How Does Anti-Aging Cream Work?

Anti-aging cream manufacturers claim that their products have the power to turn back the clock. What these creams actually contain are vitamins and acids that boost cell growth and promise a younger look. By exfoliating with an alpha hydroxy acid and boosting collagen with vitamins, you can reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

Creams function as a multi-taskers, and work even while you sleep. The different vitamins and acids stimulate cell growth and rejuvenate pigmented or flaccid skin. Modern-day creams not only have vitamin C in them, but also have retinol, acids and yeast particles that help cells multiply.

Retinol is often added to anti-aging creams. It is actually vitamin A, which boosts collagen and sloughs off dead skin cells. Retinol can be found in many anti-aging creams, such as moisturizers or night creams. It is important to read the labels to see if retinol, retinoic acid or vitamin A is in the anti-aging cream. Retinoids have been known to smooth out skin, prevent clogged pores and fix acne problems.

Alpha hydroxy acid (or AHA) is another ingredient to look for in anti-aging creams, as it exfoliates dead skin cells. This acid allows the top layers of the skin to flake off. If AHAs are too tough on your skin, try poly hydroxy acids, which come from milk sugar and are less irritating. Both are not as strong as vitamin A, or retinol, and can be used while pregnant (if prescribed by a doctor).

Kinetin is a yeast derivative that regulates growth in plants. When used in the form of a cream, kinetin increases cell activity and improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also improves the overall skin texture, smoothing out rough or patchy skin or troublesome spots.

Although an anti-aging cream can help, the most important factor in reducing the multiplication of fine lines and wrinkles is the amount of sleep you get. Aim for 8 hours a night, and put on anti-aging cream so that it works overnight.