Do Creams Really Reduce Wrinkles? Ask the Experts

We tend to want to do just about anything to treat wrinkles and fine lines. Maybe that’s why we’re willing to spend hundreds of dollars a year on expensive creams. But do they really work? The answer is, it depends.

What They Claim to Do

Any legitimate brand will make sure you know it’s not a miracle in a jar, but there is hope of seeing a younger complexion. Many creams advertise their active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinoids, Vitamin C, and collagen. While creams may contain synthetic forms of these ingredients, they are also natural substances found in the body that play vital roles in creating the youthful look we crave.

Hyaluronic acid, for example, is a gooey substance that delivers moisture to different parts of the body. The eyes and joints have an abundance of hyaluronic acid, as does the skin. When hyaluronic acid is present, particularly in the face, the skin tends to be less dry and less prone to fine lines caused by dehydrated skin.

Collagen has a similar effect, except collagen works to repair damaged skin and rebuild healthy skin cells. This rebuilding can lead to a fuller face with a fresher look. Retinoids and Vitamin C can also help build healthy skin cells and provide moisture.

So the claim is that these ingredients, when applied daily, can introduce enough of each ingredient to the treated area and reduce the appearance of wrinkles simply because your skin is more hydrated.

Determining Which Creams Work

We must keep in mind that there are hundreds, if not thousands, of wrinkle creams on the market, some that are relatively inexpensive and others that cost hundreds of dollars for a single jar. To set them apart and determine if they actually work, we must look at the ingredients, both active and inactive.

We also must pay attention to the order in which the ingredients are listed. Ingredients listed first are typically more present than any other ingredient. For example, if your wrinkle cream lists water as its first ingredients, then you know that there is more water than any other “active” ingredient, and you can be sure that that product may not be as potent as others.

Consistency plays a huge role in garnering positive results as well. Following instructions as directed can also go a long way in giving you your desired results. It’s a good idea to continue your routine for multiple months. The longer you’re using a wrinkle cream, the better your chances are for seeing a reduction in fine lines and even wrinkles.

The Verdict

In the end, yes, wrinkle creams work as they are hydrating the skin and if you’re consistent. Remember to keep the following points in mind when choosing your wrinkle cream:

• Read labels, not price tags

• Take note of the ingredients listed first.

• Avoid products that claim to achieve miracle results.

With these points, you will be able to choose the correct wrinkle cream for you. However, if you wish to find a less expensive and less time-consuming routine, you may want to consider cosmetic dermatology procedures. This can include chemical peel, botox, microneedling, and much more.

If you’re interested in these procedures or want to learn more about wrinkles, our experts at The Dermatology Group in Cincinnati, Ohio, can offer advice and resources. Give us a call today!