The Anti-Aging Advisor

Fighting the Aging Process

Modern medicine has risen to the challenge of repairing sun-damaged and aging skin. There are topical applications, injections, treatments and surgery—all with specific targets. The following listings are just an overview of available remedies. We hope to provide enough information to arm you for a visit to a medical professional. The final decision has to be made between yourself and your dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. Select your doctor as carefully as you select an appropriate treatment.

Topical Skin Treatments

Topical treatments can improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles on skin that is superficially or moderately effected by photoaging or intrinsic aging.

Tretinoin

Tretinoin cream (0.02- and 0.05-percent) is the only prescription Food and Drug Administration approved treatment for signs of sun damage. A member of the vitamin A family, the only forms currently available are indicated for acne treatment. Talk to your dermatologist about appropriate formulations.

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)

Derived from fruit and dairy products AHAs can be used alone or in combination with Tretinoin for mildly damaged skin.

Over-the-Counter Products

Some products readily available on the market temporarily improve fine lines and wrinkles. Thebest of these products contain retinols (vitamin A family), AHA, antioxidants and moisturizing agents.

Topical Antioxidants

Products containing vitamins C and E help cells repair damage caused by the sun and smoking.