Trendy ingredients come and go, but there are so many good ingredients that slide under the radar. We’re here to shed some light on these underrated ingredients so you can search for them in your next skincare haul!

Underrated Skincare Ingredients

1. Azelaic acid

Azelaic acid is one of the more well-known ingredients on the list, but we still want to share how amazing it is. A powerful ingredient with multiple benefits for you skin! Antibacterial properties, helps remove dead skin cells, reduced hyperpigmentation and inflammation! It also addresses many skin issues and safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

If you want to see some more about azelaic acid, check out our Ingredient Guide to Brightening or Products for Hyperpigmentation to see what Picky’s top product picks are.

2. Tranexamic acid

We’ve highlighted this ingredient before, but it’s a good one that needs repeating. Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of amino acid lysine and just 5% of it has shown to help improve melasma (in comparison to hydroquinone). This ingredient is rather popular in Japanese beauty products, but can still be found in many brightening focused products.

3. Dioic acid

Bet you haven’t heard of this one. This acid actually works similarly to azelaic acid! It helps reduce bacteria growth, controls sebum production and brightens your complexion. A dream ingredient we need to be talking about more!

4. Astaxanthin

A bit of a tongue twister, but astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant derived from microalgae. Making it a great alternative for antioxidants other than vitamin C. Sadly there’s a few who can’t tolerate vitamin C derivatives due to their low pH, but astaxanthin can be your alternative! Astaxanthin helps protect your skin from any damage caused by UV and lifestyle induced free radicals.

5. Algae

Probably wouldn’t think of adding this ingredient to your routine, but actually algae is a great antioxidant and humectant. There are tons of different algae in skincare these days. From red to brown to green algae! Algae has a tremendous amount of antioxidants and adds hydration, perfect for any and all skin types or concerns!

6. Glycerin

A humectant that’s in almost every skincare product, but never the star ingredient. Primarily used as a “filler” ingredient, despite how versatile and amazing it is. It’s an affordable source of hydration for many products and helps to seal your skin’s moisture level and maintain the skin’s barrier!

7. Urea

A fun sounding ingredient that also works as a humectant at a low concentration. Urea is a smaller molecule that also works as a keratolytic (remove dead skin cells) at a higher percentage. Not only does it help improve skin hydration, but it also strengthens the skin barrier for overall healthier skin!

8. CoQ-10

CoQ10, or coenzyme Q10, is an antioxidant naturally produced by our bodies. It helps to neutralize free-radicals and protect DNA from external stressors. It can also help prevent and reverse signs of premature aging. You can apply products with CoQ-10 in the morning for extra protection and at night to boost skin regeneration.

Find More on Picky!

Have you tried any of these underrated ingredients above? Let us know which ingredients listed above are your favorite. Don’t forget to leave a review your favorite, or not so favorite, products on the Picky App. Check out the Picky website and Instagram too!