Here’s What Those “Active Ingredients” on Your Skincare Labels Actually Do

Getting the most out of your skincare is all about choosing products with the right ingredients. Sometimes referred to as actives, these ensure you get the results you’re after — whether that’s firmer skin, reduced dark spots, or just an extra hit of handsome.

1. HYALURONIC ACID

Prevent winter flaking and dehydration with hyaluronic acid — the holy grail of hydration — paired with caffeine to fight signs of fatigue.

VICHY MINÉRAL 89 EYES, $35

2. NIACINAMIDE

A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide can reduce unwanted pigmentation, rosacea, fine lines, and even acne itself.

DERMALOGICA AGE BRIGHT SPOT FADER, $62

3. RETINOIDS

Small doses of retinoids can boost production of collagen — the stuff that keeps skin looking young — without unwanted redness or dryness.

SKINCEUTICALS RETINOL 0.3, $70

4. VITAMIN E

Ward off the free radicals caused by day-to-day stressors like sun exposure and air pollution, reducing dark spots, redness, and slack skin.

VIVIER C E PEPTIDES SERUM, $180

5. ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS

AHAs are a category of acids used to chemically exfoliate skin, removing dead cell buildup to reveal a fresh complexion.

NEOSTRATA GLYCOLIC RENEWAL SERUM, $52

6. VITAMIN C

A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C reduces the inflammation that leads to brown spots and skin quality degradation.

GUERLAIN ABEILLE ROYALE DAY CREAM, $180
PHOTOGRAPHY: JOSEPH SARACENO