When it comes to innovative, effective active ingredients in skin care, growth factor is absolutely at the top of that list. While it doesn't receive as much buzz as other trendy active ingredients, there has been a lot of discussion around growth factors in the science community over the years.
Growth Factor Sunscreen combines advanced skincare technology with sun protection. Infused with growth factors, it enhances skin repair and regeneration while shielding against harmful UV rays. This innovative formula not only prevents sun damage but also supports healthy skin ageing, promoting a youthful, radiant complexion
What Are Growth Factors?
Growth factors are proteins that are naturally produced by skin cells and responsible for maintaining homeostasis, which helps you keep your skin alive and healthy. These cells are naturally secreted by the immune system. However, when formulated appropriately in a laboratory, they boost the production of elastin, collagen, and glycosaminoglycan.
Gail Naughton, a regenerative medicine researcher and growth-factor formulator, likens growth factors to keys, and their respective receptors to locks. “When the key clicks into the lock, it activates the cell to do things, like grow and divide, make more collagen and elastin, or increase blood flow.” As we age, this process begins to slow down and the skin slowly begins to produce less and less of these beneficial growth factors; leading to less cell growth, and thinner, less supple skin.
What Do Growth Factors Do?
The purpose of growth factors is to act as a healing agent. The substance can help to "boost collagen synthesis, prompt cells to produce components that improve skin firmness and elasticity, strengthen the skin barrier and repair and rejuvenate skin," added board-certified dermatologist Dr Sejal Shah.
Who Should Be Using Growth Factors?
As with all other active ingredients in skincare products, you must do a patch test before adding anything new to your routine. And while growth factors occur naturally in your body, meaning those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema are also free to use them, the product might contain other ingredients (Fragrances, stabilisers or preservatives) that can harm your dermis.
This is especially important in the case of sunscreen! Sun damage on healthy skin can already have a devastating effect (Which is why we're such big proponents of adding it to your daily routine), just think of how bad the damage could be if you're also reacting to the sunscreen you've applied to protect yourself.
Skin + Me Daily Defence Oil-free SPF 50 Sunscreen
Skin + Me Daily Defence Oil-free SPF 50 SunscreenOne of the first non-prescription products developed by the UK brand Skin+Me, the Daily Defence Oil-free SPF 50 Sunscreen was created with all skin types in mind. It has a lightweight formula and boasts a variety of skin-loving and antioxidant ingredients, while also being fragrance and oil-free. Featherlight and perfect to layer under makeup this stunning sunscreen primes and protects your skin without leaving the dreaded white-cast.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide & Vitamin E
Skin Types: All Skin Types
Beauty Pie Super Healthy Skin Featherlight UVA/UVB SPF 50 Sunscreen + Primer
Beauty Pie Super Healthy Skin Featherlight UVA/UVB SPF 50 Sunscreen + PrimerA featherlight SPF 50, with a light-absorbing DNA Shield & Chromophores to help fight inflammation and sun damage, the Super Healthy Skin Featherlight UVA/UVB SPF 50 Sunscreen + Primer from Beauty Pie is a must-have product to add to your suitcase. With an easy, lightweight application, no white case and a non-comedogenic formula, we're not shocked by their litany of rave reviews from delighted customers.
Key Ingredients: Vita Freeze, Vitis Vita, UVA & UVB
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid Non-Perfumed Suncream SPF50+
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid Non-Perfumed Suncream SPF50+ 50mlIf you're planning a day at the beach or a trip to the pool on your sunny vacation then look no further than the La Roche-Posay's Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid Non-Perfumed Suncream. Sweat and sand-resistant, the high-protection sun cream creates a lightweight veil on the skin with an invisible, non-greasy finish. Powered by the brand's UVMune 400 UV filter, it protects against UVB and UVA rays, meaning you can lounge on the beach or play in the waves to your heart's content!
Key Ingredients: Mexoryl 400 & Netlock Technology
Skin Types: Sensitive Skin
Sonrei Skin Clearly Zinq Tinted Hydrating Facial SPF 35 + Growth Factor Sunscreen Mineral Gel/Primer
Sonrei Skin Clearly Zinq Tinted Hydrating Facial SPF 35 + Growth Factor Sunscreen Mineral Gel/PrimerThe first and only facial sunscreen infused with the clinically proven benefits of Kinetin, a plant-based growth factor, in an elegant tinted mineral gel/primer. The Sonrei Skin Clearly Zinq Tinted Hydrating Facial SPF 35 + Growth Factor Sunscreen Mineral Gel/Primer can be used as a makeup-gripping primer under foundation or on its own for a flawless look.
Key Ingredients: Non-Nano Zinc Oxide
Skin Types: All Skin Types