Anti-Aging Creams
Can Topically Applied Anti-Aging Creams Get the Same Results as Wrinkle Fillers such As Restylane, Botox, Artecoll etc.
Anti-aging creams promise the same results as the cosmetic fillers, but can they really perform at the same rate? A lot of us feel skepticism when we read the labels on those jars of creams and then view the photographic results of the cosmetic fillers.
Scientific testing is difficult to do with anti-aging creams because we all age at different rates. Environmental factors such as sun damage, pollution, diet, stress, smoking, alcohol, skincare regimes, and even racial origin all play a factor in individual aging. These very factors make it very difficult to methodically and scientifically test anti-aging products. The questions remain: how much to use, how often to apply and how long the creams need to be used to produce significant results?
There are some ingredients in skincare products which may help with anti-aging and have been researched to some degree. However, more scientific research is needed. Products such as Strivectin SD, Regenerist by Olay, Wrinkle Relax by DDF all use an ingredient called Pentapeptides. Pentapeptides were actually studied in the field of wound healing. Pentapeptides are amino acids which function as chemical messengers and were found in wound recovery studies to increase the skin cells production of collagen.
Collagen is a vital factor in skin aging. As we age, collagen production decreases and the skin collapses. Collagen keeps our skin firm and plump but as its production decreases, the skin collapses and wrinkles and folds develop. Cosmetic fillers can be temporary or permanent but it is recommended that you use cosmetic fillers that are temporary. Some of these cosmetic fillers cause the skin to produce its own collagen and this is a good thing. These fillers produce quick results in a targeted area.
Applying pentapeptides combined with fatty acids assist absorption into the skin and help to produce more collagen. These anti-aging creams also contain herbs and vitamins with anti-aging properties.
Strivectin SD was originally developed for stretch marks which are the result of separated collagen fibers. Users of Strivectin SD began applying the cream to their face and the end result was a stimulation of collagen production and softened wrinkles.
Other ingredients in many skin care products are argireline complex and hyaluronic acid. Argireline is claimed to work like Botox, destroying a protein which discharges a neurotransmitter that keeps muscle tense and causes wrinkles. The question is, for how long and how often must you apply creams containing Argireline to achieve the same results you would with Botox? Also, with a product like Botox, there is more safety documentation and research since the product has been used for medical purposes since 1997 in North America.
Hyaluronic acid, another ingredient in anti-aging creams has had a lot of research into the use of it. It is a Glycosaminoglycan , a water-binding agent found in the skin tissue and synovial fluid that moisturizes the cartilage and joints. It is also used for products that treat “dry eye syndrome”. It is known as “nature’s moisturizer” because it is naturally occurring in the skin tissue and joints. Read more on our article on Hyaluronic Acid here.
The most promising researched ingredient for wrinkle prevention is Retin-A, the brand name for the ingredient tretinoin. It has been around for about 25 years and has been successful in the treatment of sun damaged skin, acne and wrinkles.
Dr. John J. Voorhees, chairman of Dermatology at the medical school of the University of Chicago states “To my knowledge, this is the only drug for which there has been crystal clear demonstration that it works”. In 1988, he published a study of Retin A success in the treatment of sun damaged skin. The users of Retin A found a significant reduction of wrinkles, improved texture of the skin and a reduction in brown spots.
Retin A is derived from Vitamin A. It works because it causes skin cells to turn over more quickly, it stops photo aging, it shrinks large pores and freckles and affects the retention of collagen. It also helps stimulate collagen production and the resulting collegen lasts for years.
What else should you look for in an anti-aging skincare product? You should look for anti-aging creams which contain ingredients which mimic the Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) which support our skin. The skin’s intercellular matrix and its lipid content contribute to the skin’s healthy appearance. Ingredients which help to maintain and moisturize the skin and enable it to fix and regenerate itself include:
• Coconut Oil
• Apricot Oil
• Sesame oil
• Squalane
• Shea butter
• Soybean oil
• Jojoba wax
• Corn Oil
• Jojoba oil
• Lanolin
• Lecithin
• Olive oil
• Safflower oil
• Sweet almond oil
It is possible to put off cosmetic fillers for as long as you can by using a good anti-aging cream regimen. However, time will always advance and when you feel you are ready for a cosmetic filler to help enhance your face and bring back that youthful fresh look, do you research and be sure to contact your Anti-aging doctor or cosmetic surgeon for a consultation.
