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Anti-Aging Ingredients: A Primer

Alpha Hydroxy Acid

One of the very first anti-aging ingredients to hit the market was AHA, or Alpha Hydroxy Acids. At the time, it seemed like a radical approach to what is truly a simple idea, exfoliation. Every day our skin regenerates itself; dead skin cells rise to the surface where they begin to collect. When these dead skin cells are not exfoliated, the skin takes on a dull, dreary appearance. Exfoliation is the act of removing dead skin cells, leaving the skin healthy and glowing. Recommended AHA products include NeoStrata bionic Face Cream, Betaplex Line Smoother by Cellex-C and Dermologica's incredible Skin Renewal Booster both which will help to regenerate and revive your skin.

The benefits of using products with Alpha Hydroxy Acids are similar to those of microdermabrasion - erasing fine lines and giving the skin a smoother, more youthful appearance. Keep in mind, however, that AHA products should be used sparingly. The high concentration of acids could eventually dry and irritate your skin if used too frequently.

CoEnzyme Q10

Not until a few years ago, the term CoEnzyme Q10 sounded like something out of a chemistry book. However, since its introduction into the skin care market, it has become an extremely popular Anti-Aging ingredient. Q10 is a Coenzyme that is found naturally in the skin to help defend it against aging. As we age, the level of natural Q10 begins to decrease and your skin loses the ability to naturally regain its elasticity and firmness. Coenzyme Q10 enhances the skin's unique ability to minimize the impacts of aging, making your skin firmer, smoother, and toned.

In addition, Q10 contains a time-release formula, so that your skin is constantly being renewed after applying it. Look for this powerful ingredient in Q10 Plus Wrinkle Control Day Crème by Nivea, which also contains Biotin, a natural ingredient. Biotin helps to strengthen your epidermis, leaving you with a firmer, softer, and smoother look. You might also try Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Sensitive Skin Lotion SPF 15 by Eucerin. which is fragrance free for those with sensitive skin. Even better, the SPF 15 element of this formula helps to protect your skin from the aging rays of the sun.

Retinol

Another high profile Anti-Aging solution is topical Retinol, which is Vitamin A in its purest form. Using Vitamin A topically has been suggested to help build collagen fibers within the skin in addition to its powerful exfoliating property. Retinol Complex by SkinMedica is a highly regarded dermatological choice as an Anti-Aging cream. It has been shown to increase both collagen and elastin, and even provides antioxidant defense. MD Forte's Skin Rejuvenation Eye Cream is another excellent Retinol product, specifically designed for the highly sensitive area around your eyes. Both of these products have been tested and approved by top dermatologists and ophthalmologists.

Antioxidants

The aging process is a constant in our lives, but with the addition of antioxidants in your skin care regimen, it can be slowed down considerably. Antioxidants are vital, and naturally occurring nutrients that help maintain one's health by slowing down the aging process of cellular molecules in the skin and body.

Antioxidants are found naturally in the body and in plants such as fruits and vegetables. Common antioxidants include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and certain compounds called carotenoids (e.g. lutein and beta-carotene). Antioxidants help prevent the destruction of cells by bonding with free radicals. Free radicals are products of our environment, often caused by pollution and smoking and are all around us. These free radicals bond with healthy skin cells and immediately begin to destroy them. By introducing powerful antioxidants into your daily regimen, you should quickly notice improvement in the appearance of your skin, from the brightness to the texture. Try Cellex-C's Advanced-C Neck Firming Cream. This gentle solution contains a patented formula that combines with two powerful antioxidants: resveratrol and L-ergothioneine. Another highly recommended product designed to target the delicate eye area is Cellex-C's Advanced-C Eye-Firming Cream, an advanced moisturizing formula that contains antioxidants and Cellex-C's patented complex.

Ongoing Care

Regardless of which product you decide to try, remember that it took many years for your skin to reach its current state. Although it takes considerably less time for the products listed above to improve the quality and appearance of your skin, it's essential to be diligent when using them. Be sure to read the directions on the product packaging carefully, and use them according to those guidelines. It is always recommended to see your dermatologist when looking for answers to a problem area.

Article posted 7/02/2004.

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Skin Rejuvenation Eye Cream by MD Forte $62.00

Bionic Face Cream by NeoStrata $45.00

Retinol Complex by SkinMedica Retail Value: $53.00 OUR PRICE: $50.35 You Save: 5%