Sometimes, when you mix two great things, you get something even better. This also applies to skincare ingredients – you just need to figure out whether the ingredients in all your serums and creams work harmoniously.
The layering order
Combining ingredients taps into the chemistry that helps two great ingredients, on its own, become even more effective together. Plus, it allows you to completely tackle your skin concern as there is no single magic bullet ingredient that does it all.
But how do you get the application order right? When experimenting with different products, the general rule of thumb is to go from products that contain the most water to the least water, and thinnest to thickest consistency.
Allow water-based formulas to absorb into the skin first, as oils tend to have a bigger molecular size which can sit at the top of your skin.
Let’s explore some of the skincare ingredient power couples that work better together to target multiple skin issues.
1. Retinol and Niacinamide
Derived from Vitamin A, retinol is a revered skincare ingredient for anti-ageing. It works by promoting skin cell turnover, which can help improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven skin texture and discolouration.
The only catch? Retinol can be drying and irritating to the skin, especially at high concentrations. But combining it with niacinamide can increase your skin’s tolerance towards retinol and reduce the changes of irritation. Apply it before you begin to use retinol.
Niacinamide is great for maintaining the skin barrier function and improving overall hydration, which helps the effect of retinol in increasing skin cell turnover rate. Plus, it also has anti-inflammatory properties to brighten the skin and even out discolouration.
2. Vitamin C and SPF
Vitamin C is another great source for anti-ageing as it increases the production of collagen fibers in the skin and maintains it from breaking down. As an antioxidant, it also protects the skin from oxidative free radical damage and helps to lighten dark spots and brighten the complexion.
With Vitamin C, sun sensitivity can increase with use. So, pairing it with sunscreen enables them to work in tandem and boost your skin’s protection from sun damage. A good tip is to apply Vitamin C serum in the morning under your moisturiser and sunscreen.
3. Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane
A popular ingredient in skincare, Hyaluronic Acid is also naturally occurring in our body to help hydrate the skin, retain moisture, and encourage skin cell renewal. As a humectant, it can draw moisture to the skin and hold onto 1000 times its weight in moisture. This means a plumper appearance and lessened fine lines for you!
Squalane works similarly to squalene, which are lipids produced naturally by the skin’s sebaceous oil glands to moisture the skin. But to make squalane, squalene oil is derived from plant-based sources and undergoes the hydrogenation process to make it more skin-friendly.
When applied topically, squalane can boost collagen production, provide antioxidant protection and improve oil control. Combining these two ingredients can significantly restore the natural hydration balance in your skin and keep ageing signs at bay.
Help your skin function at its full potential with our Aspure Cream, which contains Squalane, Macadamia Oil and Jojoba Oil to moisturise and nourish the skin. Perfect for day and night, this cream helps to firm up your skin and strengthens its elasticity for a youthful complexion. You can use this after your Hyaluronic Acid serum to boost its efficacy and reinforce your skin’s barrier.
Enhance how well your skin absorbs skin care
As we’ve learned, ingredient cocktailing is great to enhance your skincare products and make it work better for you. Similarly, facial treatments can help to get rid of your dead skin cells more effectively that allows for greater penetration of your ingredients.
Our Auras oxygen facial helps to exfoliate dead skin cells while infusing highly concentrated oxygen molecules into the epidermis. Packed with botanical extracts, vitamins and minerals, this will give your skin all the nourishment it needs.
The extraction step helps to clear impurities from the pores to prevent clogged skin and acne, and a personalised mask with facial massage will detoxify and energise your skin. When you maintain the condition of your skin, your ingredients will be better absorbed!
New customers at Can also sign up for their first Auras Detox facial at $51.36 for 1 session (after 7% GST). Limited to 1 time per pax. Enjoy a basic cleansing facial and skin rejuvenation treatment to refresh your complexion.