Wrinkle Creams – The Fountain Of Youth… For Sale

So what makes an anti-wrinkle beauty product work? What does it need to have in order to be effective? When choosing among over-the-counter brands, it is often wise to go with those products containing popular and well-studied ingredients that are healthy for the skin. Beware of claims like “natural” or “fortified with vitamins and minerals.” These are merely marketing ploys and even outright lies. The first thing you should do is read the list of ingredients and figure out if the product is worth your time. Below is a list of ingredients that “effective” wrinkle lotions have.

Retinol – It is very popular among potent anti-wrinkle products. It is an anti-oxidant. Anti-oxidants neutralize free-radicals, unstable molecules that destroy skin cells. Tretinoin, a similar Vitamin A derivative, is the only FDA-approved ingredient to treat wrinkles. Retinol also works deep in the skin's surface to increase skin cell renewal. Sloughing of dead skin cells is a typical effect of retinol. Consequently, people become more prone to dangerous UV rays when using Retinol because their skin becomes thinner. Other side effects include increased skin sensitivity and redness.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids – Relatively new, alpha hydroxy acids are derived from fruits. These acids stimulate the production of a protein called collagen. Collagen thickens the skin and prevents water loss, which in turn makes the skin look more hydrated. These acids provide an exfoliating action on the skin, stimulating new cell growth. Similar to Retinol, alpha hydroxy acids make users more susceptible to the harmful rays of the sun. Anti-wrinkle products containing alpha hydroxy acids are not as effective as Retinol-based products, but are very suitable for those with sensitive skin.

Vitamin E – It's an anti-oxidant that is naturally found in the body. It is purported to neutralize free radicals, slowing the skin aging process. Vitamin E is less potent when applied topically. It is widely believed that ingesting Vitamin E pills is more preferable than applying it directly on the skin. Nevertheless, studies have shown that Vitamin E in cosmetic products can slightly reduce wrinkles.

Green Tea – Cachetins are found in green tea, which are also believed to be anti-oxidants. It is claimed that green tea prevents sun damage to the skin. The exact mechanism is still not known and further studies are needed to ascertain its effectiveness in anti-wrinkle products. It is generally accepted, however, that green tea is a mild ingredient and has no side effects.

Vitamin C – Works as an anti-oxidant and has an exfoliating action that rids us of old skin cells. Vitamin C as an anti-aging ingredient has not been studied well, but many skin care cosmetic companies are already using it in their anti-wrinkle products. It is also believed to help utilize Vitamin E more effectively.

Be careful not to fall for marketing hype and catchy slogans. Many branded anti-wrinkle products brandish exotic ingredients that have not been studied carefully. These anti-wrinkle products can possibly do you more harm than good. Even the most expensive anti-wrinkle products are not necessarily safe.

While the choices for over-the-counter anti-aging products are many, there is no substitute for professional advice. Any person who is serious about getting rid of wrinkles should consult a dermatologist and get a prescription. We all have different skin types, and skin treatment should take this into account. At the very least, ask for some advice as to which over-the-counter wrinkle cream is effective.