Wow, aren't you the lucky one landing on Santa's nice list this year? Forget those mundane slippers and scarves; you've unwrapped some tantalising new skincare treats!
But hold your horses – if you're scratching your head over how to use these advanced potions, you're not alone. With skincare science at an all-time peak and ingredients taking the spotlight, it's no surprise that fifty per cent of skin product searches are now ingredient-led, as people often start their queries with puzzled "What on earth do I do with...? " questions.
To steer you in the right direction, we've connected with beauty mavens from GetHarley.com for insider secrets on making the most of your skincare haul. Cheers to a bright, fresh you come 2025!
You got: Vitamin C
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Getty)Why it's fab: Hailed as one of the top anti-ageing antioxidants, vitamin C guzzles up harmful free radicals – but wait, there's more. "Not only does it acts as a shield against environmental aggressors, it has amazing brightening benefits and works to even out skin tone, promote collagen and diminish the appearance of lines," enlightens leading aesthetic guru Natali Kelly.
Give yourself a pat on the back if you got a gift containing ascorbic acid, the crème de la crème and most potent form of vitamin C, according to research.
Is it right for you? Typically, it's a safe bet for daily use and should leave your skin looking nothing but luminous. "However, vitamin C can be irritating to sensitive skin, in which case I'd avoid using it alongside daily AHAs and BHAs," advises Natali.
Not all vitamin C formulas are created equal, and from personal experience, I can say that some slightly irritate me, although most don't. Even so, using them every other day seems to provide the glowy benefits without the drawbacks. So, don't be too quick to give up on your gift.
Didn't get one gifted but looking to shop one? We love: Medik8 C-Tetra Serum, £39
You got: Retinol
What's that? It's the gold standard in any anti-ageing skincare regimen, according to aesthetic doctor Dr Fiona McCarthy. "Retinol encourages cellular regeneration, leading to smoother skin and improved appearance of wrinkles. It also boosts collagen and improves skin tone."
Will it suit me? If you're new to retinol, take it slow and steady, advises Dr McCarthy. "Start at a low dose, possibly just once weekly initially. Use only at night, and apply moisturiser 10-15 minutes afterwards to minimise any drying effect."
If you're now considering relegating your retinol to the regifting pile, don't be overly concerned. Everyone's skin reacts differently, and brands are working hard to reduce the chance of skin sensitivity, so you may have no issues at all (personally, I don't), but it's best to be cautious.
Two more retinol rules: wear SPF daily and be patient. "Retinol is a marathon, not a sprint," says Dr McCarthy "It will take 3-6 months to see results, but they are worth the wait."
Didn't get one gifted but looking to shop one? We love: FaceTheory Encapsulated Retinol 3% Renewing Serum, £30
You got: Niacinamide
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Getty)Wondering what it is? Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide has been all the rage in 2021. And for good reason – it's a skincare superstar. "It fits easily into skincare routines, yet it has so many benefits in promoting the repair and protection of the skin," Natali spills the beans.
Will it work wonders for you? Chances are high, according to Natali, particularly at the sweet spot concentration of 1-2%. "It's great for anyone who wants to brighten their skin or prevent ageing. It is also good for sensitive skin or those who suffer from rosacea and eczema, as it works to repair a damaged skin barrier," she says. "It also helps to visibly minimise enlarged pores and improve uneven skin tone."
Fancy pairing it with retinol? Go ahead – it's a match made in heaven for combating dryness. But hold your horses – there's one combo Natali warns against: "Research suggests niacinamide can cancel out the beneficial properties of vitamin C."
Didn't get one gifted but looking to shop one? We love: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, £9
You got: AHAs
What are they? AHAs stand for chemical exfoliators like glycolic acid and lactic acid that whisk away those dead cells leaving skin lacklustre and rough. "They also allow better penetration of other skincare actives," Dr McCarthy enlightens us.
Are AHAs your ticket to the glow-up of the year? They might just be, Natali nods. "However many people have been doing this to the extreme and actually counteracting the benefits."
Drawing on personal experience, the author admits the allure of the initial "Wow, silky! " feeling can be highly addictive, but also warns about the importance of moderation when using AHAs. The hard-learned lesson that 'less is more' with these products comes with a piece of advice: never exceed the recommended frequency of use for an AHA, despite the temptation of that first gratifying result.
In addition, Dr McCarthy cautions: "AHAs can also make skin more sensitive to sunlight so always use an SPF daily." Echoing Dr McCarthy's guidance, the report emphasizes: "AHAs can also make skin more sensitive to sunlight so always use an SPF daily."
Didn't get one gifted but looking to shop one? We love: Alpha-H Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment with 5% Glycolic Acid, £14.99
You got: Hyaluronic acid
Image:
Getty)What is it? Hyaluronic acid is a molecule found naturally in skin that holds water and helps to keep it hydrated and bouncy. “Levels decrease as we get older,” says Natali.
“When hyaluronic acid is applied topically, it attaches itself to water in the cells, making them ‘plump’. It can also draw moisture from air, making it a powerhouse for hydration. This reduces the appearance of wrinkles since dehydration is a cause of ageing.”
Will it work for you? Natali suggests that this component is particularly beneficial for those looking to target fine lines and notes its compatibility with various skin types: "It's perfect for almost all skin types, although those with rosacea or eczema should always patch test first."
She continues, explaining its synergy with other skincare ingredients: "It can be used with most other ingredients, including retinols and vitamins, but exfoliating acids such as glycolic can make it less effective."
Didn't get one gifted but looking to shop one? We love: LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Acid Cream Moisturiser, £33.50
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