What Ingredients Should I Look for in Wrinkle Creams?

While there is no magic product that will instantly make facial wrinkles disappear, some anti-wrinkle creams have proven mildly effective in trials. The word mildly is key here. Despite advertisements and announcements, no product currently available can turn back the hands of time. There is, however, much difference among the many anti-wrinkle creams available. When shopping for anti-wrinkle creams, make sure to read labels. Here is a list of ingredients that are considered most effective in treating aging skin.

Vitamin A (Retinol® and Retin-A®). Retin-A®, known generically as tretinoin, is the only wrinkle treatment approved by the FDA. Retinol®, a similar product that is available over-the-counter and is a popular ingredient in anti-wrinkle creams, is less invasive and can be used by everybody, even people who have sensitive skin and cannot tolerate Retin-A®. Vitamin A controls free radicals, promotes the production of collagen fibers, and diminishes the appearance of age spots by increasing cell exfoliation.

Coenzyme Q-10. Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant found in massive quantities in the human body. In fact, every cell in the body contains Coenzyme Q-10, which is used for energy production and recycling of other antioxidants. Because the production of Coenzyme Q-10 diminishes with age, it is believed that the skin becomes more vulnerable to the effects of UV radiation and free radicals. There has been little research on the effectiveness of Coenzyme Q-10 as a topical application, so its value in anti-wrinkle creams is disputed. Nonetheless, experts believe there is a bigger chance for success when using a combination of Coenzyme Q-10 with other anti-wrinkle ingredients.

Hydroxy acids, including alpha and beta hydroxy acids, and poly hydroxy acids, are synthetic acids that imitate those obtained from milk and certain fruits. Hydroxy acids are extremely effective as exfoliants, accelerating cell replacement, which in turn results in younger-looking skin. Hydroxy acids are an extremely popular ingredient in anti-wrinkle creams, as they speed up the production of collagen and increase skin hydration and smoothness.

Other ingredients commonly found in anti wrinkle creams include: kinetin, a plant hormone that can help the skin retain moisture and smooth out wrinkles and unevenness; green tea extract, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant; and copper peptides, which have the ability to regenerate tissue.