Anti-Aging FAQ

What type of anti-aging products work best?

There are well over a dozen tested ingredients that are used consistently in the most popular and effective anti-wrinkle products:

Kinetin is a powerful antioxidant that counteracts free radical damage. Studies have shown that it has strong anti-aging capabilities, but without any of the side effects of stronger ingredients like AHAs and Retinol. Kinerase is a popular skin care brand that utilizes kinetin in the majority of its compositions.

CoQ10 is an enzyme that also has powerful antioxidant qualities. It fights free radicals, and serves as a “booster” to other antioxidants, like Retinol and vitamin C.

Idebenone is yet another antioxidant that eliminates free radicals. Stronger than its counterpart CoQ10, it can be applied topically as a cream or taken in tablet form.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids work to exfoliate aging and photo-damaged skin. By eliminating the outer layers of unhealthy cells, AHAs make it easier for skin to absorb moisturizers, sunscreens and other preventative creams and lotions.

Green tea extracts, used in creams like r3p Cream by Dr. Brandt, prove that this tea is just as beneficial in topical formulations as it is as a supplement.

What can I do about age spots?

Lightener gels fade discolorations, dark pigment and “liver spots” by hindering the production of melanins—the pigments that produce the colors red-brown, brown, and black in human skin. The bleaching agent Hydroquinone is the most effective ingredient used in over the counter age spot treatments. Hydroquinone in concentrations of 1 or 2% are usually adequate to treat most age spots, though higher concentrations may be prescribed for tougher cases.

Age spot treatments are available in serums, creams and lotions, and all are equally effective. They must be used on a consistent basis to see results, Depending on the severity of the condition, it may take a few weeks to see visible results.

What products are good to tighten sagging skin?

Generally, look for products containing the following ingredients:

Dimethicone, a chemical derivative of silicone, is an ingredient often used in lotions and creams geared to firming skin. Urea is a binding moisturizer that preserves water on the skin’s surface, and is one of the major ingredients of anti-wrinkle and anti-aging products. Rejuvenate Facial Lotion 1 by Glytone, the first of a 3 step program to alleviate wrinkles and make skin firmer, contains both of these ingredients.

The neck is a problem area for many people. Specialty treatments, such as Swan - Firming Neck Treatment by Z. Bigatti or StriVectin-SD by Strivectin are formulated to tighten sagging skin in this sensitive area.

What are the best ways to prevent future wrinkles and/or age spots?

While you cannot prevent wrinkles entirely, you can certainly prolong your youthful complexion by using a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Make sure the sunscreen contains titanium dioxide, zinc oxide or avobenzone, which are extremely effective against UVA rays. Antioxidant rich sunscreens can decrease free radicals and permeate skin to prevent cell damage that can lead to wrinkles. While it’s not always possible to avoid exposure to sunlight, a good sunscreen can save your skin from premature aging.

What type of moisturizer should I use to prevent wrinkles?

Using an extra-rich moisturizer on a regular basis will keep your skin smooth and hydrated. Gels, serums or creams formulated with antioxidants such as the plant-derived Kinetin help prevent free radical damage and nourish cells.

Is there anything else I can do to offset the appearance of wrinkles?

Be gentle when washing your face. Too much pressure can damage the skin’s delicate balance. Washing too often with tap water and excessive contact with chlorinated water can dry the skin, leading to a breeding ground for wrinkles. Avoid irritating cosmetics and cheap sunscreen. Residue from substandard products can inflame pores and damage your skin.

I have oily skin and still suffer breakouts from time to time. Is it safe for me to use anti-aging products?

There are many products formulated to treat mature, oily skin. Even if you suffer from adult acne, products such as Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Cream by SkinCeuticals are made to simultaneously treat adult acne as well as age spots and wrinkles. See the website adult-acne.org (change when domain name is purchased) for more information on treating adult acne.

Are exfoliants, such as peels and scrubs, too rough for aging skin?

Exfoliants are actually good for wrinkles and other symptoms of aging skin. Cells do not renew as quickly as we age, so regular use of an exfoliant containing alpha-hydroxy acids is essential. dr. brandt microdermabrasion by Dr. Brandt is a good example of an exfoliant formulated to prevent wrinkles and spur cell growth.

I’m in my 20s. Am I too young to start using anti-aging products?

You’re never too young to begin an anti-aging skin care routine. There are many creams and moisturizers that can hydrate your skin properly and prevent the conditions that accelerate the formation of wrinkles and age spots. Many of these products are designed for all skin types, so there are many moisturizers that are appropriate for younger skin.