If you're starting to see the first signs of ageing or you're keen to learn
more about how you can support your skin to look and feel its best at any
age, you may be looking at the plethora of anti ageing creams that are
available on the market from top brands including Medik8, SkinCeuticals and
Obagi.
While some people are simply fortunate enough to have skin that looks
younger than their age, looking after your skin can support a healthier,
brighter and more youthful complexion. But how exactly do anti ageing creams
work? Let's find out.
Active Ingredients in Anti Ageing Creams
To understand how anti ageing products work, it's important to look at the
active ingredients that can often be found in the most popular creams.
- Hyaluronic Acid
A powerful hydrator, hyaluronic acid works to plump the skin, which offers a
smoother and more youthful looking complexion.
- Retinol
Derived from vitamin A, retinol can stimulate the production of collagen and
boost skin cell turnover to minimise the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
- Vitamin C
This potent antioxidant protects the skin from UV exposure and free
radicals, while brightening and evening out the complexion.
- Peptides
Peptides are amino acids that can improve the texture of skin, increase the
body's natural collagen production processes, and minimise the appearance of
deeper wrinkles.
- Niacinamide
Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is known to improve the elasticity of
the skin, reduce inflammation, and support healthy function of the skin
barrier. With consistent use, it can lead to fewer wrinkles developing and a
visibly even skin tone.
- Ceramides
Ceramides are lipids that can help to support the skin barrier, which can
lead to better moisture retention, less irritation, and protection from
environmental damage.
The Properties of Anti Ageing Creams
Anti ageing creams have a number of different properties that can support
skin health and help you to maintain a youthful complexion, so let's explore
these in a little more detail to understand how and why they work.
1. Moisturising
Face creams work to deliver a hit of moisture, which plumps the skin and
minimises the look of fine lines and wrinkles. If your skin is lacking
moisture, look out for creams containing hyaluronic acid or glycerine, as
they're very effective at locking in hydration.
2. Antioxidant
Anti ageing creams formulated with antioxidants, such as green tea extract
and vitamin C, help to counteract free radicals, which can cause damage to
skin cells, proteins and DNA that can lead to premature ageing.
3. Exfoliating
Many anti ageing creams contain ingredients such as niacinamide that gently
exfoliate the skin. Over time, this exfoliation removes dead skin cells and
promotes skin cell turnover, which minimises the appearance of pigmentation,
pores, blemishes, lines and wrinkles.
4. SPF
As UV rays from the sun are a leading cause of premature skin ageing, using
a moisturiser with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection all year round will
help to shield your skin from further damage.
So, do anti ageing creams work? Yes! Although they won't make you look 10
years younger after just one use, with consistent application, you will
start to notice that your skin looks clearer, fresher and more resilient.