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Just like people, some skin-care ingredients are better together than others. Editor Trudi Brewer shares the rules of ingredient pairing that dermatologists and cosmetic chemists swear by.
Hyaluronic Acid + Ceramides
New York dermatologist Orit Markowitz says that these ingredients are ideal for treating dehydrated, dry skin when used together. “I think humectants combined with sealant moisturisers work the best like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.” This duo’s superpower is the ability to “draw out moisture and then seal it.”
Elizabeth Arden Hyaluronic Acid Ceramide Capsules Hydra-Plumping Serum, $85.
There is a slew of hyaluronic acid (HA) products to choose from these days, which is why Elizabeth Arden made these new capsules more hard-working than anything else out there. The new technology called Zero H2O Technology was created to deliver hyaluronic acid four times deeper into the skin, with a water-free molecule, that is 500 times smaller than traditional hyaluronic acid. While Arden’s clever ceramide technology (they have been using in their skincare for 30 years) offers skin-identical fatty acids that strengthen the skin’s barrier to keep moisture in and nasties out. So, this genius combination offers double locking benefits, the first plumping and hydrating benefits from the hyaluronic acid, the second, sealing in moisture over moisture sealed in by the ceramides. Finally, this measured dose of goodness in capsule form contains exactly the right amount, so there’s no wastage. We use one in the morning, and one at night.
AHA’s + Retinoids
Cosmetic chemist Michelle Wong, PhD says there’s evidence that these two ingredients work better together than when used separately, especially if you are want to boost cell turnover and boost skin clarity. However, she noted that if you have easily irritated skin, this pairing may not be the one for you, as it can cause irritations.
The Ordinary Buffet, $32
This serum targets more than one skincare concern. It harnesses a cocktail of heavy-hitting ingredients in a water-based consistency, stacked with protein peptides, hyaluronic acid, and amino acids from acne to wrinkles. Used in both a morning and evening skincare routine, it will help you achieve a smoother and more hydrated complexion.
Vitamin C + Vitamin E + Ferulic Acid
Perhaps the most exciting ingredient combo is vitamin's C and E. "Together, they have an antioxidant effect that helps strengthen and brighten skin," says Dermatologist Tina Alster. At the same time, Michelle Wong likes to add ferulic acid to the mix. "Since vitamin C is "quite unstable," the other two antioxidants are useful in helping to keep it active."
Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Oil, $128.
This antioxidant-laced, skin-brightening oil also stimulates collagen production while blurring the look of those dreaded brown spots or sun damage. The addition of turmeric has brilliant anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits. Add raspberry and cranberry to the mix, and you have a skin-loving potent blend that will help you get your skin glowing fast.
Retinoids + Benzoyl Peroxide
Another heavy-hitting combination, especially for those who suffer from breakouts or constant acne. As long as the retinoids stay stable, this duo is handy for helping combat that breakout. At the same time, cosmetic chemist Victoria Fu agreed that this pair is a formidable opponent for acne. "Specifically, 0.1 Adapalene + (found in Differin, Adapalene is a topical retinoid used to treat mild acne). Combined with as little as 2.5 per cent Benzoyl Peroxide there is some nice data to prove they work synergistically together," said Fu. Who adds, "I'm all for a gentler retinoid cocktail."
Dermalogica Retinol Clearing Oil, $153.
The potent combination of retinol and salicylic acid used at night will help kickstart your skin's renewal process. It helps blur the look of open pores and acne scarring. But here's the kicker: it's also antibacterial and nourishing thanks to the blend of lightweight, skin-friendly oils, like argan, rosehip seed and jojoba. It's a gentle sledgehammer if you're on the quest for skin clarity.
Glycerin + Hyaluronic Acid
Victoria Fu's partner in the skincare brand Chemist Confessions and fellow cosmetic chemist Gloria Lu thinks these two ingredients make the perfect couple. "This is not as sexy as fancy active ingredients…but I'm a huge fan of combining glycerin and hyaluronic acid," said Lu. "Glycerin is an unsung hero in the water-grabbing humectant world. But, unlike hyaluronic acid, it's a tiny molecule with a lot of cool data behind long-term hydration. So it complements a big polymer such as hyaluronic acid for all-day hydration for my dry skin."
Kiehl's Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate, $125.
We got onto this serum a few months back, and now it's on rotation in our beauty routines. Stacked with vitamin C and orange and lemon oils to help brighten the skin - fast. While hyaluronic acid, a famous moisture magnet that helps plumps up the skin, combined with glycerin, this ultra-hydrating duo, leaves your skin feeling smooth and looking glowy.
Vitamin C + SPF
Wearing sunscreen every day is arguably the most important thing you can do to keep your skin looking its best at every age. Once you've nailed that essential step in your daily routine, combining a vitamin C-based serum under your sunscreen suggests Dermatologist Kavita Mariwallai is the best routine. "No matter how diligent you are about applying sunscreen, it's inevitable that your skin is still going to get some amount of sun exposure. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that scavenges the damaging free radicals that form. As a result, acting as a second line of defence and an extra layer of protection."
Naked Sundays SPF50+ Collagen Glow Crème, $37.
Your skin primer, moisturiser, SPF and collagen-booster, all-in-one. We have been through two tubes this summer. First, it protects the skin from UV rays. It gives you a glowy complexion thanks to the inclusion of vegan collagen and watermelon extract and potent antioxidants vitamin C and vitamin E. It's a brilliant sunscreen with kick-arse skincare benefits.
Here’s everything you need to know about this beauty buzzword.