Do you ever find yourself getting lost in all the trendy skincare jargon? To help you stay on top of the latest advances in the clean beauty skincare universe, we’ve compiled this helpful guide to the top 2023 skincare trends and anti-aging buzzwords. Here are the terms you should know for keeping your skin looking its best (and a few of our favorite products to go with them).
Antioxidants
This first must-know skincare buzzword is everywhere. Antioxidants are all the rage because they help protect our skin from damage caused by free radicals, keeping wrinkles and sunspots at bay.
They fight cell damage at the molecular level, reducing inflammation and boosting hydration. When shopping for antioxidant-packed products, look out for ingredients like Vitamin C, niacinamide, resveratrol, and green tea extract.
BYN Antioxidant Favorite: Maya Chia SUPER NAKED PLUM + CHIA FACE OIL – $70
Maya Chia paired their lightweight, fast-absorbing organic chia oil with organic virgin plum oil to create a powerful duo that’s nothing short of a nutrient-dense antioxidant powerhouse for the skin—the Super Naked Plum + Chia Face Oil.
Power Ingredients
The ultra skin-nourishing Omega-3 Fatty Acids of chia are the ultimate compliment to the skin-loving Omega Fatty Acids 6 and 9 from plum oil. As an added benefit, the oil is also infused with Astaxanthin, a super antioxidant (65x more potent than Vitamin C in combating free radicals).
Free of essential oils, Super Naked is well suited for sensitive skin or those sensitive to fragrance. The plum oil imparts a lovely, naturally occurring scent—subtle and sweet, never overpowering.
How To Use
Simply apply 2-3 drops directly to your skin and massage in. Or, blend with a few drops of moisturizer or foundation for added hydration. Use morning and night for maximum results.
Blue Light Protection
If you spend most of your days sitting a few feet away from a computer screen, then blue light protection is a fad that might save your skin a lot of trouble in the long run. However, blue light, which is emitted from the screens we look at every day, can cause premature aging and dark spots. So make sure to use SPF products, or consider investing in blue light blocking to keep your skin healthy in front of the screen.
Collagen
Collagen is a protein found in our skin that helps it stay plump and youthful-looking. Unfortunately, our collagen production decreases as we age, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.
To help combat this decrease, look for skincare products containing collagen-boosting ingredients like hyaluronic acid and retinol. You can also take collagen as a supplement by drinking collagen peptides in your smoothie or adding them to water and other beverages.
Hyaluronic Acid
This powerful humectant is an essential part of any anti-aging skincare routine. It can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, making it an excellent ingredient for hydrating and plumping the skin. It helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines while also boosting hydration.
BYN Hyaluronic Acid Favorite: BLÜH ALCHEMY TONING ELIXIR -$54.00
Looking for a vegan and cruelty-free toning elixir to revive your skin? Look no further than Blüh Alchemy’s quench + revive toning elixir.
Power Ingredients
Formulated with cell-nourishing bioactives and protective antioxidants, this elixir tightens pores and reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Hibiscus and hyaluronic acid lock in hydration to plump and firm the skin.
Meanwhile, other ingredients enhance the absorption of vital actives, including:
- MSM
- Niacinamide (B3)
- Snowflower
- Finger lime caviar
The result? Intensely hydrated, luminous skin.
How To Use
Lightly mist onto freshly cleansed skin. Use morning and night to lock in moisture, plump the skin, and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Follow with your favorite serum or moisturizer for the best results. Use it anytime throughout the day as a refreshing burst of hydration.
Mushrooms
I know it sounds weird, but hear me out. Shiitake mushrooms are all the rage these days and for good reason. These fun little fungi can increase collagen, lift sagginess, and soften lines with their noted antioxidative capabilities. In addition, they contain a compound called ergothioneine that helps brighten the skin and protect against environmental damage.
BYN Mushroom Favorite: LILFOX Marshmallow Poof – $148
Is it possible to get rid of wrinkles and look younger without going through invasive surgery? Yes—the answer lies in mushrooms and marshmallows (I’m not kidding).
Power Ingredients
With a 15% concentration of unique cell-communicating peptides, this product offers a needleless, painless alternative to wrinkle-filling and line-freezing solutions. The cocktail of neurotransmitter peptides is shown to work effectively and painlessly to give you the sense of relaxed muscle tension, tighten the skin’s appearance, and leave it looking revitalized and firm.
- Shiitake mushroom extract supports the peptides in their muscle-relaxing function
- Superoxide dismutase
- Edelweiss
Thanks to all these ingredients, Marshmallow Poof can tone and tighten your skin while delivering anti-aging benefits—all without any needles or injections.
How To Use
First, apply 3-4 drops of Marshmallow Poof to your fingertips and massage it into your skin. Allow a few minutes for the formula to absorb before layering it with other products. Finally, use morning and night for maximum effectiveness.
Peptides
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that help to increase collagen production and reduce wrinkles. They work by sending signals to your skin cells, telling them to produce more collagen so the face can appear firmer and smoother. They can also help even out skin tone and improve overall radiance.
Retinol and Retinoids
Retinol and retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, even out skin tone and texture, fight acne, and improve overall complexion. They can also increase collagen production in the skin. Retinol is often found in over-the-counter products, while more potent forms of vitamin A, like tretinoin, can be prescribed by a dermatologist.
Skin Barrier Repair
The skin barrier is a thin layer of cells that helps protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollutants and bacteria. When this barrier is damaged, it can lead to dryness, irritation, and an increased risk of infection. Products containing ceramides and fatty acids help to repair this barrier and keep skin healthy.
BYN Skin Repair Favorite: ALPYN BEAUTY PlantGenius® Melt Moisturizer – $60
You won’t want to sleep on the PlantGenius Melt Moisturizer. This tried-and-true moisturizer is packed with luxurious and nutrient-dense oils that quickly absorb into the skin, leaving a velvety soft finish.
Power Ingredients
This velvety moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid and squalane to hydrate your skin, while ceramides help maintain skin-barrier health. In addition, Bakuchiol reduces the appearance of fine lines, making this the perfect everyday moisturizer for anyone looking for a healthy, plumped look.
How To Use
Smooth it on clean skin in the morning and evening, and layer it on top of your serums for added benefits. Next, apply a dollop onto the fingertips and spread it evenly over the face and neck. Allow a few minutes for absorption before applying makeup or sunscreen.
Skin Microbiome (Skin Flora)
The skin microbiome is the ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and other organisms that live on your skin. This living environment helps to keep skin healthy by providing hydration, protection against infection, and more. You can maintain a healthy skin microbiome by avoiding products that contain synthetic fragrances, alcohol, and preservatives.
BYN Skin Chemistry Favorite: Youthforia BYO Blush Oil – $36
BYO Blush Oil is the world’s first color-changing blush oil. This innovative product is perfect for TikTok fans who want a natural highlighter effect.
Power Ingredients
Formulated with 20 plant-based extracts, BYO Blush Oil hydrates and nourishes your skin while creating a natural blush that reacts with the chemistry of your skin. It’s also easy to use—wear it alone on bare skin or on top of makeup. In addition, it works for all skin tones and types, making it the perfect choice for anyone.
How To Use
Apply a little bit straight to your cheeks and gently buff to blend out and up. Then, apply more gradually to build the color.
Skin Minimalism (Skinimalism)
Skin minimalism is the practice of cutting back on skincare products and using only those that are truly necessary. This can help reduce irritation and sensitivity while minimizing your risk of allergic reactions or breakouts. Keep your routine simple by using key ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and sunscreen.
Slugging
Slugging is a skincare trend that has been gaining traction in recent years. It involves applying an occlusive (a thick, heavy cream) to the face at night, which helps keep the skin hydrated and prevents moisture loss. As weird as it may sound, slugging can help make your skin look more dewy and radiant. Look for occlusives like petroleum jelly, shea butter, or beeswax-based products to try it out.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps to brighten the skin, reduce wrinkles, and fight off signs of aging. It can also stimulate collagen production and improve overall radiance. Look for products containing L-ascorbic acid or tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, which are both highly stable forms of vitamin C.
BYN Vitamin C Favorite: JOAQUINA BOTÁNICA Orquídea + Vitamin C Hydrating Glow Oil – $92
This luscious blend of botanicals leaves skin hydrated, plump, and luminous.
Power Ingredients
Orchid, Cacay, and Bakuchiol help maintain bounce and elasticity, while vitamin C helps to brighten dull complexions. Nourishing superfruits deliver essential nutrients for a healthy, dewy glow, including:
- Camu Camu
- Passion Fruit
- Papaya
- Sacha Inchi
The best part? This oil is fragrance and essential oil free, making it perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Plus, the naturally sweet and buttery scent is simply divine.
How To Use
Apply 6-8 drops to your face and neck after cleansing. Reapply as desired for an instant boost of hydration and radiance. Use morning and night for maximum results.
Final Thoughts
At Beautiful You Naturally (BYN), we’ve tested hundreds of organic skincare products and read through their ingredients to identify the crème de la crème of clean beauty. These are just a few of the remarkable clean beauty products available to help you achieve glowing, healthy skin.
There are many more out there to discover, so don’t be afraid to explore and experiment with different products until you find your perfect match!
Looking for more info about Clean Beauty? Check out our comprehensive Clean Beauty 101 guide here.
