Anti-Aging Skin Care Products Buying Guide
Fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity are just some of the dreaded signs of aging. While you may not be able to manipulate time you can take some measures to feel more comfortable with what you have. This does not mean that you can erase wrinkles completely. What it does mean is that by using certain products you might feel happier and more confident with what you have now by treating certain problems. For more specific information, try one of the shopping guides below. These are more targeted, more comprehensive articles, for those of you that know what you're looking for.
Remember...
- Anti-aging products
have only recently come to hold such importance in the cosmetic industry. Despite the millions of dollars spent researching the topic, there is still little evidence to prove that any of these products actually cause significant, long-lasting effects on the skin.
- Typically, lasting visible results take a while to achieve, and the majority of products only provide temporary results at best.
- Wrinkle reducing products generally work by filling in your wrinkles, as shallow wrinkles are typically the less noticeable. If you're using these products, you can expect to see the depth of your wrinkles shrink by about 10%.
- Dramatic, permanent results are only achieved through cosmetic procedures. If you expect your anti-aging product to erase your wrinkles and tighten your skin, you will be disappointed. Be realistic - your skin may look fresher and brighter, but your deep wrinkles aren't going to disappear.
- These products tend to be expensive; a moderately priced cream ($30) is often just as effective as the more expensive products. Read the labels and check ingredients before splurging - you may be able to find the same thing for less.
Ingredients to Look For:
- Antioxidants (Vitamin A, E, C, Polyphenols, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Beta-Glucan, Coenzyme Q10)
- Collagen Renewing Properties (Magnesium, Zinc, Copper, Copper Peptide, Sea Kelp, Algae, Vitamin C or Ascorbic Acid, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide)
- Emollients (Silicone, Oils and Butters, Acetyls, Glycerls, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Dimethicone)
- Exfoliating AHAs & BHAs (Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids)
- SPF (Sun protection Factor)
- Retinol (Stimulates cell renewal)
Choosing Anti-Aging Products
- Keep your budget in mind. Products are expensive and become more costly the more you use them. Also, just because one product costs more, doesn't necessarily mean that it's better for YOUR skin. Learn as much as you can and you'll be better armed against hype and misleading advertising.
- Understand your skin type to select products that will compliment it. In other words, steer clear of fragrances if you have sensitive skin. Dry skin needs extra moisture and can benefit from AHAs/BHAs but should not be treated with too much alcohol or salicylic acid because it can dry the skin.
- Prevention is always your best defense against wrinkles. Some simple things to do are to eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables, drink a minimum of eight glasses of water a day, wearing an SPF, moisturizing frequently and avoiding alcohol and tobacco will also help combat the signs of aging. Stress, lack of sleep, and anxiety will add wear and tear to your skin.
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