There are thousands of skincare products on the market that make lots of big promises, like erasing wrinkles or reducing acne breakouts. But don't let marketing copy confuse you — ingredients tell the real story behind every product. Here are a few common skincare ingredients and what they do.
* Salicylic acid: This ingredient helps exfoliate the outer layer of skin and can be helpful to unplug clogged pores.
* Alpha-hydroxy acids (including glycolic and lactic acids): This class of compounds can help remove dead skin cells, moisturize the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars, minor discoloration and fine lines.
* Niacinamide: Can minimize the appearance of large pores, improve skin texture and promote brighter, more even tone.
* Retinoids: This form of vitamin A promotes collagen production, which can reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Available in prescription or non-prescription strength.
* Vitamin C: Available in a variety of formulations, vitamin C can help heal blemishes, even out skin tone and give skin an overall glow.
* Hydroquinone: Used as a skin-lightening agent, which can be useful for treating hyperpigmentation (such as melasma or acne scars). Hydroquinone is available over-the-counter or by prescription, and should always be used as directed.
Rick Good spent ten years in the newspaper business, including with The News & Observer (Raleigh, NC) and The Greenville News (Greenville, SC). He co-wrote, with Melinda Coleman, Rutledge to Riley: Governors of South Carolina, 1776–Present (Published by The Greenville News), and is the author of Mind Games Trivia #1 (Amazon). He has recently spent 15 years creating original trivia content through Sounds Good Mobile Entertainment and continues that with his new company, SGME Software. He edits The Smart Reader’s money, real estate, and business coverage.