Salicylic acid named most popular beauty ingredient of 2021
Salicylic acid is the most searched-for beauty ingredient of 2021, with 73,000 monthly searches, according to new research by cosmetics brand New Nordic.
The research assessed search volume data of 30 popular beauty ingredients from the past year to reveal the top 10 most searched for, with the exfoliating acid coming top. Salicylic acid dissolves dead skin cells, revealing a smoother and clearer complexion, as well as keeping pores clear and reducing acne, even helping to prevent future breakouts.
Hyaluronic acid came in second place with 64,000 monthly searches for the skin plumping and hydrating ingredient. It has anti-wrinkle properties, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and preventing new lines from developing. Niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3, took third place with 59,000 searches.
The ingredient can help build proteins in the skin and lock in moisture to prevent environmental damage, minimising the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles, as well as redness.
Collagen placed fourth in the ranking and retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, finished the top five with 50,000 monthly searches, the report found. The rise in ingredient searches comes as consumers turn to simple products to make a big impact on their skincare routine, as minimalist skincare – aka “skinimalism”– grows in popularity.