Truth about anti-ageing creams

Since ancient times lotions and potions were used for enhancing beauty. The secret of the ingredients used was known only to the witch doctors, experts or the shrinks. In today’s world, market is flooded with various skin products equivalent to ancient potions. We all hear about certain ingredients being used in these such as vitamin E, AHA (Alpha Hydroxic Acid), Niacin amide B3 complex, retinol, SPF etc. But what are their benefits? We find out.

Dr Preeti Savardekar consultant Dermatologist & Cosmetologist at Shri Krishna Polyclinic, Worli states that skin products certainly work. Customers who use anti-ageing creams after they see skin damage like fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes etc feel disheartened as no substantial results show. Anti-ageing creams and most of the skincare products are for prevention. Start using anti-ageing creams by the age of 25, to prolong the onset of aging of your skin.

Let us understand about anti ageing ingredients:

Anti ageing products helps in skin cell rejuvenation and to build collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin gives our skin the elasticity and plumpness for youthful appearance. The ingredients helpful in building collagen are AHA (Alpha Hydroxic Acid), Retinol, Coenzyme Q10 and to a certain extent Allantoin.

Retinol is the best ingredient to effectively fight the signs of ageing without prescription. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is also found naturally in our skin. Retinol stimulates renewal and repair processes in skin including the production of elastin and collagen, helping the skin to repair itself and be bouncy and firm.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid helps to stimulate natural cell turnover. It has lipid factors useful especially for older skin as it helps to hydrate and nourish the skin.

AHA (Alpha Hydroxic Acid) is a salt to weaken bonds of old and dead skin cells from the outer layer of the skin and help in skin renewal.
Allantoin also has the anti-ageing properties but according to Dr Preeti Savardekar not many creams use this ingredient as it needs a very fine balance with others to give effective results.

Now let us also know about the rejuvenating, skin lightening or healing ingredients used in skin products:

Rejuvenating products are those which have hydrating, soothing and healing properties. Pro-Vitamin B3, Niacin amide B3 complex, Vitamins A, C and E and SPF help in skin nourishment, softening and protection.

Vitamins A, C and E help in nourishing and moisturising the skin. They help in the healing process after chemical peels or other damage to the skin.

Pro-Vitamin B3 helps in the deep moisturizing of the skin. It helps to soften the skin and gives boost to plumpness and suppleness of the skin.
Niacin amide B3 complex helps in reducing pigmentation, helps in skin lightening, soothing and healing of the skin.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) helps the skin against sun damage due to UVA and UVB rays. SPF 30 or more is recommended to protect your skin against harsh sun ray damage.

Next time you invest in a skincare product, make sure you know the ingredients involved and the benefits you will get when you use them.

Parimita Chakravorty

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