The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) describes intrinsic aging as a "continuous process" that's part and parcel of getting older. Collagen production in the skin is reduced. Elastin, which gives skin its resilience, has less of a spring. The turnover of new skin cells slows down. Wrinkles, sagging skin and skin that is thin and translucent are all a part of the intrinsic aging process. The best cure for wrinkles and other signs of aging is to use preventive measures before this process becomes noticeable.
Causes of Aging Skin
Intrinsic aging begins when you are in your mid-20s, says the AAD, although wrinkles may not appear on your face for quite a number of years later. Hastening along the intrinsic aging process are factors of extrinsic aging--namely sun exposure or photo-aging. Other factors, however, that cause aging skin are facial expressions, smoking and sleeping with your face against the pillow the same way for years. By the time most people are in their 50s, the results of the ever-present pull of gravity are noticeable as the elasticity of the skin goes into pronounced decline, says the AAD.
Prevention is Important
The best antiaging skin care is found at any drugstore or pharmacy--sunscreen. Both the AAD and cosmetics expert Paula Begoun emphasize the importance of daily sunscreen use and avoiding intentional sun-bathing. The AAD recommends a product with a sun protection factor of at least 30 (Begoun recommends one with an SPF of at least 15) at least 20 minutes before going outside and reapplying it after you sweat or go swimming. The AAD also advises staying out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and wearing a wide-brimmed hat and other protective clothing when outdoors.
Wrinkle Creams' Effectiveness
Mayo Clinic experts caution against non-prescription consumer products purporting to be a "face-lift in a bottle." As Begoun points out, wrinkles and aging skin are the result of accumulated sun exposure and the decline of your skin. Certain active ingredients can, however, reduce the appearance of fine lines. When choosing your antiaging skin care products, it is helpful to become an avid label-reader. The Mayo Clinic cites some active ingredients that have been proven to improve aging skin modestly, including hydroxy acids, retinol, coenzyme Q10, copper peptides, kinetin and black and green tea extracts.
Other Antiaging Skin Care
Another problem characteristic of aging skin is "sun spots," which are caused either by sun exposure or hormones, says Begoun. She recommends using an over-the-counter (OTC) topical product that contains 1 or 2 percent hydroquinone, a mild bleaching agent. Hydroquinone-based topicals are available in creams, gels and lotions. Begoun says that this active ingredient has a long track record of safety and effectiveness. Topicals with a higher concentration of hydroquinone (up to 4 percent) are available only with a doctor's prescription.
Other Prescription Skin Care
Tretinoin cream (retinoic acid) is one of the more popular prescription medications for fine wrinkles, says the AAD, as it's approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this particular treatment. Tretinoin cream, which is also used to resolve acne, must be applied routinely for several months before improvement is noted. This medication, which may go by the trade names of Retin-A, Renova or Avita, also smooths out rough patches in the skin and reduces irregular pigmentation. Begoun describes these medications as "gold standards among topical prescription products for improving the appearance of sun-damaged ... skin."
Consumer Smarts
Mayo Clinic experts and the AAD point out that consumer "wrinkle cures" are not approved by the FDA, so any claims made by a particular product should not be considered a guarantee. Before you choose your antiaging skin care, educate yourself about OTC products.
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