January 13, 2025

Functional Ingredients in Cosmetics: Complete Guide

Functional ingredients are the heart of modern cosmetics. These active components are chosen for their beneficial properties, ranging from hydration to antioxidant protection, to stimulating collagen production. In this article, we will analyze in detail the main functional ingredients used in cosmetics, their specific functions, and clinically proven benefits.

What Are Functional Ingredients?

Functional ingredients are biologically active substances included in cosmetic formulations to perform specific actions on the skin. Unlike excipients, which serve to provide consistency and stability to the product, these ingredients provide measurable and targeted benefits.

Types of Functional Ingredients

Antioxidants - They fight free radicals and prevent premature aging.
Moisturizers and Humectants - Restore and maintain skin hydration.
Exfoliating and Regenerating - They promote cell turnover.
Soothing and Anti-inflammatory - Calms irritations and redness.
Collagen Stimulators - They strengthen the elasticity and structure of the skin.

Antioxidants in Cosmetics

Antioxidants protect the skin from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, which are responsible for skin aging. According to studies published in the "Journal of Dermatological Science", the topical application of antioxidants visibly improves the appearance of the skin.

Examples of Effective Antioxidants

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Powerful illuminator and collagen stimulator.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol): Protects against environmental damage and improves elasticity.
Resveratrol: Extracted from grapes, it fights oxidative stress.
Coenzyme Q10: Boosts cellular energy and reduces fine wrinkles.

Scientific Benefits of Antioxidants

Research shows that the daily use of antioxidants reduces UV damage by up to 30% (source: British Journal of Dermatology). Furthermore, they promote cell renewal and counteract the appearance of dark spots related to skin aging.

Moisturizers and Humectants

Adequate hydration is crucial for keeping the skin elastic and radiant. Moisturizing ingredients attract and retain water in the superficial and deep layers of the skin.

The Best Moisturizers

Hyaluronic Acid: A natural humectant that retains up to 1000 times its weight in water.
Glycerine: Water attractor that improves skin softness.
Ceramides: They repair the skin barrier and prevent transepidermal water loss.
Urea: Effective in case of dry and chapped skin.

Innovations in Hydrating Formulas

The new technologies include multilayer moisturizing complexes that release water gradually, ensuring hydration for 24 hours (source: International Journal of Cosmetic Science).

Exfoliating and Regenerating

Exfoliants remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, stimulating cell renewal and improving skin texture.

Types of Exfoliants

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA): "Like glycolic acid and lactic acid, ideal for dry and mature skin."
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA): "Like salicylic acid, excellent for oily and acne-prone skin."
Natural Enzymes: Extracts from fruits like papaya and pineapple, delicate yet effective.

Exfoliating Benefits

According to clinical studies, the use of chemical exfoliants visibly reduces dark spots and improves skin elasticity (source: Journal of Clinical Dermatology).

Soothing and Anti-inflammatory

These ingredients are essential for sensitive and irritated skin. They help reduce redness and inflammation, improving skin comfort.

Soothing Ingredients

Aloe Vera: Natural soothing and moisturizing properties.
Chamomile: Gentle anti-inflammatory.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces redness and improves barrier function.
Bisabolol: Extract from chamomile, with intense soothing action.

Collagen Stimulators

To counteract the signs of aging, ingredients that stimulate collagen production are essential. Clinical studies show that bioactive peptides improve skin elasticity by up to 30%.

Main Stimulators

Peptides: "Like Argireline®, which reduces expression wrinkles (source: International Journal of Cosmetic Science)."
Retinol: Stimulates cell turnover and collagen production (source: American Academy of Dermatology).
Stabilized Vitamin C: Protects and stimulates collagen synthesis.

Functional ingredients represent the heart of modern cosmetic formulations. Knowing their role allows for the selection of targeted products for one's skin needs, optimizing results. Investing in cosmetics with scientifically tested active ingredients ensures visible and lasting benefits.