As our collective obsession with skincare continues to grow, an increasing number of us are investigating the ingredients found in our favourite beauty products. Whatever your skin goals are, you'll find a hero ingredient here to help. Here are six to look out for and where to find them.

CBD
Short for cannabidiol, CBD is a (non-psychoactive) chemical derived from cannabis. It was the biggest beauty buzzword of 2019 and has now found its way into the ingredients of skincare products, as well as supplements and oils that help with anxiety and pain relief. Proven to have anti-inflammatory properties, it works wonders on stressed-out skin.

Retinol 
Also known as Vitamin A, retinol is one of the few skincare ingredients that's clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles while improving the skin's elasticity. Celebrity dermatologist Dr Lancer explains: "Retinol is lauded for its medically and scientifically-proven ability to speed up the skin's cell cycle. It is one of the few ingredients on the market that comes with this absolute guarantee. It has no gimmicks." But it doesn't come without its drawbacks. Products containing retinol can initially cause dryness and irritation, so it's important to start small and build up your tolerance slowly. 

Vitamin C 
You may have long associated Vitamin C with a healthy diet, but it's also a miracle skincare ingredient. It brightens your complexion, visibly reducing the appearance of scars and smoothing fine lines. It also helps to protect your skin from the effects of pollution, so it works best as part of a morning routine.

Rose
Rose is a skincare ingredient that's stood the test of time, most likely because it's a great all-rounder. Not only does it have a relaxing scent, it's also soothing and boosts hydration, while boasting antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, meaning it'll seriously help skin that's prone to redness and irritation.

Hyaluronic Acid
If you still haven’t heard of hyaluronic acid in 2023, then don’t panic, we’ll fill you in. Found naturally in the skin already, hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000 times its own weight in water. Hyaluronic acid is now found in most skincare products that are labelled as ‘hydrating’, but to get its full effect, opt for a serum featuring it as a main or sole ingredient. Not an acid as you may know it, hyaluronic acid is safe to use in your skincare routine both morning and night, and we actively encourage it. Top tip? Apply your hyaluronic acid serum on slightly damp skin (either water, toner or facial mist) for maximum absorption and hydration.

Niacinamide
A less widely known skincare ingredient, but certainly not lacking in performance. Found in many products designed to brighten, niacinamide (a variety of vitamin B3) also has benefits to people with acne or oily skin, by regulating sebum production. It’s hero function however, is to brighten dark spots, even out skin tone and brighten. Don’t underestimate niacinamide.