There are so many over-the-counter wrinkle creams available on the market it can be difficult to separate the effective products from the snake oil. Some over-the-counter wrinkle creams contain active ingredients that are proven by doctors to help eliminate and prevent fine lines and wrinkles, while others do not. Before spending your weekly paycheck on a product that is not proven to work, become a smart shopper who can select the most effective wrinkle product on the shelf.
Step 1
Shop for products that contain retinol, but don't expect prescription-strength results. Retinol, which is derived from vitamin A, may show a "slight to modest" improvement in fine lines and wrinkles, according to the Mayo Clinic. Retinol is an over-the-counter version of its stronger counterpart, Retin-A, which may provide more drastic results than over-the-counter retinol.
Step 2
Seek out coenzyme Q10 for wrinkles around the eye area. Coenzyme Q10 can help even out energy production in cells and, according to the Mayo Clinic, may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes with no side effects.
Step 3
Shop with suspicion. Just because a product's label describes itself as being a miracle cure doesn't necessarily mean it is. "The claims being made by some cosmetic companies for anti-aging creams have been found by the Food and Drug Administration to be quite misleading," states Emil Corwin, an information officer at the FDA.
Step 4
Try hydroxy acids, but slather on the sunscreen. Alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and poly hydroxy acids are effective in removing dead skin cells, exposing the softer, tighter skin cells underneath. Because alpha hydroxy acids can cause sun sensitivity, the Mayo Clinic suggests wearing sunscreen while using products containing hydroxy acids, and for at least a week after discontinuing use.
Step 5
Purchase a wrinkle cream that you can return, even if you have opened it. Not all wrinkle creams will be effective in every case. If you have seen no results after using your wrinkle cream for several weeks, return it or exchange it for another product.
Tips and Warnings
- Wrinkle creams containing green may help reduce inflammation and help reduce fine lines and wrinkles on the skin, states the Mayo Clinic.
- Over-the-counter wrinkle creams may cause redness, burning or peeling of the skin.
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