In the skincare world, there are hundreds of amazing ingredients. However, only a handful of them pack a serious punch. To help keep things simple, check out our list of the most potent holy grail skincare ingredients every bestie should have in his or her beauty cabinet ASAP.
Vitamin C Serum (L-Ascorbic Acid)
What is it?
A powerful antioxidant that protects and minimises the harmful effects of free radicals caused by the sun and environmental triggers. There are actually several different kinds of vitamin C – Ascorbic Acid (L-Ascorbic Acid) is the most abundant vitamin C in the skin, however this essential vitamin is not produced by the skin, so you have to ingest it and apply topically. L-Ascorbic Acid is able to synthesise collagen production, brighten complexion and even skin tone.
What does it do?
If you’re not yet on the Vitamin C serum bandwagon, it’s time to hop on bestie, because without it, your skin is missing out on its best glow ever! Vitamin C serum is one of the most powerful anti-ageing ingredients you can use, it eliminates free radicals produced from sun exposure and helps skin repair UV damage.
Try: Fundamentals 15% Vitamin C Serum – R149
Hyaluronic Acid
What is it?
The name may sound scary (acid is probably the last thing you want to put on your face, right?) but this serum is by far one of the most vital products in the skincare world, and doesn’t cause a single stinging sensation. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is naturally occuring in the human body, but starts to decline as we age, which is why you need to incorporate a good stash of the man-made stuff.
What does it do?
Who needs an Insta-filter when you have this hero ingredient? If you want instantly plumped, smooth, dewy skin, this is your go-to serum. A single gram of HA has the ability to hold up to six litres of water, as well as the amazing ability to regulate that moisture within the cells, so as not to drown them. Genius!
Try: Fundamentals 2% Hyaluronic Acid Serum – R149
Retinol
What is it?
This vitamin A derivative is one of the most widely-studied skincare ingredients that is effective for all skin types. Keep in mind that there are a few different types, and each one represents a different strength. Check out our Fundamentals Focus on Retinol for the full breakdown.
What does it do?
Retinol helps to promote skin renewal, reduces acne, diminishes fine lines and wrinkles, and boosts your skin’s collagen production. It also functions like an antioxidant to help address free-radical damage, and can even help reverse some of the side effects of sun damage. Yes please!
Try: Fundamentals 0,3% Retinol Serum – R159
Niacinamide (AKA Vitamin B3)
What is it?
Also known as nicotinamide and vitamin B3, niacinamide is a water-based, hydrating serum that holds the key to smooth, flawless skin.
What does it do?
A better question would be, what doesn’t it do?! Niacinamide is a multi-tasking powerhouse ingredient that transforms dull skin into a radiant, even complexion. It also helps to tighten pores, regulate oil production, prevent acne breakouts, protect the skin from environmental stressors, softens fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin texture, and is full of natural moisturising factors (NMF). Phew! That is a lot – which is exactly why you shouldn’t be without it.
Try: Fundamentals 6% Niacinamide Serum – R129
Sunscreen SPF
What is it?
Sunscreen contains active filters that protect skin cells from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation including UVB (rays that cause burning) and UVA (rays that cause skin ageing).
What does it do?
You can have the best skincare regimen in the world, and use the best serums and products, but if you’re not using sunscreen every. single. day. then we seriously need to talk, bestie. Sunscreen shouldn’t only be thought of as a product to prevent sunburn and skin cancer – it also prevents hyperpigmentation, wrinkles (after all, UV rays account for 80% of skin ageing) and sun spots. Without sunscreen, you’re literally undoing all that hard work you’ve put into your skincare routine every time you step outside, or even inside (yes, the rays can get you there, too!).
