Proven anti aging skin care ingredients.  Scientific studies and trials have demonstrated restorative and regenerative results on damaged skin for several compounds and vitamins.  Cosmetic companies have leapt to these formulations and have incorporated many of these ingredients in their formulations and are furiously branding their version of skin care as the latest and greatest product of all time.  The reality is that you can find many of these promising anti aging ingredients in several products if you know what to look for and can read a label.  The following is a list of ingredients that can be found in good skin care products.  They are helpful in the skin rejuvenation and anti-aging process:

Alpha-hydroxy Acids (AHA) – There are a number of acids which fall into this category.  They include glycolic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid and citric acid, all of which can be found in some skin care products.  The main benefit of using creams, lotions and moisturizers with these ingredients is the reduction of fine lines and the shrinking of enlarged pores.  In some cases AHA’s have been found to correct the abnormal coloring of sunspots and irregular pigmentation.  It is advisable to use a low concentration, usually every other day, when first beginning the applications of any AHA’s.  This will prevent or reduce the risk of skin irritation that can sometime be associated with AHA.

Beta-hydroxy Acid or Salicylic Acid – This form of acid is similar to AHA but with fewer cases of skin irritation reported by product users.  Beta-hydroxy acid is used in cases of acne, skin damage caused by UV rays and for those individuals looking to improve the color and texture of the skin. 

Hydroquinone – Products with this ingredient tend to work by bleaching and lightening the areas of application.  Age spots and dark spots are the primary targets of hydroquinone.  There are some products with hydroquinone available over the counter, but higher concentrations which are more effective must be obtained with a doctor’s prescription.  Kojic acid, a derivative of a fungus, works just like hydroquinone but is much less allergenic.  Kojic acid works by prohibiting melanin production leaving the treatment area lighter in color.  It is similar to a bleaching product without the harsh chemicals and side effects. 

Retinol – This ingredient comes from Vitamin A.  Its structure is the perfect size to fit directly into the skin’s layer containing collagen and elastin, the dermis.  Once inside, retinol boosts production of these fibers and increases their function.  Retinol has been found to help decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and to improve the color and texture of the skin.  It also enhances the skin’s moisture content.

Vitamin C – Recall the abuse that the skin receives from free radical attacks.  (see FREE RADICAL THEORY OF THE AGING PROCESS).  Vitamin C is an antioxidant that combats and decreases the number of free radical assaults within the body.  The main result is a retardation of the aging process.  Vitamin C also plays a vital role in increasing collagen levels leading to a decrease in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and scars.

Hyaluronic Acid – This acid is normally produced by the body and helps to retain water in the cells.  The result is a healthy, moisturized, smooth looking skin.  Decreased production during the aging process leaves the cells less able to hold adequate quantities of water.  Products containing hyaluronic acid are helpful in treating and preventing the formation of wrinkles and cellulite.   

Copper Peptide – This substance has been shown to increase levels of collagen and elastin – the very structures needed to fight off wrinkles, fine lines, sags and cellulite.  Additionally, its presence is a stimulant for hyaluronic acid production. 

Alpha – Lipoic Acid – This antioxidant differs from most others in that it is both water and fat soluble making it the perfect antioxidant for all environments.  It works to fight off free radical attacks and to increase the necessary cellular molecules for skin health such as Vitamin C.  Alph-Lipoic Acid has been shown to decrease fine lines, wrinkles and to ward off the appearance of the aging process.

Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) - This substance is most widely found in seafood such as salmon, sardines and anchovies, but within the human body the brain is the major producer of DMAE.  DMAE works in the skin to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.