Produced in the leaves and seeds of various plants, it can also be made in a lab. Commonly used in cellulite creams and eye creams, it constricts blood vessels, reducing redness and puffiness.
[related_post themes="flat" id="470"]Blog Archives
Carnitine
by David Roberson •
Also called L-carnitine, this amino acid helps convert fat into energy when naturally present in the human body. In the skin-care aisle, the ingredient is often found in cellulite and eye creams. Though there’s little clinical data supporting its long-term effectiveness, its anti-inflammatory activity can temporarily smooth puckering and puffiness.
[related_post themes="flat" id="472"]Carnosine
by David Roberson •
This naturally occurring amino-acid pairing quells damaging inflammation, glycation, and free-radical activity, and levels of it in our bodies decline with age. Some research indicates that oral supplements and topical creams containing it can stave off premature wrinkling, collagen breakdown, and thinning of the skin.
[related_post themes="flat" id="474"]Cell Communication
by David Roberson •
A broad term referring to the way cells send information using proteins and other signaling molecules—and receive information from inside or outside the body via receptor sites located on cell membranes. Increasing numbers of skin creams contain ingredients, like retinol, carnosine, and peptides, claiming to bind to receptor sites and encourage cells to behave like…
[related_post themes="flat" id="476"]Ceramides
by David Roberson •
Naturally occurring in sebum (skin’s oil), these fats hold together the cells of the epidermis to reinforce the skin’s protective barrier.
[related_post themes="flat" id="478"]Cetyl/Stearyl Alcohol
by David Roberson •
Fatty alcohols that stabilize creams and cleansers and create a silky feeling.
[related_post themes="flat" id="480"]Chamomile-Flower Extract
by David Roberson •
A popular ingredient in cleansers and creams for sensitive skin, this moisturizing botanical is known for calming inflammation while combating free-radical damage.
[related_post themes="flat" id="482"]Citric Acid
by David Roberson •
Found in many fruits, the antioxidant alpha hydroxy acid acts as a natural preservative. When used in peels, masks, and washes, it brightens and exfoliates the upper layers of the skin, encouraging new collagen formation.
[related_post themes="flat" id="484"]Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone)
by David Roberson •
Levels of this antioxidant in the skin decline with age and UV exposure. CoQ10 is added to anti-aging products to preserve skin-cell function and improve skin texture
[related_post themes="flat" id="486"]Coffeeberry
by David Roberson •
A strong antioxidant, this plant extract is an expensive, patented ingredient that is not widely available (you’ll find it in Priori Skincare and RevaléSkin).
[related_post themes="flat" id="488"]