1. Tumeric
The golden spice native to south-west India is the skincare secret weapon hiding in your supermarket. Turmeric has long been tapped for its remedial benefits and when applied topically it’s said to decrease inflammation, soften the appearance of pigmentation and scarring, plus diminish signs of sun damage.
Verso Antioxidant Turmeric Booster ($139; at mecca.com.au)
2. Kakadu plum
Addicted to skincare spiked with vitamin C? Seek out products containing this native—the Australian fruit has been lauded as the world’s richest source of vitamin C, which works to brighten dull skin, soften the look of sun spots and boost collagen production for a plump, radiant complexion.
Clémence Organics Ultimate Biome Spritz ($39.95; clemenceorganics.com)
3. Prebiotics
They’re the natural partner to probiotics—creating an important symbiotic relationship in the body—and now new research suggests they’re not just good for your gut. It’s believed that feeding your skin prebiotics gives your complexion what it needs to keep the skin barrier strong, smooth and healthy looking.
Gallinée Face Vinegar ($44; mecca.com.au)
4. Peptides
When talking beauty, peptides are as complicated as it gets. Put simply, as we age, collagen in the skin breaks down, resulting in fine lines. Applied to your face, certain peptides send signals to produce new collagen, which can slow down the signs of ageing and minimise the appearance of wrinkles.
SkinVitals Detox 2–Step Active Anti-Stress Cloth Mask Treatment ($12; skinvitalsmasks.com)
5. PHAs
Only just got your head around AHAs? Think of PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) as the milder cousin of the chemical exfoliant. PHAs remove dead skin cells without irritation and, unlike AHAs, they don’t increase your skin’s sun sensitivity. PHA molecules also attract water molecules to rehydrate and plump.
Elizabeth Arden Prevage Progressive Renewal Treatment ($205; davidjones.com)
6. Niacinamide
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) has grown in popularity thanks to its e ectiveness at treating breakouts by reducing oil production, as well as its ability to minimise redness in sensitive complexions. Plus, it can shrink the size of pores and smooth uneven skin tone. The only thing this wonder ingredient won’t do? Unpack the dishwasher.
Alpha-H Vitamin B Serum ($69.95; alpha-h.com)
6. Deer Milk
Milk has been a beauty secret since Cleopatra, but skincare infused with deer’s milk is a world first. Containing natural regenerative ingredients such as zinc, protein, Vitamin E and Vitamin A, deer milk douses the skin in hydration and is effective in tackling signs of ageing. New Zealand brand Kōtia is the first to harness the benefits of the nutrient-rich ingredient.
Kotia Nourishing Cream Mask ($44; kotia.com)
