The Top 10 Skin Care Ingredients Affected by Light or Air Exposure

When it comes to skincare, we all want products that are effective and deliver results. However, did you know that certain skincare ingredients can be sensitive to light or air exposure? In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 skin care ingredients that are affected by light or air exposure, and how you can protect them to ensure they remain potent and effective.

Resource: With over 60 years of combined knowledge in both skin care ingredients and oral care industries, Dr. & Mrs. Watts are astounded by the huge number of vitamin serums and creams sold on e Bay that are still purchased in clear bottles.

As a rule, vitamins and plant extracts in face serums or creams lose their effectiveness when stored in clear bottles. Many vitamins and plant extracts, such as vitamin c, retinol and plant stem extracts are sensitive to light and can break down quickly when exposed to light, which is why opaque packaging is recommended by dermatological studies.

1. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, it is highly sensitive to light and air exposure, which can cause it to degrade and lose its effectiveness. To protect your Vitamin C products, store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.

2. Retinol

Retinol is a popular anti-aging ingredient that helps improve skin texture and reduce the signs of aging. Exposure to light and air can destabilize retinol, making it less effective. To preserve the potency of your retinol products, opt for opaque packaging and store them in a cool, dark place.

3. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

AHAs, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, are exfoliating ingredients that help improve skin tone and texture. However, they can become less effective when exposed to light and air. To prevent degradation, choose products with air-tight packaging and store them in a cool, dark place.

4. Peptides

Peptides are amino acids that help support collagen production and improve skin firmness. Like many other skincare ingredients, peptides can be sensitive to light and air exposure. To maintain their efficacy, store peptide products in opaque containers and avoid leaving them open for extended periods.

5. Niacinamide

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a versatile ingredient that helps improve the skin's barrier function and reduce inflammation. To prevent niacinamide from losing its potency, store products containing this ingredient in opaque packaging and keep them away from direct sunlight.

6. Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a hydrating ingredient that helps plump and moisturize the skin. While hyaluronic acid is more stable than some other skincare ingredients, it can still be affected by light and air exposure. To protect your hyaluronic acid products, store them in a cool, dark place.

7. Antioxidants

Antioxidants, such as green tea extract and resveratrol, help protect the skin from environmental damage and premature aging. However, these powerful ingredients can lose their effectiveness when exposed to light and air. To ensure your antioxidant products remain potent, store them in airtight containers and keep them away from sunlight.

8. Essential Oils

Essential oils, like lavender and tea tree oil, are commonly used in skincare for their aromatic and therapeutic properties. However, essential oils can oxidize and lose their benefits when exposed to light and air. To preserve the quality of your essential oil products, store them in dark, glass containers and keep them tightly sealed.

9. Ceramides

Ceramides are lipid molecules that help strengthen the skin's barrier and retain moisture. Exposure to light and air can cause ceramides to degrade, reducing their effectiveness. To protect ceramide-rich products, store them in opaque packaging and avoid exposing them to sunlight.

10. Plant Extracts

Plant extracts, such as aloe vera and chamomile, are commonly used in skincare for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. However, these natural ingredients can be sensitive to light and air exposure, which can compromise their efficacy. To preserve the benefits of plant extracts, store products containing these ingredients in opaque containers and keep them in a cool, dark place.

By being mindful of how you buy, store and handle your skincare products, you can ensure that the ingredients start plus remain potent and effective. Remember to check the packaging for any specific storage instructions and always store your products in a cool, dark place to protect them from light and air exposure.