Anti Wrinkle Skin Creams - Are They Effective?

Most anti wrinkle skin creams sold over the counter today contain either retinol, Q10, copper peptides, hydroxy acids or tea extracts. Some of these ingredients have been shown by clinical studies to be effective to various degrees in reducing the number and depth of fine lines and wrinkles. Anti wrinkle skin creams available on prescription usually contain a stronger form of retinol called tretinoin. None of them will work miracles overnight. Expect to use the creams for eight to twelve weeks before you see much improvement.

Vitamin A Derivatives

Retinol is a common ingredient and is a vitamin A derivative. In addition to treating wrinkles it is also an effective anti oxidant. Retinol and the other vitamin A derivatives such as tretinoin are small molecules that can easily penetrate the out layer of the skin. They then enter the lower layers containing elastin and collagen. Collagen supports the skin by providing a firm base and when it is damaged the skin begins to sag. Elastin ensures that the skin is elastic. Both of these molecules are damaged by the sun's rays and other environmental factors. Retinol can penetrate to this layer and repair the damage, thus giving back elasticity to the skin and restoring its firm foundation.
Both tretinoin and retinol have been shown in clinical studies to be effective although retinol is less effective than tretinoin which is stronger, more likely to cause some side effects and therefore only available on prescription.
Side effects are mild and include redness, stinging and irritation. They often only occur on first using a retinol product and should disappear within a day or two.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)

AHA's are natural acids found in fruit and milk and they include glycolic acid, tartaric acid and lactic acid. They are all exfoliants and can leave your skin smoother, better tones and with improved color. Glycolic acid is frequently found in anti wrinkle skin s and has been shown to increase the moisture content of the skin by up to 300% when used daily for a few weeks. It is small molecule that can penetrate the upper layers of the skin. It then breaks the bonds holding dead cells and allows them to be easily sloughed off leaving a smoother skin. It can also help to remove dark age spots.

Mild side effects including slight reddening of the skin and irritation should only last a day or two. A word of caution if you use retinol containing products. They can increase the effects of the glycolic acid and increase the chance of side effects.

Coenzyme Q10

This is a vitamin like substance that is naturally produced in the body. It has been shown to have anti oxidant properties and provide protection collagen and elastin in the skin from damage caused by the sun's rays. In this way it helps to prevent or reduce lines and wrinkles.

Copper peptides

These are small molecules containing copper bonded to a protein called a peptide. They have been used successfully in the treatment of wounds. They work by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, which as we have already see, helps to reduce lines and wrinkles. Clinical studies have shown their effectiveness in increasing the elasticity of the skin and improving it's appearance and color. They are also useful in the treatment of rosacea, eczema and rashes.

Tea Extracts

extracts from black, green or oolong tea are often found in anti wrinkle skin creams. They have anti inflammatory and anti oxidant effects and so compliment the above ingredients.

Points to Consider When Buying an Anti Wrinkle Skin Cream

1. All over the counter products will be less effective than prescription only products and may take longer to see any effects.

2. Clinical studies have shown the effectiveness of some ingredients but there are many ingredients used that have not been proven to be effective.

3. The effects may take some time to be seen. Typically you will need to use the cream for at least six weeks to being to notice any effects. After about twelve weeks you should see a good improvement in the skin.

4. The benefits are not permanent. If you stop using the anti wrinkle skin cream the effects will slowly disappear.

5. Don't be fooled by a high price. This usually has no relationship to the effectiveness of the product.

6. Always follow the instruction supplied with the cream. If you experience more than a little redness or irritation or it lasts for more than two days stop using the product.