Aging is a natural part of life, and as you age, wrinkles and fine lines will undoubtedly appear. While some people can simply accept this as fact, others are likely to help. Anti-wrinkle creams help to reduce these signs of aging. The following is a guide about these creams. It has all the information on these creams that helps you understand everything about them and how to select the best cream that suits your skin.

1. Ingredients in anti-wrinkle creams
Most anti-wrinkle creams are not classified as drugs and are available for sale over the counter. These creams, when applied regularly, can help in reducing wrinkles and other signs of aging on the skin.

The creams commonly contain ingredients like:

• Retinoid

This is a vitamin A compound that is useful to repair damaged skin. It can smoothen skin and reduce wrinkles. It is also useful in preventing wrinkles from being formed. There are different types of retinoids, retinyl palmitate is the weakest and suited for even those who have sensitive skin. Retinol is moderately strong and can be effective in reducing wrinkles. Adapalene is the strongest retinoid.

• Hydroxy acids

AHA stands for Alpha Hydroxy Acid. Creams that contain AHA are useful in removing dead skin cells. This can help in creating new skin cells that make the skin smooth and free of wrinkles.

• Coenzyme 10

This is a substance useful in reducing wrinkles around the eyes.

• Peptides

They are very helpful in stimulating the body to produce collagen. Collagen makes the skin smooth and supple. Aging reduces collagen, which leads to wrinkling and other signs of aging.

• Grape seed extract

This is another substance that can help in stimulating collagen production.

• Niacinamide

This is an antioxidant that reduces the loss of water and keeps the skin hydrated and elastic.

• Vitamin C

This is an antioxidant that is useful in reducing wrinkles and fine lines.

Anti-wrinkle formulations available in the market may use one or more of the above mentioned ingredients.

2. Sunscreen
Sunscreen plays an important role in fighting wrinkles. The harsh rays of the sun can dry skin and make it more vulnerable to developing wrinkles. It is important to use an anti-wrinkle cream that has SPF.

3. Shopping for anti-wrinkle creams
If you have decided that anti-wrinkle creams can be helpful for you, these are a few points to keep in mind while buying this product:

• OTC vs. prescription

OTC creams have less concentration of ingredients and its effectiveness may not be apt. Prescription creams would have a higher dosage of ingredients and can be more effective. The higher dosage can cause side effects. Consulting a dermatologist is recommended before starting the use of anti-wrinkle creams.

• Side effects

Creams with a higher concentration of ingredients can have side effects. These include redness, itching, and rashes. Find out if you are allergic to any of the ingredients before using an anti-wrinkle cream.

• Regular usage required

For anti-wrinkle creams to be effective, they need to be used daily for several weeks. The effect of these creams may not be apparent immediately and would take time to work.

• Price

Price has nothing to do with the effectiveness of creams. Costly creams aren’t always more effective than cheaper ones. The ingredients in the creams matter the most.