Learn about... Types of Anti-Aging Ingredients!

Ever wonder what makes anti-aging products effective? What exactly is in them that reduces fine lines and prevent wrinkles? 

In order to answer these questions we've compiled a list of common ingredients used in anti-aging makeup. Take a look below!

Anti-Oxidants

Retinol (Vitamin A)

Retinol is one of the most commonly used ingredients in many anti-aging products. It's a potent anti-oxidant that eliminates free radicals -- the unstable oxygen cells that cause wrinkles. Retinol stimulates skin to produce new cells and reduces dark spots and lines.

Most products with retinol have a minimum strength of 0.1%. Stronger Retinoids can be prescribed by a doctor (in the US) or bought over-the-counter (Canada, some European countries.) Always start with a low concentration until your skin gets used to it.

Products with Retinol: Dr. Jeannette Graf Rejuvenation Retinol Body Wash, L'Oreal Revitalift Eye Cream, Garnier UltraLift Moisturizer

Niacinamide (Vitamin B-3)

As we age, the skin produces less lubrication and loses its elasticity thus becoming wrinkled  and dry. Niancinamide is a type of anti-oxidant that comes from vitamin B-3. It's a strong agent that creates a protective layer over the skin to prevent water loss which in turn improves elasticity.

Products that have this ingredient tend to be night creams or long-wearing makeup. This ingredient evens out skin tone and brightens your overall complexion. For best results, dermatologists recommend to use a minimum concentration of 5%.

Products with Niacinamide: Revlon Age Defying 3x Foundation, Cover Girl Simply Ageless Foundation

Hydroxy Acids (Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid)

While keeping your skin hydrated is key to prevent wrinkles, exfoliating to eliminate old skin is just as important. Our skin's cell reproduction speed reduces immensely as we grow older. That's why it's important to eliminate dead skin to stimulate new cell growth. Hydroxy Acids, such as Salicylic Acid or Glycolic Acid, are exfoliants that help remove the upper layers of the skin so that new even-toned skin can be produced.

There's a lot of anti-aging makeup containing Glycolic Acid, which is considered the holy grail of exfoliants.

Products with Hydroxy Acids: StriVectin LABS 5-Minute Weekly Glycolic Peel, Revlon Youth FX Concealer

Vitamin C

You've probably heard this a million times -- Vitamin C is an anti-oxidant that strengthens your immune system and improves your overall health. However, when used topically it's also an excellent anti-aging ingredient. Used daily it can increase collagen production and fight off free radicals.

Products with Vitamin C tend to have a concentration of 10-20% in the form of L-Ascorbic Acid. There has been intensive research done to this type of Vitamin C and it has proven to be the most effective. However, it does tend to react differently depending on your skin type. It's always recommended to start with a low concentration until your skin is used to it.

Products with Vitamin C: Lumene Bright Now Vitamin C Night Cream, L'Oreal VisibleLift CC Cream,

Replenishing resources

Ceramide

Our skin is constantly producing a protective barrier in the form of lipids called Ceramide. This barrier keeps moisture locked in and protects us from the elements. As we age, it's important to replenish our Ceramide levels to keep that barrier strong.

Ceramide is the second most popular anti-aging ingredient after Retinol. Since it's a component found in your skin, it's all-natural and reacts well with all skin types. This makes it a safe ingredient to include in most creams and makeup.

Products with Ceramide: Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Ultra Lift Moisture Cream, Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Exfoliator

Peptides (Collagen)

When Collagen is broken down, the tiny proteins that come loose are called Peptides. These proteins have strong anti-aging benefits. Peptides are often use as treatment to improve cell regeneration. When the amino acid chains forming the proteins become short they can penetrate the top layer of the skin to command cells to produce more collagen.

Much like Ceramide, Collagen is naturally found in our skin. By using products with this ingredient you're filling up your reserves and strengthening your skin layers.

Products with Peptides: L'Oreal Collagen Moisture Filler, Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleaning Balm, Dr. Jeannette Graf Collagen Body Cream

________________________________________________________________

Bottom line: Topical anti-oxidants eliminate free radicals, keep your skin protected from the elements, and strengthen skin cells. Use exfoliating products with Hydroxy acids to remove dead cells. Refill your Collagen and Ceramide levels to stimulate new cell growth and keep your skin hydrated at all times. Don't forget to use products with SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. 

Find the products that work best for your skin type and stick to a daily routine. Your skin will thank you!

Let us know what you think here: community@buymebeauty.com