What is an 'Active' ingredient?

What is an 'Active' ingredient?

What is an 'Active' Ingredient

Actives are natural ingredients that have been scientifically proven to change the structure of your skin at a cellular level. Active ingredients are the components within skincare products that actually work to address the skin concern the product is meant to target. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates skincare products to ensure they always list active ingredients on the packaging. The more potent the active ingredient, the higher its position must be in the ingredients list.

Here are some examples of active ingredients and what they do for your skin:

Alpha hydroxy acids:

Also called AHAs, alpha hydroxy acids are common in anti-aging products, aimed at treating fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and age spots. Sun sensitivity is a side effect of AHAs, so you may want to add an SPF. Glycolic, an exfoliating agent, and lactic acid are examples of AHAs.

Hyaluronic acid:

The substance hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the human body, in skin, joint fluids, and other healthy tissues. As we age, hyaluronic acid levels in the body deteriorate. Skincare products that contain hyaluronic acid’s  aim to replenish those levels.

L-ascorbic acid:

The only form of vitamin C that is safe for use in skincare products, L-ascorbic acid can stimulate collagen production, possibly leading to a reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and scars; however, on some skin types, it can cause redness and stinging. People use these types of products as skin-brightening agents or to protect against free radicals.

Niacinamide:

Niacinamide is an ingredient with the characteristic of adapting its effects to different skin cells, making it an option for all skin types, even sensitive skin. It's usually an oral supplement, but it tends to be stronger in topical applications. Niacinamide is primarily used to hydrate the skin tone.

Retinoids:

Retinol, retinal aldehyde, and retinyl esters are all types of retinoids that derive from vitamin A and are common ingredients in skincare products. People use retinoid products to help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve uneven skin tone and pigmentation, and hydrate the skin to prevent dryness.

The Future of Skincare Is Biotechnology

At SumaNurica, our formulas are created using biotechnology and patented preservation and purification techniques. They are enriched with proteins and peptides that are nearly identical to those found in our skin, including SumaNurica's patented collagen A three-part preservation method ensures formulas remain stable and safe in their most active, effective form – for the ultimate skincare formulation.

Biotechnology allows for the highest grade of active ingredients to be stabilized due to the controlled manufacturing environment, resulting in the safest and most effective skincare formulation.

Furthermore, the inception of SumaNurica’s active Protein and Peptide skincare formulations is managed within our world-class laboratory. As a result, our biotechnology techniques do not require the land, water, or resources that other natural, botanical, or clean beauty products do, reducing our carbon footprint.

Experience The New Era Of Skin

Join the skincare revolution led by SumaNurica. Using world-first biotechnology, we aim to protect and repair skin with our products that address cosmetic concerns and help you to look as young as you feel.

Want to start your SumaNurica skincare journey? Shop our Collagen Essence Hydrating Face Mask here, or shop the entire SumaNurica range here.

Loved learning about the world of skincare? Find more articles like this one in our learning center here.

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