Today’s anti-ageing cosmeceuticals have moved
past the hype and turned back the clock. And because beauty isn’t only skin
deep, experts point out that what we put inside our bodies counts as much
toward a younger look as what we slather on the outside.
A big part of that is using the most beneficial, age-busting product available: sunscreen. And the Heliocare range, available at Lasermed, is just the ticket.
Some research-proven ingredients to look
for in your skincare products include:
Skin care professionals consider this form of Vitamin A the gold standard of effective topical treatments. Also available as prescription strength Retin-A, retinol is an ingredient in myriad over-the-counter products. It ramps up cell turnover in the top layers of the skin, decreasing wrinkles and improving skin tone.
These chains of amino acids act as signalling molecules in cells, telling them to heal, renew and slough away.
Fighting cell damage from free radicals, which are produced when skin is exposed to sunlight and some chemicals, antioxidants can make skin firmer and more radiant. Wear them, eat them and drink them, experts say. They’re available in several topical creams. Many foods, especially fresh produce and beverages such as fruit juice and various varieties of tea, also contain antioxidants.
These compounds, which include glycolic, lactic, citric and mandelic acids, can help peel away the top layers of the skin to erase fine lines. AHAs are available in both OTC and prescription strengths.
Anti-ageing products to avoid
Some ingredients in anti-aging products should be avoided, experts say. These include:
- Petroleum-based products. They
may temporarily soften skin, but these substances also plug up pores,
preventing skin from breathing and detoxifying.
- Sulfates. Chemicals such as
sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) dry out skin and
hair.
When it comes to applying anti-ageing
products, it’s not always better to apply more. Each product should be used as
directed on the packaging.
Some products contain active ingredients
that do more harm than good when too much is used. They can cause clogged pores,
a blotchy complexion, or other unwanted effects.
And remember to drink plenty of water and
to eat healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids , both of which contribute to
a dewier complexion. Other healthy lifestyle choices, such as engaging in
regular exercise and not smoking, are also reflected on our faces.
