Anti-aging face creams are moisturizer based skin care products. They hold the promise of youthful, supple skin along with the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines. They are also believed to treat blemishes and discolorations and offer some kind of protection from the sun’s harmful rays. While there are several cosmetic brands out there that offer anti-aging face creams, few of the ingredients remain constant and form the basis of any such good cream. Some of these ingredients include antioxidants, vitamins, alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids, sunscreens, peptides and epidermal growth factor.
During the metabolic processes of the body, free radicals are generated that cause deterioration and aging of the skin cells. This can be effectively combated by the presence of antioxidants and hence, they form an important ingredient of anti-aging face creams. Vitamins C and E are some of the antioxidants that are included. When high concentrations of Vitamin C (20% or above) are used along with Vitamin E, it results in the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin. Vitamin E is also useful for protecting the skin against harmful bacteria. It aids skin repair by creating a barrier of moisture that does not allow the epidermis to completely dry out. Retinol derivatives such as retinyl palmitate are used in anti-aging face creams. Retinol is a fat-soluble form of the vitamin A. It is commonly found in animal sources. Vitamin A from these derivatives is absorbed by the skin and increases the quantity of collagen. This rejuvenates the skin by reducing dark spots and gives it a more youthful appearance.
Alpha-hydroxy (AHA) and beta-hydroxy acids act on the ‘glue’ holding dead skin cells together. As a part of anti-aging face creams they exfoliate the epidermis thereby getting rid of dead cells. These acids and other chemical peels which may be present in the cream also stimulate the generation of fresh cells on the skin which in turn enhances the youthful appearance of the face. However, AHAs can act negatively for some people causing skin irritations such as flaking and redness. It is important to keep in mind a person’s skin type before investing in anti-aging face creams. Some creams include citric acid, lactic acid and glycolic acids that may not go very well with extremely sensitive skin types.
The harmful effects of UV radiations are also a factor in the aging process of the skin. Hence, a higher level of UVA protection in anti-aging face creams is essential and recommended. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is a type of polypeptide made from about 53 amino acids. Just like retinol, it also acts to stimulate the production of collagen in the skin and help in cell renewal. EGF is also known to be anti-inflammatory and aids in the healing of burns and wounds. For these reasons, UVA protection agents and EGF are essential ingredients of any good anti-aging face cream.
Despite the great demand for anti-aging face creams in the market, there are several debates on the actual effectiveness of such products. In today’s fast-paced world where a person’s appearance makes a lasting impression, people are trying harder than ever before to reverse and possibly even put a stop to the process of aging. It therefore becomes vital to remember that not all anti-aging face creams work as miraculously as promised. Aging is one of the natural processes of life that can perhaps never be completely reversed. However, with a little bit of research, an effective anti-aging face cream can be found that nourishes the skin well. In addition to creams, a well-balanced diet and stress-free lifestyle are essential for a healthy, youthful existence.
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