Trends
The Trending Skincare Ingredients You Need to Know About
When it comes to skincare ingredients, we’re constantly looking for the next big thing. But, contrary to what brands want you to believe, more often than not that star ingredient of the latest product isn’t ‘new’ at all! In fact, it’s pr…
When it comes to skincare ingredients, we’re constantly looking for the next big thing. But, contrary to what brands want you to believe, more often than not that star ingredient of the latest product isn’t ‘new’ at all! In fact, it’s probably been quietly building credibility behind the scenes for years. However, what is new (and very exciting for both the industry and consumers) is the innovative technology through which these ingredients can now be harnessed, stabilised and delivered in order to serve our ever-growing appetite for formulas of the highest quality and performance.
Amongst the latest actives to dominate the conversation are , , and - appearing in everything from prestige serums to accessible high-street brands. But why are these once-niche ingredients suddenly everywhere? Let’s delve into what they are, and what they actually offer your skin.
EXOSOMES
What are they?
Nano-sized but powerful vesicles (lipid particles) derived from stem cells or plants.
What do they do for the skin?
Exosomes act as messengers between the skin cells. They prompt the skin cells to repair, regenerate and increase production, resulting in smoother and firmer skin. And that’s why they’re commonly used within professional skincare treatments (such as microneedling) to boost visible results while speeding up the healing process post treatment.
Great for: Improving the appearance of wrinkles, sagging and scarring. They also help the skin to absorb vitamin A (/retinal) more effectively.
I recommend: The Inkey List Exosome Hydro-Glow Complex or Medicube One Day Exosome Shot 7500
PDRN (POLYDEOXYRIBONUCLEOTIDE)
What is it?
An ingredient derived (most commonly) from salmon DNA, which is especially popular in Korean skincare products.
What does it do for the skin?
Like exosomes, PDRN promotes cell regeneration and collagen production but it also helps to repair the for improved moisture retention and plumper-looking skin.
Great for: Smoothing fine lines, improving the skin’s elasticity, and reducing inflammation and redness - a great choice for sensitive skin.
I recommend: Medicube PDRN Pink Serum (a personal favourite of mine) or Anua PDRN Capsule 100 Serum
NAD+ (NICOTINAMIDE ADENINE DINUCLEOTIDE)
What is it?
A coenzyme found naturally in every cell in the body which supports DNA repair and collagen production.
What does it do for the skin?
NAD+ works by boosting the proteins within the skin that repair DNA. It also promotes cellular energy production, which is essential for maintaining firm and supple skin.
Great for: Reducing the look of fine lines, soothing sensitivity and repairing environmental damage caused by the likes of pollution and UV rays.
I recommend: Dr. Sam’s Flawless NAD+ Serum or Pai Age Confidence™ NAD+ & TriPeptide Renewal Serum
POLYGLUTAMIC ACID (PGA)
What is it?
A , plant-derived - an ingredient which attracts and binds water to the skin. PGA holds up to 5000 times its own weight in water, far exceeding the hydration capacity of better-known hyaluronic acid.
What does it do for the skin?
PGA intensely hydrates the skin and creates a protective barrier to lock in essential moisture. In doing so, it also reduces the look of fine lines while boosting the skin’s elasticity and plumpness.
Great for: Improving the appearance and comfort of dry, dull, uneven skin.
I recommend: The Inkey List Polyglutamic Acid Serum or Nip + Fab Hyaluronic Fix Extreme4 Concentrate 2%
FERMENTED BOTANICALS
What are they?
Plant-derived ingredients that are broken down by microorganisms (such as yeast or bacteria) to create more potent compounds that are able to penetrate the skin more deeply and effectively.
What do they do for the skin?
They help to improve overall skin health by balancing the skin’s microbiome (its delicate ecosystem) and strengthening its barrier against irritation and moisture loss.
Great for: Gently improving the look and feel of red, sensitive skin.
I recommend: Tatcha The Essence or Mixsoon Bean Cream
ECTOIN
What is it?
A powerful and natural amino acid that’s derived from extremophilic microorganisms (good bacteria that thrive in high-stress environments like salt lakes, deserts, and hot springs).
What does it do for the skin?
It works to both repair and strengthen the skin against environmental stressors such as UV light and pollution, while also deeply hydrating and reducing inflammation.
Great for: Soothing and repairing sensitive, dry or damaged skin.
I recommend: The Ordinary Rice Lipids + Microemulsion or Paula’s Choice 7% Ectoin + Hyaluronic Acid Milky Hydrating Serum
