Anti-aging products are developed to reduce and eliminate wrinkles, improve the look of photo-aged skin and hydrate dry skin. Using a variety of ingredients like retinol, moisturizers and tea extracts, cosmetic companies are always striving to arrest the process of aging as much as possible.
Retinol
Retinol, which is a derivative of vitamin A, is an antioxidant commonly used in wrinkle creams. The Mayo Clinic explains, "Antioxidants are substances that neutralize free radicals--unstable oxygen molecules that break down skin cells and cause wrinkles." Free radicals cause your skin to age faster.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a nutrient that regulates cell regeneration. The Mayo Clinic reports that some studies have shown promising results for this enzyme in reducing wrinkling around the eyes in study participants.
Copper Peptides
The Mayo Clinic reports that when applied to skin products, copper peptides can stimulate wounds to heal and encourage collagen growth. The Beauty Brains, a website founded and maintained by cosmetic scientists, has a different point of view. It reports that peptides offer very little benefit in skin-care products. The good news, however, is that peptides won't damage your skin.
Hydroxy Acids
Products with alpha hydroxy, beta hydroxy, and poly hydroxy acids are used for exfoliating. Derived from fruits that contain sugars, hydroxy acids work by removing dead skin cells and stimulating the growth of new cells. They can also gently remove the outer layer of skin, allowing for a smoother and more even complexion.
Beta hydroxy acids, like salicylic acid, are commonly used for acne prevention and care. They're very effective in helping to prevent acne, which, in abundance, can make skin look older and damaged.
Other Products
Zinc Oxide is used to block ultraviolet rays. Photo-aged skin, skin that has been exposed to a lifetime of harmful rays from the sun, is one of the leading causes of wrinkles and aged, saggy skin.
Humectants are substances that help keep skin moisturized. Look for ingredients like glycerin and propylene glycol.
Tea extracts like green, black and oolong tea are high in antioxidants, which have strong anti-inflammatory properties.
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