It’s easy to take a look at any anti-aging product and buy it based on what it claims to treat or cure. However, if you don’t have any previous knowledge on what specific anti-aging ingredients actually do, you could be putting your skin in harm’s way. To ensure each product you test or purchase gives you the best results for your money, find out how the most common ingredients operate and what risks they may carry for your complexion.

Alpha hydroxy acid was one of the very first ingredients that took the anti-aging industry by storm. The use of AHAs in anti-aging skincare allowed the skin to undergo a gentle exfoliation to effectively eliminate layers of dead and dull skin cells, leaving behind smoother and more youthful looking skin. However, not all skin types should use AHAs. Because of its potent abilities, alpha hydroxy acids should be used sparingly. Its high concentration of acids can cause severe irritation and dryness of the skin if used too often so those with dry and sensitive skin types should take caution and either steer clear of using AHAs in their anti-aging regimen or do a patch test first.

Additionally, the FDA has found that certain anti-aging products that contain AHAs can actually increase a person’s chances for getting sunburns, which is one of the main types of skin damage that can lead to skin cancer. The presence of AHAs on the skin increases sensitivity to UV rays by as much as 18%. To make sure you’re keeping your skin properly protected only use a product with an AHA concentration of no more than 10% and check to see that the acid content (also known as pH) of the product is 3.5 or greater. Be diligent about applying sunscreen or sun block and stay out of direct sunlight by wearing long-sleeved shirts, hats and other forms of protective clothing.

Collagen has grown to become a very sought-after ingredient in anti-aging and regular cosmetic products. Collagen is responsible for plumping the skin and erasing the fine lines and wrinkles that make up the common signs of aging. Some collagen formulations have been found to contain molecules that are too large to be properly absorbed into the skin, which can result in clogging the pores and suffocating the skin. Instead, look for anti-aging products that contain collagen that has a lower molecular weight, which is easily absorbed into the skin.

Kaolin is one ingredient that has been around for many years and continues to be popularly used in skincare and anti-aging products. Kaolin’s white powder contains potent absorbent properties that have been used to draw out impurities and toxins within the skin, which frees the complexion of excess oils, dirt and other surface debris. Commonly used in facial mud masks, kaolin seems to be a great ingredient but it also has its bad points. While this fine and natural clay from Mount Kaolin in China has been enjoyed by many it is important to point out that this clay also contains properties that can cause extreme dryness and skin dehydration. Although this ingredient isn’t all bad, be sure to use it sparingly and follow up with a thorough and diligent skincare cleaning routine to remove any film that may be left on the skin. Apply moisturizer to any areas that may have been dried out by the kaolin as well.

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