We know what makes a great skincare routine, however when you go to choose a new product, do you wonder about ingredients you’ve heard about recently and whether you should be choosing something that includes it?

Retinol is a popular skincare ingredient and I thought it might be helpful to explain why you might consider others.  To begin, let’s focus on squalane.

Squalane is a great emollient, leaving skin soft and smooth without a greasy residue.  It is known to be the reason why people love Kiehl’s Crème de Corps.  In fact, you’ll find this ingredient in many Kiehl’s products.

A saturated oil derived from plant and vegetable sources, squalane is easily absorbed into the skin due to its small molecular structure.  It works on all skin types from acne-prone to mature and is great for sensitive skin.  It helps other ingredients be absorbed more easily and plays nicely with skincare powerhouses such at Vitamins A and C.

Squalane is also perfect as a facial oil and this option from India Lee can be added on top of your moisturiser when your skin is feeling dry.  You can also use it on a patch of eczema, dry skin under eyes and chapped lips.

Next time, I’ll give you more info about niacinimide.

What other ingredients are you curious about?