When it comes time to buy cosmetics and facial creams, do you sometimes feel overwhelmed by the choices?
New cosmetic and skin care products are constantly vying for your attention and your dollar. Unfortunately, many consumers are lulled into spending unnecessary money on skin care products in response to clever advertising and promotions.
The key to making wise choices with regard to skin care products is to understand which cosmetic ingredients in these products are actually effective.
Here are some skin care ingredients you should look for, when you're ready to purchase your next skin care cream or serum:
1. Retinols
You’ve probably heard of the prescription face cream called Retin-A which is a vitamin A derivative. Retinols are the cosmetic industries answer to a vitamin A derivative to treat acne and skin aging. Retinols have been shown to be quite effective in the treatment of acne lesions as well as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
If you’re purchasing a product with retinol, be aware that the concentration can range from almost negligible up to one percent found in Skinceuticals Retinol 1.0. The higher concentrations are going to be more effective but may also give more skin irritation.
2. Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids
These acids help to promote exfoliation of dead skin cells from the surface of the epidermis allowing the underlying new skin to surface. They have a softening effect on fine lines and can lighten areas of pigmentation related to exposure to the sun.
If used regularly, they may increase collagen production which helps to maintain the integrity of the skin surface. Look for alpha hydroxyl acid concentrations of at least ten percent. Below this concentration, there’s little documented benefit. Concentrations above fifteen percent are more effective but may cause skin irritation.
3. Antioxidants
These naturally occurring substances have been shown to reduce the damaging effects of sun exposure when applied topically. They function to offset free radical formation that can occur in response to exposure to sun and other harmful environmental exposures.
Again, it can be difficult to know whether skin creams you purchase over the counter have sufficient concentrations of antioxidants to prevent skin damage. Vitamin C is one example of an antioxidant known to have beneficial effects on aging skin and is the only antioxidant shown to stimulate collagen synthesis.
4. Peptides
These substances which are the precursors to proteins are thought to stimulate both collagen and elastin production which help to maintain the skin’s basic framework and prevent formation of loose, saggy skin. They also help to smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
There are a variety of serums and skin creams that have peptides listed as an ingredient. Research carefully before buying to make sure you’re getting adequate peptide concentrations.
Keep in mind that while all four of these ingredients are effective, the actual results will vary depending on the concentration of the ingredient and the individual using it. Just because a skin care product is expensive, don’t be fooled into thinking it has a higher concentration of active ingredients or is automatically better.
Do your research before purchasing any skin cream to ensure that you’re getting a viable product and not an expensive watered down version. Quality and price aren’t always synonymous in the world of skin care and anti-aging creams.
Author
Kristie Leong M.D.
