Wrinkles are an unfortunate fact of life as we age. As our skin gets older, it loses elasticity and moisture, making wrinkles inevitable. But there are some products that can help your skin retain its youthful properties and stave off the effects of aging as long as possible.
Learn more about these products, where to find them, and how to use them with this handy guide.
Retinol
One of the most effective ways to fight back against wrinkles is with retinol, the over-the-counter form of retinoids, a derivative of vitamin A commonly used in facials and dermatological procedures. Retinol helps skin cells turn over faster, improving skin elasticity, which works against wrinkles. Retinol can also help if you struggle with acne in addition to wrinkles. However, there’s a bit of a trade-off for this powerful product. In the first month of use, you may experience a “retination” reaction when your skin is adjusting. This reaction can cause dry skin, reddening, and even peeling. There are ways to manage the irritation, but after the first month, it should lessen, and you’ll begin seeing the benefits of retinol.
Hyaluronic Acid
Despite the presence of the word “acid,” this product is something of a miracle worker when it comes to moisturizing, smoothing, and firming skin. The body naturally produces hyaluronic acid, typically found in the eyes, skin, and connective tissues. In recent years, companies have synthesized it and turned it into serums and creams that help replicate its naturally hydrating properties. It is beneficial for treating dry skin and helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Vitamin C
You’ve undoubtedly heard of vitamin C before, but probably as a dietary supplement or something found in citrus fruit that boosts your immune system. But vitamin C is good for your skin and your body, with plenty of antioxidants that help smooth wrinkles and add a glow to your face. It also works against free radicals, which are unstable oxygen molecules that can damage the skin, causing wrinkles. The skin usually tolerates vitamin C well, but you may want to exercise caution if you are also using retinol. The two of them together may end up working against each other, causing irritation and reducing results. If you use them both, apply them at different times of the day.
Peptides
Peptides are amino acids that help structure proteins in the skin. You’ve likely heard of collagen and its importance in keeping the skin wrinkle-free. Collagen is made of three polypeptide chains. Adding peptides to your skincare routine sends signals to the skin that it should make repairs. That could help boost collagen production, keeping skin healthy and youthful. Apply peptides twice daily for the best results, choosing a lighter formula that you can wear during the day.
Alpha-Hydroxy Acid
Alpha-Hydroxy acids, or AHAs, are a group of seven acids derived from different plant and animal products. They include citric acid, glycolic acid, and tartaric acid, which come from citrus, sugarcane, and grapes, respectively. For skincare, most over-the-counter AHAs contain glycolic or lactic acid. These products help exfoliate, which removes dead skin, boosts collagen, and improves the absorption of your other products.
While it is unfortunately true that we can’t avoid wrinkles forever, the careful use of specific, very effective products can help keep skin looking younger for longer. Of course, you can’t expect professional-quality results from these at-home treatments. However, you can still enjoy more youthful-looking skin more affordably and less invasively.
