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#1 Salicylic Acid |
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Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble acid of the type Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that can penetrate deep into skin layers. |
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Use in the evening or night. Apply on cleansed skin and follow it up with moisturiser. |
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If you have dry skin, this can make it even drier. |
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Salicylic acid is also used to make the popular painkiller Aspirin. |
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#2 Hyaluronic Acid |
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Hyaluronic Acid is a humectant that attracts and holds moisture. In the body, it aids skin health and wound healing. |
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Twice a day after washing your face. |
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HA works really well as a base for serums and improves their absorption. |
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For a long time, HA was called the “goo” molecule because it is a key constituent of thick, viscous body fluids such as the cushioning fluid in our kneecap. |
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#3 Niacinamide |
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Niacinamide is a type of Vitamin B3 that repairs and protects skin. |
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1-2 times a day after cleansing. |
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Works really well in combination with Hyaluronic Acid. Apply HA first, followed by niacinamide. |
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Our bodies can make niacinamide if we eat a vitamin B3-rich diet including eggs, whole grains, leafy veggies and nuts. |
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#4 Glycolic Acid |
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Glycolic Acid is a water-soluble Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that has an exfoliating (peeling) effect, encouraging new skin growth. |
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Use in the evening or night. Start with twice a week and as your skin builds tolerance, increase to daily. |
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GA can irritate sensitive skin. Definitely follow up with moisturiser and do not go out in the sun after application. |
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Natural glycolic acid is derived from sugarcane, grapes, and pineapples. |
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#5 Ceramides |
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Ceramides are a type of fatty acid called lipids naturally found in our skin. They create a barrier, locking in moisture and keeping skin hydrated. |
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1-2 times a day after cleansing but before a serum or sunscreen. |
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Ceramides are usually available as moisturising creams, gels, and lotions. |
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Up to 50% of the epidermis (top layer of our skin) is made up of natural ceramides, which we lose as we age. |
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Whew, that felt like a Class XII chemistry lesson, huh?
If you found this overwhelming, we totally get it.
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Take your time to read up on these compounds and how they work.
Identify any 1 or 2 compounds to try out based on your skin condition and needs.
Do a patch test and follow instructions exactly as these ingredients are potent.
Apply regularly for at least 3 to 4 weeks before expecting results.
If you have a skin condition, talk to your dermatologist before trying anything new.
Bigbasketeer, what is your go-to skincare item, the one you swear by and would recommend? Whether it’s a kitchen ingredient or a favourite product, we’d love to know!
We’ll leave you with one secret ingredient that will make you glow and instantly attractive to anyone around.
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On that cheesy note
Love from all of us at Bigbasket. |
