Skincare has become a labyrinth of acronyms and scientific jargon. Long gone are the days of toothpaste on pimples and sorbolene on dry…anything?
But with all the AHAs, BHAs, SPFs, and peptides floating around, it’s hard to know what’s worth investing in and what’s just fancy (sometimes insanely expensive) marketing. This piece is here to break it down for you in a way that makes sense—and to introduce you to Kotia, a skincare brand that beautifully merges nature with science, making it easier to choose what’s best for your skin.
1. AHAs vs. BHAs?
AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) are both exfoliants, but they work differently.
- AHAs are water-soluble and work on the skin’s surface. They’re great for exfoliating away dead skin cells and revealing smoother, brighter skin. AHAs like glycolic acid and lactic acid are perfect for dry and sun-damaged skin types.
- BHAs, like salicylic acid, are oil-soluble, meaning they can penetrate deeper into the pores. They work best for oily and acne-prone skin because they help clear out sebum and dead skin cells.
Our tip: If you have sensitive skin, go for a gentler AHA like lactic acid. If you’re dealing with acne, a BHA is your best bet.
2. Peptides: The building blocks of youthful skin
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as the building blocks for proteins like collagen and elastin. They’re essential for maintaining the skin’s structure and firmness.
Our tip: Peptides can help boost collagen production and improve overall skin texture. Look for them in serums or moisturisers.
3. SPF: More than just a friend in Summer
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) isn’t just for beach days. It’s an essential part of any skincare routine to protect against UV rays that can cause premature ageing and skin cancer.
Our tip: A broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 is recommended daily, regardless of the weather. If you’re looking for something light and moisturising, Kotia’s formulations are naturally enriched with vitamins and minerals that keep your skin hydrated.
4. Hyaluronic acid: The ultimate hydrator
Okay, so the idea of applying “acid” to our faces seems a bit counterintuitive, BUT hyaluronic acid is the queen of hydration. It’s a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin and it’s a must-have for all skin types, especially those prone to dryness or dehydration.
Our tip: Serums with different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid can penetrate different layers of the skin for maximum hydration.
5. Retinoids:
Retinoids (including retinol) are derivatives of Vitamin A and are well-known for their pro-ageing benefits. They help speed up cell turnover, reduce fine lines, and even out skin tone.
Our tip: Retinoids can be quite potent, so use them in the evening only and follow up with a good moisturiser. Beginners should start with a lower concentration to build tolerance. Kotia’s gentle formulations are perfect for pairing with retinoids, providing the hydration and nourishment your skin needs without irritation.
6. Niacinamide: The multitasker
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a seriously versatile ingredient that benefits all skin types. It helps with everything from improving skin elasticity and reducing redness to balancing oil production and minimising pore size.
Our tip: This is a great ingredient to incorporate if you have sensitive or combination skin. It’s the star multitasker.
7. Ceramides: The skin barrier protectors
Ceramides are lipids (fats) that help form the skin’s barrier and retain moisture. They’re crucial for maintaining a healthy skin barrier, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.
Our tip: If your skin feels dry or irritated, look for products rich in ceramides. Combining them with Kotia’s formulations can further enhance the skin’s natural barrier, keeping it hydrated and resilient.
8. Vitamin C: Brighten up
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant known for its brightening and skin-evening properties. It can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and boost overall radiance.
Our tip: Look for stabilised forms of Vitamin C to avoid oxidation, which can reduce its effectiveness.
There you have it! A skincare thesaurus to help you brave the beauty aisles. While we’re not stoked that things have become this complicated, we’re relieved not to be applying Colgate to our faces anymore!
We hope you like the products we recommend – our editors choose them independently, we may receive commission or revenue when you click on the links or purchase a product.