Top 2010 Skin Care Trends

Oak Extract

Oak extract has traditionally been used as an anti-inflammatory agent. It is said to contain powerful antioxidants that improve skin cell functioning and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in dramatically smooth and more refined skin. Oak extract can be obtained in a liquid, supplement form or in products like KORRES Oak Primer.

Glycolic and Salicylic Acids

Glycolic and Salicylic Acids are potent alpha hydroxy acids that significantly reduce breakouts and blackheads. They gently exfoliate, unclog pores, promote skin clarity, and reduce wrinkles and acne scars. Blackheads respond best to serums containing glycolic and salicylic acids as opposed to abrasive scrubs that just push bacteria around. Try products containing AHA’s from brands like Neutrogena and Murad.

Argan Oil

Argan oil is produced from kernels of the argan tree and endemic to Morocco. Due to its small and specific growing area, it is rare and valued for its nutritive and cosmetic properties. Rich with vitamin e and essential fatty acids, it’s becoming quite popular due to its healing power over skin conditions like acne and psoriasis and also, wrinkle prevention. Purchase it raw from sites like amazon.com or find it in products from brands like Josie Maran.

Green Tea

Green Tea contains powerful antioxidants that reduce signs of aging whether you choose to drink it or apply the extract topically. It is a popular ingredient in eye creams because it contains caffeine, which actively reduces puffiness. Its use in facial moisturizers helps balance skin’s natural protective barrier and increases skin brightness.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) boosts collagen and fights free radicals to hydrate, brighten, and fortify skin against future damage. Serums are common skin care products that contain vitamin c and are best applied prior to your facial moisturizer. Popular brands with lots of vitamin c are Jason, MD Skincare, and Murad.

Super Fruits

Antioxidant rich berries like acai, goji, and pomegranate have been all the rage for a quite awhile now and have surpassed the point of being just “trendy”. These super fruits are known for nutrients and vitamins that deliver refining, anti aging, and skin restorative benefits. Shop for supplements at GNC or the Vitamin Shoppe or use products from brands like Tarte and Fresh.

Grapevine Resveratrol

Like argan oil, grapevine resveratrol is one of the newest trends in skin care and has been shown to prolong cellular life by 160% and restart collagen production. Resveratrol is recognized as the best anti aging molecule by Harvard’s Department of Medicine. Brands like Caudalie are just putting topical resveratrol products on the market. Resveratrol is also said to be heart healthy, just like a glass of wine, so vitamin supplements are also selling like crazy.

Paraben-Free ProductsTerms like Methylparaben, Propylparaben, and Butylparaben, can be found on the labels of most beauty products. Parabens are a group of chemicals used to preserve and prolong shelf life in lotions, conditioners, shampoos, and deodorants. There is much debate concerning the harmful effect of parabens. Evidence shows that they may cause cancer and disrupt estrogen activity by acting like estrogen and accumulating in the body. This argument has many companies putting paraben-free products on the market.