It goes without saying there's a lot of different skincare ingredients. Memorising the names, learning the differences, and figuring out the best for your skin type can be a bit of a nightmare - I work in skincare and even I find myself losing track at times. So, I've enlisted the help of Liberty, our resident cosmetic scientist and formulation expert, to shed some light on some of our favourite ingredients that you can find in Revolution Skincare. First up is Salicylic Acid - a wonder for oily skin types that can be found in our new blemish range.
So, what is Salicylic Acid exactly?
"Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that has an exfoliating effect on the skin."
What does Salicylic Acid do for the skin?
"It helps to break down the upper layers of the epidermis (top layer of the skin) so that they can be removed by chemical exfoliation, revealing fresher glowing skin underneath. As it is oil-soluble, it can penetrate the pores and break up sebum and dirt build-up, decongesting pores and preventing the formation of spots. It helps to control oiliness and reduces the appearance of pores and blackheads, as well as smoothing skin texture. Over time, skin will be left feeling less congested, more balanced and smoother."
Angry symptoms: Blemishes, oil, congestion.
Who is Salicylic Acid suitable for?
"Salicylic acid is suitable for all skin types, but it is particularly useful for oilier or more blemish-prone skin types."
What other ingredients compliment Salicylic Acid?
"Using BHAs works well with AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy-Acids). These are another type of acid that exfoliates the skin, but they are water-soluble. Examples include Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Mandelic Acid. They work in synergy and help to boost the overall exfoliation efficacy.
Salicylic also works well with moisturising and soothing ingredients such as Glycerin and Marshmallow Extracts. These help to prevent skin from feeling dry and tight, and calm any redness that may be associated with congested skin. They can be found in our blemish serums and tonic. Azelaic Acid, a naturally occurring Dicarboxylic Acid, also works synergistically with Salicylic Acid to help decongest, rebalance the skin, and reduce any redness. It is found in our Anti-Blemish Boost Cream."
How can you work Salicylic into your routine?
"Salicylic Acid, like any acid, should be built up slowly into your routine, starting at a lower concentration (try our 1% serum), a couple of times a week. Once tolerance has built up, you can then increase the frequency of use. If you up the concentration to the 2% serum, again use a couple of times a week and then build back up. Salicylic Acid can be used up to concentrations of 2% in cosmetics. Using BHAs can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so it is important to always wear an SPF when using acids."
You can shop our full range of blemsish targeting products here
Now, I know what you're thinking; 'Charlie, wrong kind of mask. This will do nothing for my skin'. But that's where you're wrong! Did you know a good night's sleep is CRUCIAL for great skin? A lack of sleep can aggravate existing skin problems and increase stress resulting in darker undereye circles, fine lines, and more. I've slept with an eye mask for years now, and I wouldn't go back. They help block out the light making it so much easier to get your full 8 hours and reap the benefits for your skin.
Cleanser
PURIFYING CLEANSING PASTE
Serum
WILLOW BARK EXTRACT
Moisturiser
ANTI-BLEMISH BOOST
I hope you enjoyed this read, let us know what skincare tools we should create next over at @REVOLUTIONSKINCARE
SHOP REVOLUTION SKINCARE
Charlie from revolution x
