With new ingredient trends and application hacks surfacing by the week, the ever-evolving world of skin care can be intimidating and, at times, somewhat confusing. So it’s no surprise that many of us take to Google for some extra clarification before diving in on the latest and greatest. From ingredients to trends that all but broke the internet this year, these are Google’s top trending skin-care questions—and answers—of 2022.
What skincare products should not be refrigerated?
Experts say keeping your skin-care products and tools in the fridge will help with calming inflammation and reducing puffiness. Keeping certain formulas such as vitamin C serums and hydroquinone in the fridge may also help extend their shelf life, as well. (Read more on the benefit of refrigerating products here.)
How to add niacinamide to skincare routine?
Not only does niacinamide have a long list of skin-care benefits, the ingredient can (thankfully) be found in products ranging from serums and cleansers to moisturizers and masks.
What is BHT in skincare?
According to EWG, BHT is an ingredient that’s used as a preservative in food and personal care products. Some brands include the ingredient on their “never lists” of ingredients they promise to formulate without as the long-term effects of BHT are still being studied.
What is niacinamide in skincare?
A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide is beloved by users and skin experts for its long list of skin-care benefits. From reducing the look of wrinkles and redness to increasing skin cell turnover for a brighter, younger appearance and boosting the skin barrier, it’s no wonder why niacinamide is a trending ingredient right now.
How long does skincare last?
A product’s shelf life varies on the product itself and the ingredients it is formulated with. For example, all-natural skin-care products have a much shorter lifespan than those crafted with preservatives. In general, skin-care manufacturers will print expiration dates or “best by” dates on their products. Don’t forget to check your sunscreen bottles as well, and be sure to check the bottom of the bottle for an expiration date. (In general, sunscreens tend to keep for about two years.)
What is slugging?
Slugging is the act of sealing off your nighttime skin-care routine with a heavy, occlusive ointment. (This leaves you looking soft and shiny like a slug.) Because occlusive formulas, such as Vaseline or a similar viscous balm, prevent moisture from evaporating off the skin (thus “sealing it in”) experts don’t recommend slugging for those with combination, oily or acne-prone skin.
What is niacinamide good for?
The better-known benefits of niacinamide on the skin include the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, refined pores, lessened redness and an uptick in cell turnover. However, niacinamide offers up some major anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for those with acne, too. It has the ability to lower sebum production which may also help in the quest for clearer skin.
What is BHA?
Chemical exfoliators are broken down into two main groups: AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids) and BHA (beta-hydroxy acids). BHAs are oil-soluble chemical exfoliants (making them great for normal or oily skin types) that work by penetrating the pores to clear them out. The most common BHA is blemish-fighting salicylic acid.
What does retinol do for your skin?
Often regarded as the gold-standard of anti-aging, retinol is the over-the-counter version of prescription retinoids. While obviously less potent than their prescription counterpart, retinols do work similarly. Retinol is the smallest molecule of the vitamin A family and offers up some serious skin benefits: it exfoliates the skin, helps to prevent and treat acne, and stimulates collagen production to thicken deep layers of the skin and in turn smooth out the look of lines and wrinkles on the surface.
Is hyaluronic acid safe for pregnancy?
Many experts say using hyaluronic acid during your pregnancy should be safe, but it’s always best to consult with your OB-GYN before using any topical skin-care product during pregnancy. Here’s a list of ingredients experts suggest steering clear of while you are expecting.
