As you age, you may start to notice fine lines and wrinkles cropping up on your face. These result from damage done to your skin's collagen and elastin, says dermatologist Diane Berson, as well as exposure to the harmful effects of the sun. Although prescription treatments are available, you can also use over-the-counter products to help lessen the appearance of wrinkles and protect your skin from further damage. Creating and maintaining an anti-aging skin care routine will help your skin look healthier and more youthful. However, make sure to talk to your doctor before you begin using new products.
Step 1
Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser to refresh your skin and remove impurities. Because wrinkle treatment products can be harsh and drying, it is important to use a cleanser that will soothe your skin as well as clean it. Elle recommends Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, which claims to clean and soften all types of skin without irritation.
Step 2
Every morning, apply a moisturizer that contains sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Dermatologist Karyn Grossman, MD, recommends Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 100+, which she says is "lightweight and can double as a moisturizer." Sun damage can lead to more wrinkles, sagging skin and an uneven skin tone, says More magazine, and you should put on sunscreen regardless of whether or not you will be going outside. The sun's UV rays can penetrate windows and harm your skin even if you are indoors, says Dermatologist Leslie Baumann, MD.
Step 3
Reapply your sunscreen mid-day to ensure that your skin gets continued protection from the sun's damaging effects.
Step 4
Apply a Retinol-based cream every night before bed, after washing your face. Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, helps to smooth and exfoliate your skin, as well as stimulate collagen production, says Dr. Berson. Elle suggests using Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Anti-Wrinkle Deep Wrinkle Filler. This cream contains hyaluronic acid in addition to Retinol, and this combination of ingredients promises to smooth out your fine lines and wrinkles to create younger, more even looking skin. Over eight weeks, it claims to refill deep wrinkles as well.
Tips and Warnings
- If you have sensitive skin, you can rinse off the Retinol cream after allowing it absorb into your skin for at least two minutes. This should give you the benefits of the cream without causing as much irritation. Because Retinol-based products increase your chances of getting sunburned, it is essential to apply sunscreen every day.
Things You'll Need
- Gentle cleanser
- Moisturizer with sunscreen
- Retinol-based cream
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