Even in this era of information overload, it is surprising how little women care to know about their skin care essentials. While purchasing skin care products, women often tend to go by their favorite brands, look and scents of the products or general advice from friends and family. You may have been using the same brand of skin care products for years together and would have got used to it. The truth is, it is extremely important to consider the ingredients contained in the skin care products before you decide to buy them. The ingredients are what matters and not the brand name or your sister’s advice.

Even if you might have used something in your 20s that worked really well, it might not be enough to care for your skin at present. With age, the needs and requirements of your skin changes and therefore you would need to alter your skin care regimen accordingly.. along with your skin careproducts.

There are many powerful anti aging ingredients that help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Moreover, they enhance the skin tone and takes care of the skin requirements as the cell turnover ration and collagen production slows down. Here are 5 most popular and most effective ingredients that cater to mature skin and help delay the appearance of aging skin.

Retinol

A derivative of Vitamin A, Retinol is an excellent anti-aging ingredient. It is the over-the-counter form of Renova (also called tretinoin) and is approved by FDA. Topical application of Retinol reduces and even eliminates wrinkles and fine lines on the skin. Retinol not only stimulates the production of collagen within the skin cells but also prevents the breakdown of the existing collagen. Moreover, it increases the thickness of the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and thus makes the skin smooth and soft. It is advisable to use skin care products that generally contain 1% retinol. You can use increased concentrations as your skin gets used to it.

Retinol may cause slight skin irritations, especially on sensitive skin. Also, it increases the skin susceptibility towards sunlight. Make sure to use a broad spectrum sunscreen when you are using Retinol-based skin care products.

Alpha-hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

The mid-80s saw a skin-care revolution when alpha hydroxy acids made a grand entry in the market. They are proven to provide immense skin care benefits and make the skin smooth and refined. AHAs, especially glycolic acid and lactic acid are known as workhorse ingredients. They resurface the skin and bring about a radiant glow. In addition, they keep the skin hydrated and plump. They are also powerful exfoliants that take off the dead skin cells from the skin surface. As a result, the skin remains fresh and radiant. Try using iS Clinical Youth Complex.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants, be it berries or teas or vitamins form an integral part of an anti-aging skin care regimen.. They typically work by eliminating the damage caused by skin’s oxidizing molecules (called free radicals). The free radicals tend to disrupt the skin structure and cause premature aging. Antioxidants prevent the oxidation process and thus prevent the several problems associated with it.

Peptides

They are small skin-penetrating amino acid chains that stimulate fibroblasts and accelerate the production of collagen and elastin fibers. With age, the levels of collagen and elastin depletes thus leading to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. The skin also tends to sag and appear dull and lifeless. Topical application of peptides helps to replenish the depleting levels and bring back the lost radiance of the skin.

Sunscreen

Sunscreens are an integral and indispensable part of your skin care regimen irrespective of your skin type, age, weather conditions and skin problems. There is never an excuse not to wear sunscreen. This is because the UV rays of the sun continue to damage the skin.. While immediate damage may be visible in the form of sun burns and tanned skin, prolonged skin damage can lead to premature aging and even skin cancer.

Make sure you use a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against the UVA as well as the UVB rays of the skin. It is advisable to use sunscreens that have anti-aging benefits.. Try La Roche Posay Anthelios SX or Obagi Physical UV Block SPF 32.