If you’ve ever Googled “best hydrating serum” in Malaysia, chances are hyaluronic acid (HA) pops up everywhere, from drugstore brands to K-beauty favourites. But along with the hype comes a lot of misinformation: “HA makes my skin drier.”“You can only use it if you have very dry skin.”“It doesn’t work in air-conditioned or hot weather.” Let’s clear all that up so you can actually get the juicy, bouncy-skin benefits you’re paying for. What Exactly Is Hyaluronic Acid? Hyaluronic acid is...
What is Azelaic Acid? Azelaic acid, which is often extracted from grains such as wheat or barley, is a gentle exfoliating acid that helps to reduce clogged pores and to improve skin tone and texture. It is especially effective in reducing redness and can be beneficial for those with rosacea or acne. How does it work? Azelaic acid works in a various number of different ways. Firstly, it helps to destroy melanocytes (skin cells that produce melanin which causes post-blemish...
Smooth and soften your skin with Lactic Acid! Lactic acid is a variety of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and is one of the more common ones like glycolic or citric acid. Lactic acid has an unique history, we’ve all heard of the myth of Cleopatra bathing milk to keep her looking and feeling softer and smoother. Well, that myth isn’t all that weird after all. As you can tell from the name, lactic acid is derived from the lactose found...
Here’s everything you need to know about the underdog acid ingredient – Tranexamic Acid. Active ingredients, especially acids, are currently taking the skincare world by storm and have soon become holy grails for many. Acids like AHAs, BHAs and Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) being some of the most popular. However, there is a new ingredient on the block that is becoming so well-loved by brands and consumers alike for its skin brightening abilities. And that ingredient is Tranexamic Acid. Tranexamic...
A chemical exfoliant we've ignored but shouldn't I think by now we’ve all been quite familiar with and accustomed to chemical exfoliants, like glycolic acid or salicylic acid. But in comes another acid that is widely used in skincare by rarely talked about, though it deserves the same spotlight. And this is citric acid. Citric acid is part of the AHA family (glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid) and is extracted from citrus fruit such as lemons, oranges, limes, grapefruits,...
Move over Glycolic Acid, there's another AHA catching up The use of other types of AHA that isn’t Glycolic Acid Is on the rise with more variety and formulations popping up. We are all quite aware of the benefits of AHAs and the amazing benefits they do for the skin. However, if you are new to AHAs, don’t worry, here’s a simple breakdown. AHAs are chemical exfoliants that help to remove the top layer of the skin, including dead skin,...
The Unsung Antioxidant Hero What we consider an unsung hero, Ferulic Acid is often referred to as the best antioxidant that protects the skin and counters almost every ageing skin concern, though it’s not as widely talked about as compared to its antioxidant-rich counterparts such as vitamin C or vitamin E. Ferulic acid, aka hydroxycinnamic acid, is a type of phenolic acid and antioxidant-rich ingredient that neutralises free radical damage that is further impacted by threats like pollution, UV rays,...
A must-have exfoliating ingredient for acne-prone and oily skin Even if you’re new to skincare, chemical exfoliating is definitely something you’ve heard about, or is already a part of your skincare regime. When it comes to chemical exfoliating, the main benefits it boasts are helping to get rid of dead skin cells, boosting cell turnover and improving the skin’s overall texture and complexion. If you’re new to chemical exfoliating, head over to our Chemical Exfoliating 101 blog. In the world...
What is Glycolic Acid and what does it do? Glycolic acid is the way to go for smoother and brighter skin. I think we can all agree that everyone is familiar with glycolic acid. Although it isn’t considered a new or trendy ingredient, it has only recently seen its fame during the last couple of years but it has been considered a skincare staple for over three decades. Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy-acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane. It works as...
What is Azelaic Acid? Those with acne-prone skin, say hi to your new best friend, Azelaic Acid. We consider it an “over-achiever” because it tends to do more than just combat acne concerns, find out more below. Azelaic acid is a type of dicarboxylic acid (a natural acid) that is naturally found in grains but it can also be produced by yeast found naturally occurring on our skin, known as Malassezia furfur. It can also be synthesised in a lab....
What is Hyaluronic Acid? Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is also known as hyaluronan or glycosaminoglycan. Hyaluronic acid can be found in the body as it is naturally occurring and is the connective tissue in the body. It also acts as the lubricant agent in our body. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning that it attracts moisture from the surroundings and holds on to moisture, making sure that it doesn’t seep out throughout the day, working like a sponge. This allows the...
What is Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA)? Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) is a fatty acid substance found in various plant seed oils, the most common is Borage oil, Blackcurrant oil and Evening Primrose oil. The fatty acid profile for borage is 20-24%, evening primrose is 8-10% and for blackcurrant, it is 15-17%. When used in skincare, GLA acts as an emollient and antioxidant and is considered a skin-soothing ingredient. Topical treatments of GLA have shown that is one of the most...
What is Azelaic Acid? Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid found in wheat, rye and barley that can help treat acne, hyperpigmentation and rosacea. It is also an anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Other benefits include that it can gently exfoliate, unclog pores, prevent future outbreaks and can help even/lighten discolouration. Why is it banned? Azelaic acid in cosmetic products is strictly prohibited in Malaysia as the Ministry of Health of Malaysia (Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia) has deemed its...
When it comes to skincare, we often heard about alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid), beta-hydroxy acids (salicylic acids), and maybe even polyhydroxy acid (PHAs), but are you brushed up on the new kid on the block, lipohydroxy acid? It is a chemical exfoliator for those whose skin may not tolerate salicylic acid but still want something that can help treat acne-prone skin. Lipohydroxy acid (LHA) is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), explains Dr. Ingky. LHA in particular is a salicylic...
Som skincare ingredients can do wonders for your skin, but they remain under the radar. Azelaic acid is one of those ingredients! Azelaic acid can significantly diminish the appearance of skin blemishes, help fade acne marks and other discolorations, refine the skin’s surface, and reveal a more even skin tone. It can even reduce skin sensitivity and is compatible with any skin type. In short, azelaic acid is an ingredient you need to know about. What is Azelaic Acid? Azelaic acid...
Lightweight, affordable, gentle and packed with nutrients. What more could you ask for in a toner? The Ordinary has a diverse range of amazing products, but this is certainly one of its frontrunner. Apply it at night and miraculously wake up in the morning with soft, glowy skin that is thoroughly nourished and moisturised. Although it may not 'wow' you on first use, the effects are clearly visible after prolonged use, typically 2-3 weeks where you will see your skin...
Hyaluronic acid- a staple in anyone's life with its ability to attract a thousand times its weight in water making it the perfect ingredient for everyone to incorporate into their skincare routine! Hydrating, plumping and reduces the appearance of fine lines, what more could you ask for? Most of us use this miracle ingredient, but are we actually applying it in a way that utilises its full potential? The process by which HA leaves your skin feeling hydrated is that it absorbs moisture from...
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural-occurring carbohydrate that is able to hold over a thousand times its weight in water with one gram holding up to six litres! The molecules bind to water to help retain moisture, leaving your skin looking healthier, supple and radiant. As it is a humectant, it increases hydration to your skin by continuously drawing moisture from your surroundings. Not only does it hydrate, but its antioxidant-like properties also strengthens your skin’s natural barrier, acting as...
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural-occurring carbohydrate that is able to hold over a thousand times its weight in water with one gram holding up to six litres! The molecules bind to water to help retain moisture, leaving your skin looking healthier, supple and radiant. As it is a humectant, it increases hydration to your skin by continuously drawing moisture from your surroundings. Not only does it hydrate, but its antioxidant-like properties also strengthens your skin’s natural barrier, acting as...
Skincare acids are no longer reserved for monthly facials with a dermatologist, having become a mainstay of our bathroom shelves. But are they for everyone? We have a tendency in beauty to follow the leaders, whether or not our skin agrees, but with something as harsh as an acid, this isn't always wise. What types of skincare acids are there? First things first; it's important to understand the distinctions between acids. "There are different kinds of acids used in skincare...