How anti-wrinkle creams work
Our skin forms wrinkles as we age because gradually produce less collagen, the protein that supports skin. Without collagen, skin loses its support, and form, causing skin to lose its youthful, firm look. Smoking, tanning, and sun exposure also speedens the loss of collagen. If you neglected the sunscreen and smoking ads in your youth, however, and the damage is done, help is available. While aging and its signs and symptoms can't be reversed, there are a few proven ingredients in over-the-counter products can help manage wrinkles.
Most anti-aging creams contain retinol, a vitamin A compound that has frequently been praised and proven to effectively retain collagen. Retinol is an over-the-counter version of Retin-A, or retinoic acid or tretinoin, a prescription-strength ingredient. But women who are pregnant should avoid retinoid creams altogether because it may increase risk of birth defects.
Anti-wrinkle products also contain alpha hydroxy acids, chemical compounds that act as a chemical peel (exfoliant). It smoothes facial skin texture with a solution that causes dead skin to shed and eventually peel off. This reveals a younger, regenerated skin that appears less wrinkled.
Prevent wrinkles, dark spots from youth
Over-the-counter anti-wrinkle creams have less concentrated ingredients than prescription medications, so results will be more subtle and may not last as long.
Adopt skincare routines as early as possible. Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 15 year-round, and be sure to never sleep in your makeup, as tired, lazy, or intoxicated you may be. Cleanse and moisturize before going to bed every night; even consider using a serum instead of a moisturizer. Facial serums contain many beneficial ingredients, such as vitamins and antioxidants, that some moisturizers don't have. It can also moisturize your skin, and is best used right after cleansing, when your pores are most open to absorption.
For the best results, however, keeping a healthy lifestyle that includes drinking between two and three litres of water a day, consuming healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids (helps maintain a "dewier complexion"), and avoiding smoking are the best ways to keep your skin's youthful appearance.