complexion.

3. Lactic Acid

Lactic Acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin by loosening and removing the outer layers of dead cells. Sloughing away dirt, debris and SPF, this active skincare ingredient works to reveal the brighter, more even-toned skin hiding underneath.

Unlike other AHAs, Lactic Acid also contains ultra-hydrating properties that maintain the skin’s natural moisture levels, making it perfect for those wanting to combat seasonal dryness or long-term redness. Additionally, Lactic Acid helps reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots while keeping your pores clear and free from debris to prevent acne breakouts or flare-ups.

4. Bakuchiol

When it comes to reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, Bakuchiol is considered one of the safest alternatives to retinoids.

Infused into many of our skincare formulas, this active stimulates collagen production to improve skin firmness and contains pore-refining properties that fight congestion, acne and oiliness. Compared to Retinoids, this active skincare ingredient is generally considered a more gentle, natural alternative that’s less likely to cause irritation, sensitivity or dryness.

5. Hyaluronic Acid

A powerhouse active that infuses the skin with an instant dose of moisture, Hyaluronic Acid is a powerful humectant, meaning it draws water from the surrounding environment and binds it to the skin. Its ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in moisture makes HA exceptionally effective, guaranteeing consistent, long-term hydration.

6. Retinaldehyde

Retinaldehyde, or Retinal, is a form of Vitamin A, a member of the retinoid family and the most potent over-the-counter solution. This active skincare ingredient is renowned for its power to smooth fine lines and wrinkles by promoting skin cell turnover. Along with targeting pigmentation, age spots and uneven skin tone, Retinaldehyde can help fight breakouts while reducing the severity of acne scars.

BESPOKE SKIN TECHNOLOGY — INFUSING POWERHOUSE ACTIVES INTO EVERY FORMULA

Our mission is clear and simple — no matter your skin type or the concerns you hope to combat through your twice-daily routine, we’re dedicated to providing you with high-performing, dermatologist-tested skincare products filled with powerful actives that’ll make a noticeable difference to your complexion. Discover our collections online today to find transformative skincare solutions and efficacious products deemed pregnancy-safe and breastfeeding-friendly.