What are cosmeceuticals in skincare?

What sorts of products are cosmeceuticals?

It depends! They may be serums, creams, exfoliators or other products containing active ingredients. (You probably have cosmeceuticals in your bathroom cabinet right now, without even realising it!) These active ingredients will vary, depending on whether someone is looking to address pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, dull and tired skin, uneven skin tone or something else.

What active ingredients can I find in these products?

Active ingredients are a (fun and completely) endless list. These could help with the following skin concerns:

Alpha arbutin - Improving appearance of hyperpigmentation

Hyaluronic acid - Plumping, hydration and firmness#

Peptides - Collagen and elastin production>

Retinol (Vitamin A) - Improving elasticity and appearance of fine lines and wrinkles<

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) - Bettering hyperpigmentation and redness and defend against dehydration@

AHAs - Helping improve smoothness, texture, hydration and removing dead skin cells*

Antioxidants - Defending against free radicals*

Sources:

^ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544223/

# https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hyaluronic-acid-benefits

> https://www.healthline.com/health/peptides-for-skin#takeaway

< https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-face-serum#types-of-serums

@ https://www.medicinenet.com/what_does_niacinamide_do_for_skin/article.htm

* https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/atoz/cosmeceuticals/

Retinol is also not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Ask your Pharmacist for alternatives during this time. Retinol can also increase your sensitivity to sunburn, use only at night.