Beginner's Guide to Anti-Aging Skincare

Age-Defying Beauty Routine

No matter how hard we try to avoid it, there’s no getting away from getting older. We feel it in our bones, notice it in our energy levels, see it the way our bodies start to look, and (gasp!), worst of all, we see it clearly on our skin!

Many factors affect the aging process, including genetics, exposure to the sun, and lifestyle habits like smoking. But once those first few crow’s feet surface, most women race to the cosmetic counters looking for the miracle cure.

Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. It can be downright mind-boggling. There are thousands of different products on the market, using all kinds of keywords and phrases that only a scientist with a chemistry degree could understand! Here are some great products to add to your skincare routine. Even if you are beginning, this guide is for you.

So we’ve compiled a brief list here to help get you started and give you an overview of the most notable names and terminology in the business!

1) Retinoids. This refers to a class of chemical compounds that are related to Vitamin A. Retinoids are used in medicine. They have many diverse functions throughout the body, including roles in vision, regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation, the growth of bone tissue, immune function, and activation of tumor suppressor genes. Research is also being done on its ability to treat skin cancers. Most commonly, they are known for use in skincare products. Studies have shown them to do everything from fading dark spots to smoothing fine lines and making pores look smaller.

2) Tretinoin. Until 2020, it could only be obtained with a prescription. Name brands include Avita, Differin, and Renova, in addition to Retin-a. Now, Differin can be obtained over the counter in a 1% concentration. It is excellent for encouraging cell turnover. This is the only topical agent approved for the treatment of photo-aging (premature caused by long-term exposure to sunlight). Tretinoin may be applied to the face, neck, chest, hands, and forearms.

3) Retinol. You hear this word a lot, but most people don’t have a clue what it is. Technically, it's vitamin A. In the right concentrations, retinol may be as active as prescription tretinoin.

4) Tazarotene (Tazorac, Zorac). This is a retinoid used for acne and psoriasis. It has now been approved for treating wrinkles, skin discoloration, and blemishes due to photo-aging. More research is needed to determine if it produces any long-lasting, significant benefits.

Warning: Pregnant women and those who may become pregnant should avoid any vitamin A derivative (a product related to vitamin A).

5 Glycolic Acid. They are very well known. They are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA). They are naturally-derived from citrus fruits, sugar cane, and fruit. They exfoliate the top layer of skin and reveal healthy complexions.

6) Silk Amino Acids. A natural water-soluble source of an acid derived from liquid silk. These acids help moisture and penetrate the skin. Because of the molecules' low weight, they penetrate the surface layers of the skin and are naturally able to absorb water.

7) Alpha-Lipoic Acid. It is both water-soluble and oil-soluble. It can help protect cells from dangerous free radicals, keeping the skin firm. It's used as the leading ingredient in many skin-care products. Alpha-lipoic acid can diminish the look of fine lines, minimize pores, and reveal a glowing complexion.

There is a plethora of information about skincare and skincare products, but this is an excellent place to start. Once you’ve wrapped your head around some of these terms and products, you’ll hopefully have a clearer understanding of how many products work and what they are supposed to do.

Resources:

https://www.google.com

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retinoid

https://dermatology.about.com/od/glossaryp/g/photoaging.htm