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“ If God had given women wrinkles, he could at least have put them on the soles of her feet," wrote French author Ninon de L'Enclos. These words echo the sentiments of millions of women (and some men) worldwide who hate wrinkles and will do anything to hide them.
Sadly, wrinkles are difficult to hide mainly because they're very visible on the face. This had led lots of women to rush to their favorite department store, drugstore or website to get the perfect “face-lift" offered by many anti-wrinkle products. But do these products really work and deliver what they promise or are they just a waste of money?
Experts said the ingredients found in most over-the-counter products haven't undergone rigorous scientific testing for safety and effectiveness and some may even harm your skin. However, some products may actually help you and provide slight to modest improvement depending on their active ingredient.
So how do you know which products work and what to avoid? Below is a checklist of the ingredients that may help according to the MayoClinic.com:
Retinol is a vitamin A compound widely used in OTC wrinkle creams. As an antioxidant, it neutralizes the effects of free radicals – unstable oxygen molecules that break down skin cells and cause wrinkles. It is less potent than the vitamin A derivative tretinoin, a prescription topical treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating wrinkles. Avoid vitamin A derivatives if you're pregnant or may become pregnant because they increase the risk of birth defects.
Hydroxy acids like alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and poly hydroxy acids are all synthetic versions of acids derived from sugar-containing fruits. These acids are exfoliants, meaning they remove the upper layer of old, dead skin and stimulate the growth of smooth, evenly pigmented new skin. Because hydroxy acids increase your susceptibility to sun damage, wear sunscreen during use and for at least one week afterward.
Vitamin A acid (tretinoin) has the longest track record of success in treating aging skin and fine lines. Creams containing tretinoin must be used on an ongoing basis. They may produce redness and peeling at first, but discomfort can usually be minimized by lowering the cream's concentration or applying it less often until the skin gets used to it.
Coenzyme Q10 is a nutrient that helps regulate energy production in cells. Some studies have shown reduction in fine wrinkles around the eyes with no side effects. Other studies show that application before sun exposure protects against sun damage.
Copper is a trace element found in every cell. In products applied to the skin, it's combined with small protein fragments called peptides. Copper peptides enhance wound healing. They also stimulate production of collagen and may enhance the action of antioxidants.
Kinetin, a plant growth factor, may improve wrinkles and uneven pigmentation with minimal irritation. It's unclear how it works, but it may help reduce wrinkles by helping skin retain moisture and by stimulating the production of collagen. It may also be a potent antioxidant.
Tea extracts like green, black and oolong tea contain compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Green tea extracts are the ones most commonly found in wrinkle creams.
One product that combines four potent anti-wrinkle ingredients is Dermaxin. Its unique formula moisturizes the skin, promotes collagen production, helps combat the signs of aging, and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. When used regularly, Dermaxin will help you regain and retain younger looking skin so you can face the world with confidence. For more information, visit http://www.dermaxin.com .
Janet Martin is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premier online news magazine. http://www.thearticleinsiders.com.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
