5 Ways to Kick Wrinkles to the Curb

Wrinkles…they may be cute on a chubby baby or a Shar Pei puppy, but not so much on women and men as we get older. Yet, wrinkles are inevitable. As you age, skin loses elasticity and begins to thin. Whether you're 30-something and beginning to see the first signs of aging or 50-something with skin that isn't keeping your age a secret, pursuing ways to reduce wrinkles is probably on your agenda.

With all the new skincare ingredients and products being introduced constantly, it can become overwhelming to understand what these ingredients can do for your wrinkles, which ones are good and not so good for your skin. However, knowing the true clinically proven skincare products, tools and technologies to use that produce results can really help you look as young as you feel.

To help put you on the right path, here are 5 ingredients to look for and use so you can prevent and fight wrinkles starting right now.

Wear Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Daily

First and foremost, avoid the sun. It’s the number one cause of wrinkles, with dozens of studies documenting the impact. If you must go out in the sun, wear a broad spectrum sunscreen or sunblock. Only broad spectrum sunscreens and sunblocks guard against both UVA and UVB rays. Applied properly, they will help protect you from skin cancer and prevent wrinkles at the same time. Make sure you use an SPF of at least 15. SPF 30 is ideal.

Even if you’re only exposed to the sun 20 minutes a day, you should protect your skin every day. Those 20 minutes add up to two straight weeks or 14 eight hour days of sun exposure over the course of a year. Remember to reapply with a generous amount (think shot glass full) to sufficiently cover the skin. There is no all day protection.

Retinol

Retinol is an ingredient that has been favored by dermatologists for decades. It encourages epidermal cell turnover to visibly improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and minimize the appearance of pores. The result is visibly fewer superficial lines, brighter skin and improved elasticity.

Tretinoin, known commercially as Retin A, is prescription strength while retinol is a natural form of vitamin A found in many OTC products. Studies show that retinol in a stabilized form and in high concentrations may be as effective as Retin A without the side effects, such as skin burning, itching and sensitivity.

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Alpha-hydroxy acids loosen old, dull skin cells. These natural fruit acids lift away the top layer of dead skin cells, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. New evidence shows that in higher concentrations, AHAs may help stimulate collagen production. A widely-used and effective alpha hydroxy acid called glycolic acid helps smooth the skin’s surface, soften fine wrinkles and refine the appearance of pores. With a fresh, polished surface, skin appears brighter and better prepped to receive the benefits of your serums and moisturizers. AHAs are gentle enough to be used daily.

Peptides

Peptides are molecular links of amino acids that help your skin to produce the anti-wrinkle protein known as collagen. Collagen gives skin its thickness and suppleness. When collagen breaks down in the skin from age and environmental factors like the sun and stress, wrinkles form. Peptides applied topically to the skin can send a signal to collagen to prompt the formation of new collagen, softening fine lines and wrinkles and encouraging the appearance of more youthful-looking skin.

For the most part, peptides take time to work, except for the immediate effects of some of the neuropeptides, such as Botox. Peptides are best applied in serums or creams. You can start to see results in four to twelve weeks. Keep in mind that continued use is so important with peptides. Once you stop using them, you will notice the difference.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid may not be new or the flashiest ingredient in skincare, but it’s very good for your skin. Even though it has the word “acid” in its name, hyaluronic acid isn’t harsh at all. In fact, it’s the exact opposite. Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that keeps skin plump, hydrated and softens the appearance of wrinkles.

How does a baby’s skin always look so dewy? Because babies are born with a high level of hyaluronic acid, their skin stays plump and smooth. Unfortunately, the amount of hyaluronic acid in skin diminishes with age, particularly starting at age 40. However, it is possible to help restore the skin’s hyaluronic acid content and give aging skin a younger, fresher, dewier look.

One way to do it is through hyaluronic acid fillers such as Restylane and Juvederm, which a dermatologist or plastic surgeon injects directly into sunken or wrinkled areas to plump them up. The second way is to apply topically through serums, creams and Acute Care patches. Hyaluronic acid works well for all skin types.

Have any questions or comments on these five ingredients? I’d love to hear from you! Ask away or comment below.

Learn more about clinically proven multi-med therapy skincare products containing these five ingredients that address your concerns for all skin types and issues.