8 Best Ingredients for Aging Skin

Taking care of your skin and knowing the ingredients that will help you achieve your goal is important. But what ingredients actually work? Each of these top anti-aging ingredients gives skin a youthful boost in slightly different ways. Each also has its different pros and occasionally cons, we have sought out and researched so you feel you are well prepared and knowledgeable on your product choices!

1. Vitamin C

Not only will it help when you are sick, but vitamin c is also rich in antioxidants which help neutralize skin-damaging free radicals caused by environmental factors such as sun and pollution. This will also help with excess pigment (hyperpigmentation) in the skin, fading dark spots, and discoloration. And if that didn't sell you, it also helps to stimulate collagen production!

2. Collagen

One of the most important proteins in your skin, and the foundation for keeping your skin strong and firm. As we age, our natural collagen production slows down. On top of that, all kinds of external factors (ahem sun) also contribute to collagen breakdown.

While you would think collagen would be the obvious choice for anti-aging it's not quite that simple. Topically, it won't make a huge improvement. Collagen is a large molecule that can be tricky to penetrate as deeply into the skin as is needed. Ingestable forms of collagen are the way to go!

3. Hyaluronic Acid

The cult favorite in the hydrating ingredient world, it acts like a sponge drawing water into the skin and trapping it. This acid not only moisturizes the skin but also plumps the skin filling in your fine lines and wrinkles. Apply this to slightly damp skin for it to work most effectively.

4. SPF

I know, it's technically not an ingredient but if you're not using SPF religiously then there is no point in wasting money on other anti-aging ingredients. It is a known fact that sun exposure is one of the leading causes of all signs of aging, from dark spots to wrinkles and everything in between! A broad-spectrum SPF blocks both UVA and UVB rays can cause premature aging and burning.

5. Ceramides

Ceramides are lipids that keep the skin's barrier strong and healthy sealing in moisture. In terms of anti-aging the more hydrated your skin is, the more youthful and full it will look. Typically ceramides are found in moisturizers and nightly treatments. Because they are great for helping keep irritants out, they are great for sensitive skin.

6. Glycolic And Lactic Acid

Part of a group of fun acids known as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), glycolic acid is known for having the smallest molecular size so it can go deeper into the skin. Like traditional AHA's this gently dissolves bonds between dead skin cells to improve your skin's overall health. But glycolic acid also has another great anti-aging benefit, it boosts collagen and elastin in the skin. Glycolic acid can be irritating for those with extremely sensitive skin or when used too frequently.

Lactic acid, usually derived from milk is generally gentler and less irritating than glycolic acid. It is found in many at-home exfoliating products. Unlike many other exfoliators, lactic acid has been shown to increase the natural moisture factors in the skin.

7. Retinol

Retinol AKA Vitamin A, is the most effective skin-transforming ingredient. Retinol works by increasing the rate at which your cells turn over, making it easier for new healthy cells to emerge. As great as it is, it can be very irritating to many and when overused can cause skin burning.

8. Jojoba Oil

The best skincare oil in the bunch, Jojoba Oil is biomimetic, meaning it acts as the oil naturally found in the skin. It's non-comedogenic, so you won't need to worry about clogging pores while it moisturizes and soothes dry and irritated skin. Jojoba also contains vitamin E!

Now that you are full of knowledge and information about the best you can offer your skin, shop all the latest and greatest in skincare with Beauty Care Choices.