Read the ‘fine’ print!

With age, the formation of collagen (an essential building block for the skin) and other peptides reduces, resulting in wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin, hyperpigmentation etc. The market is flooded with therapies and products to maintain and enhance the youthfulness of an individual. So what should one look out for in such products? Here’s a list:

• Retinopeptide 189/Retinol: This ingredient is a boon for fine lines, wrinkles, spots and dull skin. It stimulates cell repair by enhancing collagen and elastin production. It also boosts blood supply to the skin. Retinols have their own limitations and adverse reactions if not used correctly. On the other hand Retinopeptide 189 is a next generation biomimetic peptide that is similar to retinol but without any of the adverse effects and can be used on a daily basis.
• SNAP-8: A unique biomimetic peptide that has the ability to provide a botulinum toxin – like effect topically thereby providing a tensor effect on the skin and reducing wrinkles and fine lines
• Antioxidants: Vitamin C, dimethylaminoethanol, melatonin and grape seed oil are great examples of antioxidants that work wonders in reducing the toxic radicals that accumulate over time in the skin/body, which reduces the collagen and elastin quantity.
• Ceramides and Hyaluronic acid: Hydration of the skin is an extremely important aspect to prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, and gives the skin a glow. Prevention of transepidermal water loss is also an important aspect to prevent the skin from getting dehydrated due to external factors such as pollution leading to aging.  
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids: The AHAs like glycolic acid break the bonds between dead cells and the skin, thereby revealing healthy skin.
• While several other ingredients may be added to enhance the effectiveness of anti-aging products, these are the common ones to look out for to achieve long-lasting radiant skin. Do remember that a healthy diet and disciplined lifestyle should accompany the use of such products to ensure graceful aging.

– The writer is a dermatologist and laser surgeon