The skincare world is packed with trendy ingredients, but sometimes it feels like you need a translator to make sense of them all: niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, retinol … how much is hype and what truly supports your skin’s health?

Let’s take a closer look at six popular skincare buzzwords—what they are, how they work, and why they may benefit your skin from a dermatological and wellness perspective.

Niacinamide

A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide is well-supported by research for its ability to strengthen the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and regulate oil production. A strong skin barrier is essential—it helps keep out harmful pathogens and environmental irritants while locking in moisture.

Health-related benefits include: 

• Boosts hydration by improving skin barrier function
• Calms inflammation, which can reduce redness or acne flare-ups
• May help reduce risk of skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma in high-risk individuals
• Supports healthy aging by reducing fine lines and hyperpigmentation

This popular ingredient is considered safe, although allergic reactions are possible. Start with a product that has a low concentration (most contain 5% or less of niacinamide), then apply over a small area of your skin and watch for any reaction. In general, niacinamide is appropriate for any individual dealing with acne or early signs of aging.

Hyaluronic Acid

Naturally found in the body—especially in the eyes, joints, and skin—hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture and cushion tissues. As we age, our skin produces less hyaluronic acid, which can lead to dryness, cracking, and reduced elasticity.

Why it matters for health:

• Prevents dryness and flaking that can lead to skin breakdown or irritation
• Supports wound healing and helps maintain the skin’s integrity
• Reinforces the skin’s barrier to reduce risk of infection or damage

Products with multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid can hydrate both the surface and deeper layers of the skin.

Ceramides

Ceramides are natural lipids (fat)  that make up about 50% of the skin’s outer layer. They’re essential for creating a protective barrier that keeps out irritants and holds in moisture.

Health benefits include:

• Reduces skin sensitivity by reinforcing the barrier against pollutants and allergens
• Helps manage chronic dry skin or conditions like eczema
• Decreases trans-epidermal water loss to prevent dehydration and cracking

Use ceramide-rich products on slightly damp skin for best absorption.

Peptides

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that signal the body to produce collagen and elastin, both of which give skin strength and flexibility. Collagen production naturally declines with age.

Skin health relevance:

• May help maintain structural integrity of skin, reducing the risk of thinning or tearing
• Could support recovery after environmental damage, such as UV exposure
• Useful for people starting to see decreased skin elasticity

Not all peptides are created equal, so consistency and formulation matter.

Retinal and Retinol

These vitamin A derivatives promote cell turnover and collagen synthesis, essential for skin regeneration and repair. Retinal (retinaldehyde) is more potent than retinol and may show faster results.

Health-related uses:

• Helps unclog pores and manage acne
• Promotes faster skin renewal, which supports wound healing and reduces buildup of dead cells
• Proven to reduce signs of photoaging and sun damage over time

Because they increase sun sensitivity, daily sunscreen use is a must.

The Bottom Line

These ingredients offer more than cosmetic perks—they actively support your skin’s function, resilience, and long-term health. Keeping your skin hydrated, balanced, and protected can help prevent infections, manage conditions like eczema or acne, and reduce premature aging.

The skin is your body’s largest organ—take care of it. Consider scheduling an annual visit with a board-certified dermatologist to catch concerns early and personalize your skincare routine. If you're enrolled in a Transocean Medical Plan, visit UHC to locate an in-network dermatologist.