How to Choose an Anti-Aging Cream That Works

Anti-aging creams, also known as cosmeceuticals, are primarily moisturizer-based cosmetic skin care products sold with an implied promise of making the user appear younger by either preventing masking, or reducing visible signs of aging skin. Their popularity is based on their broad range of suggested uses. Anti-aging creams have been around since the beginning of cosmetics, but it wasn’t until very recently that their true effectiveness was revealed. Scientifically, aging occurs in three stages: the intrinsic aging process, extrinsic aging, and progressive age-related conditions such as frailty, dryness and sagging. During each stage, the skin’s cells and fibers change with time and the body loses firmness and elasticity.

Anti-aging creams have been used to slow down or reverse the natural effects of aging. In order for a cream to be effective, it must address specific aging concerns; for instance, a cream to erase dark spots is one type of product that focuses on improving skin complexion. Other ingredients commonly included in anti-aging cream products are retinol, a form of vitamin A; hyaluronic acid, a form of calcium; vitamin C; and antioxidants. Retinol is a naturally occurring form of vitamin A found in milk and other dairy products, fruits and vegetables. Its action on skin cells makes it effective in erasing age-damaged skin.

Hyaluronic acid is found in many common facial cleansers. As skin cells decrease in number, they become coarser in texture and more likely to wrinkle. A hydrating serum can help to soften fine lines and wrinkles. Another ingredient commonly included in anti-wrinkle creams and serums is antioxidants. These compounds neutralize harmful free radical molecules that form as a result of exposure to UV radiation from the sun.

An important consideration in choosing an anti-aging cream or serum is to choose one that targets the specific concern affecting you. For instance, if you have a double chin, an anti-wrinkle face cream would likely focus on reducing the appearance of your double chin. If you have dark spots, a moisturizer would be the best choice. The best way to choose which moisturizer or cream is best for you is to consult with your dermatologist, as he or she will know what your skin needs the most. He or she may also be able to provide you with personal advice based on your specific situation.

When selecting a night cream, your skin tone should be your top consideration. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and retinol stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Retinol, a form of vitamin A, stimulates the growth of new cells while hyaluronic acid works to correct mineral deficiencies. Finding a nighttime moisturizer containing these ingredients and additional ingredients such as antioxidants and vitamins will result in a cream that will give you younger-looking skin.

Another effective addition to your nighttime cream is a collagen stimulant such as vitamin C, which helps to increase collagen levels. Collagen levels are depleted as we age, so using vitamin C will help your skin maintain its youthful appearance. In addition, collagen stimulates increase moisture content, leaving your skin feeling smooth and silky. Newer discoveries in collagen production have resulted in hyaluronic acid products featuring vitamin C as well as other compounds that increase the production of collagen.