The Ultimate Guide to Skincare Ingredients: What They Do & Why Your Skin Loves Them

Introduction

Shopping for skincare can feel like reading a science textbook—vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptides… it’s a lot. But once you understand what these ingredients actually do, you can build a skincare routine that works for your skin—not against it.

Here’s your go-to cheat sheet of essential skincare ingredients and vitamins, explained simply. Whether you’re targeting dryness, dullness, ageing, or breakouts—this guide will help you glow smarter.

Essential Skincare Vitamins & What They Do

✨ Vitamin C – Brightens & Protects

What it does:A powerful antioxidant that brightens skin, fades pigmentation, and protects against environmental damage (like pollution or UV exposure).

Best for:Dullness, uneven tone, pigmentation, and anyone wanting a glow boost.

Pro tip: Use in the morning under SPF.

🧴 Vitamin A (Retinol) – Smooths & Renews

What it does:Speeds up cell turnover, reduces fine lines, improves skin texture, and helps with acne.

Best for:Ageing skin, acne-prone skin, textured or sun-damaged skin.

Pro tip: Use at night only, and always pair with SPF the next day.

💧 Vitamin E – Soothes & Hydrates

What it does:A nourishing antioxidant that strengthens the skin barrier and locks in moisture.

Best for:Dry, sensitive, or reactive skin.

Pro tip: Often paired with vitamin C for enhanced antioxidant protection.

🌿 Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) – Balances & Brightens

What it does:Reduces redness, minimises pores, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps control oil.

Best for:All skin types—especially oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin.

Pro tip: Works well with almost every other ingredient, including vitamin C.

Powerful Active Ingredients You Should Know

💦 Hyaluronic Acid – Hydrates Deeply

What it does:Attracts water to the skin, plumps fine lines, and boosts moisture levels.

Best for:All skin types, especially dry or dehydrated skin.

Pro tip: Apply to slightly damp skin and lock it in with a moisturiser.

🍊 AHAs (Glycolic, Lactic Acid) – Exfoliates & Brightens

What it does:Removes dead skin cells, brightens skin, and smooths texture.

Best for:Dull skin, fine lines, uneven texture.

Pro tip: Use at night, 1–3 times a week depending on your skin’s tolerance.

🧼 BHAs (Salicylic Acid) – Clears Pores & Fights Breakouts

What it does:Penetrates into pores to unclog and reduce acne, blackheads, and oil.

Best for:Oily, acne-prone, or congested skin.

Pro tip: Spot treat or use in a serum for oily areas.

🛡️ Peptides – Firms & Strengthens

What they do:Support collagen production, improve skin firmness, and reduce fine lines.

Best for:Ageing, tired, or stressed skin.

Pro tip: Look for in moisturisers or serums paired with hydrating ingredients.

☁️ Ceramides – Protect & Restore Barrier

What they do:Help rebuild the skin barrier, retain moisture, and protect against irritation.

Best for:Sensitive, dry, or damaged skin.

Pro tip: Great in night creams or paired with retinol.

Final Thoughts on skincare ingredients

You don’t need every ingredient in your routine—but knowing what each one does empowers you to build a skincare plan that supports your skin’s needs. Think of this as your ingredient toolkit: mix and match depending on your skin goals, and remember—consistency is key.

Love & Artistry, Philippa