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Over-The-Counter Anti-Aging Products
Typical anti-aging skin
care products are cheaper and often safer than surgical
alternatives, although they have a wide range of effectiveness.
Aging takes place over many years, so don't expect immediate results
with any typical product. Still, there are a number of treatments
with well-publicized results that have been shown to work for many
people.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
(AHA) are a key ingredient for many of the most popular anti-aging
skin care products. There are a number of different acids in this
group, but the basic role that they play is similar. Alpha Hydroxy
Acids break down the bonds that hold dead cells to the surface of
your skin, thus helping your skin exfoliate faster and regenerate
itself. AHA also strengthens the underlying skin and aids in
elasticity. By stimulating the growth of collagen, AHA protects the
framework of skin cells and leaves skin feeling fuller and smoother.
One thing to keep in
mind is the percentage of AHA used in different products. A small
amount may be too weak to make a difference, but a high percentage
may lead to dry skin and irritation (sun exposure while using AHA
products can be damaging), so it usually pays to carefully find the
right percentage for your specific skin type.
Natural skin care
treatments are another alternative that is gaining more
recognition. These treatments focus more on vitamins and minerals
that have been shown to promote healthy skin. As we get older, the
body becomes less efficient at certain processes and requires higher
amounts of vitamins to maintain healthy skin. Vitamins that function
as anti-oxidants such as Vitamins C and E are essential elements of
healthy skin. Certain minerals such as Selenium can also aid skin
elasticity. With so many vitamins and minerals that play a role in
skin care, additional supplements besides a daily multivitamin may
not be a bad idea.
Besides these
treatments, products designed to directly exfoliate your skin
(scrape away dead cells) and moisturize it are also helpful.
Moisturizers and exfoliating scrubs are not usually going to stop
the effects of aging under the surface, but they can often diminish
the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, especially if used every
day. Men actually have an advantage, in that the simple act of
shaving works to exfoliate facial skin on a daily basis.
If you have already
tried the typical over-the-counter anti-aging products and think you
would prefer something that produces more drastic changes, or simply
need a solution that is guaranteed to make a noticeable difference
right away, there are a variety of anti-aging procedures that are
not as serious as actual plastic surgery.
....Continue to Anti-Aging Procedures
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