Definition: Quercetin

This flavonoid (a type of vegetable-derived compound) has been popping up in lots of products lately, promising skin texture and anti-ageing benefits. Evidence has yet to show whether it's really the holy grail of skincare ingredients, but quercetin certainly does have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. If you're in the market for a new magic makeup must-have or have have trouble with skin inflammation and irritation, there are plenty of products that offer quercetin as their signature ingredient. If you want to go Greek, Korres makes a Quercetin and Oak Anti-Ageing Night Cream ($64.95). If you have easily irritated skin, Smashbox Camera Ready Full Cover Foundation ($44) also uses quercetin. Meanwhile, if you're worried about free radicals and age spots, try Laura Mercier Flawless Skin Tone Perfecting Creme ($135). The cheapest and most direct route, though, is to buy quercetin nutritional supplements, like Alpha-H AlphaCeuticals Capsules ($69.95).