The A-Z of skincare
Nature offers a treasure trove of ingredients that promise to rejuvenate, heal, and illuminate the skin. From the succulent aloe vera plant to the potent zest of zinc, each element brings its unique magic to the table of skin care. The A-Z guide of nature’s finest offerings, and discover the secrets to radiant skin. But remember, while Mother Nature is generous, she’s also complex. Always consult with a professional skincare clinic like Derma Revive before embarking on any new regimen.
A – Aloe Vera
This succulent plant gel is renowned for its cooling and soothing properties. Often found in tropical climates, aloe vera is frequently used to treat burns, especially sunburns, and hydrate the skin. Its gel is packed with vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids. Aloe Vera is often recommended for soothing after treatments such as our Tattoo removal procedures.
B – Biotin
Also known as Vitamin H, biotin is vital for maintaining skin, hair, and nail health. Found in foods like eggs, nuts, and whole grains, a deficiency can lead to skin rashes and hair loss.
C – Collagen
This protein is the main component of our skin and connective tissues. As we age, its production decreases. Fish and bone broth are natural sources of collagen, which can help replenish the skin’s elasticity.
D – Dandelion
Beyond being a common weed, dandelion sap, found in its roots and leaves, has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin diseases. It’s also rich in antioxidants and can combat skin inflammation.
E – Vitamin E
A powerful antioxidant, vitamin E helps combat the effects of free radicals. Found in foods like almonds, spinach, and avocados, it’s often used in skincare products for its moisturising and healing benefits.
F – Ferulic Acid
Found in the seeds of fruits like apples and oranges, as well as in some vegetables, grains, and nuts, this antioxidant boosts the effects of other antioxidants, making them more effective against sun damage.
G – Green Tea Extract
Rich in polyphenols, green tea, especially from the Camellia sinensis plant, can combat inflammation, reduce UV damage, and prevent collagen breakdown.
H – Hyaluronic Acid
Naturally produced in the body, it’s found in high concentrations in the skin, eyes, and joints. Its primary function is to retain water, keeping tissues well lubricated. Many products now contain this, including dermal fillers and skin remodelling injectable products such as Profhilo.
I – Iron
Essential for transporting oxygen in the blood, an iron deficiency can lead to pale and dull-looking skin. Foods rich in iron include red meat, poultry, and beans.
J – Jojoba Oil
Derived from the seeds of the jojoba plant, native to North America, this oil closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum, making it an excellent moisturiser and skin balancer.
K – Kojic Acid
Derived from fungi, it’s known for its skin-lightening properties. Often used to treat sun damage and age spots, it inhibits the production of melanin in the skin. Often found in chemical peels.
L – Lactic Acid
An alpha hydroxy acid found in milk and fruits, it’s used in skincare for its exfoliating properties. It promotes cell turnover and collagen production.
M – Mango Butter
Extracted from mango seeds, this butter is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. Mangoes, native to South Asia, have been cultivated for thousands of years and are revered for their skin benefits.
N – Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Found in foods like chicken, tuna, and green vegetables, this water-soluble vitamin works with the natural substances in the skin to improve its texture and appearance.
O – Omega Fatty Acids
Found in fish oils like salmon and plant oils like flaxseed, these essential fatty acids maintain the skin’s lipid barrier, which is crucial for keeping skin hydrated.
P – Pyruvic Acid
A naturally occurring alpha-keto acid, pyruvic acid plays a pivotal role in metabolism and the conversion of glucose into energy in our bodies. It’s found in fermented foods, certain fruits like apples and grapes, and in honey. In the realm of skincare, pyruvic acid is recognised for its exfoliating properties. It is often used as a chemical peel, such as our fantastic Casmara peel, to address issues such as acne, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.
Q – Q10 (Coenzyme Q10)
Found naturally in the body and in foods like organ meats, fish, and whole grains, this enzyme aids in cell regeneration and can help repair sun-damaged skin.
R – Retinol (Vitamin A)
Found in foods like sweet potatoes, carrots, and kale, retinol boosts collagen production and promotes cell turnover, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
S – Squalene
Found in olives, rice bran, and wheat germ, squalene is a natural hydrator that can also shield the skin from harm.
T – Tea Tree Oil
Derived from the tea tree leaves, native to Australia, it’s known for its antiseptic properties and is often used to treat acne and other skin infections.
U – Uva Ursi Extract
A little-known chemical derived from the leaves of the Uva Ursi plant and native to the Arctic region, this extract is known for its skin-brightening properties. It contains arbutin, which can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
V – Vitamin C
Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, this potent antioxidant aids in the skin’s natural regeneration process, repairing damaged skin cells and preventing UV-induced damage. The main ingredient of our Brightening and Rejuvenating IV vitamin drip is vitamin C.
W – Willow Bark Extract
Derived from the bark of willow trees, it’s a natural source of salicylic acid. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its pain-relieving properties.
X – Ximenia Oil
Extracted from the Ximenia tree, native to Africa, this oil is rich in fatty acids, making it an excellent moisturiser, especially for dry and sensitive skin.
Y – Yellow Dock
Traditionally used in herbal medicine, yellow dock, found in parts of Europe and North America, can help improve skin health, especially conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Z – Zinc
Found in foods like beef, spinach, and pumpkin seeds, this essential mineral aids in skin development and the production of collagen. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce the production of sebum, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.