Must-Have Ingredients & Products For Glowing Skin

Salicylic acid

A classic known for its exfoliating and anti-acne properties, salicylic acid can penetrate deep into skin to unclog pores and target sebum buildup. In this gel, it’s combined with retinol and vitamin C to wage war on stubborn pimples while reducing the appearance of acne scarring.

Goodbye Acne™ Acne Treatment Gel by Peter Thomas Roth, Sephora, $60

Copper peptides

So much more than a TikTok trend, copper peptides provide a host of benefits. Along with antioxidant properties that fight free radical damage, they can boost elastin and collagen production for plumper and firmer skin. Watch these peptides work their magic in this smoothing eye serum with retinol and caffeine that targets fine lines and puffiness.

A-Shaba Complex Retinol Eye Serum with Caffeine + Copper Peptides by Drunk Elephant, Sephora, $87

Niacinamide

This multitasker can tackle hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles while boosting the skin barrier and protecting against oxidative stress. Niacinamide lends two more of its benefits—mattifying shine and tightening pores—to this fruity toner-serum hybrid that evens tone and texture for glowing skin.

Fat Water Niacinamide Pore-Refining Toner Serum with Barbados Cherry by Fenty Skin, Sephora, $48

Mushrooms

This mighty superfood isn’t only delish—it can soothe sensitive and reactive skin, minimizing redness and inflammation, plus it boasts some serious antioxidant power. Get your dose of fungi with the reishi, chaga and cordyceps varieties in this powerful booster that can be used solo or mixed with a serum or cream.

Tri-Mushroom 10% Booster, Etiket, $39

Azelaic acid

Despite its long list of virtues, azelaic acid remains a skin-care active that flies under the radar. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, it helps to promote skin cell turnover, clear pores and reduce redness and irritation, making it a great choice for acne, hyperpigmentation, rosacea and more. Azelaic acid is the star ingredient in this serum that calms the skin for an even-toned, comfortable visage.

SuperSolutions 10% Azelaic Serum by The INKEY List, Sephora, $24

Fermented formulas

Fermentation helps break down active ingredients to enhance penetration and absorption and can even create beneficial enzymes and peptides. This nourishing face cream contains a concentrate of kombucha (a type of fermented tea) along with black tea and hyaluronic acid to plump and smooth.

Kombucha Tea Revitalizing Face Cream, Teaology, $59