The science behind cosmeceuticals

The science behind cosmeceuticals

In partnership with SA’s top medical aesthetic companies

Because cosmeceuticals contain a much higher concentration of active ingredients than your average over-the-counter product, they offer far better results for your skin.

Active ingredients

Look at your skincare product and you’ll probably find a list of active ingredients, which all do different things for your skin. Here are four that you should consider adding to your daily skincare regime.

1. Polyphenols: Without adequate protection from free radicals such as smoke, pollution and the sun, your skin is at risk of tissue degradation. Adding polyphenols to your skincare routine helps protect your skin against UV damage, while reducing inflammation and the signs of ageing.

2. Retinol: A derivative of vitamin A, retinol helps increase your skin’s collagen production by increasing your skin cell turnover, thereby leading to a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. If you want to amplify the benefits, however, you’ll need to use the prescription-strength form of vitamin A found in retinoid creams.

3. Peptides: Collagen is a protein made up of amino acid chains which, when broken into shorter segments, are called amino acids or peptides. These stimulate or control certain functions in the skin and can improve the firmness and texture of your skin, as well as helping to reduce fine lines and hyperpigmentation.

4. Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant helps protect your skin from environmental stressors that cause damage. It promotes collagen synthesis, improves pigmentation and enhances UV sun protection.

More than skin deep

UV exposure and free radical damage are external causes of ageing. Internally, excessive keratinisation (hardening of keratin) causes dead skin cells to accumulate under the skin, leading to a rough, uneven texture. Fine lines and wrinkles become more visible, and your risk of adult acne increases.

Did you know? Your skin renews itself every 28 days.

Dioic acid, derived from a natural vegetable source, stimulates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors that help achieve anti-blemish and anti-ageing results. It also stops sebum production and reduces P. acnes bacteria.

SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense uses 2% dioic acid to help fight breakouts.

Did you know? Your skin counts for about 15% of your body weight.

Turn back the clock

There are a number of factors that cause skin ageing – some of which we are fortunately able to influence. According to Lamelle Research Laboratories it is possible to slow your skin’s ageing when it’s caused by chronic inflammation.
Your body regulates inflammation with natural proteins called cytokines.

There are three kinds of cytokines:
1. Normal acute inflammatory cytokines heal wounds
2. Chronic inflammatory cytokines cause ageing
3. Anti-inflammatory cytokines fight chronic inflammation

Lamelle Research Laboratories have isolated the two “good” cytokines, which are used in the new Dermaheal skincare range to neutralise and counteract chronic inflammation, helping to keep your skin looking young.

References:
www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/younger-skin/causes-of-aging-skin
www.pharmaceutical-journal.com/news-and-analysis/features/beauty-is-now-more-than-skin-deep-the-emergence-of-cosmeceuticals/11135579.article
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2015/12/14/polyphenols-benefits.aspx
www.skininstitute.co.nz/appearance-medicine/what-are-cosmeceuticals/
www.everydayhealth.com/pictures/retinol-facts/#02
http://thedermblog.com/2008/06/23/do-peptides-in-skin-care-products-work/
http://visual.ly/50-incredible-facts-about-skin

 

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