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About Anti-Aging Cream

by Liz Ward

Overview

One of the worst fears for most people is looking old. Wrinkles, sagging skin and brown spots give the appearance of age. Finding the right anti-aging cream is comparable to finding the fountain of youth. But there are so many anti-aging creams on the market, it can get confusing trying to decide which cream to use. Knowing what some of the ingredients do will help you pick the right anti-aging cream to fit your needs.
Sunscreen

Sunscreen is the single most important anti-aging cream you can use. Sunscreen reflects or absorbs UV light. Increasing the SPF to 30 is now recommended to prevent skin aging. The higher SPF protects against UVB rays, which cause sunburn, and UVA rays, which cause wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, at least 1 ounce at a time to all exposed skin, will provide protection. You should also apply 30 minutes before going outdoors and re-apply every 2 hours.

Collagen

There are about 27 different types of collagen in the body. Only several of them give support and structure to the skin. Wrinkles are formed when collagen diminishes. Collagen is one of the most popular ingredients in anti-aging creams, but the skin can't absorb collagen. Collagen-building products encourage the growth of new collagen. It improves skin tone, restores elasticity and reduces wrinkles. Look for products that help stimulate collagen production.
Antioxidants

Free radicals damage healthy skin cells and cause aging. They are the result of pollution, cigarette smoke, sun exposure, stress and everyday activities. Antioxidants are chemicals that protect our cells from free radicals. They can't reverse the damage already done but they can prevent more from happening. Antioxidants include vitamins C, A, E, Co Q10 and selenium. Some brands of cream target specific areas of the body, such as the hands, eyes, lips and elbows. They use a combination of antioxidants to treat each.
Retinoids

Retinoids are antioxidants derived from vitamin A. They're used to reverse sun damage, fine lines, freckles and age spots. They also replenish and strengthen collagen and elastin. Creams that include retinoids can be purchased over the counter or at a pharmacy with a perscription. Retinoids can be irritating to the skin and can make it sun sensitive if they're not used properly. They also lose potency over time.
Alpha hydroxy acids

Alpha hydroxy acids are antioxidants used to fight wrinkles and increase the skin's moisture and firmness. They're found naturally in fruits and milk and they're also manufactured. Strong alpha hydroxy acids are used in chemical peels. Peels cause the outer layer of skin to slough off, revealing a newer layer of skin underneath. The skin can become sun-sensitive, so sunscreen must also be worn. You can buy alpha hydroxy acids in lower concentrations in drugstores or in prescription strength through a dermatologist.
Effectiveness

Cost doesn't necessarily determine the effectiveness of the cream. Neither does the endorsement of a doctor or a celebrity. You may need to use anti-aging creams many weeks to see results. Non-prescription creams have lower doses of ingredients than prescription creams so the results may be limited. If you discontinue the use of a product, you may see results diminish.