When it comes to caring for your skin, hair, and health, choosing safe and effective ingredients to use is paramount. However, an infinite supply of products on the shelves making the same promises can leave consumers overwhelmed and uninformed about the right products to choose from. If you’re looking for stand-out ingredients with plentiful benefits, here’s information on our top ten.
- Aloe vera
Aloe vera is commonly consumed and used in skincare and makeup products. Aloe vera contains soothing and hydrating properties that help to moisturize your skin and hair, calm irritation, and promote healing. If you ever get a sunburn, applying fresh aloe vera penetrates the layers of skin your sunburn’s reach and cools it down, preventing further burning, while soothing the area.
- Finasteride
Finasteride is a synthetic medication used as a highly effective treatment for male pattern hair loss. Finasteride should only be used as part of your regular hair care routine and not only treats hair loss, but can also increase hair thickness, maintain your existing hair, and comes in the form of an oral tablet or serum to apply to your scalp. Clinical studies demonstrate long-term success against hair loss and is considered safe for most men.
- Green tea extract
Green tea is rich in antioxidants which help protect your skin from environmental damage. Green tea and green tea extract also have soothing and anti-aging properties and are commonly used in skincare products to promote a healthy complexion. You can find many skincare products containing green tea extract or after drinking some tea and allowing the tea bags to cool down, you can apply them directly to your face.
- Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a versatile oil with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Coconut oil is used in moisturizers, hair conditioners, and even makeup removers. However, coconut oil isn’t a suitable option for everyone, so ensure you do a patch test before deciding it’s a good ingredient for your skin or hair.
- Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a popular essential oil due to its many benefits. Tea tree oil has strong antimicrobial properties, making it effective against bacteria found on the skin to treat acne and fungal infections like athlete’s foot. As a skincare product, tea tree oil reduces the bacteria contributing to acne and soothes inflammation, improving your complexion. Tea tree oil can also help you maintain a healthy scalp and hair by alleviating dandruff and dry scalp conditions while reducing itchiness and flakiness. Some studies also demonstrate the oil’s ability to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss by keeping your scalp clean and free from microbial imbalances.
- Vitamin E
Vitamin E also offers some powerful benefits to your skin, hair, and health. Vitamin E helps moisturize your skin, improving dry skin by forming a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss. It also includes anti-aging, scar healing, and sunburn relief properties through the protective barrier.
When vitamin E is used as an ingredient in haircare products, it can help stimulate hair growth, nourish, and strengthen the quality of your hair, making it less prone to breakage and split ends. Vitamin E can also provide immune support, boost heart health, and provide anti-inflammatory effects to boost your overall health, making it a great choice to nourish your skin, hair, and health.
- Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in the body, particularly in your skin, connective tissues, and eyes. It also offers a range of benefits to your skin, hair, and health. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, hydrating your skin while promoting a plump and youthful appearance. It also can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles due to your skin retaining more water.
Hyaluronic acid also helps hydrate the scalp, which is necessary for preventing dandruff and maintaining healthy hair growth. Hyaluronic acid also provides hair and scalp protection by forming a protective barrier on your hair and scale. This barrier protects them from environmental damage caused by UV radiation, pollution, and other external factors.
Less known about hyaluronic acid is its immense health benefits. Hyaluronic acid is a vital component of joint lubrication and shock absorption. Hyaluronic acid can improve joint mobility and reduce joint pain. Studies also prove the benefits of hyaluronic acid on oral and eye health, making it an essential ingredient to include in your daily routine.
- Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a fancy name for vitamin B3 and comes with many benefits. When used in skincare products, niacinamide enhances your skin’s barrier function and helps maintain optimal skin health. Vitamin B3 also regulates oil and sebum production and can even your skin tone. Strengthening your skin’s protective barrier also helps reduce moisture loss and environmental irritants from breaking in, improving skin hydration and sensitivity.
Niacinamide also has many benefits for your hair and overall health. Niacinamide promotes scalp health and improves hair growth and thickness over time. For health, niacinamide can help regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Studies also show the vitamin’s neuroprotective properties, improving cognitive functioning while preventing neurodegenerative diseases. Niacinamide is generally safe for most people, especially when used in skin and hair care. However, before adding any new supplements to your daily routine, we recommend consulting a doctor.
- Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria with powerful benefits to your skin, hair, and overall health. When used in skincare products, probiotics can improve hydration, reduce inflammation from conditions like acne and rosacea, and balance your microbiome to improve skin health. It can also reduce inflammation in the scalp and improve your hair texture and strength. Most notably, probiotics support gut health, digestion, and nutrient absorption, while giving your immune system a boost.
- Rosewater
Roses aren’t just pretty to look at, but when extracted to make rosewater, has wonderful skin, hair, and health benefits. Many toners and facial sprays use rosewater for its refreshing and hydrating qualities. These toners help balance pH levels, soothe your skin, and include anti-aging properties. Rosewater can also nourish and condition your hair while improving scalp health. It’s also no secret that roses smell beautiful, but their scent and taste can induce relaxation and stress relief.
The magic ten
While we’ve named ten powerful ingredients to improve your skin, hair, and health, there are many more. By being an informed consumer and consulting a doctor, you can find the most effective strategy to make the improvements to your health you want to see. With a few of these ingredients in your arsenal, you’re on your way to better skin, hair, and health.
Megan Isola
Megan Isola holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and a minor in Business Marketing from Cal State University Chico. She enjoys going to concerts, trying new restaurants, and hanging out with friends.
