Wrinkle Creams - Are They Really Effective?

Do over-the-counter anti-aging products actually work? One stroll down the aisles of your local department or cosmetic store will show you hundreds of products that claim to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, but do they perform as advertised?

If you're expecting dramatic surgical results for $34.99, you will almost certainly be disappointed. However, some products can moderately improve the appearance of your skin, depending on how long the product is used and what it contains.

For a breakdown of common wrinkle cream ingredients, along with a review of their efficacy, keep reading.



Hydroxy Acids

Hydroxy acids are alpha hydroxy, beta hydroxy and poly hydroxy. They are exfoliants, meaning they slough away the dead skin cells on the surface of the epidermis, allowing younger, newer cells to appear while simultaneously stimulating the growth of new cells.

Products containing hydroxy acids shouldn't be used on a daily basis, and anyone using a hydroxy acid product should wear sunscreen as they can increase your skin's vulnerability to sun damage.

Retinol

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A found in many topical creams. It's also an antioxidant, meaning it's made to fight free radicals, which are agents that can expediate cell damage and the aging process.

Because high doses of Vitamin A can cause birth defects or high toxicity levels in children, products infused with retinol are not recommended for pregnant women, nursing mothers or women who are planning to become pregnant.

Kinetin

Kinetin, a plant extract, has been directly linked to collagen growth and production. Though research is unclear on how kinetin works exactly, multiple studies have shown that collagen production is increased when kinetin is introduced, even topically as a cream.

Collagen fibre is a critical part of your epidermis and its depletion is a major cause of wrinkles.

Copper Peptides

Copper peptides are remarkably effective for an over-the-counter, non-surgical product, but they're also quite expensive.

Copper peptides were traditionally used in medical creams designed to expediate the healing of wounds or burns. They've since been adopted by the anti-aging cream industry as a popular ingredient that stimulates collagen growth, delivers antioxidants and helps the skin heal after sun or wind damage.

Because most skin creams aren't regulated by the FDA as a drug, they're not subject to scrupulous testing. Remember to read the ingredients listing carefully, look for active ingredients and understand that most products won't provide long-term results, so additional measures will require consideration.

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