The Best Wrinkle-Fighting Ingredients

Getting wrinkles is a natural part of aging that symbolizes wisdom and experience in some cultures. Unfortunately, in America, wrinkles are regarded as unattractive. Many women and even some men go to extensive lengths to try to get rid of wrinkles. Dangerous surgeries and injections are not necessary, as there are many topical ingredients that are effective in fighting wrinkles.

Retinol

The Mayo Clinic states that retinol is a compound of vitamin A, which is an antioxidant. Since it is an antioxidant, it works by neutralizing free radicals, harmful substances that break down the skin and cause wrinkles. Retinol is not as strong as another vitamin A derivative, tretinoin, which requires a prescription. Retinol does not require a prescription and can be purchased over the counter at any drug store.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid

Alpha hydroxyl acid is a laboratory synthesized version of an acid that comes naturally from the sugars found in various fruits. It acts as an exfoliate, which means it gently scrubs off the top layer of your skin to reveal a more youthful looking, less wrinkled layer of new skin below. According to the Mayo Clinic, alpha hydroxyl acid is effective at decreasing wrinkles but may increase your susceptibility to sun burn.

Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract is a very common ingredient in over-the-counter anti-wrinkle creams. According to the Mayo Clinic, green tea extract is effective in two ways for getting rid of wrinkles. The first way is that it is an antioxidant so it inhibits wrinkles caused by free radicals. The second way is that it has anti-inflammatory qualities. Decreasing inflammation of the skin can make wrinkles appear less deep. Green tea extract has soothing qualities for the skin as well.

Coenzyme Q10

Co-q10, also called coenzyme q10, helps the body in many different ways, especially in the process of energy production and possibly even in the renewal of skin cells. According to the Mayo Clinic, some studies have found that using a product with co-q 10 daily can cause a reduction of fine wrinkles over time, especially around the eyes. Although there are no reports of major side effects to using a product with co-q 10, it may cause sensitivity to the sun.

Titanium Dioxide

UVA and UVB rays from the sun cause the majority of skin problems associated with aging. ABC News found that titanium dioxide, a common ingredient in some types of sunscreen, may block some UV rays from absorbing into the skin, thereby preventing wrinkles. Titanium dioxide is found in some upper end skin care products including sunscreens, moisturizers and wrinkle creams, and it may help to prevent and get rid of wrinkles.

References

Article reviewed by YJ Last updated on: Dec 21, 2009

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