It can be hard to keep track of all the weird and wonderful skincare ingredients on the market – and even harder to know which ones are worth investing in. There are of course the gold standard heroes like vitamin C, retinol and hyaluronic acid, but we think the following are also worth giving a go…

Tightenyl

Like the name suggests, this youth-booster helps tighten the skin and helps to reduce lines and wrinkles while firming, regenerating and repairing the skin. Derived from some majorly high tech bio research, the team behind this ingredient discovered that it can kick-start the synthesis of the carbohydrate proteoglycan. This carb stimulates collagen and elastin production as well as hold 1.3 times more water than hyaluronic acid, making it an amazing hydrator in its own right. What’s more it’s a non-irritating ingredient that can be used on even the most sensitive of skins.

Retinyl retinoate

Retinoids are much loved for their ability to stimulate collagen synthesis and support the regeneration of skin cells. Retinol is likely the most popular derivative of vitamin A thanks to the fact that there is no prescription necessary. However, lack of potency within formulas can be an issue, as can irritation. Cue retinyl retinoate, a more powerful vitamin A ingredient compared to traditional retinol that works faster and performs better, all with less irritation. It’s photostable, meaning it doesn’t break down in sunlight like traditional forms of vitamin A and so can be used both morning and night – topped with an SPF of course.

Japanese indigo 

Yes, the same plant used to dye our jeans blue. This youth-booster is proven to demonstrate skin-calming properties, soothing irritated skin thanks to plant compounds tryptanthrin and indirubin – making it an ideal ingredient for those with eczema, acne and rosacea. Its anti-inflammatory prowess also helps in that regard, while simultaneously fighting off the effects of stress on the skin thanks to pesky cortisol. Plus, this botanicals' restorative nature helps support the all-important skin barrier, keeping hydrating water in and external aggressors out.
 

Mushrooms

No, we’re not talking the humble button mushroom here, but rather a plethora of fabulous fungi instead. Some are used for their hydrating, calming, and anti-inflammatory properties, and others are perfect for dehydrated skin types thanks to their high-omega fatty acid and ceramide content – both of which help to fortify the skin barrier, preventing water loss. The potent chaga mushroom is having a major moment; it's packed with melanin to protect against UV, and a massive dose of antioxidants which help keep the skin barrier in good repair. Hydrating powerhouse the snow mushroom holds 450x its weight in water and is giving hyaluronic acid a run for its money.

Prickly pear

Jam-packed with actives, the prickly pear is a multi-tasking wonder. Red, bulbous and covered in bristles it grows on paddle cacti in hot climates around the world and is well worth the trouble of a prick here and there. Vitamin K and linoleic acid brighten and reduce hyperpigmentation, vitamin E soothes and heals the skin, amino acids boost collagen and elastin for firmer, smoother skin, omegas 6 and 9 hydrate and repair, as well as quell inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and acne. It doesn’t stop there, as this fruit also has some impressive antibacterial properties, making it even more ideal for acne-prone skin.