So, it’s able to neutralize free radicals that cause tissue damage and in turn aging,' says Jack. Not only that, but it also has skin repair mechanisms thanks to its antioxidant properties. And while you may think this ingredient is only beneficial for dry skin types, it’s actually a dream hydrator for acne-prone skin that doesn’t tolerate nourishing oils well. This will leave skin plump, smooth, and revitalized. What are the benefits of hyaluronic acid?Īll skin tones and types can reap the benefits of HA, namely, 'its ability to increase the moisture content of the upper layers of the skin by virtue of its humectant effect. 'The make-up of synthetically produced HA is exactly the same as our own natural HA, and works in the same way drawing water to the skin', explains Jack. In the same way that collagen and elastin production decrease as we age so too does how speedily we produce our own plumping HA, which is where topical skincare comes in handy. It can hold a thousand times its weight in water and, alongside collagen and elastin, it helps support tissue structure – resulting in smoother firmer skin', says Jack. 'Hyaluronic acid (HA) is made from amino acids and sugar molecules and acts as a natural ‘humectant’ meaning that it draws water to itself.

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retinal : what's the difference between these two ingredients? (Image credit: Getty Images / Sergey Mironov)

If your skin can't handle traditional retinol, you can also try the natural alternative that's becoming a lot more popular- bakuchiol. For extra caution start slowly, by using your retinol at night once or twice a week and build up use gradually, to avoid side effects like retinol peeling, redness, and dryness', shares Jack. Jack shared some retinol tips: 'Dry and sensitive skin types should start a 0.3% dose, normal skin types can begin at 0.5%, while oily skin should tolerate 1% well. While all skin tones and types can use retinol, side effects vary depending on what percentage of retinol you use, and how you go about using it. 'It speeds up cell turnover-the skin's natural shedding and regenerating process - stimulates skin firming and wrinkle-busting collagen and elastin production, quells pigmentation, tightens pores, regulates oil production and even treats acne', explains Jack. There are countless benefits to using retinol. 'It’s the retinoic acid that works its magic on your skin cells and is the reason retinol has become a gold standard skincare ingredient', shares Jack.

It’s the more potent of the forms that are available without a prescription and when applied to the skin, it converts into retinoic acid.

The umbrella term for Vitamin A derivatives are retinoids, and retinol is one of these derivatives.

Cerave resurfacing retinol face serum