Whilst the skin on our face may be slightly different to the skin on our arms, skin really is just skin – from head to toe – it all has basically the same structure and therefore the same needs. So why do we not use the same products for our feet as we do for our face? Essentially there is nothing stopping you doing that except that slathering your expensive face cream all over will turn out to be a rather costly exercise. However, there are some skincare ingredients that have found their way into body products.
In this blog we take a look at a few of the more common ones.
1. AHAs and BHAs – these are both chemical exfoliants that help remove dead skin cells from the top layer of your skin and therefor help address problems like bumps and rough skin, eczema, back and body breakouts or acne and hyperpigmentation.
2. Vitamin C – this helps with brightening and evening out skin tone so is really great for those parts of the body that are not covered by clothes including the arms, legs and chest.
3. Lactic Acid – this is another great exfoliating ingredient and can help to get rid of dead skin. Just a word of caution not to use in sensitive areas.
4. Glycolic Acid – Another power exfoliator. Great for lumps, bumps and rough skin. Ideal to be included in exfoliating shower products.
5. Salicylic Acid – This ingredient is great for body products that are needed to treat spots and breakouts on the back, neck, shoulders and even the arms. A body wash with salicylic acid helps to wash away excess oil and impurities.
6. Retinol – Retinol can indeed be used in body products and is great for repairing the skin and addressing signs of ageing. However just like when used in skincare it must be used at night and extra care and protection should be used when going into the sun during the day.
7. Hyaluronic Acid – the moisture magnet. The best solution for dry skin ANYWHERE, so ideal for hand creams and super hydrating body creams etc.
For more information on skin care and personal care ingredients and actives contact charis@chemgritsa.co.za visit www.chemgritcosmetics.co.za.