With the global beauty industry worth a whopping $532 billion and constantly generating new products, it can be difficult to know where to start with finding the right items for you. With firm, youthful-looking skin the goal, wading through the long, scientific names on the back of a tube of eye cream, or knowing the benefits of vitamin E over vitamin K when it comes to selecting your night mask can be overwhelming.
Here, we’ve put together an A to Z guide of essential ingredients you should be looking out for when choosing your skincare, sunscreen and cosmetics. From oils that will nourish and hydrate, to acids that will anchor moisture to the skin, and extracts that will tone complexions and reduce redness, these 26 ingredients are guaranteed to add to your glow.
Scroll through our gallery above to learn about the best ingredients for all skin types.
A for Avocado oil
Found in both haircare and skincare products, avocado oil is packed full of beta carotene, protein, lecithin, fatty acids, and vitamins A, D, and E, all of which moisturise skin and help protect it from UV damage. It also helps increase collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
B for Buriti oil
Mostly found in sun protection products, this oil from the fruit of the buriti plant has a high beta-carotene content, making it perfect for pre and post-sun exposure use. It’s high in fatty acids such as oleic acid, which helps improve the skin’s elasticity. Buriti oil can also strengthen hair fibres.
C for Caviar
An effective anti-ageing ingredient, caviar extract has antioxidant properties that protect skin against UVA and UVB sun rays by preventing the breakdown of collagen and elastin. It works to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and is a popular ingredient in facials and face creams.
D for DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol)
A substance that is naturally produced in the brain, DMAE is also found in oily fish such as anchovies, salmon and sardines. When used in skincare, it’s been shown to be effective in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.
E for Evening primrose
Also taken in tablet form, evening primrose oil has been used medicinally for hundreds of years. Ideal for soothing stressed and irritated skin, and effective as a moisturiser, it also improves skin texture elasticity and combats dryness.
F for Ferulic acid
Usually extracted from wheat and maize bran, this antioxidant soaks up reactive free radicals that can lead to premature ageing. To increase its effectiveness, seek products that combine ferulic acid with vitamins C and E for sun protection, reducing pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles.
G for Glycolic acid
One of the most popular face acids on the market, this is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that works to loosen the upper layers of dead skin cells to reveal smoother, clearer skin. It’s also used to unclog pores, fade hyperpigmentation and increase collagen production.
H for Hyaluronic acid
One of the biggest skin breakthroughs in recent years, hyaluronic acid holds on to water and provides essential hydration for hours on end. Found naturally in the skin, levels decrease with age, making it the ideal ingredient for anti-ageing moisturisers and serums. It’s best applied to moist skin for maximum hydration.
I for Iron oxide
Iron oxide is the skin-coloured pigment found in foundation, and it comes in shades of red, yellow and brown, which when combined with white, mix to all shades of skin tones. It can absorb high-energy visible light in the blue / violet region, which is effective against pigmentation.
J for Jojoba oil
This is effective for treating dry skin, and can be applied by itself or mixed in with a cream or face mask. Lightweight and non-greasy, it’s antibacterial and hypoallergenic, and can control sebum production, also making it perfect for combination skin.
K for Kojic acid
It's ideal for treating pigmentation and age spots as it is effective as a lightening agent, and slows down the production of melanin.
L for L-ascorbic acid
This form of vitamin C works as an antioxidant that stimulates the synthesis of collagen, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and even scars. Research has also found it can visibly improve the appearance of photodamaged skin.
M for Manuka honey
With its antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory, honey has been used on skin for centuries, and is known for its wound-healing abilities. Its antioxidant protection makes it an ideal anti-ageing ingredient, and its sugar component helps moisturise the skin.
N for Niacinamide
Supporting the natural maintenance of the skin-barrier function, this form of vitamin B3 aids in preventing water loss and environmental irritants from penetrating the dermis. Niacinamide also increases the levels of ceramides in the skin, making it an ideal moisturiser for uneven skin tones.
O for Oat amino acids
Used in skincare for centuries, oats are packed full of powerful anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory avenanthramides, making this ingredient well suited for dry and sensitive skin, including to treat conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It also contains starch, proteins, lipids, and beta glucans, which have moisturising properties.
P for Prickly pear oil
This cactus-derived ingredient has hydrating, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. It can reduce skin inflammation and improve the appearance of conditions such as acne. A super-lightweight ingredient, it has been shown to stimulate new cell growth and restore elasticity that is down to it being rich in vitamins E and K, essential fatty acids and antioxidants, as well as a high concentration of linoleic acid, an omega-6 essential fatty acid ideal for nourishing and repairing skin.
Q for Q10
Q10 (also known as coenzyme or ubiquinone) is a chemical vital for cell function that’s naturally made by the body during the energy production process. In skincare, it acts as an antioxidant, and has been found to be effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and increasing skin smoothness.
R for Retinol
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that works by affecting how skin cells grow and how quickly dead skin cells are shed. Retinol can work to reduce clogged pores, control the bacteria that causes acne and reduce skin inflammation. Derivatives of vitamin A (retinoids) are among the ingredients with the most scientific evidence to back up their effects.
S for Salicylic acid
Derived from the bark of the willow tree, salicylic acid is more oil-soluble than other chemical exfoliants, meaning it loosens the top layer of the skin and can better penetrate pores and rid them of blackheads and grime. It is also anti-inflammatory and can calm irritated skin without redness.
T for Titanium oxide
This naturally occurring earth mineral is used in sunscreens, as it protects the skin from UVA and UVB radiation. Always seek out this ingredient in your sun-protection if you have particularly sensitive skin.
U for Urea
Found naturally in the skin’s moisturising barrier, urea decreases with age. It acts as a humectant moisturiser holding water close to the skin for maximum hydration, while also acting as an exfoliant. It’s also found in foot and hand creams, as higher-concentration formulas are suitable for softening callouses.
V for Vitamins
Four vitamins, C, D, E and K are considered by dermatologists to be the main ones to look out for in your creams and serums. Vitamin C promotes collagen production, which is essential for maintaining firm skin. Vitamin D, “the sunshine vitamin”, helps the skin repair itself. Vitamin E is most often found in overnight creams due to its ability to reduce inflammation. Vitamin K supports the skin’s natural barrier function, reducing the appearance of stretch marks and dark circles.
W for Witch hazel
A standard ingredient in many toners for its ability to tighten pores and refine skin texture, witch hazel also contains antioxidants and works to reduce skin redness. Thanks to its anti-irritation properties, you’ll also find it in scalp-soothing shampoos, although with all products containing witch hazel, look for ones without alcohol, as these can dry out the skin and hair.
X for Xylene sulfonic acid
This rather scientific-sounding ingredient increases water’s ability to dissolve other molecules, making it beneficial in toners, astringents and shampoos, helping to take away dirt from the skin and hair.
Y for Yeast extract
Thanks to its high nutrient content, including proteins, vitamins and minerals, yeast extract helps to reduce the amount of oxidative stress on the skin, soothing problematic skin. The ingredient has also shown abilities in serving as a possible biosurfactant for moisturising formulas. Maintaining the skin’s quality and texture, it also helps retain moisture.
Z for Zinc oxide
A natural mineral used in sunscreens, zine oxide is one of the most effective ingredients for sun protection. Hypoallergenic, it’s ideal for those with sensitive skin and works by absorbing and reflecting UV light before it can reach the skin.
Notable Yas events in 2017/18
October 13-14 KartZone (complimentary trials)
December 14-16 The Gulf 12 Hours Endurance race
March 5 Yas Marina Circuit Karting Enduro event
March 8-9 UAE Rotax Max Challenge
Abu Dhabi GP schedule
Friday: First practice - 1pm; Second practice - 5pm
Saturday: Final practice - 2pm; Qualifying - 5pm
Sunday: Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (55 laps) - 5.10pm
Top 10 in the F1 drivers' standings
1. Sebastian Vettel, Ferrari 202 points
2. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes-GP 188
3. Valtteri Bottas, Mercedes-GP 169
4. Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull Racing 117
5. Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari 116
6. Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing 67
7. Sergio Perez, Force India 56
8. Esteban Ocon, Force India 45
9. Carlos Sainz Jr, Toro Rosso 35
10. Nico Hulkenberg, Renault 26
Persuasion
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Our Time Has Come
Alyssa Ayres, Oxford University Press
Types of bank fraud
1) Phishing
Fraudsters send an unsolicited email that appears to be from a financial institution or online retailer. The hoax email requests that you provide sensitive information, often by clicking on to a link leading to a fake website.
2) Smishing
The SMS equivalent of phishing. Fraudsters falsify the telephone number through “text spoofing,” so that it appears to be a genuine text from the bank.
3) Vishing
The telephone equivalent of phishing and smishing. Fraudsters may pose as bank staff, police or government officials. They may persuade the consumer to transfer money or divulge personal information.
4) SIM swap
Fraudsters duplicate the SIM of your mobile number without your knowledge or authorisation, allowing them to conduct financial transactions with your bank.
5) Identity theft
Someone illegally obtains your confidential information, through various ways, such as theft of your wallet, bank and utility bill statements, computer intrusion and social networks.
6) Prize scams
Fraudsters claiming to be authorised representatives from well-known organisations (such as Etisalat, du, Dubai Shopping Festival, Expo2020, Lulu Hypermarket etc) contact victims to tell them they have won a cash prize and request them to share confidential banking details to transfer the prize money.
Tributes from the UAE's personal finance community
• Sebastien Aguilar, who heads SimplyFI.org, a non-profit community where people learn to invest Bogleheads’ style
“It is thanks to Jack Bogle’s work that this community exists and thanks to his work that many investors now get the full benefits of long term, buy and hold stock market investing.
Compared to the industry, investing using the common sense approach of a Boglehead saves a lot in costs and guarantees higher returns than the average actively managed fund over the long term.
From a personal perspective, learning how to invest using Bogle’s approach was a turning point in my life. I quickly realised there was no point chasing returns and paying expensive advisers or platforms. Once money is taken care off, you can work on what truly matters, such as family, relationships or other projects. I owe Jack Bogle for that.”
• Sam Instone, director of financial advisory firm AES International
"Thought to have saved investors over a trillion dollars, Jack Bogle’s ideas truly changed the way the world invests. Shaped by his own personal experiences, his philosophy and basic rules for investors challenged the status quo of a self-interested global industry and eventually prevailed. Loathed by many big companies and commission-driven salespeople, he has transformed the way well-informed investors and professional advisers make decisions."
• Demos Kyprianou, a board member of SimplyFI.org
"Jack Bogle for me was a rebel, a revolutionary who changed the industry and gave the little guy like me, a chance. He was also a mentor who inspired me to take the leap and take control of my own finances."
• Steve Cronin, founder of DeadSimpleSaving.com
"Obsessed with reducing fees, Jack Bogle structured Vanguard to be owned by its clients – that way the priority would be fee minimisation for clients rather than profit maximisation for the company.
His real gift to us has been the ability to invest in the stock market (buy and hold for the long term) rather than be forced to speculate (try to make profits in the shorter term) or even worse have others speculate on our behalf.
Bogle has given countless investors the ability to get on with their life while growing their wealth in the background as fast as possible. The Financial Independence movement would barely exist without this."
• Zach Holz, who blogs about financial independence at The Happiest Teacher
"Jack Bogle was one of the greatest forces for wealth democratisation the world has ever seen. He allowed people a way to be free from the parasitical "financial advisers" whose only real concern are the fat fees they get from selling you over-complicated "products" that have caused millions of people all around the world real harm.”
• Tuan Phan, a board member of SimplyFI.org
"In an industry that’s synonymous with greed, Jack Bogle was a lone wolf, swimming against the tide. When others were incentivised to enrich themselves, he stood by the ‘fiduciary’ standard – something that is badly needed in the financial industry of the UAE."
Ten tax points to be aware of in 2026
1. Domestic VAT refund amendments: request your refund within five years
If a business does not apply for the refund on time, they lose their credit.
2. E-invoicing in the UAE
Businesses should continue preparing for the implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE, with 2026 a preparation and transition period ahead of phased mandatory adoption.
3. More tax audits
Tax authorities are increasingly using data already available across multiple filings to identify audit risks.
4. More beneficial VAT and excise tax penalty regime
Tax disputes are expected to become more frequent and more structured, with clearer administrative objection and appeal processes. The UAE has adopted a new penalty regime for VAT and excise disputes, which now mirrors the penalty regime for corporate tax.
5. Greater emphasis on statutory audit
There is a greater need for the accuracy of financial statements. The International Financial Reporting Standards standards need to be strictly adhered to and, as a result, the quality of the audits will need to increase.
6. Further transfer pricing enforcement
Transfer pricing enforcement, which refers to the practice of establishing prices for internal transactions between related entities, is expected to broaden in scope. The UAE will shortly open the possibility to negotiate advance pricing agreements, or essentially rulings for transfer pricing purposes.
7. Limited time periods for audits
Recent amendments also introduce a default five-year limitation period for tax audits and assessments, subject to specific statutory exceptions. While the standard audit and assessment period is five years, this may be extended to up to 15 years in cases involving fraud or tax evasion.
8. Pillar 2 implementation
Many multinational groups will begin to feel the practical effect of the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), the UAE's implementation of the OECD’s global minimum tax under Pillar 2. While the rules apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, it is 2026 that marks the transition to an operational phase.
9. Reduced compliance obligations for imported goods and services
Businesses that apply the reverse-charge mechanism for VAT purposes in the UAE may benefit from reduced compliance obligations.
10. Substance and CbC reporting focus
Tax authorities are expected to continue strengthening the enforcement of economic substance and Country-by-Country (CbC) reporting frameworks. In the UAE, these regimes are increasingly being used as risk-assessment tools, providing tax authorities with a comprehensive view of multinational groups’ global footprints and enabling them to assess whether profits are aligned with real economic activity.
Contributed by Thomas Vanhee and Hend Rashwan, Aurifer
From Zero
Artist: Linkin Park
Label: Warner Records
Number of tracks: 11
Rating: 4/5
Three tips from La Perle's performers
1 The kind of water athletes drink is important. Gwilym Hooson, a 28-year-old British performer who is currently recovering from knee surgery, found that out when the company was still in Studio City, training for 12 hours a day. “The physio team was like: ‘Why is everyone getting cramps?’ And then they realised we had to add salt and sugar to the water,” he says.
2 A little chocolate is a good thing. “It’s emergency energy,” says Craig Paul Smith, La Perle’s head coach and former Cirque du Soleil performer, gesturing to an almost-empty open box of mini chocolate bars on his desk backstage.
3 Take chances, says Young, who has worked all over the world, including most recently at Dragone’s show in China. “Every time we go out of our comfort zone, we learn a lot about ourselves,” she says.
Desert Warrior
Starring: Anthony Mackie, Aiysha Hart, Ben Kingsley
Director: Rupert Wyatt
Rating: 3/5
