As your skin ages, it gradually loses the elastin and collagen fibers that help tokeep it smooth and firm, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, or AAD. Aging skin also tends to become thinner, loose and more susceptible to fine lines and wrinkles. A couple of generations ago, the choices for younger looking skin were essentially limited to hoping for the best with cold cream or getting face-lift surgery. Nowadays, a number of viable options exist to turn back or at least slow the hands of time.
Simple Moisturizers
Moisturizers cannot treat wrinkles, but they can minimize their appearance by preventing water from escaping from the skin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC.
Moisturizers often contain humectants that pull water from deep within the tissues to the outermost layer of the skin to create a temporary plumping effect. Some moisturizers may contain emollients that fill in gaps between skin cells, thus creating a smoothing effect.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a nutrient that helps manage energy production in cells and may protect the skin from sun damage, according to the Mayo Clinic.
A Japanese study published in 2008 in the journal Biofactors found that coenzyme Q10 may have rejuvenating effects on wrinkled skin. The study was led by M. Inui of Tokiwa Pharmaceutical Company Product Development, Japan.
Tretinoin
Creams that contain vitamin A can accelerate cellular turnover and thereby promote younger-looking skin, according to the AAD.
Tretinoin sold under the brand names Renova or Retin-A, is a vitamin-A derivative available by prescription only. The collagen-boosting effects of tretinoin may diminish fine lines and wrinkles, liver spots, and help smooth skin. It may take up to six months to see noticeable improvements.
Retinol
Retinol is an over-the-counter vitamin A that is similar to tretinoin, but is less potent. Retinol is the first antioxidant to be commonly used in wrinkle creams that does not require a doctor's prescription, according to the Mayo Clinic. Its effects may be more modest and short-lived than tretinoin.
Hydroxy Acids
Hydroxy acids, including alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and poly hydroxy acids are synthetic versions of acids derived from fruits, and have exfoliating effects on the skin, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Hydroxy acids speed up cellular turnover that tends to become sluggish with age. They work by eliminating the outer layer of dead skin and stimulating the growth of new, smoother skin.
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