Wrinkle creams are non-prescription products that people use to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and prevent or reverse damage caused by the sun. These creams are moisturizers with active ingredients that offer additional benefits, such as improving skin tone, texture, fine lines, and wrinkles. The effectiveness of these products depends on the active ingredient and how long you use it. Here are some common ingredients in anti-wrinkle creams:

Positive ingredients:

• Retinols: This is a product made from vitamin A compounds that can significantly improve fine wrinkles.

• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): When added to a wrinkle serum and used regularly, it reduces damage from the sun and pollution and reduces skin discoloration. Vitamin C helps your skin produce collagen too.

• Niacinamide: This ingredient can help improve skin elasticity, enhance the skin barrier, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

• Hyaluronic acid: This is a common humectant ingredient that has the power to draw water molecules into the skin, making it unlikely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. It can improve overall skin hydration, the appearance of wrinkles, and skin firmness.

• Glycolic acid: This naturally occurring substance helps to break down the bonds between cells in the top layer of skin, resulting in smoother skin in as little as 24 hours.

Negative ingredients:

• Alpha hydroxy acids: Over-the-counter skin care products containing alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric acids) may help with fine lines and wrinkles, irregular pigmentation, and age spots. However, side effects of alpha-hydroxy acids include mild irritation and sun sensitivity.

• Vitamin A derivatives: Topical retinoids, such as retinol and adapalene, are available over the counter and have been shown to significantly improve fine wrinkles. However, initial use of vitamin A-containing creams can cause stinging or redness.

It is important to note that some ingredients do not play well together. For example, retinol should not be layered with vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide. When choosing a wrinkle cream, it is essential to read the label instructions and talk with a dermatologist if you are concerned about a specific products safety or potential side effects.