The Powerful Timeless Classics Of Skin Care

As with many things in life – music, movies, cars, cocktails, and suit styles – the timeless classics are often hard to beat. Particularly in today’s complex world, there’s something so beautiful about the simplicity and quality those classics represent.

When it comes to your skin there are also a few timeless classics that produce powerful results. As new treatments and trendy ingredients come on the scene, it can be tough to know what’s essential vs. what’s just a cherry on top (or even a gimmick). Don’t get me wrong, there are some amazing advances in science proving to work wonders, but if simplicity is the name of your game, here are six tried-and-true ingredients that should be in your skin care arsenal.

AHAS

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are nontoxic, naturally occurring, organic acids. One to look for is lactic acid (L), sometimes referred to as “milk acid”. This powerful compound is known to stimulate exfoliation (beneficial for aging skin), provide hydration, smooth wrinkles, and eliminate blemishes, which is why you’ll commonly find it in quality cleansers.

EPIDERMAL GROWTH FACTOR (EGF)

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is a naturally occurring protein found in the human body. It aids in cell growth, particularly those that produce collagen (which keeps the signs of aging at bay), contributes to wound healing, and reduces wrinkles. You can find this powerhouse ingredient in certain skin-building formulas like the ReCharge EGF Cell Renewal Compound.

PEPTIDES

Peptides are a part of the skin’s digestion and regeneration process, made of individual amino acids linked together. This important ingredient can reduce and freeze wrinkles, amp up cell regeneration and collagen synthesis, and slow aging and skin damage. Like EGF, peptides can be found in skin-building and pro-youth formulas like Mineral Freeze.

RETINOL/VITAMIN A

Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that acts as a DNA regulator. Not only does it help in the creation of collagen, but it also supports the formation of blood vessels and encourages the growth of new, healthy cells. Retinols can be found in pro-youth and corrective serums like the Radical Redux.

SALICYLIC ACID

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxyl acid (BHA) occurs naturally in wintergreen leaves, licorice, sweet birch, marigold and other plants. It helps keep acne-prone skin clear, while providing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiseptic benefits. It also acts as a chemical trap for free radicals and supports cell turnover. It’s an ideal ingredient for cleansers and cleansing pads, and for perfecting your skin.

ZINC OXIDE

When you think of zinc oxide, you might recall the chalky, white cream in a tube you probably used to line under your eyes as a kid to mimic a football player. Well, this inorganic compound, found in the Earth’s crust, is actually one of the best defenses against skin aging. It blocks UVA and UVB rays, infuses the skin with antioxidants and acts as a shield against other threatening elements to keep your skin handsome and youthful. Look for it in high-quality sun protection formulas like the EnviroProtect.

So from A (AHAs) to Z (Zinc Oxide), these are the six ingredients you should be embracing for the long-term health and appearance of your skin. Think of them as the Rat Pack of skin care; they’re best all together, and you don’t want to leave out any one of them.