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| Image by: Silviarita |
With thousands of serums, creams and oils claiming to wage a war on wrinkles, deciding which anti-ageing products to add to your skincare routine can be overwhelming. With so many miracle products, how do you know what to choose? Whether you’re concerned about deep wrinkles, a few soft lines or just hell-bent on prevention, these are the ingredients to look out for that really work.
SPF
Although it doesn’t fix any existing sun damage, SPF is key to any anti-ageing skincare routine. Helping to prevent any further wrinkles and dark spots, a daily application of SPF is essential. According to a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine, people who use sunscreen daily have significantly younger-looking skin. It should be the last product you apply during your morning routine and before make-up.
Retinol
Retinol (also known as vitamin A) is one of the most well-known and effective anti-ageing ingredients. Retinol works hard to increase cell turnover and stimulate both collagen and elastin production. This multitasking ingredient improves uneven skin tone, softens the appearance of wrinkles and also helps with acne. Available in varying strengths, studies have shown that over-the-counter retinol can have similar anti-ageing effects as prescription strength versions.
Acids
The concept of using acid on the skin may sound scary, but there are many acids that can be beneficial to our skin when used in the right way. When applied as topical exfoliants, glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids resurface the skin’s epidermis to allow for better product penetration and help rebuild collagen. Glycolic and lactic acids are better for dry skin, while salicylic is more suitable for oily or combination skin.
Vitamin C
It may be the go-to ingredient to fend off colds and flu, but Vitamin C also works wonders on your skin. A skincare hero, daily use of vitamin C helps to slow down the effects of ageing by boosting collagen and treating UV exposure photo-damage. It boasts powerful antioxidant benefits that brighten the complexion, even out skin tone and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
There are several different types of vitamin C used in skincare products, but L-ascorbic acid is deemed 'the king' of vitamin C. The benefits of L-ascorbic acid are supported by the most amount of scientific research. This research has also shown that your skin can be protected from free radicals and ageing with as little as 0.6 percent of vitamin C.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E can assist the skin in various ways, especially in helping to prevent the signs of premature ageing. Also known as Tocopherol, Vitamin E promotes a powerful anti-inflammatory action. Inflammatory conditions in the skin are a leading cause of premature ageing. Packed with antioxidants to protect against environmental stress, vitamin E is best applied as an anti-ageing treatment at night due to its heavy texture.
CoQ10
CoQ10 is another little-known but effect skincare ingredient to add to your regime. Also known as ubiquinone or coenzyme Q, it’s an enzyme that’s found in every cell and tissue to keep the body healthy. We produce less CoQ10 as we age, and as a result the ability of cells to regenerate and withstand stress declines. As well as inside the body, CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that plays a role in making the skin look younger. A study has shown that applying Q10‐containing skincare formulas can improve the skin's Q10 level and provide anti-oxidative effects. It can also reduce free radicals within the skin, boost cell energy and reduce the breakdown of collagen.
