![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/FHY24GOLGCBX7ECZRSR2U4SZYU.jpg?smart=true&auth=5db35d9ff7bb3f3e00781fcba66be279922e5eef82a5d741ee3e9720830e5dcc&width=400&height=225)
Zinc oxide absorbs and reflects UV light before it can reach the skin. Seen here, Supergoop! Zincscreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF40, Dh154, www.revolve.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/FWG3UAMIGH24FMUONAUFEKIDCU.jpg?smart=true&auth=63b6a400d63347c7391819f5a9ce0c13507cc67e5c83dfe3be11ee94145fdaa0&width=400&height=225)
Avocado oil moisturises the skin, protects it from UV damage and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/WYZYGOVD26EDUSE6VYKG7JQMYY.jpg?smart=true&auth=60f7e51c276c2f243dfcb3d13e92be6834a10944b286ebacdc87962c57cdceae&width=400&height=225)
Buriti oil counters sun damage, improves the skin’s elasticity and strengthens hair fibres. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/L36SFFD44EUQSGS26GANXUHDMM.jpg?smart=true&auth=06577fc5c26b24ff53ec533756eae5f3ec28d4c04570966ddd24b7a6fd38d0af&width=400&height=225)
Caviar prevents collagen and elastin breakdown, and reduces the appearance of wrinkles. Seen here, La Prairie Extrait of Skin Caviar Firming Complex, Dh794, www.bloomingdales.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/EG5QB346TEN72P7WYIYNZIFDZE.jpg?smart=true&auth=386a33fe11c4be326393a6dda31c6658b12ab7ba52e45fa6564099e862d3ef33&width=400&height=225)
DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol) reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/EKNOIN5R5UXLKBPUKLGMVBV6ZQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=256e503988a7710849eeb3f53e808551f206efcdc27576ebf456bf88a51af1dc&width=400&height=225)
Evening primrose oil is a hero ingredient that sooths irritated skin, is an effective moisturiser, improves skin texture and elasticity, and combats dryness. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/3ZY2T5DYC3YUY2D4V5JTC7DQHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=123674eafbc0db6bc6df620c17bd262d5d7ab566d7fcbcf5eb1e3ced9e54c631&width=400&height=225)
Ferulic acid offers sun protection, and reduces pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. Seen here, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic High Potency Triple Antioxidant Treatment 30ml, Dh625, www.buycosmeticsnow.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/DALKALQSMPY44AXYAWL5ZZW3TY.jpg?smart=true&auth=5a97e77735fb18f25875f3c0697224968713e5b9be8a776eeee47a3f1acb8659&width=400&height=225)
Glycolic acid removes dead skin cells unclogs pores, fades hyperpigmentation and increases collagen production. Seen here, Ole Henriksen Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner, Dh125, www.sephora.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/BQ6LQAQ7WFKHJN6KKIHTI2ASJY.jpg?smart=true&auth=63051acebfb333fe26c83418f1c423ec6f604a917dafe177081f9fbb0e4218ce&width=400&height=225)
Hyaluronic acid isone of the most effective skin hydrating agents. Seen here, 111SKIN Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Booster, Dh449, www.ounass.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/DHR4KDXVFBZOTB37IP2E4ABTPU.jpg?smart=true&auth=c645761bff56a9b0c1b4bda1295cf66cae9556ec0bcacd552c48c53617d4dda4&width=400&height=225)
Iron oxide absorbs high energy visible light in the blue/violet region, which is effective against skin pigmentation. Instagram / Fenty Beauty
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/7PD5RQGJHAXEMUMIZGW45PRKKY.jpg?smart=true&auth=0d14c3ae16711363ec5dfd5a0a8c1efa1d4bbb47eb3aa3834ac5e778322630d2&width=400&height=225)
Jojoba oil treats dry skin, is antibacterial and hypoallergenic. Seen here, Mauli Supreme Skin Cleansing Oil, Dh215, www.thesecretskin.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/ZR3YM6FGKWP4AXCOVSAA2IWBOE.jpg?smart=true&auth=d39cba97a61a5c3e55aad26ca82c34af346af7ba36d6b9763ae200371c049c1f&width=400&height=225)
Kojic acid is a lightening agent that treats pigmentation and age spots. Seen here, NIOD RE: Pigment Serum 15ml, Dh140, www.lookfantastic.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/PSHLR5D7A775AHQ7X6UF5SDCSQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=f87b971ab0a8ff3f706e1e0dce2fbc3332fe341474f281a9703c7cef3ab5c633&width=400&height=225)
L-ascorbic acid is a form of vitamin C that stimulates collagen, and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and scars. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/GWYF6R4IYFXNJUATYLJDFTH72I.jpg?smart=true&auth=b7a18634906756206653c44a1a84b9a723facae01297cb0c152e35fcf2d9629d&width=400&height=225)
Manuka honey has wound-healing abilities, and helps draw moisture to the skin. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/JMJO3USGN4XFHZUQV3GR4RO6OM.jpg?smart=true&auth=f5edaed8cb635cd958c974f1ef01780a64af1a8d3bee27b0378de7e38cbe2631&width=400&height=225)
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that prevents water loss and is a good moisturiser. Seen here, Clarins Double Serum, Dh536, www.ae.clarins.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/GVGCRBFSJ4PX652F2KRQQR3ZIU.jpg?smart=true&auth=214da7527ba677311e836c9407e8a29495c3f6a3ef9bd6ec88b909773d3b2379&width=400&height=225)
Oat amino acids are suited to dry and sensitive skin, help against eczema and psoriasis, and have moisturising properties
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/J7G46YIPRVTPBF7EHSBHM5MLGA.jpg?smart=true&auth=9abb3f6c6540b76f3defe5d4c9af8d5da9a61bc65a03621435af8ef722c2f24b&width=400&height=225)
Prickly pear oil reduces skin inflammation, stimulates new cell growth and restores elasticity. Seen here, Izil 100% Pure Prickly Pear Seed Oil 30ml, Dh276, www.izilbeauty.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/ARTNTF5MVQTMQNPCKB42Q5JAOA.jpg?smart=true&auth=945e56f29331d23d7368adcf892f018b3afbff87e8934efc8209d00cff0e265d&width=400&height=225)
Q10 fights against wrinkles and improves skin smoothness. Seen here, DHC CoQ10 Quick Gel Brightening Moisture, Dh275.00, www.lookfantastic.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/BSENNR2NHSSNNW3S6DM75WFKUM.jpg?smart=true&auth=4ae55bd6f7790176d774dbc606d4d5f44c98cdaf3777f34b30f52045cac216b3&width=400&height=225)
Retinol reduces clogged pores and skin inflammation, and controls acne. Seen here, Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum, Dh172, www.bloomingdales.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/CDR2H45P7QNZ2VM2UAW46V6LNQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=6aa25a4c29642bf23926ffbd6f0dfdab2ff96ca4a68e6b38b5b5a38c4094e0d1&width=400&height=225)
Salicylic acid rids pores of blackheads and calms irritated skin. Seen here Kaya Skin Clinic Comedome Control Serum, Dh300, www.kayaskinproducts.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/Y55TQQAR7FU4O24PN27F3G7Z3M.jpg?smart=true&auth=814beedf921cbec6d08ea02ad561d7c49f6076ca75fad3aa4541f302feb7039f&width=400&height=225)
Titanium oxide protects the skin from UVA and UVB radiation. Seen here, Kiehls, Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen, Dh212, www.bloomingdales.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/K43JHANGVMOBZM6WWWSI6ATJKY.jpg?smart=true&auth=f299f9ecffca645e3a5967938098b7cc6d8330ed9dc2e852cd5e37928a270012&width=400&height=225)
Urea acts as a humectant moisturiser holding water close to the skin for maximum hydration, while also acting as an exfoliant. Seen here, Dr Barbara Sturm Face Cream Rich, Dh844, www.revolve.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/UOZWMVW57JGXF33DWPH6B26IQM.jpg?smart=true&auth=cfa39fb6da2aaf05c1b15c2010c4254da7e05ab6b90472680b771982e11b97b7&width=400&height=225)
Vitamins C, D, E and K are considered by dermatologists to be the main ones to look out for in your creams and serums. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/RXZRQADQBR6IKUJE3OIN5BYKSY.jpg?smart=true&auth=e3f9a1888ff73652d7b1f544911328738aa1c241411ae28dc74b206a6232f307&width=400&height=225)
Witch hazel tightens pores, refines skin texture, and reduces redness. Seen here, Aesop In Two Minds Facial Cleanser, 100ml, Dh115, www.ounass.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/3RZFGKUUWXLXHP7HOQIGGHLM2I.jpg?smart=true&auth=498985d5414924d5af07f38ada5e74ec99374e8e1f3768f4d5a375cca09863d7&width=400&height=225)
Xylene sulfonic acid increases water’s ability to dissolve other molecules, making it beneficial in toners, astringents and shampoos. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/VG77VWNFBLTGY5RR3GHPJMYZO4.jpg?smart=true&auth=a79291274f7b09ed5f4e8322242da68c90a3aefcc310d500e468c061d95da706&width=400&height=225)
Yeast extract soothes problematic skin and helps retain moisture. Seen here, Benton Fermentation Essence 100ml, Dh104, www.namshi.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/FHY24GOLGCBX7ECZRSR2U4SZYU.jpg?smart=true&auth=5db35d9ff7bb3f3e00781fcba66be279922e5eef82a5d741ee3e9720830e5dcc&width=400&height=225)
Zinc oxide absorbs and reflects UV light before it can reach the skin. Seen here, Supergoop! Zincscreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF40, Dh154, www.revolve.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/FWG3UAMIGH24FMUONAUFEKIDCU.jpg?smart=true&auth=63b6a400d63347c7391819f5a9ce0c13507cc67e5c83dfe3be11ee94145fdaa0&width=400&height=225)
Avocado oil moisturises the skin, protects it from UV damage and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/WYZYGOVD26EDUSE6VYKG7JQMYY.jpg?smart=true&auth=60f7e51c276c2f243dfcb3d13e92be6834a10944b286ebacdc87962c57cdceae&width=400&height=225)
Buriti oil counters sun damage, improves the skin’s elasticity and strengthens hair fibres. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/L36SFFD44EUQSGS26GANXUHDMM.jpg?smart=true&auth=06577fc5c26b24ff53ec533756eae5f3ec28d4c04570966ddd24b7a6fd38d0af&width=400&height=225)
Caviar prevents collagen and elastin breakdown, and reduces the appearance of wrinkles. Seen here, La Prairie Extrait of Skin Caviar Firming Complex, Dh794, www.bloomingdales.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/EG5QB346TEN72P7WYIYNZIFDZE.jpg?smart=true&auth=386a33fe11c4be326393a6dda31c6658b12ab7ba52e45fa6564099e862d3ef33&width=400&height=225)
DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol) reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/EKNOIN5R5UXLKBPUKLGMVBV6ZQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=256e503988a7710849eeb3f53e808551f206efcdc27576ebf456bf88a51af1dc&width=400&height=225)
Evening primrose oil is a hero ingredient that sooths irritated skin, is an effective moisturiser, improves skin texture and elasticity, and combats dryness. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/3ZY2T5DYC3YUY2D4V5JTC7DQHU.jpg?smart=true&auth=123674eafbc0db6bc6df620c17bd262d5d7ab566d7fcbcf5eb1e3ced9e54c631&width=400&height=225)
Ferulic acid offers sun protection, and reduces pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. Seen here, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic High Potency Triple Antioxidant Treatment 30ml, Dh625, www.buycosmeticsnow.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/DALKALQSMPY44AXYAWL5ZZW3TY.jpg?smart=true&auth=5a97e77735fb18f25875f3c0697224968713e5b9be8a776eeee47a3f1acb8659&width=400&height=225)
Glycolic acid removes dead skin cells unclogs pores, fades hyperpigmentation and increases collagen production. Seen here, Ole Henriksen Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner, Dh125, www.sephora.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/BQ6LQAQ7WFKHJN6KKIHTI2ASJY.jpg?smart=true&auth=63051acebfb333fe26c83418f1c423ec6f604a917dafe177081f9fbb0e4218ce&width=400&height=225)
Hyaluronic acid isone of the most effective skin hydrating agents. Seen here, 111SKIN Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Booster, Dh449, www.ounass.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/DHR4KDXVFBZOTB37IP2E4ABTPU.jpg?smart=true&auth=c645761bff56a9b0c1b4bda1295cf66cae9556ec0bcacd552c48c53617d4dda4&width=400&height=225)
Iron oxide absorbs high energy visible light in the blue/violet region, which is effective against skin pigmentation. Instagram / Fenty Beauty
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/7PD5RQGJHAXEMUMIZGW45PRKKY.jpg?smart=true&auth=0d14c3ae16711363ec5dfd5a0a8c1efa1d4bbb47eb3aa3834ac5e778322630d2&width=400&height=225)
Jojoba oil treats dry skin, is antibacterial and hypoallergenic. Seen here, Mauli Supreme Skin Cleansing Oil, Dh215, www.thesecretskin.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/ZR3YM6FGKWP4AXCOVSAA2IWBOE.jpg?smart=true&auth=d39cba97a61a5c3e55aad26ca82c34af346af7ba36d6b9763ae200371c049c1f&width=400&height=225)
Kojic acid is a lightening agent that treats pigmentation and age spots. Seen here, NIOD RE: Pigment Serum 15ml, Dh140, www.lookfantastic.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/PSHLR5D7A775AHQ7X6UF5SDCSQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=f87b971ab0a8ff3f706e1e0dce2fbc3332fe341474f281a9703c7cef3ab5c633&width=400&height=225)
L-ascorbic acid is a form of vitamin C that stimulates collagen, and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and scars. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/GWYF6R4IYFXNJUATYLJDFTH72I.jpg?smart=true&auth=b7a18634906756206653c44a1a84b9a723facae01297cb0c152e35fcf2d9629d&width=400&height=225)
Manuka honey has wound-healing abilities, and helps draw moisture to the skin. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/JMJO3USGN4XFHZUQV3GR4RO6OM.jpg?smart=true&auth=f5edaed8cb635cd958c974f1ef01780a64af1a8d3bee27b0378de7e38cbe2631&width=400&height=225)
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that prevents water loss and is a good moisturiser. Seen here, Clarins Double Serum, Dh536, www.ae.clarins.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/GVGCRBFSJ4PX652F2KRQQR3ZIU.jpg?smart=true&auth=214da7527ba677311e836c9407e8a29495c3f6a3ef9bd6ec88b909773d3b2379&width=400&height=225)
Oat amino acids are suited to dry and sensitive skin, help against eczema and psoriasis, and have moisturising properties
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/J7G46YIPRVTPBF7EHSBHM5MLGA.jpg?smart=true&auth=9abb3f6c6540b76f3defe5d4c9af8d5da9a61bc65a03621435af8ef722c2f24b&width=400&height=225)
Prickly pear oil reduces skin inflammation, stimulates new cell growth and restores elasticity. Seen here, Izil 100% Pure Prickly Pear Seed Oil 30ml, Dh276, www.izilbeauty.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/ARTNTF5MVQTMQNPCKB42Q5JAOA.jpg?smart=true&auth=945e56f29331d23d7368adcf892f018b3afbff87e8934efc8209d00cff0e265d&width=400&height=225)
Q10 fights against wrinkles and improves skin smoothness. Seen here, DHC CoQ10 Quick Gel Brightening Moisture, Dh275.00, www.lookfantastic.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/BSENNR2NHSSNNW3S6DM75WFKUM.jpg?smart=true&auth=4ae55bd6f7790176d774dbc606d4d5f44c98cdaf3777f34b30f52045cac216b3&width=400&height=225)
Retinol reduces clogged pores and skin inflammation, and controls acne. Seen here, Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum, Dh172, www.bloomingdales.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/CDR2H45P7QNZ2VM2UAW46V6LNQ.jpg?smart=true&auth=6aa25a4c29642bf23926ffbd6f0dfdab2ff96ca4a68e6b38b5b5a38c4094e0d1&width=400&height=225)
Salicylic acid rids pores of blackheads and calms irritated skin. Seen here Kaya Skin Clinic Comedome Control Serum, Dh300, www.kayaskinproducts.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/Y55TQQAR7FU4O24PN27F3G7Z3M.jpg?smart=true&auth=814beedf921cbec6d08ea02ad561d7c49f6076ca75fad3aa4541f302feb7039f&width=400&height=225)
Titanium oxide protects the skin from UVA and UVB radiation. Seen here, Kiehls, Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen, Dh212, www.bloomingdales.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/K43JHANGVMOBZM6WWWSI6ATJKY.jpg?smart=true&auth=f299f9ecffca645e3a5967938098b7cc6d8330ed9dc2e852cd5e37928a270012&width=400&height=225)
Urea acts as a humectant moisturiser holding water close to the skin for maximum hydration, while also acting as an exfoliant. Seen here, Dr Barbara Sturm Face Cream Rich, Dh844, www.revolve.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/UOZWMVW57JGXF33DWPH6B26IQM.jpg?smart=true&auth=cfa39fb6da2aaf05c1b15c2010c4254da7e05ab6b90472680b771982e11b97b7&width=400&height=225)
Vitamins C, D, E and K are considered by dermatologists to be the main ones to look out for in your creams and serums. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/RXZRQADQBR6IKUJE3OIN5BYKSY.jpg?smart=true&auth=e3f9a1888ff73652d7b1f544911328738aa1c241411ae28dc74b206a6232f307&width=400&height=225)
Witch hazel tightens pores, refines skin texture, and reduces redness. Seen here, Aesop In Two Minds Facial Cleanser, 100ml, Dh115, www.ounass.ae
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/3RZFGKUUWXLXHP7HOQIGGHLM2I.jpg?smart=true&auth=498985d5414924d5af07f38ada5e74ec99374e8e1f3768f4d5a375cca09863d7&width=400&height=225)
Xylene sulfonic acid increases water’s ability to dissolve other molecules, making it beneficial in toners, astringents and shampoos. Unsplash
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/VG77VWNFBLTGY5RR3GHPJMYZO4.jpg?smart=true&auth=a79291274f7b09ed5f4e8322242da68c90a3aefcc310d500e468c061d95da706&width=400&height=225)
Yeast extract soothes problematic skin and helps retain moisture. Seen here, Benton Fermentation Essence 100ml, Dh104, www.namshi.com
![](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/FHY24GOLGCBX7ECZRSR2U4SZYU.jpg?smart=true&auth=5db35d9ff7bb3f3e00781fcba66be279922e5eef82a5d741ee3e9720830e5dcc&width=400&height=225)
Zinc oxide absorbs and reflects UV light before it can reach the skin. Seen here, Supergoop! Zincscreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF40, Dh154, www.revolve.com
Avocado oil to zinc oxide, via hyaluronic acid: the ingredients to look out for in skincare and make-up
An A to Z guide of the beauty ingredients that make your products work a little harder
Gemma White
03 January, 2021
- Listen In English
- Listen In Arabic