Style Skincare Superpower Skin Care Ingredients That We're Calling MVPs Look for these ingredients to target your specific skin care concerns. By Patricia Shannon Patricia Shannon Patricia Shannon gives how-to content a can-do attitude, sharing her knowledge and research on housekeeping, decorating, gardening, etiquette, beauty, and more. She has been writing and editing lifestyle content for more than a decade. Southern Living's editorial guidelines Published on April 7, 2020 Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: Robbie Caponetto; Styling: Mary Beth Wetzel 1. Retinol Consider retinol (vitamin A) the antiaging MVP. It reduces fine lines and wrinkles by resurfacing skin. Encapsulated formulas provide a gentler process that's ideal for sensitive skin. Try It: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum, $20; ulta.com 2. Glycolic Acid The tiniest of the alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), glycolic acid is a go-to for even exfoliation. It boosts cell turnover, resulting in improved tone and texture as well as more radiant skin. Try It: SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Cleanser, $38; dermstore.com 3. Ceramides The waxy molecules found naturally in the skin's outermost layer are a power player for soothing irritation and dryness by rebuilding and strengthening the lipid barrier. Try It: Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream, $60; sephora.com 4. Vitamin C Fight back against dullness with a complexion-brightening antioxidant that works double time to shield against current UV damage and also minimize issues from the past. Try It: Elizabeth Arden Vitamin C Ceramide Capsules Radiance Renewal Serum, from $48; dillards.com 5. Hyaluronic Acid This hydrator, which is actually a sugar that's naturally produced by our bodies, can hold more than 1,000 times its weight in water. Products that employ its thirst-quenching skills are formulated to sit on top of skin, providing a blanket of hydration. Try It: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, $25; ulta.com 6. Salicylic Acid When applied to oily and acne-prone skin, the most commonly used beta hydroxy acid (BHA) works to lightly exfoliate, reduce breakouts, help smooth bumpy skin, and unclog pores. Try It: Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, $30; dermstore.com Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit