How to Compare Wrinkle Creams

With so many anti-aging products on the market, it can take some time to find one that actually works. Some creams can be extremely expensive, but not necessarily as effective as cheaper brands. Thus, it is often wise to compare and contrast different types of wrinkle creams before settling on any one in particular. The best way to assess the effectiveness of different wrinkle creams is to test them out for yourself.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Samples of different wrinkle creams
• Comparison chart

1. Obtain trial samples of various wrinkle creams from department stores, or request samples from the company websites. Most companies will be more than happy to provide you with samples of their products. Don't limit yourself to the pricier creams because a higher price does not necessarily guarantee effectiveness. Many of the less-expensive drugstore brand wrinkle creams can be just as effective. Make sure to try both types.

2. Test out the samples individually. You should devote about a week or two to testing each cream. If you don't have the time, recruit friends and family members to test out the various wrinkle creams with you. Be sure to monitor the results, or lack thereof, carefully. It may even be helpful to take pictures every week to have visual proof of progress.

3. Record the results of each cream that you test so that you have an accurate representation of all the products. This will come in handy for you to refer to later on as well, especially since you may forget which cream is which during the testing process.

4. Read lots of product reviews and consumer reviews. This is definitely the best way to find out about a product if you are unable to test the wrinkle creams yourself, or if you are unable to obtain some free samples. You can find reviews for almost every wrinkle cream online. If there is a particular brand of wrinkle cream that you are interested in, or always wanted to try, visit the company website for feedback from customers who have tried the product. There are also consumer reports websites that provide unbiased, independent tests on a very exhaustive list of wrinkle creams, and are very helpful if you'd like additional information from a third party.

5. Compare product ingredients and research their individual components. Most active ingredients in wrinkle creams are retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, copper peptides, kinetin and coenzyme Q10. Retinol is an antioxidant that fights free radicals-- molecules that cause skin damage and result in wrinkles. Alpha hydroxy acids are basically naturally-derived exfoliants that remove dead surface skin cells to reveal the smoother, younger-looking skin underneath. Copper peptides stimulate collagen production making skin more supple and firm. Kinetin is also an antioxidant that stimulates collagen production thereby minimizing and preventing wrinkles. Coenzyme Q10 is a nutrient that has been shown to reduce smaller wrinkles around the eyes. Make sure that whatever cream you buy contains these active ingredients. Paying attention to the ingredients will also help you differentiate between good creams and bad creams, regardless of price.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep your receipt and be aware of the store's return policy just in case the wrinkle cream you've chosen is not exactly what you're looking for, or proves to be ineffective in the long run.

• Avoid using wrinkle creams containing retinol if you are pregnant or may become pregnant due to the risk of birth defects.

Resources

• Consumer reviews of wrinkle creams