How Do You Choose Over-the-Counter Anti Aging Skin Care?

Attempting to locate an effective anti aging skin care product is like attempting to strike gold.   There’s a lot of straw out there, but very few needles.  The info here should make it easier to find something effective.   First, let’s look at what doesn’t work. 

Collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid are three ingredients that do not work when applied topically.   The skin care manufacturers seem to be capitalizing on the consumer’s sp**** knowledge concerning those ingredients.

Collagen and elastin are uncomplicated proteins the body uses to make the elastic fibers responsible for the skin’s firmness.   The body produces fewer elastin fibers as we age.   So the skin starts to sag and wrinkle.   Reduced collagen output also causes the layers of the skin to become more clear, which is one of the reasons that older people are more likely to have dark circles under their eyes. Using a skin firming cream on a daily basis can provide a significant solution.

Collagen injections are popular spa remedies for wrinkles.   Elastin, hyaluronic acid and synthetic fillers are also used.  The point of the shots is not to increase the skin’s collagen content or in any way ramp up the production of elastic fibers. 

The shots aren’t in truth anti aging skin care treatments.   Their single purpose is to fill up the skin’s lipid tissue layer, which stretches out wrinkles and makes fine lines disappear.

Hyaluronic acid is a compound naturally present in the layers of the skin.   It helps to keep it smooth, firm and strong.   The levels of hyaluronic acid in the skin decreases with age because of increased enzymatic activity.  The enzyme breaks down the hyaluronic acid.

Applying hyaluronic acid topically does not work to fix the problem.  The enzymes just break that down as well.

The collagen and elastin used in cosmetics has been rendered inactive by processing.  The skin’s cells can’t use it.  By now, you could think that there are no efficacious anti wrinkle creams.  Don’t be disheartened. 

Extracts from wakame kelp limit the breakdown of hyaluronic acid, thus naturally raising the levels present in the skin.   The outcome is improved firmness and smoothness.

The keratin protein can be processed gently, allowing it to retain its function.  Creams containing it have been shown to reduce wrinkles, improve elasticity and moisturize thoroughly.

The antioxidant coenzyme Q10 makes an effective anti aging skin care cream.  There is some good stuff out there.  You just have to know where to look.