This is set to be the most popular skincare ingredient in 2021
Is this already a part of your skincare routine?
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- Sign up to our newsletter Newsletter

Thanks to improving technologies and our almost unlimited access to information in the digital age, we're all so much better informed about beauty products and the skincare ingredients that will get us results.
From the best vitamin C serums (opens in new tab) to the best retinol serums (opens in new tab), it's easier than ever to cut through the fog and understand what all of these beauty buzzwords actually do in our skincare products.
So which ingredient will everybody be talking about in 2021? Beauty e-tailer Lookfantastic (opens in new tab) has just shared its predictions for the top 10 skincare ingredients that will be the most popular this year. Any ideas for which one came out on top?
According to the list, alpha arbutin will be the most popular ingredient among beauty enthusiasts, with searches surging by 410% over the last 12 months. This particular ingredient is known for its ability to help tackle skin concerns like pigmentation and acne scars.
The INKEY List Alpha Arbutin, $11.99/£9.99 (opens in new tab)
Next up on the list is azelaic acid, a great anti-inflammatory skincare ingredient that can help with a whole host of skin concerns including acne, rosacea and pigmentation. Unlike many of the popular skincare acids, it's also suitable for sensitive skin types.
And taking third place on the list is niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3. This wonder ingredient can support your skin barrier and help balance your skin's oil production, making it a great match for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Interested to see which other ingredients made the cut? Keep reading for the top 10 in full.
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%, $7.90/£5.50 (opens in new tab)
The most popular skincare ingredients for 2021
- Alpha arbutin
- Azelaic acid
- Niacinaimide (opens in new tab)
- Ascorbyl glucoside
- Acai oil
- Bakuchiol
- Ceramides
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Zinc Oxide
- Glycolic acid
Will you be adding any of these to your skincare routine this year?
Lucy is a beauty journalist who has written for titles including Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, OK!, woman&home and Women's Health, as well as regularly contributing to My Imperfect Life. Her work covers everything from skin and haircare tips to trying and testing the latest beauty launches, and interviewing celebrities and experts. A certified dog person, her other interests include mental wellbeing, books, piña coladas and not getting caught in the rain.
-
-
When do the 'Love Is Blind' season 4 episodes come out?
We're giving you a guide to those new 'Love Is Blind' season 4 episodes so you never miss a beat—second proposals and all
By Danielle Valente • Published
-
Who is Romy Croquet Mars, Sofia Coppola's TikTok-famous daughter?
TikTok users are curious: who is Sofia Coppola's daughter and why is she going viral on the app? Meet Romy Croquet Mars
By Danielle Valente • Published