The year that was. 2020 taught us many things – how to use Zoom, lounge in sweatpants endlessly, and work on our skin! Last year, many people took their skincare game to the next level by ‘Google-ing’ what works best for their skin type. We’ve narrowed down the most searched skincare ingredients that defined the skincare scene in 2020. Best you added these to up your game too!

1. Most searched skincare ingredients – Hyaluronic Acid

This ingredient is probably one of the most common skincare ingredients today, and there’s good reason for it. Hyaluronic Acid can hold a thousand times its weight in water, making it the perfect ingredient to help plump and moisturise your skin. Its antioxidant features also keep your skin looking healthy and reduce wrinkles.

2. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most effective anti-ageing ingredients available in the market, and it helps give off a smooth, even, and radiant complexion. There’s no wonder then that this antioxidant made it to the top skincare ingredients that people searched for! It boosts your collagen production and protects your skin from external aggressors. Plus, this antioxidant is compatible with other skincare ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), retinol, and SPF.

3. Most searched skincare ingredients – Retinol

Also known as Vitamin A, this skincare ingredient helps soften fine lines, reduces acne, and improves your skin texture. Retinoids also help boost cell turnover and collagen production to give your skin a youthful glow. They do have a notorious reputation! Retinol can cause redness or aggravate skin problems, so make sure to build up slow and low. Start with low percentages, a couple of times a week and build up as your skin adjusts to it. Don’t forget the SPF in the morning!

4. Salicylic Acid

People with acne or oily skin are no strangers to this BHA. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin and deeply cleanses the pores to minimize acne and blackheads. It also helps reduce redness and inflammation caused by other skin conditions such as keratosis pilaris and psoriasis. If you have combination skin and prefer a spot treatment, just apply to the areas of concern and avoid drying out the rest of your face.

5. Most searched skincare ingredients – Witch Hazel

Plenty of men took to shaving rituals at home, during the lockdown. This resulted in a wave of shave-related nicks and cuts and subsequent searches for healing ingredients. Enter Witch Hazel, a plant extract that helps relieve inflammation, tightens the pores and removes excess oil in the face. It also helps in reducing skin redness, itching, and razor bumps. It works as an astringent that contracts the tissues to help shrink pores and clear skin impurities. Just remember to use only a few times in the week as this astringent can dry your skin out!

6. Niacinamide

Haven’t heard of Niacinamide yet? Niacinamide increases cell energy, stimulates cell regeneration and microcirculation, and provides antioxidant defence against free radicals. This active and water-soluble form of vitamin hydrates the skin and reduces blackheads and acne. Another thing we love about this antibacterial ingredient is that it regulates sebum and reduces blemishes. Use morning and night before applying heavy oils or creams.