Salicylic acid, a popular ingredient in skincare products, is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), a type of chemical exfoliant.

It works by helping the skin to shed dead cells from the top layer, decreasing redness and inflammation.

Exfoliating regularly with an ingredient like salicylic acid will keep your pores clear and prevent blackheads and whiteheads from developing.

Hyaluronic acid is a substance that’s naturally produced by your body, designed to retain water and keep your skin hydrated.

Because it’s naturally produced by your body, hyaluronic acid is a suitable ingredient for all skin types!

It’s even suitable for pregnant women and people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

One of the most important elements of your skincare routine should be your daily dose of SPF 30 or above.

This applies during all seasons of the year, even if it’s never particularly sunny where you live!

Not only does SPF protect your skin from the harmful UV rays that cause skin cancer, it can also prevent premature ageing.

Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A, a vital nutrient that contributes towards the normal function of cell turnover and skin renewal.

When added to skincare products, it can brighten your skin tone and prevent the early signs of ageing.

Whilst suitable for most of us, it’s usually recommended that people should start using retinol in their mid-20s or early 30s.

Knowing which ingredients to avoid in your skincare products really depends on your personal skin type.

For example, if you’ve got oily or acne-prone skin, it’s probably best to avoid products that contain a lot of different oils.

If you’ve got sensitive skin, look for products with a simple list of ingredients that don't contain any artificial fragrances.

During pregnancy, it’s important to be using products that are safe for you and your growing baby.

Mild products are usually recommended for pregnant women, so try to avoid creams and cleansers that include a huge list of ingredients and artificial fragrances.

Make sure you’re protecting your skin from sun damage, too, by using a high SPF (30 or above) with UVA protection.