Let’s face it, how much do you really know about all the products you use? From botanicals to chemicals, to treatments and tools, s, the list keeps getting longer. Here, we break it down to the basics - the active ingredients you should be using and why. Where better to start than with the ABCs?

AHAs

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids, better known as AHAs are organic, plant or animal-derived acids that exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cell buildup. This not only allows for new skin cell generation which in turn leaves skin looking brighter, but it also helps increase natural collagen production and even pigmentation.

BHAs

Broken down, BHAs, (beta-hydroxy acid), are organic compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, their most well-known one being Salicylic Acid. Unlike AHAs which are water-soluble, BHAs are oil-soluble, and more used to treat normal-to-oily skin that’s prone to blemishes, bumps, clogs and enlarged pores, as well as those with rosacea.

Ceramides

Ceramides are naturally occurring fats or lipids that are found in skin cells. In fact, they make up over 50% of the skin’s composition. Acting as a barrier, they bind together to protect the skin from environmental factors such as pollution and germs and help to maintain moisture levels. Ceramide levels decrease as we age resulting in a thinning of the skin and a loss of elasticity, so it’s important to replenish these with the right products.