As your skin matures it tends to undergo a gradual process of deterioration. Older skin loses firmness, becomes thinner and is prone to wrinkling, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). As time marches on, the body's ability to make collagen, the protein that keeps skin plump and youthful looking, slows down. The best products for aging skin promote hydration and encourage collagen production. Anti-aging creams can take several weeks or months to work, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Retinol and Tretinoin
The antioxidant cream retinol is a vitamin A compound that's available over-the-counter to help treat wrinkles, according to the Mayo Clinic. Antioxidants disable erratic molecules known as free radicals. These particles can damage skin cells and cause fine lines and wrinkles.
Retinol is essentially a diluted version of prescription tretinoin, sold commercially as Retin-A. The FDA has approved tretinoin cream to treat wrinkles.
Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Exfoliants
Exfoliating the skin with alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid or the beta hydroxy acid salicylic acid, may erase fine lines and produce a smoothing effect. Exfoliation removes the outer layer of skin by clearing away dead skins. This allows new, fresher looking skin to grow. Hydroxy acids may also encourage collagen production, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Topical Vitamin E
Anti-aging creams and lotions that contain the antioxidant vitamin E, especially a form known as alpha tocopherol, can help smooth rough skin and soften the appearance of wrinkles, according to the UMMC. Vitamin E protects body tissue from the damaging effects free radicals.
Niacinamide
The B complex vitamin niacinamide may help treat skin wrinkles, especially those that form around the eyes, notes the UMMC.
A study published in October 2004 in the "International Journal of Cosmetic Science" found moisturizers that contain 5 percent niacinamide minimized wrinkles, age spots and red blotchiness. The study was led by D.L. Bissett of the Procter & Gamble Company, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Moisturizers
The hydrating effects of moisturizers may give older skin a more youthful glow. Moisturizers help retain water in the skin which may temporarily lessen the appearance of fine lines, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Sunscreen
Wearing sunscreen year round can help guard skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays that can cause premature wrinkles and age spots. The AAD recommends applying a sunscreen with an Sun Protection Factor or SPF of at least 30 about 20 minutes before going outdoors.
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