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ANTI-AGING SKIN CARE PRODUCTS:  SHOULD YOU SAVE OR SPLURGE?

With the dizzying array of anti-aging skin care products on the market, savvy consumers want to make sure they are spending their money where it counts. Where are your dollars best spent, and where can you save?

AHAs: ANTI-AGING PRODUCTS YOU CAN GET FOR LESS

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a good example of anti-aging skin care products you can spend less on and still achieve good results. Natural alpha hydroxy acids include glycolic acid (from sugar cane), lactic acid (from milk), and citric acid (from citrus fruit). They have been well researched and shown to be effective in exfoliating the dead cells on the outer layer of skin, minimizing the look of fine lines and promoting moisture restoration/retention. A minimum concentration of 5-8% is recommended to be effective. Over the counter AHAs are commonly available in concentrations up
to 10% and they are widely available in drugstores at prices far less than you’d pay for similar concentrations in department store brands.

SUNSCREEN: CHEAP ANTI-AGING PROTECTION

Don’t forget about sunscreen. It is the most important element of your anti-aging skincare program, and it is probably the cheapest, too. Most doctors and skincare professionals recommend that you ALWAYS apply a sunscreen before you go outdoors, especially to your face, neck, and hands. Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more, with protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Your skin will thank you when it is still soft and supple 20 years from now.

WHICH ANTI-WRINKLE PRODUCTS SHOULD YOU SPLURGE ON?

A worthy anti-aging skin care product is one that is effective at reducing the appearance of wrinkles and softening/firming skin, has the ability to help prevent future skin damage (it contains antioxidants), and can help stimulate collagen production.

There are many well-regarded anti-aging and anti-wrinkle products you can feel good about spending money on. While they may seem expensive, they have cutting-edge, extensive research behind them. Scientists have found a variety of vitamin extracts and other natural ingredients that notably help slow down and even reverse the signs of aging. Look for products containing vitamins A, C and E, idebenone, Pal-KTTKS (a patented peptide solution), TNS, green tea extract, N-6 furfuryladenine (kinetin), and copper peptides. You would do well trying one of these new products.

Valerie Goettsch is webmaster of the anti-aging skin care web site www.skin-sage.com, featuring anti-wrinkle product reviews and articles on anti-aging.