BEST ANTI-AGING INGREDIENTS 2023

BROAD-SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN

The sun is a natural source of life, but on the other hand, it can also be very dangerous for your skin. The main reason to take precautions against skin damage is to prevent premature ageing. The sun’s rays are the reason people age so rapidly, ’cause they contain harmful UVA and UVB rays. These rays penetrate deep into your skin layers, damaging collagen and elastin, so wrinkles form by the time you are thirty. The key to fighting off damage is by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen lotion, but only using it properly. You should put sunscreen on as frequently as possible as it is only an SPF 30/50/60 protection from the harmful sun’s rays. Most people know to wear sunscreen when they go outside, but you should know that even being inside does not guarantee protection from the harmful rays of the sun. In Australia, it is important to protect skin from the sun’s rays to prevent premature ageing. Not only ageing, but too much exposure to the stronger sun rays can develop the risk of skin cancer. While choosing sunscreen keep in mind that your sunscreen should be broad-spectrum certified, water resistant, and containted with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, because not all sunscreens are all these terms. And do not forget to re-apply within 2 hours. 

RETINOL

Retinol, also known as vitamin A, is a super potent anti-ager that slows the skin’s ageing process and boosts the skin’s collagen which leads to the tightening effect on the skin. It keeps your skin firm and young-looking. Retinol serum works on wrinkles. Added to your skincare regime, retinol or vitamin can help tackle the signs of ageing and speed up the cell regeneration process, reduce the appearance of fine lines, deepen skin colour, and give it a more youthful look. The effects are visible after continuous usage for about a month and there is no downtime for using retinol serum. In turn, this helps your skin look more firm, younger and positively radiant. Retinol has side effects such as peeling, redness, dryness, and itching. Thus it would be best to start with a 0.25% concentration of retinol serum, which is lower, once or twice in a week if someone is new to it. Once the skin gets used to it and there are no side effects seen, it can be applied daily and the percentage can move up from 0.3% to 1%.   

RETINOID

Retinoids have a higher concentration of vitamins and are stronger than retinol. An anti-ageing extract with documented results to diminish skin’s ageing. Unlike retinol, which has only low-strength exfoliating and anti-ageing properties, retinoid is one of the strongest anti-ageing ingredients specially formulated to target every aspect of skin ageing including wrinkles, fine lines, age spots and dryness. Combining retinoids with an exfoliating ingredient like glycolic acid will help maximise the results for optimal skin renewal. Retinoid works deeper into the skin than retinol and could make your skin a lot firmer and youthful looking. One can start at 2%. retinoid, which is strong and effective, and must be applied once or twice a week.

COLLAGEN

Collagen is a protein that is found in the skin. It is responsible for holding skin tissue together, skin’s elasticity and firmness. Collagen is also important for wound healing. Topical collagen can be applied to the skin to boost skin collagen production, and boosting collagen can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, saggy skin, and age spots and fight against signs of skin ageing. Some studies show that taking collagen capsules can also benefit hair and skin renewal. Generally prescription doesn’t require collagen consumption, but I would suggest asking your doctor for a better composition. 

PEPTIDES

A peptide is a compound consisting of two or more amino acids. The body makes collagen peptides naturally. But over time the power of production decreases,  which can cause skin to look more wrinkled, loss of elasticity, less brightness and uneven skin tone. Adding peptides to a skincare regimen can stimulate skin and make more collagen. And more collagen can lead to firmer, younger-looking skin.

VITAMIN-C

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for human health. When applied topically, it’s been shown to have a range of anti-ageing effects, including reducing the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and sun spots, reducing blemishes and lessening pigmentation. It is also essential to the production of collagen in skin cells, helping to support skin structure and delay premature ageing. The benefits of topical application of vitamin C serum are seen most clearly. Vitamin C is also associated with a reduced risk of some forms of cancer. Begin with a low concentration of 10% vitamin, if new user. After getting used to it, can be increased gradually up to 15% to 20%. 

NIACINAMIDE

A HOLY GRAIL INGREDIENT! Niacinamide is a B vitamin that is derived from the amino acid tryptophan. It is a water-soluble vitamin and is used as a skin anti-ageing agent. It has been shown to lower the risk of skin cancer, delay the signs of skin ageing, promote better skin hydration, reduce wrinkles and age spots, improve the appearance of the skin barrier, help to reduce the appearance of acne, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, minimises pores, redness and blotchiness, protects against sun damage. Niacinamide serum 2% concentration is best for new users and can be increased gradually up to 10% concentration.

GLYCOLIC ACID

Also named AHA (alpha-hydroxy-acid). Glycolic acid peel is a chemical compound found in many fruits and vegetables. It is a naturally occurring substance that is found in many fruits and vegetables. It is also found in sugar cane and sugar beets. It has been used as a skin-care ingredient for decades. It is a skin exfoliant that eliminates the damaged outer layer of skin and helps to reduce the signs of ageing, decrease the appearance of wrinkles, and age spots, and reduce aspects of hyperpigmentation and acne scars. It can also help to improve the tone of skin and make pores less noticeable. Glycolic acid peel is one of the strongest chemical peel that exfoliates skin but at the same time, it has side effects also. Over-exfoliation can cause dryness, itchiness, redness, peeling and sensitive skin. Thus if one is new to AHA peel, it is highly recommended to use 7% glycolic acid once in a week. After getting used to with it can be increased the percentage up to 25%, twice in a week.

LACTIC ACID

Lactic acid is produced naturally in the body when the body breaks down food. It is also produced during exercise. Lactic acid is a key component of the cell’s energy production and is used by the body to reduce the appearance of ageing signs. Topical lactic acid serum can help to reduce the signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and age spots. Some studies have shown that topical lactic acid serum can actually help to improve the appearance of skin tone and lessen the appearance of scars. It is also thought that topical lactic acid can help to improve the appearance of skin texture, make glowing skin and help to reduce acne.

HYALURONIC ACID

Topical hyaluronic acid serum is a popular ingredient in skincare products. Mostly known for its hydration. It helps to promote the production of new cells and slows the progression of ageing. One of the unique properties of hyaluronic acid is its ability to hold water & help to reduce signs of ageing including maintaining the skin’s hydration levels, and keeping skin hydrated and plumped. When the skin is hydrated, it appears younger and more elastic. Topical hyaluronic acid serum helps to keep the skin moist and elastic. 

VITAMIN-E

Vitamin E is most commonly known for its benefits for skin and health. It can also applied topically on the face which can reduce inflammation and fight against signs of ageing. Vitamin E is a nutrient that has been shown to have anti-ageing properties. It helps to reduce the signs of ageing, including wrinkles and age spots. It can also help to improve the appearance of the skin.

BETA-CAROTENE

Beta carotene is a yellow and red pigment that is found in plants. Beta carotenes natural sources, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, pumpkin, lettuce and tomatoes. It is a precursor to vitamin A and is a healthy source of vitamin A. It can help protect your skin and eyes from the sun and may help prevent some forms of cancer. Also in particular, beta carotene can prevent premature ageing and make skin younger and may protect the skin against UV radiation from the sun.

CERAMIDE

Ceramide is a type of lipid molecule that is essential for the normal function of the skin. Ceramide is found in the dermis, a layer of the skin below the epidermis. Ceramide helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin, helps to repair damage, and helps to maintain the skin’s elasticity. They make up 30% to 40% of your outer skin layer or epidermis. Topically applied ceramide serum works by protecting the skin from the effects of ageing. They help to keep the skin hydrated and make it less likely to develop wrinkles and age spots. Ceramide cream or serum also promotes the growth of new skin cells.

BAKUCHIOL

Bakuchiol is a vegan skincare ingredient found in the leaves and seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia  plant. It is a plant-based retinol, that can reduce discolouration, and trigger skin cells that stimulate collagen, thereby reducing fine lines and improving skin texture, hence its frequent comparisons to retinol. In addition to helping stimulate skin cell turnover, increase skin firmness and reduce the appearance of pores,” gives smoother, more youthful-looking complexion.

GRAPE SEED EXTRACT

Grape seed extract is a natural product that is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including wrinkles, age spots, and skin dryness. It is also used to improve the appearance of skin tone and texture. It contains antioxidants, which protect the skin from damage caused by the environment and other factors. Also increases cell turnover, which helps to stay skin elastic and firm. 

TRETINOIN

Tretinoin is a prescription medication that is commonly used in skincare for its potential benefits in addressing ageing skin. It belongs to a class of medications called retinoids, which are derived from vitamin A. Tretinoin is also known as all-trans retinoic acid and is available in various forms, including creams, gels, and lotions. Tretinoin has several advantages for ageing skin, including stimulating collagen production. With age, collagen production decreases, leading to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Tretinoin has been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis, which can help improve the overall texture and firmness of the skin. Tretinoin promotes exfoliation of the skin, which can increase cell turnover and help remove dead skin cells. This can lead to a smoother and more even complexion, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Tretinoin has been shown to increase the thickness of the skin, which can help reduce the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines. Tretinoin is also commonly used for the treatment of acne. Unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and promoting skin cell turnover, can improve the appearance of acne-prone skin. It’s important to note that tretinoin is a prescription medication and should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist. Tretinoin can cause side effects, including skin irritation, redness, dryness, and increased sun sensitivity, so it’s essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional and use it as directed.

ESSENTIAL OILS

Some natural oils, such as argan, rosehip, and jojoba, are known for their moisturising and nourishing properties. They may help improve skin hydration and texture, which can contribute to reducing the appearance of wrinkles.