Skincare 101: Neobotanicals

Everyday there are new scientific discoveries when it comes to skincare. At JustUs we believe in the power of the ancient with the modern-- what we call neobotanicals. Lab-based actives, when understood and used correctly are a key element of showing visible change in the skin. All of our products tap into the known healing and repairing elements being used for centuries and the newest innovations. Here are a few of the lab-based must-haves in your skincare routine - especially as you take on the effects of the environment and aging, from lines and wrinkles to skin barrier to cellular repair and turnover and evening, brightening and overall texture. 

Retinol is a synthetic derivative of vitamin A that is commonly used in skincare products for its anti-aging benefits. It is one of the most studied and proven ingredients for improving skin texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and increasing collagen production.

Retinol works by stimulating cell turnover, which helps to shed old, dull skin cells and promote the growth of new, healthy cells. This helps to improve skin texture and tone, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and even out skin discoloration.

Retinol is also a potent antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from free radical damage caused by environmental pollutants. It also helps to promote the production of collagen, a protein that gives skin its firmness and elasticity, which can decrease with age.

While retinol can be highly effective in improving skin texture and reducing the signs of aging, it can also be irritating to the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin. It's important to start with a low concentration of retinol and gradually increase it over time to avoid skin irritation.

Overall, retinol is a highly beneficial ingredient for skincare, especially for those looking to improve skin texture and reduce the signs of aging.

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that is commonly used in skincare products for its various benefits for the skin. It is a versatile ingredient that works well for a wide range of skin types and concerns and is especially good for niacinamide is a highly beneficial ingredient for skincare, especially for those with oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin. It has been shown to be:

Moisturizing: Niacinamide is a humectant, which means it helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin. It helps to improve skin hydration and prevent moisture loss.

Brightening: Niacinamide helps to brighten the skin and improve skin tone. It inhibits the production of melanin, which is responsible for dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Anti-Aging: Niacinamide helps to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity. It also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Anti-Inflammatory: Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm irritated skin. It is especially effective for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin.

Oil-Regulating: Niacinamide helps to regulate sebum production, which can help to reduce the appearance of pores and prevent breakouts.

Barrier-Strengthening: Niacinamide helps to strengthen the skin's barrier function, which helps to prevent moisture loss and protect the skin from environmental stressors.

Teprenone, also known as Geranylgeranylacetone, is a synthetic molecule that has been studied for its potential benefits in skincare. Teprenone is believed to work by increasing the production of heat shock proteins (HSPs) in the skin, which are responsible for protecting skin cells from stressors like UV radiation, pollution, and heat. It is especially for those looking to improve skin aging, hydration, and barrier function and has been shown to be: 

Anti-Aging: Teprenone helps to protect skin cells from stressors and improve cell longevity, which can help to reduce the signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles.

Moisturizing: Teprenone helps to improve skin hydration and prevent moisture loss, which can help to improve skin texture and softness.

Anti-Inflammatory: Teprenone has anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm irritated skin. It is especially effective for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

Antioxidant: Teprenone is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from free radical damage caused by environmental pollutants.

Barrier-Strengthening: Teprenone helps to strengthen the skin's barrier function, which helps to prevent moisture loss and protect the skin from environmental stressors.

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, is a synthetic peptide that has gained popularity in recent years as an ingredient in skincare products for its potential anti-aging benefits.

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 works by temporarily relaxing the facial muscles, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is often referred to as a "Botox alternative" because it has a similar mechanism of action to Botox injections, but is less invasive and less expensive.

Some of the benefits of Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 for the skin include:

Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles: Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 helps to temporarily relax the facial muscles, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Safe and non-invasive: Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 is a safe and non-invasive alternative to Botox injections. It does not require injections or anesthesia, and there is no downtime or recovery period.

Moisturizing: Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 can also help to moisturize the skin and improve skin texture and softness.

Some of our other favorites include: 

 Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): AHAs are a group of acids, including glycolic acid and lactic acid, that help to exfoliate the skin and improve skin texture. They also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin radiance.

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): BHAs are a group of acids, including salicylic acid, that help to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. They are especially effective for those with oily and acne-prone skin.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from free radical damage caused by environmental pollutants. It also helps to brighten the skin and improve skin texture.

Peptides: Peptides are amino acids that help to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity. They also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent ingredient for hydration.