From ATP to ZINC

May 01, 2024

Our Top 10 Favs We Prefer in Derma Energy

1. ATP
2. AHA
3. VITAMIN C
4. HYALURONIC ACID
5. NIACINAMIDE
6. PEPTIDES
7. RETINOL
8. RUMEX
9. TAZMAN PEPPER BERRY
10. ZINC

ATP

ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is a powerhouse molecule that plays a crucial role in the energy metabolism of our cells. When it comes to skincare, ATP offers numerous benefits that make it a great addition to any skincare routine. First and foremost, ATP helps to boost the hydration levels of our skin cells. As we age, the production of ATP decreases, leading to a decline in skin vitality and appearance. By replenishing water levels, skincare products enriched with ATP can replenish the skin, giving it a more youthful and radiant glow. ATP has been found to support the natural repair and renewal processes of the skin. It helps to accelerate cell turnover, allowing for the removal of dead skin cells and the promotion of new cell growth. This can lead to smoother, brighter, and more even-toned skin. Every product in Derma Energy contains the powerful ATP ingredient.

AHAs

The AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) Lactic Acid is one of many popular AHA’s used in skincare. Other options are Glycolic, Mandelic, Citric and Tartaric Acid. Lactic is more popular because -

1. Exfoliation: Lactic Acid is a gentle exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. It works by breaking down the bonds that hold these dead cells together, revealing smoother and brighter skin underneath. Regular exfoliation with lactic acid can help to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a more even skin tone.

2. Hydration: Unlike some other AHAs, lactic acid has moisturizing properties. It helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin, making it suitable for dry or dehydrated skin types. By enhancing the skin's natural moisturizing factors, lactic acid can help to improve skin hydration and prevent moisture loss.

3. Brightening and Hyperpigmentation: Lactic acid can also help to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone. Regular use of lactic acid can result in a more radiant and even complexion.

4. Stimulates Collagen Production: Lactic acid stimulates collagen synthesis in the skin. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin. By promoting collagen production, lactic acid can help to improve skin firmness and reduce the signs of aging, such as sagging and wrinkles.

5. Mild and Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Lactic acid is considered to be a milder AHA compared to others like glycolic acid. It has a larger molecular size, which means it penetrates the skin more slowly and is less likely to cause irritation. This makes lactic acid a suitable option for individuals with sensitive or easily irritated skin.

TIP: it’s crucial to use sunscreen during the day as AHAs can increase sun sensitivity. We combine Lactic + Mandelic Acid in our liquid exfoliant Shed the Dead and LQD Exfoliant.

VITAMIN C

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) is a water-soluble and stable derivative of Vitamin C, that is commonly favoured in skincare products. Here is some information about Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate and why it's so impressive:

1. Antioxidant Protection: Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a potent antioxidant. It helps to neutralize free radicals in the skin, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and can accelerate signs of aging. By protecting the skin from oxidative stress, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate can help to reduce the appearance of premature fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness. It helps to preserve the skin for longer!

2. Brightening and Even Skin Tone: Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate has been found to inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and hyperpigmentation. By reducing melanin production, it can help to brighten the skin and even out the complexion. Regular use of Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate can result in a more radiant and youthful-looking skin tone.

3. Collagen Synthesis: Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate plays a role in collagen synthesis, which is essential for maintaining the skin's firmness and elasticity. It promotes the production of collagen, a protein that provides structural support to the skin. By stimulating collagen synthesis, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate can help to improve skin texture, reduce sagging, and minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

4. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to calm and soothe the skin. It can be beneficial for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin as it may help to reduce redness and irritation.

5. Stability: One of the key advantages of Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is its stability. Unlike pure Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is less prone to oxidation and degradation when exposed to light, air, and heat. This makes it a more stable form of Vitamin C in skincare products, allowing for a longer shelf life and better effectiveness.

6. Anti-acne: one major difference of Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate over other Vitamin C is that is also helps to clear acne skins. It dissolves effortlessly in water, allowing oil-free formulations. This makes this one truly remarkable Vitamin C. Unhealthy, acne skin can be improved quickly with Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate.

FIND PRODUCTS WITH SAP HERE: Solution From Pollution, C2 Serum & C3 Serum.

HYALURONIC ACID

Hyaluronic acid is a popular ingredient in skincare products known for its hydrating and anti-aging properties. Here's some information about hyaluronic acid and its benefits in skincare:

1. Deep Hydration: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means it has the ability to attract and retain moisture. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it incredibly effective at hydrating the skin. When applied topically, hyaluronic acid helps to replenish and lock in moisture, resulting in plumper, smoother, and more hydrated skin.

2. Wrinkle Reduction: As we age, our skin's natural production of hyaluronic acid decreases, leading to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By applying hyaluronic acid topically, it can help to restore moisture and improve skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It gives the skin a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.

3. Improved Skin Texture: Hyaluronic acid has a unique ability to penetrate the skin and promote a healthy skin barrier. It helps to improve skin texture by enhancing the skin's ability to retain moisture and by promoting cell turnover. Regular use of hyaluronic acid can result in softer, smoother, and more supple skin.

4. Soothing and Calming: Hyaluronic acid has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for sensitive or irritated skin. It can help to calm redness, reduce inflammation, and provide relief to dry or irritated skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis.

5. Compatibility with Other Skincare Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid is a versatile ingredient that works well with other skincare ingredients. It can be used alongside other active ingredients such as retinol, vitamin C, or peptides, enhancing their effectiveness and providing additional hydration.

It's important to note that hyaluronic acid is suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. It is a lightweight and non-greasy ingredient that can be easily incorporated into your skincare routine. Hyaluronic acid is found in our Hydrate and Inflate Serum and double the strength in HA3 Serum.

NIACINAMIDE

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a versatile and beneficial ingredient in skincare products. Here's some information about niacinamide and its benefits in skincare:

1. Regulation of Sebum Production: Niacinamide helps to regulate the production of sebum, the skin's natural oil. By balancing sebum production, it can prevent excess oiliness and reduce the occurrence of clogged pores, which can lead to acne breakouts. Niacinamide is particularly beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

2. Minimization of Pores: Niacinamide has the ability to tighten and shrink the appearance of pores. It works by improving the skin's elasticity and reducing the dilation of blood vessels, resulting in smaller-looking pores. Regular use of niacinamide can help to refine the skin's texture and promote a smoother complexion.

3. Brightening and Even Skin Tone: Niacinamide is effective in reducing the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone. It can help to fade hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and acne scars, resulting in a more even and radiant complexion. Niacinamide also has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm and soothe redness or blotchiness in the skin.

4. Strengthening the Skin Barrier: Niacinamide plays a crucial role in enhancing the skin's barrier function. It helps to improve the skin's natural moisture retention, preventing water loss and maintaining optimal hydration levels. A strengthened skin barrier is more resilient to environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV damage, and can result in healthier and plumper-looking skin.

5. Antioxidant and Anti-Aging Properties: Niacinamide is an antioxidant that helps to protect the skin against free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause premature aging and damage to the skin. It also stimulates collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Niacinamide is a well-tolerated ingredient suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It can be found in a variety of skincare products, such as serums, moisturizers, and toners. Niacinamide can be easily incorporated into your skincare routine and works well with other active ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. When using Niacinamide in skincare, it's important to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase as tolerated. This will help to minimize the risk of any potential skin flushing. The daily optimal level of Niacinamide is 5%.

FIND PRODUCTS WITH NIA HERE: Calm The Harm, B2 Serum & B3 Serum

PEPTIDES

Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. In skincare, peptides are becoming increasingly popular for their slowing down of ageing, skin soothing, skin lightening and skin rejuvenating benefits. Here's some information about peptides in skincare:

1. Collagen Peptides: Peptides are known for their ability to stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein that provides structure, elasticity, and firmness to the skin. As we age, the production of collagen naturally decreases, leading to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. By applying peptides topically, they can help to signal the skin to produce more collagen, promoting a more youthful and plump complexion. Look for the peptide called MATRIXYL SYNTHE 6 - Race Against Time & PEP Serum

2. Brightening Peptides: Some peptides have skin-brightening properties and can help to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation. They can inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for darkening the skin, resulting in a more even and radiant complexion. Best: B WHITE: For Brighter Days & Pi Serum

3. Soothing Peptides: peptides can also reduce chronic inflammation within the skin. Peptides help to reduce the pro-inflammation signalling proteins in the skin. NeutraZen Peptide works wonders to quickly reduces redness in the skin. It features in A Green Soothie, B2 Serum and B3 Serum. To learn more about the chronic inflammation head here to our blog on it - A SMOOTH OPERATOR.

TIP: When incorporating peptides into your skincare routine, it's recommended to use them consistently over a period of time to see optimal results.

RETINOL

Vitamin A or Retinol is a highly effective ingredient in skincare that offers numerous benefits for the skin. Here's some information about retinol in skincare:

1. Anti-Aging: Retinol is renowned for its anti-aging properties. It helps to stimulate collagen production, which improves skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol also promotes cell turnover, which can fade age spots, even out skin tone, and improve overall texture.

2. Acne Treatment: Retinol is effective in treating acne as it helps to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. By increasing cell turnover, retinol prevents the build-up of dead skin cells and excess oil, which are major contributors to acne. It can also help to fade acne scars and hyperpigmentation.

3. Skin Brightening: Retinol can help to brighten the complexion and improve skin radiance. It exfoliates the skin's surface, promoting the removal of dull and dead skin cells, revealing a smoother and more luminous skin tone. Additionally, retinol can reduce the appearance of dark spots and sun damage, resulting in a more even complexion.

4. Skin Texture Refinement: Retinol can refine the skin's texture by smoothing out rough patches and reducing the appearance of pores. It stimulates the production of new skin cells, resulting in a smoother and softer complexion. Regular use of retinol can help to improve overall skin texture and give a more youthful appearance.

5. Sun Damage Repair: Retinol has the ability to repair some of the damage caused by sun exposure. It can help to stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin, which can improve the skin's resilience and repair sun-induced wrinkles and fine lines. However, it's important to note that retinol should always be used in combination with sun protection to prevent further damage.

When using retinol in skincare, it's important to start with a low concentration and gradually increase usage to allow the skin to adjust. Retinol can cause initial skin irritation, dryness, and sensitivity, so it's crucial to use it as directed and follow up with a moisturizer. It's also recommended to use retinol products at night, as sunlight can degrade its effectiveness.It's worth mentioning that retinol is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

RUMEX

Rumex, also known as Rumex acetosa or common sorrel, is an herbaceous plant that has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes. In skincare, rumex extract is often used for its potential skin-brightening and anti-aging properties. Here's some information about rumex in skincare:

1. Skin Brightening: Rumex extract contains natural compounds, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which have been found to have skin-brightening effects. These compounds can help to reduce the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. By inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for darkening the skin, rumex extract can promote a more even and radiant complexion.

2. Antioxidant Properties: Rumex extract is rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin against free radicals and environmental damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause premature aging and damage to the skin cells. By neutralizing these free radicals, rumex extract can help to prevent signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Rumex extract has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin. It can be beneficial for individuals with sensitive or reactive skin, as it may help to reduce redness, itching, and inflammation.

4. Collagen Production: Some studies suggest that rumex extract may stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin. By promoting collagen synthesis, rumex extract may help to improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sagging.

5. Potential UV Protection: Rumex extract has been found to possess UV-protective properties. It may help to shield the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, such as sunburn, premature aging, and increased risk of skin cancer. However, it's important to note that rumex extract is not a substitute for proper sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen and seeking shade.

Rumex is typically used in combination with other ingredients to enhance its effectiveness. Find this awesome ingredient here For Brighter Days & Pi Serum

REFERENCE:

TAZMAN PEPPER BERRY

Tasman pepper, also known as Mountain Pepper or Tasmannia lanceolata, is a native Australian plant that is gaining popularity in skincare products for its potential benefits. Here's some information about Tasman pepper in skincare:

1. Soothing and Anti-Inflammatory: Tasman pepper contains compounds called polygodial and dihydroxy-alpha-sanshool, which have been found to have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds can help to calm and reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation in the skin. This makes Tasman pepper a suitable ingredient for those with sensitive or reactive skin.

2. Antioxidant Protection: Tasman pepper is rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from free radicals and environmental damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress, leading to premature aging, dullness, and skin damage. The antioxidants in Tasman pepper help to neutralize these free radicals, promoting a healthier and more youthful complexion.

3. Anti-Aging Benefits: Tasman pepper has been found to have anti-aging properties. It can help to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. The antioxidant content of Tasman pepper helps to boost collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. This can result in a more youthful and plump complexion.

4. Brightening and Even Skin Tone: Tasman pepper has skin-brightening properties and can help to even out skin tone. It can help to fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and blemishes, resulting in a more radiant and luminous complexion.

5. Antimicrobial Effects: Tasman pepper has antimicrobial properties, which can help to fight against bacteria on the skin. This can be beneficial for those with acne-prone or congested skin, as it may help to reduce breakouts and promote a clearer complexion.

Overall, Tasman pepper in skincare products may offer soothing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, brightening, and antimicrobial benefits.

REFERENCE:

ZINC

Zinc Oxide is a mineral that plays a crucial role in overall health, and it also offers several benefits when used in skincare. Here's some information about zinc in skincare:

1. Acne Treatment: Zinc has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help in reducing acne and breakouts. It helps to control oil production, fight against acne-causing bacteria, and calm inflammation. Zinc is commonly used in acne treatments as it can help to regulate sebum production and promote clearer skin.

2. Wound Healing: Zinc plays a vital role in the wound healing process. It helps to stimulate collagen production, which is essential for skin repair and regeneration. Zinc can aid in healing skin lesions, minor cuts, and other skin irritations by promoting the growth of new tissue and reducing inflammation.

3. Sun Protection: Zinc oxide is a common ingredient in mineral sunscreens. It provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Zinc oxide forms a physical barrier on the skin's surface, reflecting and scattering the harmful UV rays, thus protecting the skin from sun damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

4. Skin Barrier Function: Zinc helps to maintain the integrity of the skin barrier. It supports the production of ceramides, which are essential for maintaining hydration and preventing moisture loss from the skin. A healthy skin barrier is important for maintaining a smooth, plump, and hydrated complexion.

5. Anti-Aging Benefits: Zinc is an antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals, which can cause premature aging and damage to the skin. It assists in reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. Zinc also aids in collagen production, which improves skin elasticity and firmness, resulting in a more youthful appearance.