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Fine lines may be a natural part of aging but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t products available which can help to slow the development of visible wrinkles on your skin.
There are a large selection of products on the market which promise to make a profound impact on your complexion, limiting the appearance of existing wrinkles while slowing the creation of new ones, but only certain ingredients can actually have the effect you’re looking for.
In order to keep the aging process at bay and achieve your smoothest, clearest skin at an age, dermatologists agree that there’s one ingredient above the rest which can change your complexion for the better.
Retinoids
A derivative of vitamin A, the term retinoid encapsulates a variety of compounds including retinol and retinoic acid. Typically used to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while reducing sun damage, retinoid products across the board have been proven to be most effective in fighting against signs of aging on the skin when applied topically. However, the benefits don’t just stop there. Retinoids have also been proven to fight acne as well, reducing the appearance of blemishes for a smoother complexion.
Used to even out skin tone, retinoids can help to create a brighter and more youthful appearance with repeated use over time. “Retinoids gently exfoliate the skin, mitigating the appearance of brown spots or natural freckling which occurs with aging. They also help to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin, so that wrinkles are not as noticeable,” says dermatologist Dr. Anna Chacon, MD. “In addition, they also help to prevent blackheads and whiteheads and minimize the appearance of acne bumps.”
Collagen is a naturally occurring protein, but as you grow older your body begins to make less of it, resulting in sagging and wrinkles. Responsible for maintaining the elasticity of the skin, giving collagen production a boost is one of the best ways to promote a more youthful appearance. Retinol is one such vitamin which instigates collagen production, naturally smoothing out wrinkles and allowing the skin to bounce back with ease.
“Retinoids reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the production of collagen. They also stimulate the production of new blood vessels in the skin, which improves skin color. Additional benefits include fading age spots and softening rough patches of skin,” explains Harvard Health.
Doing your research or speaking with a dermatologist before investing in a retinol based product is essential as choosing the right formula is vital for seeing the best results. There are many items you can buy at the drugstore, but clinical dermatologist Dr. Ailynne Marie Vergara-Wijangco suggests your skincare products should not necessarily be one of them.
“Because over-the-counter (OTC) wrinkle creams aren't classified as drugs, they're not required to undergo scientific research to prove their effectiveness. If you're looking for a face-lift in a bottle, you probably won't find it in OTC wrinkle creams. The benefits of these products are usually only slight.” If you’re looking for a skincare product which will turn back the clock on your appearance it may be worth investing in something a little pricier, and for this a retinol serum is your best bet for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
