We are definitely 'pro-aging', but there are ingredients marketed as 'anti-aging ingredients' that are used in skin care products to minimize the signs of wrinkles and aging.
We understand that we all age and it is a privilege to age. Having healthy skin as we age however is important. Age, be it natural age or aging caused from the sun has many negative impacts on the skin and keeping skin healthy as we age is important.
Collagen and Aging
One key factor in skin health or anti-aging as many call it, is to protect collagen. Collagen is the support system of the skin. It is part of the dermis. As we age, collagen fibers deteriorate which leads to wrinkle formation. Sun exposure does the same. Using ingredients that support collagen is important for healthy skin. Here are some ingredients that boost and protect collagen fibers.
Green Tea Extract in Skincare
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 in Skincare
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 in Skincare
Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen proteins in the skin. Vitamin C, however, is unstable in a cosmetic product. 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 in Skincare
The herb fennel has a history of use as a diuretic and to increase circulation. For the skin, fennel can soften skin and increase skin moisture content.
Calendula in Skincare
Calendula is an herb that produces a beautiful yellow/orange flower. This flower is very rich in carotenoids, which are vitamin A compounds. Calendula can increase collegen in the skin making it more firm and elastic.
Read more about calendula in skin care here.
Tripeptide -5 (previously Tripeptide-3) in Skincare
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.