This ingredient needs to be spoken about more often. It has wonderful soothing, hydrating and anti-bacterial properties and is a real treat for sensitive skin or just skin needing some TLC. It helps to slough away dead skin cells. It also helps draw out and destroy acne causing bacteria and helps neutralize the skin’s PH levels, further preventing breakouts. My favorite mask is the Manuka Honey Mask from Seed to Skin. It’s a little on the pricey side but worth the splurge because it gives my skin an amazing glow.

Leptospermum Scoparium (Manuka) Oil

I love Cica for those days where my skin is acting up. It helps soothe and calm things and is wonderfully hydrating. My favorite cica cream is hands down the Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask which I always have on hand because it helps support the skin’s moisture barrier. I apply a generous layer and wake up to skin that is plump, calm and well hydrated.

Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola)

I never skip a day of Vitamin C and it shows! At almost 42 years of age I get mistaken for a woman in my early 30s. Good genetics, maybe? I definitely attribute my youthful complexion to my skincare holy grails. My favorite Vitamin C serums are from Allies of Skin, Ole Henriksen and Paula's Choice. Vitamin C is an absolute must as it helps even out my skin tone, prevents signs of aging and brightens up my overall complexion. With so many Vitamin C serums on the market, people often wonder which is the best. The ideal formulation contains between 8-20%. Anything lower than 8 percent is ineffective and above 20 percent the effectiveness tapers off.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

On my retinol “off” days I really enjoy using the Sunday Riley Good Genes lactic acid serum to give my skin a glowy boost. Lactic acid helps peel away that dull layer of skin making way for a brighter and healthier layer. This helps make my skin more receptive to my products and helps ensure better penetration. Another AHA favorite of mine is Drunk Elephant's Framboos Glycolic Night Serum.

Lactic Acid

Along with peppermint and lavender oil, it provides a cooling and well nourished feeling

Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil

Helps with aging, hyperpigmentation and acne

Retinol (Vitamin A)

Helps retain skins moisture with anti-aging properties

Ceramide 3

Promotes a more even skin tone and helps minimize the appearance of pores

Niacinamide (Vitamine PP)

Delivers intense hydration without clogging pores

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)

Gently exfoliates to pave the way for a healthy glow

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Esters

This is another one of the ingredients in the aromatic oil blend in the product that works to give an effective deep clean without stripping the skin or causing irritation

Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil

This is one of several ingredients in the aromatic oil blend in the product that works to remove makeup while softening and conditioning the skin

Vanessa Andrea Torres

Ingredient opinions