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Anti-aging creams are convenient and easy-to-useAnti-aging creams are growing in popularity because of the various choices and level of convenience they provide. If you’re interested in anti-aging products, I think you’ll feel comfortable with researching and experimenting with an anti-aging cream first. Please understand that because of your ethnic beauty, you do not age as fast as women of Caucasian or European descent. Because of this, there’s no need for you to feel anxious about undergoing drastic cosmetic procedures such as getting a facelift or a chemical peel. You can, however, benefit from using anti-aging creams, because they are a highly preferred form of rejuvenation for the skin. You can use them on a daily basis as the first line of defense in fighting the signs of aging. If you choose to use other treatments, such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion, don’t hesitate to use a cream in conjunction with those forms as well. I must emphasize that color is beautiful, so try not to be too critical of yourself. Before we start, it’s really important for you to know that most anti-aging creams are advantageous in that they require no healing time, and can be easily applied at home. I do urge you to speak with your dermatologist first so that he/she can help you decide on a product that is well suited for your skin, and will provide the best results. Don’t be tempted to use someone else’s cream because chances are, their situation is different from yours, so find what’s best for you. RetinoidsWhen retinoids first came onto the scene, they were primarily used to treat acne in teens and adults. As time progressed, people started realizing that not only did they lighten dark areas of the face, but they also smoothed out the skin, and reversed some signs of aging. What makes these chemicals so powerful is that they penetrate all layers of the skin, so expect some irritation and sensitivity if you decide to use them. The most commonly used are retinol, tretinoin (Retin-A), isotretinoin and retinal.Retinoid-based anti-aging creams are very simple to use. Start off by applying a small amount once a day, and it’s important to point out that using more doesn’t mean you get better results. If you use too much, chances are your skin will be drier and more irritated. It’s very common to experience changes in your skin, such as dark/light patches, so follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding application. Here are some great tips that may enhance your overall experience with retinoid creams: ◈Use a moisturizing cleanser morning and night TazaroteneA retinoid mix, the most popular tazarotene-based anti-aging creams help improve the appearance of the skin by increasing collagen and elastin. Collagen helps hold the skin together, and elastin makes it more elastic, which will give you a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. You will also notice over time the texture of your skin will become smoother than before, and skin discolorations will gradually fade away.It takes about two weeks before you start seeing results, but you will receive maximum results in 4-6 months, so be patient. I know it’s hard to wait, but it’s worth it! Side effects take place only in areas of the face that are being treated, and include itching, stinging, dryness, or peeling. A small percentage of users stop using these products due to skin irritation, so if you start to feel too uncomfortable, contact your doctor immediately to resolve the issue. Two prominent tazarotene-based anti-aging creams are Avage and Tazorac. If you’re interested in either of these creams, discuss your situation with your doctor first before using. The goal is to get that healthy, youthful-looking skin the right way and with proper guidance! TretinoinA retinoid mix as well, these creams use the same application procedures as other retinoid-based anti-aging creams (see application and tips above). The benefits and side effects are the same, so take your time and be patient. Tretinoin-based creams are slightly different in that it takes anywhere from 3-4 months to notice visible improvement, so count on using this product for about 6 months before getting maximum benefits.A word of advice: don’t let the length of time before seeing results deter you from using any of these products. The reason it takes longer to see results is because the rejuvenation process is happening in the “deep” layers of the skin first, and that will bring you lasting results. Don’t fall for the quick fix products because the sooner you see results, the sooner the results will diminish if you discontinue using those particular products. The most commonly used tretinoin-based cream is Renova. AntioxidantsA simple definition of an antioxidant is a substance that protects cells in your body from damage brought on by stress (internal and external). Activities that cause our cells stress can include anything from smoking, air pollution, food digestion, sunlight and exercise. When cells of the body become stressed, they release what are called free radicals, and those free radicals are what break down the collagen and elastin in your skin.The loss of collagen and elastin is what’s causing your skin to develop wrinkles and age prematurely. Antioxidants act as a defense system against those free radicals to protect your cells. Get it? See, that was easy! Here’s a list of the antioxidants that are present in your body: Zinc, Ubiquinone, Selenium, Glutathione, Folic acid, Beta-carotene, and Vitamins E, C, A, B-6, and B-12. Our bodies do not produce these antioxidants naturally, so you have to be particular about the type of diet you’re on in order to receive these as nourishment in your body. You also have the option of purchasing an antioxidant-based cream, which coats the skin and acts as a barrier against free radicals. I recommend this type of cream if you want to take less drastic measures to guard against aging. IdebenoneA synthetic version of the antioxidant Ubiquinone, it protects the skin from external (environmental) damage, and the production of free radicals. It reduces fine lines and wrinkles, traps free radicals, promotes smooth skin, minimizes dryness, and prevents skin cells from deteriorating. When you first begin treatment, it’s a good idea to allow your skin to slowly adjust to the cream, by applying it once a day for about 2 weeks, then increase to twice a day application (morning and night).Massage a pea-size amount into your face and neck for maximum results after cleansing and drying your face. You will begin to see improvements in 4-6 weeks after starting treatment. Side effects like itching and burning are minimal, so it shouldn’t get too uncomfortable for you to use. This is an antioxidant-based cream, so it works differently than retinoid-based creams, but you can use both as long as you use them at different (separate) times of the day. Commonly used idebenone-based cream is Prevage. Wear a moisturizer with SPF of 15 or higher on a daily basis, and do not use this product if you’re pregnant, trying to conceive or nursing. These are all easy-to-use and inexpensive anti-aging creams that must be used under the guidance of your dermatologist. They are well-tolerated, and can be used in conjunction with other creams/procedures as well. Return from Anti-Aging Creams page to Anti-Aging Skin Care Page
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