ELLE Magazine – January 2012
Deciphering Skin-Care Labels
Dr. Lisa Kellett, a Toronto-based dermatologist, cuts through the science of your skin-cream labels. (Remember: Ingredients are listed from the highest amount present to the lowest.)
ANTIOXIDANTS: Natural or synthetic ingredients that help reduce free-radical damage in the skin.
DIMETHICONE: A form of silicone used as a lubricant and conditioning agent.
ASCORBIC PALMITATE: A stable form of vitamin C that can be used to brighten the skin. It’s also an effective antioxidant.
UBIQUINONE: An antioxidant also known as coenzyme Q10.
ACETYL HEXAPEPTIDE-3: A peptide marketed as a synthetic anti-wrinkle agent. (More research is needed to properly evaluate its effectiveness.)
NIACINAMIDE: A form of vitamin B3 often used in acne preparations that can help treat uneven skin tone.
