Wrinkle-Busting Skincare Ingredients
By Jessica, July 31, 2012
The front of the pot may scream anti-ageing, but what does the ingredient list say? This is where you need to look to determine how effective a product will be in preventing the signs of ageing – we decipher the science-speak and highlight some of the time-reversing gems to look out for.
Vitamin A (Retin-A, Retinol)
One of the only skincare ingredients that dermatologists acknowledge has a visible anti-ageing effect, Retin-A is an extremely strong form of Vitamin A. Generally you will only get your hands on it if you have a prescription, such is its potency. In fact, some dedicated Americans are known to flock across the Mexican border just to secure a dose of it over the counter. In Ireland, seek out anything that contains Vitamin A, or better yet Retinol – a gentler, over the counter form of Retin-A. Try Dermalogica Age Reversal Eye Complex for your fix.
Hyaluronic Acid
A reasonably common ingredient in anti-ageing skincare, Hyaluronic acid (or Sodium Hyaluronate) is actually found naturally in the skin. For this reason, it’s a safe bet for all skin-types and highly unlikely to cause any irritation or reactions. Its secret is its ability to attract and bind with water molecules, improving skin’s hydration and plumping up lines and wrinkles. Find it in REN Keep Young & Beautiful Serum.
Peptides
Peptides are the small chains of amino acids that make up proteins. Like many other skincare ingredients they occur naturally in the body, but can decline with age. Believed to promote collagen production and encourage skin cells to bind together more resiliently, some even claim that peptides can have a muscle-relaxing effect in a similar way to botox. Try Caci Amino-Lift Peptide Complex.
Glycolic Acid
A well known facial peel ingredient, glycolic acid is only ever found in small amounts in at-home skincare – in pure form it is used as an industrial rust-remover. It essentially works as an exfoliant, wiping out dead skin cells and revealing a smoother, tighter, more youthful surface. Professional glycolic peels are generally administered by dermatologists, and are known for their red-raw effects. You can find gentler versions in locations such as Senses Day Spa in Dublin. Or, try the milder at-home alternative of lactic acid in the Omorovicza Copper Peel.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)
Applied topically, Vitamin C is said to boost collagen, reduce free radical damage, lighten age-related pigmentation and improve plumpness. Many skincare products boast Vitamin C as an ingredient, but make sure it’s ‘L-ascorbic acid’ listed in the ingredients, as this is its most effective form. It’s also worth bearing in mind that Vitamin C can break down quite easily when exposed to oxygen, and may actually increase free radical damage in the skin if it’s past its expiry date. Look for products in sealed pump dispenser to prevent this. Try Ole Henriksen Truth Serum Collagen Booster.
