Although there is no 'fountain of youth', there are ingredients we call 'anti-aging ingredients' that can be used in skin care to minimize the signs of wrinkles and aging. One key factor in skin anti-aging is to protect collagen, the support system of the skin. As we age collagen fibers deteriorate which leads to wrinkle formation. Here are some ingredients that boost and protect collagen fibers.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea contains a variety of polyphenol antioxidants that we hear a lot about for heart health, but they also have very beneficial properties for skin. Green tea polyphenols can boost sun protection, act as antioxidants, decrease the risk of skin cancer, and reduce inflammation. Some Preliminary studies indicate green tea may protect collagen and elastin in the skin matrix slowing the signs of aging.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Lipoic acid is an antioxidant, contributes to energy production in the cells, inhibits cross-linking of collagen, and acts as an anti-inflammatory. It can decrease wrinkles and fine lines to improve the appearance of skin. Its effects can be compared to tretinoin (RetinA) without the side effects.
Lipoic acid has been championed by dermatologist Nicholas Perricone as a skin rejuvenator.
Vitamin C Ester
Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen proteins in the skin. Vitamin C, however, is unstable. Vitamin C ester is a fat soluble, stable form of vitamin C that is used in skin care to act as an antioxidant and to boost collagen production.
Fennel Extract
Fennel has a history of use as a diuretic and to increase circulation. For the skin, fennel can soften skin and increase skin moisture and texture.
Tripeptide -5 (previously Tripeptide-3)
Peptides are new cosmetics products produced by green chemistry. Tripeptide – 5 both stimulates collagen production in the skin and inhibits its break down. Together this increases the amount of collagen in the dermis and reduces wrinkles. Some have called it an alternative to collagen injections.
Colorado Aromatics uses all of these ingredients in their Springtide Gold Antiaging Face Cream.