With recent findings revealing that most of us aren't sticking to proper skin care habits, it's no wonder so many struggle with their complexion.
Research from leading skin care company Hada Labo Tokyo found that just 63 per cent of women regularly cleanse their faces, while a staggering 77 per cent skip moisturiser altogether.
Beyond obvious issues like blocked pores and dry skin, it turns out this neglectful approach takes a real toll on confidence too, with 87 per cent admitting their skin's appearance affects their mental wellbeing.
But here's the good news: experts say knowing which ingredients to look for can transform your appearance.
According to specialists from Hada Labo Tokyo, four powerhouse ingredients stand out as game changers for healthier, more radiant skin.
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Hyaluronic acid
GP and women's health specialist Dr Janine David says hyaluronic acid is "vital to help slow down the signs of ageing and quench the skin's thirst".
She explained: "Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule found throughout the body. It's most abundant in the skin and is important for hydration and wound healing.
"As a humectant, hyaluronic acid binds to and holds water molecules, helping keep skin hydrated and bouncy."
Taking this one step further is super hyaluronic acid, which penetrates deeper into skin layers and shows efficient anti-wrinkle activity in just 28 days.
Hyaluronic acid is 'vital to help slow down the signs of ageing and quench the skin's thirst'
|GETTY
Collagen
Next on the list is collagen, a protein that provides skin with its structure and bounce.
GP and skin specialist Dr Nisa Aslam noted that our skin's ability to produce collagen falls by between one per cent and 1.5 per cent a year.
Not only this, but collagen can also be depleted by pollution, smoking, UV radiation, and other environmental factors.
To mitigate the loss of this essential protein, women are advised to boost their collagen topically. This staves off signs of ageing like wrinkles and fine lines.
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'A consistent, daily routine using the right ingredients can make a world of difference to skin'
| GETTYRetinol
Another ingredient that should find its way into your skin care routine is retinol, which speeds up skin turnover and promotes the production of collagen.
Dr Aslam noted that "this has been shown to help improve the signs of ageing", with Which? even confirming that using retinol for 12 weeks can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation.
Panthenol
Dr David described panthenol as "a B vitamin with humectant properties", meaning it reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), traps water in the skin, and helps restore the skin barrier.
"There is also evidence that it improves elasticity and the absorption of other actives in skin care products," she added, suggesting huge benefits beyond its initial application.
These four expert-approved ingredients – hyaluronic acid, collagen, retinol and panthenol – boast powerful benefits, so it's worth finding easy ways to incorporate them into your routine.
Dr Aslam concluded: "With so many women concerned about their ageing skin, it would make sense that skin care routines were more of a priority.
"A consistent, daily routine using the right ingredients can make a world of difference to skin, no matter your age or skin type."
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