Wrinkle Creams FAQ:
I should have asked this question a different way. Im still in my early 20’s, I just want to start using things now to prevent lines and wrinkles that may come later.
I should have asked this question a different way. Im still in my early 20’s, I just want to start using things now to prevent lines and wrinkles that may come later.
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you need proper skin care
At your age, any good moisturizer will do as long as you use it every day. The most important thing for you at this age is to USE SUNSCREEN (or a moisturizer with sunscreen in it, at least 15 SPF.) All the wrinkle cream in the world won’t be able to prevent or undo the damage that the sun does to your skin. I have always been very good about using sunscreen, and have been told many times that I have “the skin of a much younger woman”. (I’m almost 44 and people usually guess that I’m in my mid thirties) My mother and sister did not take the same care about the sun, and their skin looks much older.
Vitamin A (retinol)
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative and is the first antioxidant to be widely used in OTC wrinkle creams. Antioxidants are substances that neutralize free radicals — unstable oxygen molecules that break down skin cells and cause wrinkles. Retinol is less potent than the vitamin A derivative tretinoin, the only prescription topical treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating wrinkles. Both retinol and tretinoin can cause redness and irritation, but retinol’s side effects are usually milder.
Claim. Works deep below the skin’s surface to smooth wrinkles.
Brand examples. RoC Retinol Actif Pur Anti-Wrinkle Treatment, L’Oreal Dermo-Expertise Line Eraser Pure Retinol Night Treatment.
The facts. Retinol concentration varies from product to product, and the FDA warns that some OTC preparations may contain almost no retinol. Avoid Vitamin A derivatives if you’re pregnant or may become pregnant because they increase the risk of birth defects.
Hydroxy acids
Alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and poly hydroxy acids are all synthetic versions of acids derived from sugar-containing fruits. These acids are exfoliants, substances that remove the upper layer of old, dead skin and stimulate the growth of smooth, evenly pigmented new skin.
Claim. Improve the look of deeper lines and wrinkles while increasing skin hydration.
Brand examples. Kiss My Face Peaches & Creme Moisturizer with 8% Alpha Hydroxy Acids, M.D. Forte ****** Cream III with Glycolic Acid.
The facts. Hydroxy acids stimulate production of collagen, a protein that thickens skin and prevents water loss. Use of these acids may lead to modest improvements in fine lines and wrinkles. Side effects may include burning, itching, pain and possible scarring. Since hydroxy acids increase your susceptibility to sun damage, apply sun protection during use and for at least one week afterward.