Anti-aging is one of those topics that the skin care industry is always chasing. Some search for the next best marketing ploy while others are truly on the hunt for the next best thing. But, how can you tell if a product is worth trying?
The constant pressure to look younger drives many women to search for the best anti-aging product. Until this social pressure is eliminated, or women become immune to the endless barrage of perfect images, skin care companies will continue to introduce anti-aging innovations in an effort to lure more devoted customers. Here are some products that feature breakthrough ingredients.
1. SkinCeuticals – A.G.E. Interrupter ($150)
As the name infers, this product targets Advanced Glycation End-products (A.G.E.). AGEs are abnormal structures formed when glucose binds to proteins, causing the skin to lose elasticity and look crepey and thin. According to SkinCeuticals, the blueberry extract in this product inhibits the formation of AGEs.
Worth Trying?
Paula Begoun, otherwise known as the Cosmetics Cop, is a consumer expert and the author of the book Don’t Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me. She reviews products based on the scientific data supporting the company’s claims. Of this product, she says, “It’s mostly slip agents, silicones, and wax, plus the questionable AGE-inhibiting blueberry extract…For $150, you have every right to expect a whole lot more than this no-better-than-average product provides.”
2. Perricone MD – Advanced Face Firming Activator ($120)
Applied prior to a moisturizer, this product features alpha lipoic acid (an antioxidant), dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE, anti-oxidant stabilizer and anti-inflammatory) and dodium hyaluronate (to lock in moisture). The paraben-free formula gently exfoliates to retexturize the skin to minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
Worth Trying?
Begoun says, “Ongoing use stimulates collagen production, which will result in smoother, firmer skin. We’re not talking firm, as in you’ll think you’re in your 20s again — instead, think incremental, minor improvements.”
3. Alpha Hydrox – Retinol ResQ ($14.99)
This affordable product touts a healthy dose of retinol as its wrinkle-fighter. The fragrance-free, lightweight formula also provides an antioxidant boost, with Vitamins A, C and E. Unlike many retinol products, Alpha Hydrox actually utilizes innovative packaging that keeps the product stable, thus effective.
Worth Trying?
Begoun advises, “Retinol ResQ ranks as one of the top retinol products available in any price range… Overall, well done! By the way, retinol products from Natural Advantage by Jane Seymour and Philosophy have nearly identical formulas to this less expensive option!”
4. MyChelle Dermaceuticals – Capillary Calming Serum ($42.29)
Pronounced capillaries and redness can make you appear older way before your time. This product is designed to calm irritated skin and improve circulation, bringing a healthy, younger looking glow to the surface. The main ingredients include Canadian willowherb, gotu kola and arnica, while totarol, spin trap, tocotrienols, and blue algae.
Worthy Trying?
According to Begoun, “Although this water-based serum contains an impressive amount of the plant soothing agent willow herb, among other really interesting ingredients, the third ingredient is alcohol, which doesn’t calm skin in the least.”
5. Estee Lauder – Advanced Night Repair Concentrate Recovery Boosting Treatment ($85.00)
An amped-up version of Estee Lauder’s original Advanced Night Repair, this product is super concentrated and full of anti-oxidants. One of the main ingredients is bifida ferment lysate, a “good” bacteria naturally found in the body and some yogurts. The idea is that, as your immune system benefits from these bacteria, so too does your skin. When your skin is clear, it appears more luminous, even-textured and youthful.
Worth Trying?
“Its silicone content gives the concentrate a silkier texture than the original, but the big difference is in the larger amount of antioxidants Lauder packed into the concentrate version,” says Begoun. “This is enough of a difference to consider the original antiquated.”
6. The Organic Pharmacy – Rose Plus Marine Collagen Complex ($185)
This light and refreshing plant-peptide serum includes hibiscus extract, milk protein, rose hip and gogi berries. The star is dill extract, which is added to increase production of elastin. This product is designed to smooth skin, boost elasticity and protect against free radical damage.
Worth Trying? After reviewing the ingredients, Heather Terveen, an esthetician based in Scottsdale, Ariz., says, “The acai and gogi have antioxidant properties that should help prevent the free-radical cascade (caused from the elements, whether it be sun, pollution, etc.) to assist in the fight against cellular damage. Rose Hip is commonly known for its healing properties — often used to help the healing of scars.”
7. Isomers – Carnosine + ANTIOXIDANT COMPLEX ($39.99)
This antioxidant formula helps defend against free racial damage and encourages youthful skin elasticity. Ingredients include gooseberry extract and resveratrol, an antioxidant found in red wine and grapes.
Worth Trying?
Of one of the primary ingredients, Begoun says, “Like any antioxidant, resveratrol has incredible protective benefit for skin…When applied topically, resveratrol protects against sun damage, improves collagen synthesis, and reduces cell damage. It is a stable, potent antioxidant worth finding in a skin-care product.”
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More on Anti-Aging Products:
Top skin anti-aging ingredients
Anti-aging skin care tips: Look younger with these skin care and beauty tips
Retin-A: Everything you need to know about the best anti-aging cream
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