3 Expert-Approved Skincare Ingredients You're Not Using
BEAUTYFEATUREDSKINCARE
We spoke with some skincare experts to uncover the most underrated ingredients they rely on. These aren’t buzzy trends. They’re gentle, effective, and backed by both research and real results.
While retinol and vitamin C often steal the skincare spotlight, some of the most effective skincare ingredients are flying completely under the radar. As some professionals will tell you, there’s a handful of lesser-known ingredients that deserve a permanent place in your routine.
We spoke with some skincare experts to uncover the most underrated ingredients they rely on. These aren’t buzzy trends. They’re gentle, effective, and backed by both research and real results. Here’s what they recommend, together with some highly rated products with these ingredients that you can check out on Amazon.
Bakuchiol: The best natural alternative to retinol
For anyone who’s ever given up on retinol due to redness, flaking, or that too-harsh sting, bakuchiol might be the game-changer. Jelena Loncaric, a makeup and eyelash specialist at Ladies Makeup, calls bakuchiol “retinol’s chill cousin.” “You get the same benefits, such as smoother skin, fewer fine lines, and a more even tone, but without the redness, flaking, or irritation that retinol can bring,” she says. “It's gentle enough for sensitive skin and even safe during pregnancy, which makes it a go-to for a lot of professionals who want results without the drama.”
Just like retinol, bakuchiol works by stimulating collagen production and speeding up cell turnover, but without increasing sun sensitivity. And unlike many active ingredients, it plays nicely with others. A 2022 study also confirmed bakuchiol’s impressive anti-aging results, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. “Once you start using it, you may wonder why it’s not in everything,” Loncaric adds.
Check out these top-rated bakuchiol skincare products on Amazon:
Herbivore Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum – Vegan, clean, and gentle enough for daily use.
Ole Henriksen Wrinkle Blur Bakuchiol Eye Gel Creme – Bakuchiol-powered eye gel that smooths and fights signs of aging
Dr.Jart+ Prejuvenation Firming Bakuchiol Serum – Lightweight K-beauty serum with bakuchiol that firms, brightens, and restores youthful bounce
Azelaic acid: The most overlooked ingredient for breakouts and redness
Azelaic acid doesn’t get the same spotlight as salicylic or glycolic acid, but it's one of the most quietly effective ingredients in skincare. Dr. Shamsa Kanwal, a consultant dermatologist with myHSteam, says she often recommends it to patients who can’t tolerate stronger actives like retinoids or have uneven tone and breakouts.
“It's incredibly versatile and gentle enough for sensitive skin, yet effective for a range of concerns like acne, rosacea, pigmentation, and dullness,” she explains. “Unlike stronger acids, it's anti-inflammatory and doesn't cause irritation or peeling when used correctly.
Backed by a 2024 review of its therapeutic uses, azelaic acid can help calm the skin, unclog pores, and reduce marks left behind by acne or sun damage. And unlike other acids, it won’t leave your skin feeling stripped or tight.
Check out these top-rated azelaic acid skincare products on Amazon:
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% – A no-frills, effective formula that's great for brightening and gentle exfoliation
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster – Smooths skin, calms redness, and layers easily under makeup
Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10% – A well-rounded option with niacinamide and vitamin C for extra brightness
Sesderma AZELAC RU Liposomal Facial Serum – A more intensive option often recommended for dark spots and melasma
Rooibos: The best botanical ingredient for sensitive skin
If your skin reacts to everything, rooibos might just be your skincare soulmate. Native to South Africa, this herbal plant is traditionally brewed as a calming tea, but its soothing benefits also extend to your face.
“Its structure is so unique that it cannot be found in any other plant or species on earth, gifting it with one-of-a-kind antioxidant properties to help us fight those free radicals and environmental stressors,” says FIGGI Beauty founder Dr. Jeanne Retief. “Since sensitive skin commonly does not react well to exfoliating acids, rooibos stands out again by providing AHAs derived from a natural source in low concentrations, making it much gentler than the versions found in chemical derivatives and those you would find in chemical peels. Naturally rich in zinc, it can further help boost the efficacy of your sunscreen and aid in preventing breakouts.”
Today, Dr. Retief incorporates green rooibos extract into her entire skincare line, from face rinses to eye masks. “I focus on a skincare regimen formulated with green rooibos extract, like the FIGGI Beauty line for dry, sensitive skin,” she adds. “I also indulge in rooibos baths, rinse my face with rooibos-infused water in the mornings, and enjoy rooibos eye masks by placing rooibos tea bags on my eyes for 5-10 minutes.”
Check out these top-rated rooibos skincare products on Amazon:
Our Aroma Rooibos Tea Infused Facial Serum - A calming, antioxidant-rich serum that soothes sensitivity and helps reduce signs of aging.
Bioactive Calendula + DMAE Ultimate Repair Face Cream - A firming, restorative cream with rooibos and rose to smooth, hydrate, and visibly lift.
These skincare ingredients deserve more love
While everyone else is reaching for trendy exfoliants or another retinol serum, you could be using ingredients that are just as powerful and much gentler. Bakuchiol smooths and firms without irritation. Azelaic acid brightens, calms, and clears breakouts. And rooibos? It’s like a comforting cup of tea for your skin with added anti-aging perks.
These expert-approved ingredients prove that gentle doesn’t mean ineffective. Sometimes, the most underrated actives are the ones your skin will thank you for most.
Disclaimer: The advice and product recommendations in this article are for general guidance and inspiration. Since skincare is highly personal, results may vary depending on your individual skin type and concerns. Please remember to patch test new products before use to ensure compatibility with your skin. We also recommend consulting with a dermatologist or skincare expert before trying new products, especially if you have specific skin conditions. This article may also contain affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them at no cost to you. We are also part of the Amazon Associates program.