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beauty

Everything You Need to Know About  SKINCARE MICRODOSING

By Poosh
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 Photo credit @ell_t_
@ell_t_

There are so many skincare brands out there touting ingredients that will change our skin forever. So what do we do? We stock up. We layer. We saturate. We look for the highest concentrations—because the more intense the exfoliation, the softer our skin, right? More niacinamide means we’ll light up a room. More vitamin C means we’ll glow in the dark. We’ll eliminate our pores by blitzing them with one million percent prescription retinoids. We’ll become immortal. 

However, when it comes to our skin, more often than not, a healthy dose of a powerful active is a lower dose … aka microdosing. It may take longer to reach results, but the results will be worth the wait and prevent the irritation and damage that can occur from overdoing active ingredients. The last thing we want is constant purging, redness, inflammation, dry skin, perioral dermatitis, or a severely damaged barrier as a result of doing too much.

So what exactly is an active ingredient, and how often should we be using them? Essentially, an “active” ingredient is one that enacts therapeutic change to the cells it comes in contact with. Everyone’s skin is different, so those with less sensitive skin can handle more, while many others should use it sparingly, or less frequently. Here are some of our favorite, most effective actives that give us major results with a more minimal dose.

AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid)

Kora Organics Turmeric 2-in-1 Brightening & Exfoliating Mask $50

Kora Organics

Turmeric Brightening and Exfoliating Mask $17
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AHAs are great for exfoliating the top layer of skin, which helps deep-cleanse the pores and minimize blackheads and reveals brighter, glowing skin that better absorbs skincare products. Because this acid is ever-so-mildly corrosive in this way, it is absolutely crucial to use it as intended. This means you should not leave this mask on for longer than instructed, or use it too many times per week—going too hard on the AHAs can result in skin irritation, redness, and a compromised skin barrier.

Vitamin C

Kora Organics Noni Bright Vitamin C Serum $68

Kora Organics

Noni Bright Vitamin C Serum $70
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Vitamin C is the glow holy grail. It fades dark spots, scarring, and hyperpigmentation, encourages an even tone, and discourages breakouts and wrinkles. But this antioxidant ingredient is mildly exfoliating and can be too strong for the skin in high concentrations or when used too often, resulting in purging, redness, stinging, or itchiness. This serum is a stable and effective yet mild concentration that can be used daily—just once if you’re more sensitive.

Retinol

Overt The Anti-Aging Duo $79

Overt

The Anti-Aging Duo $79
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Prescription retinoids are incredibly harsh on the skin for most people and will produce a “retinization” effect that can last from four weeks to six months. This usually entails purging; breakouts; redness; intensely dry, flaking skin; and photosensitivity. While the irritation can fade for some people as they get used to it, many people can’t handle it and will only benefit from an effective yet subtle dose, like in this anti-aging duo that is powerful while still gentle.

Niacinamide

Tahnyc Niacinamide 10% + Peptides for Acne $28

Tahnyc

Niacinimide 10% + Peptides for Acne $28
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This ingredient works wonders to minimize redness, pore appearance, breakouts, and fine lines, but too much can cause irritation and even perioral dermatitis. The higher percentage is great for acne, but a mellow 5% can still work wonders without causing irritation.

Vitamin E

Beaute By Chance LVLC Serum $170

Beaute by Chance

LVLC Serum $170
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We think of healing and scar fading when we think of this ingredient, and we’re not wrong. However, this antioxidant is still an active ingredient, and it’s also fat-soluble. This means it can build up, especially for those who are oily or acne-prone. To prevent it from clogging pores, sensitive types should only use a vitamin E treatment once to twice a week for optimal results.

The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that Poosh, LLC (“Poosh”) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. You understand and agree that Poosh shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.

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