Aging Well
Over-the-counter products can help protect and improve the appearance of aging skin.
Understanding Skin Health and Aging
Signs of aging skin – including fine lines and wrinkles; sagging skin; and dark spots – are caused by both the natural aging process and environmental factors. As you age, your skin naturally becomes thinner and more fragile. Your body also begins to produce less elastin and collagen – proteins that help keep skin firm, elastic, and hydrated.
Sun damage, also known as photoaging, is the leading cause of aging skin. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun damages elastin, and over time, cause premature signs of aging.
Anti-Aging Skincare Ingredients
Certain over-the-counter (OTC) products and supplements can benefit aging skin. These include:
Niacinamide. A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide can be topically applied to help reduce inflammation; smooth wrinkles; treat pigmentation; improve skin hydration; and protect against sun damage.
Polypodium supplements are derived from the tropical fern polypodium leucotomos and have antioxidant properties that studies suggest may protect against sun damage and treat inflammation.
Hydrolyzed collagen, or collagen peptide, supplements are taken to replenish collagen levels and combat signs of aging. Increased collagen production is shown to improve skin elasticity and hydration.
Topical antioxidants protect the skin against harmful toxins and prevent premature aging. Vitamin C serums are recommended for evening up skin texture and tone; reducing redness; and improving wrinkles and dark spots.
Retinol is an OTC form of a retinoid – a derivative of vitamin A – and works by increasing skin cell and collagen production. This process reduces the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots and improves skin elasticity.
Outlook
In addition to taking supplements, it’s important to practice daily skincare, including face washing and applying SPF. A dermatologist can provide guidance on creating an anti-aging skincare routine and help determine which ingredients are right for you.
An Expert Weighs In
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in advertising. While attending Lee, Rachel served as editor-in-chief and creative director for the school’s biannual publication Vindagua and was a member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society. As managing editor for CMC Media & Marketing Group, she is responsible for the development and completion of 16 publications involving health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia. Additionally, Rachel has led digital marketing initiatives for CMC Media & Marketing Group as well as the development of content for the introduction of Choose Huntsville™, Huntsville Resource & Relocation Guide™ for Huntsville, Alabama.
