The beauty landscape is constantly shifting and evolving, bringing so many new skincare routines and makeup looks it can be a struggle to keep up. From probiotics (check out Aurelia Probiotic’s range) to upcycling and customised beauty, there’s always a new trend around the corner. Now more than ever we want to know what we’re putting on our skin, and that starts with knowing what ingredients are hot right now, and what benefits they can bring to our skincare routine. Here are five beauty ingredients you are bound to come across in your next beauty product, if you haven’t already.

1. Niacinamide

This is the active form of vitamin B3, known for its soothing and healing properties amongst many others. A multi-tasking ingredient, niacinamide helps to tackle a wide range of skin concerns. Worried about free radicals damaging your skin? Niacinamide to the rescue! Suffering from mild acne? This wonder ingredient boasts anti-inflammatory properties and can minimize the appearance of large pores (something I didn’t think any ingredient was capable of). Looking to tackle fine lines? Niacinamide boosts collagen production. Grappling with uneven skin tone? It works to lighten hyperpigmentation and prevent further damage. Sounds too good to be true? Why not put Boots’ Glow range to the test? I trialled all 8 products from the collection with some pretty positive results, with the Tonic and Essence being my top favourites.

2. Cica

If you live in an urban area or have sensitised skin you’ll want to incorporate this into your beauty routine. This perennial plant native to the wetlands in Asia was originally used for its medicinal benefits, however nowadays you’re just as likely to come across it in moisturisers. Hailing from the realms of revered Korean skincare, cica is particularly suited to skin that’s prone to redness and flare ups. With UV rays, pollution and harsh chemicals irritating skin, this soothing plant extract full of antioxidants and vitamins lends its healing and hydrating powers to inflamed skin in need of comfort. Look out for its Latin name Centella Asiatica in the product’s ingredients list. If this is up your street try philosophy’s Nature in a Jar Cica Complex Recovery Moisturizer, a natural and vegan which soothes redness and calms irritations.

3. Electrolytes

Sound familiar? You may have already come across electrolytes in your performance-improving sports drink. Ideal to tackle depleted and dehydrated skin, electrolytes refer to a group of electricity-conducing mineral ingredients – think calcium, potassium, and magnesium – working with the skin’s natural moisture barrier to strengthen and replenish it. The result?  A healthy, glowing and hydrated complexion. Sounds tempting? Give this product a go: Algenist Splash Absolute Hydration Replenishing Emulsion. With minerals such as sodium, potassium, copper, zinc and magnesium, this water-gel formula also contains the super hydrator that is hyaluronic acid.

4. Ashwagandha

OK so technically you probably won’t find this ingredient (also known as Indian ginseng) in your moisturiser, but it nonetheless boasts skincare benefits in the form of supplements. Used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat ailments ranging from insomnia to low energy levels and stress, it can have positive effects on your skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and high concentration of antioxidants. And dealing with your stress levels will have a positive knock on effect. Will its calming properties make it the next CBD oil? Decide for yourself with Pukka’s Wholistic Ashwagandha capsules. Just take 1 or 2 natural capsules a day to relax the nervous system.

5. Bio retinol

Skincare enthusiasts will already be familiar with the anti-ageing, plumping, smoothing and radiance-boosting powers of retinol, a vitamin A derivative. Unfortunately this ingredient also carries some unwelcome side effects such as redness, irritation and a burning sensation. It also sensitises your skin to the sun so applying at night only and wearing a good SPF during the day is crucial. If you’d rather avoid all this unpleasantness then bio retinol is your new best friend. This plant-derived alternative typically comes from one of two sources: Bakuchiol or Bidens Pilosa. Bakuchiol is derived from a plant used in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine for its skin-healing and anti-inflammatory properties, and Bidens Pilosa extract (another medicinal plant) increases collagen production, therefore delivering similar results to retinol without the discomfort. The extra bonus? Bio retinol can be used during the daytime too with no adverse effects. I’ve been using Evolve’s Bio Retinol Gold Mask once a week on cleansed skin for nourished radiant and plumped skin. Plus it helps that the intense gold paste makes me feel like Cleopatra.

What is the latest skincare ingredient you’ve discovered? Please leave a comment below to let me know.

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