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3 Key Ingredients To Add To Your Skincare Routine

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Posted by | 18th October 2024

In terms of skincare, three key ingredients stand out: Retinol, Vitamin C, and Hyaluronic Acid. These powerhouses can work magic for your skin, targeting fine lines and hydration among other issues. See how each of them works and how you can fit them into your routine:

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Retinol

Retinol has changed my skin the most—smoothing it and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

Because retinol is a derivative of vitamin A, which is one of the body’s primary nutrients for increasing cell turnover, it does an excellent job of reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture.

What Is Retinol Good For?

  • Minimises wrinkles (and prevents further lines from forming!)
  • Brightens skin
  • Brightens dark spots
  • Treats acne

MFH Recommends

We recommend CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum. For just £16.50, it’s a great product that I use often, especially during travel.

Where to Begin:

  • Start on a low percentage: Begin with 0.05% strength and work up.
  • Use only at night: Sunlight affects retinol, so use at night, with a pea-sized amount.
  • Moderate frequency: Start using it once or twice a week and then increase gradually.
  • Avoid irritating products: Skip acids and peels while using Retinol.
  • Use SPF: Always finish with SPF 30+ to avoid sunburn and discolouration.
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Vitamin C

People often ask about the benefits of vitamin C. It’s a staple ingredient in many skincare products for a very good reason.

What Is Vitamin C Good For?

  • Brightens skin
  • Prevents fine lines and improves wrinkles
  • Dissolves acne scars
  • Protects skin from pollution
  • Prevents dark spots and discolouration

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that safeguards skin cells, promotes cell regeneration, and boosts increases production. I use vitamin C regularly, and it makes my skin look and feel fantastic.

MFH Recommends

Check out brands like Murad for vitamin C products.

Where to Begin:

  • Use after cleansing: Vitamin C is typically found in serums and creams. You can apply serum after you cleanse and before you moisturise.
  • Ease into it: Start with a low-dosage product and increase as your skin adapts. You will be stepping out in the world with brighter and tighter-looking skin in a few weeks!
Beauty natural products with cosmetic cream, Omega-3 gel capsules, and serum in glass bottles on white background.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is great for dry skin.

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance in the body that acts as a humectant (attracts water to hydrate the skin). As you age, HA levels drop, which leads to fine lines and dehydration.

What is Hyaluronic Acid Good For?

  • Moisturises the skin
  • Plumps and firms
  • Adds radiance
  • Minimises fine lines and wrinkles

MFH Recommends

We recommend The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum for brighter, smoother skin.

Where to Begin:

  • Moisturisers: Use a hyaluronic acid moisturiser twice daily after cleansing.
  • Serums: Apply serum on damp skin, pressing it in with your palms, then moisturise to lock in hydration.
  • Avoid Alcohol-Based Products: The properties of HA are lost because alcohol dries out the skin. So always check ingredient lists!