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Active Ingredients Explained for Beginners
A plain-language guide to what active ingredients are in skincare, the main families, and how beginners can think about adding them one at a time.
Ingredients
Active Ingredients
Retinoids, niacinamide, acids and how they fit together.
Antioxidants for Skin Beyond Vitamin C
A plain overview of topical antioxidants other than vitamin C, such as vitamin E, ferulic acid and green tea, and why they are used in skincare.
Azelaic Acid: What It Is and How It Is Used
A general overview of azelaic acid: what it is, what people commonly use it for, how it feels on skin, and where it can fit into a routine.
Benzoyl Peroxide: A General Explanation
What benzoyl peroxide is, how it is commonly used for blemishes, why it can dry and irritate skin, and practical tips for using it more comfortably.
Hyaluronic Acid: A Humectant, Not a Magic Fix
How hyaluronic acid draws water toward the skin, why applying it to damp skin and sealing it with moisturizer matters, and what it cannot do.
Mixing Actives: What Tends to Go Together
A general guide to combining or separating skincare actives such as retinoids, acids, vitamin C and niacinamide, with the aim of limiting irritation.
Niacinamide in Skincare Explained
What niacinamide is, what people commonly use it for, typical strengths, and how well it is generally tolerated, with realistic expectations.
Peptides in Skincare: What to Realistically Expect
A plain-language look at skincare peptides: what they are, the main types, why evidence is limited, and what to realistically expect from them.
Retinol and Retinoids: A General Overview
A broad overview of retinoids: what they are, how retinol differs from prescription forms, what people use them for, and the common cautions to know.
Salicylic Acid and Clogged Pores
How salicylic acid, an oil-soluble acid, is generally used for congested skin and clogged pores, plus typical strengths, formats and sensible cautions.
Starting Retinol Slowly: Pacing and Patience
Why easing into retinol gradually helps limit dryness and irritation, a sample schedule for the first weeks, and how to tell when to slow down or stop.
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