Serious Skin Care Tools for Over 50

If you're over age 50, your skin may be more sensitive and need more care than before. New cosmetic products geared for aging skin emerge all the time, with little evidence to back up their claims. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises that you learn which ingredients are effective and research those skin care products yourself. The AAD researchers have identified a few of the ingredients as "serious."

Moisturizer

Moisturizer has been scientifically proven to smooth skin and reduce the look of fine lines, especially in the face. The visible effect of moisturizer adding volume beneath wrinkled tissue can be dramatic, especially in thin, delicate facial skin.

Sunscreen

Dermatologists regard sunblock cosmetic products as the most-effective skin care tools for aging skin. Repelling ultraviolet (UV) rays on a daily basis allows damaged skin to heal and prevents age spots. Sunscreen protects your appearance and can keep your face from developing deep wrinkles or weathered look.

Hydroxy Acids

Aging skin gradually loses its ability to exfoliate efficiently. To counteract the resulting dull skin tone, cosmetic products, such as cleansers, scrubs and topical creams include hydroxy acids. Glycolic, citric and lactic acids are alpha hydroxy acids that encourage new skin cell growth. A closely related beta hydroxy acid used in cosmetic products is salicylic acid.

Retinoic Acid

Retinoic acid is an ingredient related to Vitamin A that has proven anti-aging action. It causes a greater rate of renewal in the cells of connective tissue, improving skin health. Retinoic acid is an active ingredient in pumpkin- and carrot-based topical applications.

Azelaic Acid

Prescription-strength topicals for acne and rosacea treatment may include azelaic acid, a specific skin care tool. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory traits aid skin rejuvenation. Azelaic acid acts to retard bacteria growth at the hair follicle, preventing blemishes as well.

Hydroquinone

Aging skin over 50 may begin to show the lifetime effects of sun exposure with a dark or mottled tone. Hydroquinone is a skin care tool proven to lighten and to even skin tone. It also protects facial skin with antioxidant action, providing additional clarity in skin appearance.

Kojic Acid

Kojic acid reacts with skin pigment as well to neutralize age spots and other disruptions to skin tone. It inhibits bacterial growth to keep pores clear and functioning properly. Kojic acid may be found in over-the-counter and medically administered skin care products.

References

Article reviewed by Helen Covington Last updated on: Mar 23, 2010

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