Just as we like to keep up with the trends in fashion and fitness, it’s important to keep an eye on what’s going on in the world of skincare. With facial cleansers taking a front seat, after all, they’re pivotal to keeping your complexion healthy and glowing. It has us wondering just what are the trending ingredients in them. With more research available and greater premium ingredients making their way to the high street market, there’s never been a better time to start taking a vested interest in what you put on your skin.
Whether you’ve heard terms thrown about and not really known what they were or have done some research into the properties of certain ingredients, but aren’t sure if they’re for you, you’re not alone. There’s no one-size-fits-all in skincare and, as demand grows, so does the number of cleansers to choose from. Each has its own properties, ingredients, and benefits, but how do you decide what you need for your skincare routine? We take a look at the trending ingredients in facial cleansers and how to choose the best formula for you.
What is a facial cleanser?
Put simply, a facial cleanser is a cream, gel, liquid, or bar designed to remove makeup, dirt, and debris from your face. It’s the first step in your skincare routine and should be completed every morning and evening. By keeping the skin clean and targeting specific concerns, facial cleansers can help you have a glowing and healthy complexion in no time at all.
The focus on skincare, particularly facial cleansers, has risen dramatically in recent years, and it’s showing no sign of slowing down. According to data from Bridge Market Research, the facial cleanser market is expected to grow at a rate of 5.3% between 2022 and 2029. There are many reasons behind the growth in facial cleansers, from the Covid pandemic creating more time for at-home beauty treatments, to the fact it’s easier than ever to research online and learn about the different cleansers available.
What are some trending ingredients in facial cleansers and why are they so important?
Retinol
Over the past few years, retinol has moved from luxury and niche cosmetic brands to more affordable, easily available brands. This is largely due to the huge demand for the ingredient which has been found to increase cell production, unclog pores, exfoliate the skin, and reduce the signs of aging.
A form of Vitamin A, retinol gets to work on your skin straight away, but the results might not be apparent for a few weeks after you first start to use it. This time period is called the “retinol purge.” It’s when the retinol causes increased cell turnover, causing temporary clogging of your pores which may lead to breakouts. Once the dead skin has been sloughed off, you’ll find it looks much clearer and healthier, particularly for those suffering from acne.
Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is another of the trending ingredients in facial cleansers.. It’s a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that comes from willow trees and has many healing properties. The main benefit of salicylic acid is its ability to exfoliate the skin, targeting clogged pores and rough skin for a much smoother, healthier look and feel.
If you suffer from oily or acne-prone skin or conditions, such as psoriasis, it can help prevent flare-ups and keep the pores clear of debris that might cause pimples and other blemishes.
Ceramides
Ceramides are fats that naturally occur in our skin cells, but they can also be made synthetically for skincare products to help boost the health of your skin. Their main role is to keep the skin barrier intact, holding cells in the top skin layer in place. This is vital for keeping your skin hydrated and moisturized and preventing external irritants from penetrating below the surface.
Ceramides can be found in many facial cleansers, making it easy to incorporate them into your skincare routine. They can also help lock in your moisturizer and toner, keeping your skin in top shape.
Vitamin C
Statistics from Vogue Beauty found that Vitamin C skincare products were the second most popular search term in the summer of 2020, beaten only by Vitamin B3. Since then, its popularity has continued to rise, and with good reason.
Vitamin C is a powerful anti-inflammatory that nourishes, hydrates, and removes impurities from the skin. It can repair skin damage, such as UV damage, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the appearance of acne scars.
Glycerin
Glycerin is a skin-replenishing moisturizing agent, ideal for keeping your skin hydrated and protected. It’s a naturally occurring sugar alcohol compound derived from plant oils or animal fats and a popular choice for skincare thanks to its hydrating properties. Not only does glycerin keep the top layer of the skin protected, but it also pulls moisture from the second layer of skin to the top. This allows the skin to keep itself moisturized and healthier.
By using a facial cleanser with glycerin, you can enjoy anti-aging benefits, smaller pores, brighter skin, and a more radiant complexion.
Squalene
Squalene is an organic oil originally obtained from shark liver oil. Today, it’s synthetically created to protect sharks from the extraction process. Squalene naturally occurs in our bodies and keeps our skin hydrated and healthy.
As we age, however, our squalene levels naturally diminish, causing the skin to appear dull, lifeless, and dry. This is where a squalene facial cleanser comes in. One of the trending ingredients in facial cleansers, it mimics your natural oils and reduces fine lines and wrinkles, improves your skin texture, and keeps it moisturized.
Facial cleansers are a vital part of any skincare routine, and you’ll want to learn more about the ingredients to choose the best one. Remember, just because something is trending doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for your particular skin type.
By being informed, you can find the trending ingredients in facial cleansers tailored to your own skin concerns and needs. Take a look at our website to find the best facial cleanser for you. Don’t be afraid to get in touch with any questions you might have!