An active ingredient is defined as an essential element that makes a topical Skin or Hair Care formula truly effective or ‘functional’. Some of the popular actives that you are probably already be aware of include retinol, Vitamin C, Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids (AHAs and BHAs), Hyaluronic Acid, etc. In SPF products, the only two EWG-Approved active ingredients are Zinc Oxide and Titanium Di Oxide.

But are all active ingredients designed for your skin dosha type? Let’s find out…

The Science of Active Ingredients in Skin Care

A skincare formula is made of several ingredients such as emollients, humectants, preservatives, thickeners, stabilizers, etc. However, besides these base requirements, it is the active ingredients that can truly transform your skin. Different active ingredients can be applied to the skin in ‘clinically proven’ ratios to address different skin concerns. The active ingredients are designed to deliver the benefits listed on the labels.

Each skin type requires a different set of skin actives. For instance, if you have Vata skin that is more prone to signs of aging and dryness, you need to opt for formulas rich in anti-aging and hydrating elements. On the other hand, if your skin is Kapha or Oily type, it’s important to choose cooling, soothing, as well as hormone & pH-balancing skin actives. For Pitta skin, the regimen should incorporate hydrating, healing, antioxidant-rich, calming, and anti-inflammatory actives.

Most Effective Skin Actives in Puraveda’ Formulas

While there are many skin actives that play a crucial role in designing an effective formula, we have listed some of the most incredible ones that work beautifully for all skin types:

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Argireline & Matrixyl Peptides

Two of the primary actives behind the success of our BioScience Peptide Complex are our naturally-derived – Argireline and Matrixyl. These peptides are a short chain of amino acids that optimize the function of collagen. These can be more effective and are safer than the anti-aging results obtained from traditional retinol and Botox injections.

Argireline (or Acetyl Hexapeptide 8) is a wrinkle relaxing ingredient and is one of the best natural contenders for Botox injections. Matriyxl (or Palmitoyl Pentapeptide 3), on the other hand, is a pro-collagen peptide that boosts collagen by up to 117% and natural Hyaluronic Acid synthesis by 267%.

When used in combination, these two peptides show noticeable skin improvements such as reduction in wrinkles and fine lines, and recovery of uneven skin tone in less than 4 weeks.

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Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is an intensive hydrating skin active that can absorb up to 1000X times its weight in water. When HA is applied in the form of an anti-aging serum, it regulates moisture balance, protects against free radical damage, boosts circulation, and improves the overall health of the skin.

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Vitamin C

If you have seen names like L-ascorbic acid, Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate/ Sodium ascorbyl phosphate, Ascorbyl palmitate, or other derivatives such as Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate on the product labels, then be rest assured these are all synthetic forms of Vitamin C. But before you buy, it is important to ensure that the ingredient is actually obtained from natural sources (such as lemons and oranges) for the most effective results.

Regular Ascorbic acid works for most skin types. The key functions of Vitamin C are: skin brightening, hydration, wrinkle reduction, boosting collagen production, even skin tone, and reducing inflammation.

Vitamin C should be used with great care, especially for sensitive skin. It can irritate the skin at higher concentrations.

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Fruit Enzymes

Fruit enzymes, like ‘Papain’ obtained from Papaya, are the best agents for deep-pore exfoliation. Such fruit enzymes contain natural, plant-derived Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) that refine skin and restore a healthy complexion.

Our Papaya & Honey Exfoliation Mask & Scrub (or the SBR Organic Facial Mask for Sensitive Skin) can be used 2-3X times a week for not only effective exfoliation of damaged keratin and boosting youthful glow, but also for better uptake of other intensive skin treatments.