False Promises

Our youth obsessed society is expected to spend nearly 72 billion dollars in 2009 on anti-aging products and services. An ever growing selection of creams, moisturizers and serums promise to remove wrinkles, repair damaged skin and return our faces to the days of our youth. If all the claims were true, there wouldn't be a wrinkled face among us because we'd all be sporting rejuvenated skin similar to a baby's bottom.

What Works?

Some newer antioxidant-based creams that contain copper, vitamin C or green tea may help soften the appearance of lines and wrinkles. But a product that's been around for nearly two decades continues to stand out as perhaps the most effective.

Prescription strength Retin-A was originally used to treat acne. But it wasn't long before dermatologists and patients alike were pleasantly surprised to see that it was providing an added bonus; the vitamin A derivative was actually fading lines and making skin appear smoother and more vibrant.

Retin-A works by turning skin cells over at a quick pace. The product requires a doctor's prescription. A less potent version of the cream, called Retinol, is a key ingredient in many over-the-counter moisturizers. It appears to have similar although less dramatic results than prescription-strength Retin-A.

Problems Associated with Retin-A

When it comes to improving overall skin texture and diminishing dark spots, Retin-A is a top contender in the fight against sun damaged skin. Patients may have to tolerate a temporary worsening of the skin in the first four to eight weeks of treatment because it may cause redness, flaking of the skin and some peeling

That's one of the reasons some people prefer the less potent Retinol. Retin-A irritation is sometimes caused by overzealous patients who slather on too much of the cream. Doctors suggest using a pea-size dab for the entire face.

Sun Block

You can prevent further wrinkling of the skin by simply limiting sun exposure and wearing plenty of sun block. Ultraviolet radiation accelerates the aging process because it breaks down the skin's connective tissue, causing it to lose its strength and flexibility. It is the number one cause of premature wrinkling.