Anti-Wrinkle Ingredients That Work
So many anti-wrinkle products have huge ingredient lists, but which ones actually work? We decided to dig into all these ingredients in search of REAL proof of effectiveness. Many companies make huge claims about clinical trials, but after a bit of digging, we found out the research was paid for by the company selling the product. Of course, the test results will come out in their favor.
We started with Wikipedia to figure out what all these ingredients were. Then we tried to find evidence of unbiased tests to back up these claims in places like PubMed. Below are a list of ingredients we found to be really effective along with a brief explanation of what the ingredient does.
EDITOR NOTE: We have made a Top 2 Anti-Wrinkle Product Comparison that features the top products containing the highest concentration of these ingredients. Here’s a link to the Top 2 Anti-Wrinkle Product Comparison.
Deanol
Deanol may show up in the ingredient list as dimethylaminoethanol or DMAE. Deanol has been clinically shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, tone delicate skin around the eye, prevent sagging face syndrome, and increase tone and blood circulation to lips. According to the manufacturer, it works by firmer underlying facial musculature, giving it the nickname “facelift in a jar.”
D3PA
D3PA is the initials for dithiolane-3-pentanoic acid. Like alpha lipoic acid, D3PA is a phenomenal antioxidant that protects the skin. Furthermore, it works by dilating tiny blood vessels near the surface of the skin, bringing an increased supply of oxygen and nutrients to the surface of the skin.
Ubiquinone
Ubiquinone is an antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage. It has also been clinically proven to increase the levels of other antioxidants in the skin, including vitamin C! You may see it listed as coenzyme Q10, CoQ10, or idebenone in the ingredient list.
Vitamin C
The antiaging properties of vitamin C have been known for years. However, recently, researchers are finding that the common form of vitamin C, L-ascorbic acid, which is often incorporated into cosmetic products, is very unstable and can cause irritation to the skin. Scientists have learned a lot about vitamin C esters, including ascorbyl palmitate, that are safe, effective alternatives to L-ascorbic acid.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid, or hyaluron, is an important component of the skin’s framework. As we age, we produce less of it, leading to wrinkles. When applied topically, hyaluron helps maintain healthy collagen levels and is an extremely effective moisturizer.
Argireline
Like Botox, Aregireline relaxes facial muscles to smooth wrinkles. Unlike Botox, Argireline takes some time to see effects, which is preferable to people who wish to forgo the, “you got something done!” scrutiny.
Vitamin A
Also known as retinoids, Vitamin A is the rising star of the anti-wrinkle world. Vitamin A stimulates collagen growth and aids in resurfacing the skin, giving skin a youthful glow and all over even skin tone. A word of caution: retinoids can cause skin irritation in some individuals and does increase sun sensitivity. Use sunscreen, and test on a small area before using.
Palmitoyl pentapeptide-3
An active ingredient Matrixyl, peptides have been known in dermatology for 10 years to produce a significant reduction in deep and moderate wrinkles. Peptides stimulate collagen production, resulting in increased skin tone.
Almond Oil
A skin emollient and moisturizer, also known to protect the skin against UV damage.
Evening Primrose Oil
An excellent source of omega fatty acids, evening primrose oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and decreases the signs of aging.
Edelweiss Extract
An antioxidant, Edelweiss extract has been used for ages as a traditional herbal treatment. According to holistic practitioners, it protects against sun damage.
If you made it this far you really need to check out the Top 2 Anti-Wrinkle Comparison.