Before we start, I’d just like to point out not to forget to look for labels with ingredients listed in English (or Welsh, if locally made) and the legal INCI Latin terms if you want to be 100% sure of what’s in your products.
We finish our A to Z of skincare ingredients this month, looking at the letters U-Z.
U-X
U for Urea:
Urea is a component of the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF) and has excellent hydrating properties. It helps to moisturise the skin by retaining water. It gently exfoliates dry and dead skin cells, effectively treating dry, rough, and scaly skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and keratosis.
V for Volcanic Ash:
Volcanic ash acts as a magnet for impurities, excess oil, and toxins that accumulate on our skin due to pollution and daily stressors. Its high mineral content clears clogged pores, detoxifies and unclogs blackheads as well as helping heal inflamed, irritated skin. Great in a face wash or a mask!
W for White Tea Extract:
This gentle antioxidant keeps skin hydrated, fresh, and comfortable.
X for Xylitol:
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol found in many fruits and vegetables. It is gaining popularity in skincare due to its hydrating properties. It works as a humectant, a moisturising agent that draws water into the skin, helping keep it hydrated and plump.
This hydration improves the skin’s overall appearance and strengthens its barrier, protecting against environmental stressors and preventing moisture loss. Xylitol has also proved to have benefits in balancing the skin’s natural microbiome, making it an excellent ingredient for those with sensitive or acneprone skin.
Y for Yeast Extract:
Yeast extract is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s derived from the yeast ‘Saccharomyces cerevisiae’, commonly used in baking and brewing. In skincare, yeast extract brightens the complexion, reduces signs of ageing, and improves skin elasticity.
It is a source of beta-glucans, which soothe and calm irritated skin, making it an excellent choice for reactive skin types. Its antioxidant properties help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, contributing to a healthier, more youthful appearance. Just don’t go rubbing Marmite on your face!
Z for Zinc Oxide:
Zinc oxide marks our journey’s end at “Z”. It is a mineral sunscreen ingredient favoured for its broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, zinc oxide sits on the skin’s surface, reflecting and scattering harmful UV rays. It is also helpful in targeting spots and blemishes and is often found in concealers.
I hope you’ve found this A-Z informative and helpful. Remember that the best skincare routine is tailored to your skin’s needs.
Finally, we hope you enjoyed ‘Part 4 of Our Skincare Ingredients A to Z‘ for more beauty related articles, click here, or to get in touch with Caroline, click here.
Author: Caroline Camber
Caroline Camber is a professional makeup artist and skincare expert working throughout North Wales, Shropshire and Cheshire. She specialises in bridal, occasion and prom makeup but also gives one-to-one makeup consultations and lessons. For more information, visit carolinecamber.com, email hello@carolinecamber.com or call 07814 442 041.
