Active ingredients in skincare are powerful components that target specific skin concerns, from acne to aging. If you’re new to using them, here’s a simple guide to help you get started safely and effectively.
What are Active Ingredients
Active ingredients are scientifically proven to address particular skin concerns.
Key Characteristics
1. Purposeful Action: They target specific concerns, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, aging, or dryness.
2. Clinically Proven: Their efficacy is supported by scientific research and testing.
3. Concentration Matters: The percentage of an active ingredient determines its potency and effect.
Start Slowly
- Get your basics in order first, that’s Cleanse, Tone, Moisturise.
- Depending on your concerns you can then start to add more active ingredients and products to your personal regime, but begin with one active ingredient OR new product at a time to see how your skin reacts.
Use the Right Amount
- Less is more with actives. A pea-sized amount is usually enough for the entire face. At PCA Skin 1 pump will cover the full face.
Layer Products Correctly
- Cleanse → Tone→Actives→Hydrate→Protect
- Apply the active ingredient after cleansing but before moisturising.
- If using multiple actives, start with the thinnest consistency to the thickest.
- Avoid layering harsh ingredients like retinol and exfoliating acids on the same day.
Sunscreen is Essential
Active ingredients can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days.
Be Patient
- Results from actives can take weeks or months, so consistency is key.
- Avoid overloading your routine; stick to what works.
Top Tips for Success
- Hydrate: Always pair active ingredients with a good moisturiser to avoid dryness.
- Don’t Mix Certain Ingredients: For example, avoid combining vitamin C with retinol in the same routine. Vitamin C should be applied in a morning routine and Retinol should be in a night time routine.
- Listen to Your Skin: If you experience irritation, scale back usage or consult a certified professional.
- Store Properly: Keep products in a cool, dark place to maintain potency.
Select Your Active Hero
K E Y B E N E F I T S
Fast-acting salicylic acid treatment to clear acne blemishes quickly and effectively.
A unique botanical blend that controls oil production throughout the day.
May be used full-face on oily or combination skin, and as a spot treatment for occasional breakouts on all skin types.
K E Y B E N E F I T S
Helps deliver an immediate and long-term reduction of visible expression lines caused by repeated muscle movement.
Helps lift, tighten, and firm skin for a younger-looking, more defined facial contour.
Strengthens skin by improving epidermal thickness.
Reduces skin roughness for a smoother skin texture.
Increases moisturisation and hydration retention.
K E Y B E N E F I T S
Clinically proven to address sagging, visibly lifting and firming the appearance of the skin by 60%*.
Helps support collagen production to restore facial volume and fullness, resulting in 58% visible improvement in plumping*.
Clinically proven to smooth visible lines and coarse wrinkles by 40%*.
Clinical results starting in 1 week.
K E Y B E N E F I T S
Brightens dark spots and evens skin tone by inhibiting melanogenesis.
Blocks the glycation process to minimise age-related skin yellowing and dullness.
Boosts barrier function to reduce redness.
K E Y B E N E F I T S
Delivers a visibly dramatic reduction in the appearance of stubborn hyperpigmentation.
Improvements in hyperpigmentation seen in as early as 4 weeks.
Helps protect against the appearance of new dark spots.
Effective against UV and hormonally induced hyperpigmentation, such as photodamage and melasma.
Effective for all Fitzpatrick phototypes and skin types.SHOP NOW £115
K E Y B E N E F I T S
Starts reducing redness and inflammation on contact with the skin.
Improves the skin’s barrier function for long-term relief from redness and sensitivity.
Uses the time-released OmniSome™ delivery system to carry skin-improving ingredients deeper into the skin over a period of eight hours.
