The cosmetics industry is a billion-dollar business. Countless tubes, jars, and lotions promise firmer skin, fewer wrinkles, and a youthful appearance. However, some of the manufacturers’ claims are far from realistic, because unlike pharmaceuticals, cosmetics are not subject to approval requirements, and the manufacturer is not obliged to provide meaningful studies on efficacy.
Nevertheless, it would be wrong to claim that cosmetics are ineffective. There are numerous substances that are considered to have a proven positive effect on the appearance of the skin.
A significant group are the so-called antioxidants: These include, for example, Vitamin C and E. These active ingredients help the skin neutralize free radicals and thus defend itself against aggressive environmental factors.
Vitamin A and its derivatives (Retinol) are another important molecule. This substance stimulates collagen formation and also promotes the production of healthy skin cells. However, retinol can cause irritation in sensitive skin types. Therefore, the skin should be gradually accustomed to it.
Hyaluronic acid is also on everyone’s lips. In fact, this molecule is responsible for moisture retention in the skin. However, studies show that only very small hyaluronic acid molecules can penetrate the skin at all. The effect of most hyaluronic acid-containing cosmetics is usually based on a swelling of the uppermost skin layers, which temporarily smooths out small wrinkles. However, this effect wears off after a few hours and you have to reapply. To ensure long-term moisture supply to the skin, it is more effective to inject hyaluronic acid into the skin. With Skinboosters or Profhilo, moisture depots can be replenished in the long term.
Cosmetics containing so-called AHA acids (fruit acids) also have a proven positive effect. They accelerate the exfoliation of dead skin cells, resulting in more radiant skin and stimulating collagen synthesis. AHA acid-containing cosmetics are also particularly suitable as preparation for a chemical peel. When applied 2-3 weeks before the peel, they significantly improve the effect of the subsequently applied peel. After the peel, they help to maintain the achieved results for longer.
Salicylic acid (BHA, Beta Hydroxy Acid) is a substance that has proven particularly effective for acne. Due to its fat solubility, it can penetrate clogged sebaceous glands and also has an anti-inflammatory effect.
However, one must not forget that the most important external factor accelerating skin aging is sun exposure. Not only in summer at the beach, but also in the cooler seasons, it is important to protect the skin from the sun when outdoors. It is more effective to prevent wrinkles from forming in the first place than to fight them once they have appeared. In this sense, skincare with an appropriate sun protection factor in a formulation adapted to your skin type is the most effective anti-wrinkle cream.