Anti-aging Products: What They Are, When To Use, And More

Maybe your like

Medical News TodaySubscribeWhich anti-aging products work best, and when should you start using them?

Medically reviewed by Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C — Written by Joanne Lewsley on February 8, 2022

When to start
Too early or too late?
How ingredients work
Natural remedies
Lifestyle changes
How to use
Outlook
Summary

Various skin care products containing active ingredients may help slow down the signs of aging. Some experts may recommend that people start using anti-aging products as early as their 20s.

Although everyone ages differently, skin aging typically involves the development of fine lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity, rough texture, and discoloration.

As we age, collagen and elastin break down in the skin, causing it to become looser and more prone to wrinkling. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, and some lifestyle habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol, break down collagen further.

People who use repetitive facial expressions, such as squinting or frowning, are more likely to notice permanent wrinkles appearing around the eyes or on the forehead.

Anti-aging skin care products, such as moisturizers and serums, will never be able to stop aging.

However, skin care with active ingredients, such as retinol and hyaluronic acid, may slow down the signs of aging and improve the skin’s appearance.

This article examines which skin care ingredients may be most effective, when people can start using them to gain the most benefit, and what natural remedies may help slow down the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

When to start

a woman applying eye cream in the mirror — 10’000 Hours/Getty Images

The American Academy of Dermatologists (AAD) recommends that all adults use a moisturizer and sunscreen every day — two important anti-aging products that help to protect the skin from UV rays and keep it smooth and supple.

The AAD also recommends that people establish an effective anti-aging skin care routine in their 40s and 50s. This includes using a moisturizer that is labeled as anti-aging and sunscreen.

However, much earlier than this, people can use other products known for their anti-aging properties, such as hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin C. This is because they may also be anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, or brightening.

Is it ever too early or too late?

Some experts recommend that people start using anti-aging products as early as their 20s.

However, this does not mean that people in their 20s need to purchase an anti-wrinkle cream specifically. There are plenty of skin care products containing active ingredients that help to brighten and plump the skin, without being labeled anti-aging.

It is never too late to start moisturizing. People going through menopause may notice wrinkles appearing more quickly. Older people can experience skin problems such as dry skin, itching, and age spots alongside wrinkles. Daily moisturizing can help soothe the skin, while a daily sunscreen can protect the skin and prevent it from developing age spots.

How active skin care ingredients work

Newer skin care products contain more active ingredients than ever. But knowing which ones to purchase can be confusing, and the choice can be overwhelming. Here are some of the most effective anti-aging skin care ingredients for people to know about:

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid): Brightens tired or dull-looking skin and protects it from environmental damage, such as pollution, free radicals, and UV rays.
Hyaluronic acid: Acts as a humectant, binding moisture to the skin to plump up the skin’s appearance.
Retinoids (retinol): Stimulates the production of collagen and elastin in the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs): Brightens the skin and boosts the renewal of skin cells. AHA peels, also known as glycolic peels, can help address sun damage and hyperpigmentation, as well as fine lines and wrinkles.
Copper peptide: Boosts the production of collagen and elastin, as well as acting as an antioxidant. It may be particularly useful during menopause as collagen levels decline.

Natural remedies

Natural ingredients, such as plant extracts and herbs, have been in use for thousands of years as a skin care method.

Polyphenols

Polyphenols are a compound that people get from eating plants and taking supplements. Polyphenols have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can also help to protect the skin from UV light.

A 2021 review into polyphenols and skin aging has recommended several polyphenol-rich foods that could help to halt or reverse the signs of skin aging, including:

green tea
cocoa
mangoes
apples

While some skin care products already contain polyphenol-rich ingredients, people who wish to halt or reverse the effects of aging on the skin may wish to include more of these foods in their everyday diet.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is traditionally used as a natural remedy to aid wound healing. However, research has also found it an effective anti-aging ingredient.

A 2015 study looked at the effects of aloe vera taken as an oral supplement by 58 Japanese women with dry skin. It found that it boosted the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid and reduced average wrinkle depth in the subjects.

Other research has backed this up, with a 2021 review noting that the polyphenols in aloe vera can significantly improve wrinkles and elasticity of the skin.

Jasmine rice extract

A 2016 study of 24 volunteers tested skin care products containing Jasmine rice extract. Researchers found that it helped tighten skin, giving it a firmer, smoother appearance. It also helped lighten dark spots on the skin and help prevent wrinkles. People who want to adopt a plant-based approach to skin care may wish to try products containing jasmine rice extract.

Bee products

Bee products such as honey, propolis, royal jelly, bee pollen, and even bee venom, have properties that are beneficial to the skin.

A 2020 review into the use of bee products in dermatology and skin care found that propolis is known to smooth out wrinkles, while bee venom can benefit skin exposed to harmful UV rays. Royal jelly is also well known for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties.

Lifestyle changes

The AAD also recommends people to consider the following lifestyle practices to improve the appearance of skin and prevent premature skin aging:

wearing an SPF of at least 30 every day and avoiding the sun
refraining from tanning beds or other indoor tanning equipment
stopping smoking and drinking less alcohol
avoiding repetitive facial expressions, such as squinting — sunglasses can help
exercising and eating a healthy balanced diet
cleansing the skin twice a day, gently, without scrubbing
using a moisturizer every day.
avoiding skin care products that sting or burn

When and how to use skin care ingredients

The following list is a guide only. People may wish to consult a dermatologist before embarking on a new skin care routine using any of the following active ingredients.

Ideal age to start using	How to use	How often
Hyaluronic acid	Any time.	After cleansing and before moisturizer.	Daily: morning or evening.
Vitamin C	20s–30s.	After cleansing and before moisturizer.	Daily: morning.
Retinol	30s–40s.	Use lower strength products (0.01%) first, gradually moving to moderate concentrations (0.04–0.1%), and then high strength (0.5–1%).	Daily: morning.
AHAs	20s–30s.	After cleansing and before moisturizer – do not use at the same time as a retinol as this could cause irritation.	Every other day, usually evening.
AHA peels	30s–40s.	As a peeling mask treatment.	No more than twice a week.
Copper peptide	30s–40s.	As a moisturizer or serum after cleansing.	Daily: morning or evening.
Sunscreen	Any time.	As the final step after skin care and before makeup.	Daily: morning.

Outlook

A person may have to use skin care products for months before they experience noticeable results. People who wish to address signs of aging may consider consulting a dermatologist to discuss further treatments and procedures that can help to reduce the signs of aging or skin damage. They may discuss fillers, wrinkle treatments, and resurfacing treatments.

At high concentrations, some active skin care ingredients can cause unwanted side effects, such as peeling or dry skin, breakouts, and redness or burning. If this happens, people should discontinue using the product immediately and consult a dermatologist.

Summary

Skin care ingredients such as retinol, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid can help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and encourage the production of collagen and elastin in the skin.

People in their 20s can start using these anti-aging products in their skin care routine, but people in their 40s and 50s may notice the most effective results.

Everyone should use a moisturizer and sunscreen of at least 30 SPF every day to protect their skin. People who have concerns about their skin’s appearance should consult a dermatologist for further advice and treatment.

Cosmetic Medicine / Plastic Surgery
Melanoma / Skin Cancer
antiaging

How we reviewed this article:

SourcesMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

11 ways to reduce premature skin aging. (2021).https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/reduce-premature-aging-skin
Csekes, E., et al. (2021). Skin aging, cellular senescence and natural polyphenols.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8657738/
How to select anti-aging skin care products. (n.d.).https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/selecting-anti-aging-products
Kanlayavattanakul, M., et al. (2016). Jasmine rice panicle: A safe and efficient natural ingredient for skin aging treatments.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874116311655
Kurek-Gorecka, A., et al. (2020). Bee products in dermatology and skin care.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7036894/
Pullar, J. M., et al. (2017). The roles of vitamin C in skin health.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC5579659/
Skin care in your 40s and 50s. (n.d.). https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/skin-care-in-your-40s-and-50s
Tanaka, M., et al. (2015). Effects of plant sterols derived from Aloe vera gel on human dermal fibroblasts in vitro and on skin condition in Japanese women.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4345938/

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C — Written by Joanne Lewsley on February 8, 2022

Latest news

2 servings of peanuts daily may help boost brain health
ACS cervical cancer screening guidelines updates: What to know
Human brain may only reach adulthood after age 30
Soybean oil may contribute to obesity, new study shows
Shingles vaccine may reduce dementia risk, slow progression

Related Coverage

Do "anti-aging" diets work?
"Anti-aging" diets are increasingly popular. In this feature, we discuss the findings of a recent review of the evidence and ask whether any of them…
READ MORE
14 of the best anti-aging creams for the face, neck, hands, and moreMedically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP
A range of anti-aging creams is available, including options for facial skin, the neck, hands, or full body. Learn about aging support creams here.
READ MORE
Choosing the best anti-aging serums for different skin concerns
Many serums claim to reduce the visible signs of aging. Learn about anti-aging serums, how to choose one, and how to use it safely.
READ MORE
Anti-cellulite massage: Does it work?Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP
Does anti-cellulite massage work? Learn what the research says about massage treatments and which therapies offer results.
READ MORE

Tag » When To Start Anti Aging Skin Care

Health Conditions

Health Products

News

Original Series

Podcasts

General Health

Health Tools

Quizzes

About Medical News Today

Find Community

Follow Us