Knowing what anti-aging ingredients to look for in your skin care products will help you navigate the ever-growing product line. Some anti-aging ingredients have proven effective in treating the signs of aging. While using the products can’t completely reverse fine lines, wrinkles and pigment changes, certain skin care ingredients can reduce those signs.
Retinol
Retinol, a type of vitamin A, may help improve skin tone, texture and color, while reducing lines and increasing hydration, reports the Cleveland Clinic website. Prescription levels of vitamin A, available as tretinoin, have the approval of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for prescription wrinkle treatment. You can find retinol in many over-the-counter (OTC) anti-aging products as well.
Hyaluronic Acid
Your body naturally produces hyaluronic acid. The acid exists in youthful skin and connective tissues, but it diminishes with age. Combined with vitamin C for absorption, hyaluronic acid can be found in some facial creams.
Hydroxy Acid
The hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin. By removing the outer layers of dead cells, the acids reveal healthier-looking skin and promote new skin growth. Hydroxy acids increase sun sensitivity, so take precautions and use extra sunblock if your skin treatments contain the ingredients.
L-Ascorbic Acid
The form of vitamin C found in skin care products, L-ascorbic acid acts as an antioxidant. According to the Cleveland Clinic, in skin care products, vitamin C helps synthesize collagen. Its uses include treating fine lines, wrinkles and scars.
Copper Peptide
Copper peptides stimulate collagen production, according to the Mayo Clinic. The ingredient also promotes healing. Its use in anti-aging products helps skin be smoother, softer and firmer. Copper is a naturally occurring element in the cells; peptides are protein fragments.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
A powerful antioxidant, alpha-lipoic acid shows up in anti-aging skin care products. Its use as an ingredient in the products gives skin a healthier appearance, makes lines less noticeable and increases levels of antioxidants.
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