Turning back the clock of aging skin is not a fad. Instead, with advancing technologythere are various ways this can be achieved. Among them, creams and serums are the most common methods, as they are easily available and affordable. But, what makes them so effective? It is the ingredients, of course!
Let’s take a look at the proven ingredients known to slow the effects of time on skin common in many anti-aging skin care products.
Adenosine
Adenosine triphosphate ( ATP) is a type of a molecule that is the leading source of energy for the majority of cellular and muscular functions. It is highly capable of boosting the levels of proteins, such as collagen and elastin, in the body. These proteins play a crucial role in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. In particular, adenosine has been found to combat crow’s feet that form around the eyes. It is regular application can help to reduce deep wrinkles on the forehead, too.
Vitamin C
As it ages, the body’s ability to produce collagen and elastin – the compounds that keep the skin strong, resilient, and flexible – slows down. The antioxidants found in vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, help boost the production of collagen, thus, minimizing fine lines, wrinkles, and even scars. Additionally, vitamin C shields the skin from the sun by protecting it from ultraviolet rays. Doing so prevents the skin from sunburns, as well as the consequences of long-term sun exposure, such as skin cancer.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a special type of antioxidant called phytoalexins. It is found in abundance in the skin of red grapes, red wine, purple grape juice, peanuts, and raspberries. In plants, it is synthesized as a defense against invading fungi. Researchers have found similar protective benefits can be passed to humans when resveratrol is consumed. It protects the body’s cells from the damaging process of oxidation. It also promotes a healthy inflammatory response in the body, preventing premature aging.
Coenzyme Q-10
Ubiquinone is a popular dietary supplement also known by the name of coenzyme Q-10. The body naturally produces it in order to zap free radicals in the cells. But, as one ages, this lipid-like substance is reduced in the cells of the body, making the skin cells more vulnerable to damage by free radicals. Thus, this ingredient, in the form of supplements, as well as topical creams, helps to build the foundation needed for younger-looking skin. According to some researchers, coenzyme Q-10 supplements aid in preventing heart disease, too.
Niacinamide
Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is the ultimate, multitasking, antiaging all-star. It has been found to drastically reduce the appearance of visibly enlarged pores, as well as reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. It is considered a cell-communicating ingredient which tells skin cells how to behave in a younger and healthier manner. On top of that, niacinamide also works to strengthen the skin’s outer layers while reducing irritation and improving elasticity, leaving behind a more even, smoother, and less-lined skin.
Retinol
Retinol is an essential ingredient in many anti-aging cream. Retinol is vitamin A in its purest form. It works by prompting surface skin cells to turn over and die rapidly, thus making way for new cell growth underneath. This way they stop the breakdown of collagen required for a healthy and plump skin from further thickening the deeper layer of the skin where wrinkles get their head start. Dermatologists often prescribe tretinoin and retinoic acid that is 100 times as potent as retinol. However, for a new client, retinol is highly recommended to start with in order to build up slowly to prescription strength.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Beta Hydroxy Acids
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acids (BHA) are basically chemical exfoliants used in skin care products. They are both known to offer anti-aging benefits by exfoliating skin, as well as stimulating healthy collagen production for a firmer skin. However, knowing which one to use depends on other additional concerns. For example, to tackle the advanced signs of sun damage and dryness, AHA exfoliants are ideal. For wrinkles, uneven skin tone, loss of firmness, breakouts, or enlarged pores, BHA are the way to go. Clients can also alternate between the two every other day or use one in the morning and the other at night.
Peptides
Peptides are fragments of protein made up of amino acid. Proteins are the basic building blocks of the skin. Without peptides, the skin results in loss of firmness, elasticity change in texture, and appearance of wrinkles. However, not all peptides are created equal. Most are formulated to perform one or two tasks, such as stimulating collagen production or relaxing muscles to minimize facial expression lines. Thus, different peptides can be combined to address multiple skin needs.
The important thing when it comes to anti-aging skin care products is to be cautious. Not everything will be effective, especially if they lack these ingredients. So, make it a point to examine ingredient lists to find products that will produce the best results.
Tressie Dawson is a skin care expert and a blogger. Born in a family of dermatologists, her life revolves around things that are healthy, natural, and keep the sanctity of skin alive. Dawson uses her passion for writing to share her observations and experiences with various skin products to make the lives of her readers better. She is a big fan of Revitol anti aging cream, as it works on wrinkles and fine lines. revitol.us