Multiple-ingredients products, your new holy grail

What Is Single-Ingredient Skincare?

Simply said, single-component cosmetic solutions have just one active ingredient that targets a single problem. Clinical skincare labels can be traced back to the popularity of products that focus on a certain hero component. Some skincare devotees use single-ingredient products for specific reasons, like hand-picking precise compounds that will best target their key skin issues and layer them accordingly. For example, depending on the severity of your skin troubles, you may opt to use one single-ingredient product, such as niacinamide 10% and zinc 1%, or combine many single-ingredient products into a routine. However, there are certain issues that can arise with the sole focus on single ingredient products.

Problems of Single-Ingredient Products

1. Multiple layers lead to less effectiveness

Since the purpose of single ingredient products are often hyper focused to tackle one particular problem at a time instead of an efficient combination of multiple solutions in one product, many people apply additional layers of different single ingredient products on their skin to achieve the same result. However, there are common issues that stem from this. For one, it’s quite likely that you’re compromising on optimal absorption of active ingredients into the skin. Too many layers can essentially reduce the effectiveness of each component from single-ingredient products, which leads to a more time-consuming and less efficient process of adding too much stuff on the skin for lesser effect.

2. Interaction risks from multiple layers

On top of this, it’s difficult to tell how these separate ingredients will react with one another when you apply them all at the same time. When you use a string of single-ingredient products, it’s similar to bypassing the experts and formulating your own skincare formulas at home. Mixing formulations from single-ingredient products by adding multiple layers could lead to the risk of bad interactions between different products. 

3. Clogged pores

Using multiple single-ingredient products at the same time might also lead to clogged pores caused by the overloading of substances on the skin. You also run the risk of developing a more dull complexion over time because multiple layers can prevent proper exfoliation and compromise the stratum corneum (which is the surface layer of the skin which contains dead horn cells).

4. Tedious and costly in the long run

The strength of each product relies on one single ingredient, which means that daily usage can be a tedious chore that requires multiple layers of products that are all working to solve different issues. If you’re only focusing on one issue at a time instead of caking on heavy layers to solve various issues, then that’s fine. However, people are lured into the habit of multiple layers which can not only be time-consuming but expensive too in the long run. Buying a whole set of single-ingredient products to constantly work on your skin leads to more expenses.

Why You Should Opt For Multiple Ingredients

1. Targeting multiple concerns

You’ll need a lengthier list of active ingredients if you have more than one skincare condition, such as dry skin, acne, or pigmentation. Numerous active components can help you tackle many concerns with a single solution, rather than layering multiple treatments, which can contribute to clogged pores and skin in some circumstances.

2. Price sensitivity

If you’re using a single-ingredient product and have numerous problems, you’ll need to layer a few of them to ensure that your skin gets all of the active ingredients it needs. If you’re a price-conscious shopper, a decent multi-ingredient product is preferable to several single-ingredient items.

3. Skin maintenance

Multi-ingredient products are great for skincare and regular upkeep, as well as when you’re not trying to solve a specific problem. Once the intensity of one’s skin issues has lessened, one may choose to employ traditional multi-ingredient compositions as a maintenance tool.

4. Lack of time

Those who are familiar with cosmetic science and have more than a basic understanding of skincare can design their routine by mixing and matching single-ingredient products. However, for individuals who only know the essentials and don’t have the time to do further study or engage in multi-step regimens, a well-formulated multi-ingredient product with fewer ingredients will allow less space for error.

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OLUMES is a clean beauty brand harnessing the wisdom of the rich heritage of Kadazan-Dusun culture that practices an age-old beauty secret using Borneo’s rich botanical treasure. 

Learn more at https://www.olumes.com/