Whenever I research a question about hair, nails, or skin, I consult a
good friend who is a licensed aesthetician (this is a person who, in
addition to having a cosmetology license, has taken extensive training
and certification in facial care.) The recommendations I received from
my friend have led me to information on several types of
nonprescription treatments which can safely and effectively reduce the
appearance of wrinkles. I'm listing these by category. I have listed
online sources for several products that the aesthetician mentioned by
brand name; this does not necessarily mean that the named products are
better than other products containing similar ingredients.
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RETINOL (VITAMIN A) PRODUCTS
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"For those with furrowed brows who can't stand the idea of a Botox
needle in the forehead, here comes A-Tox. Hawked by Jennifer
Flavin-Stallone, wife of Sly and a former model, A-Tox Facial Firming
Serums have sold more than 220,000 bottles at $28.50 apiece. Cosmetics
companies are pushing similar products, including Wrinkox and Biotoc.
Self-styled cosmetics cop Paula Begoun labels A-tox this month's
"worst" product, saying it doesn't last and can cause dry, flaky skin.
Doctors haven't weighed in, but an informal test by TIME staff members
found that the stuff seemed to erase lines - at least temporarily."
Time Magazine
http://www.time.com/time/archive/preview/from_redirect/0,10987,1101030303-426038,00.html
"The A-Defiance line from Serious Skin Care is now improved with
Retinol, a pure form of Vitamin A. It can help improve and maintain
the look of young, healthy skin. With regular use, A-Defiance skin
care can help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while
helping give your skin a healthy-looking glow. This wrinkle-fighting
collection includes:
1 oz. A-Cream - this cream contains one million international units of
Vitamin A. It helps moisturize and smooth out the look of fine lines
and helps ease dryness
.5 oz. A-Tox - a facial-firming, wrinkle-smoothing, beauty treatment
serum that helps give you younger-looking skin with visibly smaller
appearing pores
4 oz. A-Clean - this vitamin A cleanser helps condition your skin,
helping to leave it clean, supple and prepared for the rest of your
A-Defiance regimen...
The Serious Skin Care line of beauty treatments and cosmetics was
developed by esthetician Lesa Stock and international model Jennifer
Flavin-Stallone to address a multitude of skin care needs."
Home Shopping Network
http://www.hsn.com/cnt/prod/default.aspx?pfid=682595
"RoC® RETINOL products represent an advanced and complete
anti-wrinkles programme that visibly reduces the appearance of
wrinkles in 12 weeks... with Retinol Concentre Pur, RoC® introduces a
new patented technology: the encapsulation of retinol in microspheres,
allowing the time-release delivery of pure vitamin A into the cell for
12 hours while guaranteeing a perfect tolerance. The patented
microspheres are multi-lamellar carriers with a lipophilic core (=from
liposomes) which is perfectly compatible with retinol (lipophilic
substance). The retinol therefore remains fully effective."
RoC Anti-Wrinkle Care
http://www.roc.com/cee-version/catalogue/wrinkles/cure/why-1.htm
"Max Retinol Wrinkle Repair (2.3 oz.) Peter Thomas Roth
This amazing anti-wrinkle cream containing the maximum amount of
retinol available helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles, add radiance
to the skin and give it essential hydration. Absorbs immediately
without appearing or feeling greasy. Also contains SPF20 to protect
the skin from damaging UV rays, making it a perfect cream for
daytime."
SkinLogic
http://www.skinlogic.com/product/lines/peterthomasroth.html#ptr355
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PENTAPEPTIDES, HEXAPEPTIDES, OGLIOPEPTIDES, COPPER PEPTIDES
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"Finally, a non-toxic, anti-aging alternative to Botox! This
revolutionary product relaxes facial muscles, helping prevent fine
lines induced by repeated facial movements. It works in a
non-paralytic way through the gradual reduction of neurotransmitters
that initiate muscle contractions... BIOTOC works by relaxing the
muscles rather than paralyzing the muscles the way Botox does. The
active ingredient in BIOTOC is ACETYL HEXAPEPTIDE -3. Lab reports have
shown that over a two-three week period ACETYL HEXAPEPTIDE -3 has
proven very effective at safely diminishing lines and wrinkles on the
face."
Biotoc
http://www.biotoc.com/
"Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) represent a revolution in cosmetic
science because of their remarkable and long-lasting anti-wrinkle
activity.
However, their high neurotoxicity seriously limits their use. Thus,
there is a need to design and validate non-toxic molecules that mimic
the action of BoNTs.
The hexapeptide Ac-EEMQRR-NH2 (Argireline®) was identified as a result
of a rational design program.
Noteworthy, skin topography analysis of an oil/water (O/W) emulsion
containing 10% of this hexapeptide solution on healthy women
volunteers reduced wrinkle's depth up to 30% upon 30 days treatment.
Analysis of the mechanism of action showed that the hexapeptide
significantly inhibited neurotransmitter release with a potency
similar to that of BoNT A, although, as expected, it displayed much
lower efficacy than the neurotoxin... This hexapeptide is a non-toxic,
anti-wrinkle molecule that emulates the action of currently used
BoNTs. Therefore, the inclusion of this hexapeptide included at 10%
represents a biosafe alternative to BoNTs in cosmetics."
Creme de Vie
http://www.cremedevie.com/clinical_details.htm
"Wrinkox: All natural formula featuring Acetyl Hexapeptide-3. Acetyl
Hexapeptide-3 is a 6 chain amino acid to help reduce the apperance of
lines and wrinkles from facial tension. For best results, suggested
use is for minimum period of 30 days."
Nutraceutical
http://www.nutraceutical.com/search/view_product.cfm?product_index=10356
"Palmitoyl-Pentapeptide Matrix
The active molecule in this compound is micro-collagen, a peptide that
penetrates the skin, reaching the fibroblast cells. Here it incites
the cells to synthesize molecules of connective tissue (the skin's
"matrix") such as collagen and glycoaminoglycanes. In addition,
Pentapeptide SF™ contains a miniature fragment of collagen, the skin's
most abundant protein.
Pentapeptides are composed of the amino acids Lysine, Threonine, and
Serine, made lipophilic by the attachment of palmitic acid...
Pentapeptides are able to replace collagen injections or other devices
and methods in the treatment of wrinkles."
New Spirit
http://www.newspirit.com/literature/techbulletins_pentapeptide.htm
"On Tuesday, July 2, 2002, at a meeting of the 20th World Congress of
Dermatology in Paris, France, a series of studies detailing the
superior wrinkle-reducing properties of a patented oglio-peptide
(called Pal-KTTKS)... Subjects in the Pal-KTTKS/retinol study applied
the cream once a day for 2 months and then twice a day for the next 2
months. Using special image analysis, the study's authors reported
significant improvement in wrinkle depth, length, wrinkle volume, and
skin roughness for those women using the peptide solution... Botox has
been approved by the FDA for an extremely limited use - the tiny
little space of deep furrows between the eyebrows - and can cause side
effects such as headache, temporary eyelid droop, and nausea. The
active ingredient in StriVectin, on the other hand, has been shown to
significantly reduce that category of fine lines and facial wrinkles
(including crows' feet) that can add 10-15 years to your appearance -
the type of fine lines and wrinkles Botox treatment leaves behind."
Klein Becker
http://www.kleinbecker.com/products/strivectin/wrinkles.asp
"Revelation is an energy renewal serum unlike any you can buy at any
price. It is the cornerstone of the TYK anti-aging skincare system.
This powerful formula increases collagen and elastin in your skin
reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and diminishing the signs of aging...
Peptide Enriched with the next generation of growth stimulating
mimetic peptides Matrixyl®, (also known as Pal-KTTKS) and Collasyn.
These peptides spark new growth deep within your skin increasing the
production of Collagen and Elastin, rebuilding your skin's foundation
from the ground up."
Skin Store
http://www.skinstore.com/store/product.asp?catID=1796&prodID=1337
"Skin regenerating copper-peptides - in every comparative clinical
study - have been proven superior to Retin-A(R), Vitamin C creams, and
Kinerase(R) in terms of wrinkle reduction, reducing skin blotchiness,
improving skin firmness, and the development of new collagen.
Protect & Restore (P&R) is a strong skin regenerating product
available with published, credible, scientific proof of skin renewal.
P&R is stronger than the only two other skin regenerating copper
peptide product lines available. Protect & Restore has between 8.8 and
18.7 times more skin regenerating copper peptide than various products
in the very excellent Neutrogena Visibly Firm and ProCyte Neova skin
product lines.
Skin regenerating copper-peptides aid the skin's mechanisms of skin
renewal while enhancing the skin's protective barrier, anti-oxidant
defenses, and protective actions against the sun."
SkinBio
http://www.skinbio.com/protect&restore.html
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ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS, BETA HYDROXY ACIDS, GLYCOLIC ACID, LACTIC ACID
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"AHA
Alpha hydroxyacid acids (AHA) include Glycolic Acid (Origin:Sugar
Cane), Lactic Acid (Milk), Tartaric Acid (Grapes), Citric Acid (Citrus
Fruits), Malic Acid (Apples), and Mandelic Acid ( Almonds) have all
been used as skin exfoliants.
Useful in treating dry skin, acne, liver or sun spots, lessening fine
facial wrinkles, and improving skin texture, alpha hydroxy acids also
increase skin thickness and encourage collagen production. Glycolic
acid is the most popular of these. Glycolic acid appears to be the
most effective AHA for use in skin rejuvenation because it has a small
molecule which allows it to penetrate the skin easily. Glycolic acid
helps dissolve the “glue” that holds the keratinized skin cells
together and increases cell exfoliation and replacement. Skin becomes
smoother and more even in tone. As well, glycolic acid reduces surface
oils, a benefit for battling blemishes. Glycolic acid can be
irritating, as mentioned above.
BHA
Beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) have a larger molecule than alpha
hydroxy acids. The larger molecule size keeps the beta hydroxy acid on
the surface of the skin allowing it to exfoliate the skin surface.
Beta hydroxy acids are more effective than AHAs within the pores,
treating blemishes, including blackheads and whiteheads. Salicylic
acid is known as a BHA to treat many skin disorders including acne,
dandruff, psoriasis, and dermatitis. The larger molecule size of
salicylic acid produces less irritation than alpha hydroxy acids, a
choice for those with sensitive skin."
FaceGum
http://facegum.com/html/salicylic_acid_glycolic_acid_peels.htm
"Glycolic Acid 10% Hydrating Gel (2 oz.) Peter Thomas Roth
This exfoliating gel contains 10% glycolic acid to remove dead skin
cells, smooth rough texture and clarify the skin. The antioxidants in
it hydrate the skin and help minimize the appearance of fine lines and
wrinkles. For best results, apply at night. May be followed with an
additional moisturizer of choice. Not recommended for sensitive skin."
SkinLogic
http://www.skinlogic.com/product/lines/peterthomasroth.html#ptr333
"Murad Combination Skin Treatment... Adjust skin's equilibrium. This
gel evens out both oily and dry areas. The patented Advanced
Performance Complex along with glycolic and salicylic acids gently
dissolve skin dulling impurities while reducing the appearance of fine
lines and wrinkles."
Sephora
http://www.sephora.com/browse/section.jhtml?categoryId=C7588
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VITAMIN C ANTIOXIDANTS
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"Vitamin C Moisturizer used by Halle Berry for aging skin and
wrinkles. Enriched with Vitamin C, HydraXtract 'C' moisturizer is the
latest development in skin care technology. HydraXtract "C" offers
remission to the aging process by enhancing collagen production and
protecting the cells against UVA/UVB rays and the harmful effects of
the environment on your skin... The application of Vitamin C
moisturizer to aging skin is known to stimulate collagen production,
which reduces wrinkles. HydraXtract 'C' will improve your skin''s
visible smoothness, firmness, and hydration."
Sophia Online
http://skin.sophia-online.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=sophia&Category_Code=7_hydraxtract
"Vitamin C Serum... Tellurian Cosmetics
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, the potent and stable form of Vitamin C
in this 'state-of-the-art' formulation stimulates skin cell
regeneration and the production of collagen, elastin and other
important components of the 'intercellular matrix'. Plumps the skin to
reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as it lightens skin
tone and age spots."
Mother Nature
http://www.mothernature.com/shop/detail.cfm/sku/89771
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COLLAGEN CREAMS
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Isagenix Swiss Collagen Serum is a pure natural collagen with a
molecular structure almost identical to human collagen. It is derived
from a patented process to enhance its purity and hydrating capacity.
It penetrates the dermis to pump up lost collagen, enhances our own
natural collagen production and hydrates the skin. By increasing tone
and firmness with its superior hydrating properties, it diminishes
fine lines and wrinkles."
Anti-Aging Update
http://www.antiagingupdate.com/
"Lysdane Collagen Skin Cream contains a scientifically designed and
patented collagen molecule that helps to minimize the formation of
wrinkles and counteract the effects of skin aging. In laboratory tests
this exclusive collagen molecule (Collodex ® ) has shown a unique
ability to penetrate the outer layers of the human skin... Over the
years the beauty industry has marketed collagen as a popular
ingredient in skincare products. Collagen is usually added to creams
and lotions because it is widely known that injectable collagen works
to improve skin quality... Continued use will counteract the effects
of skin aging, and also minimize the formation of wrinkles due to the
superior hydrating properties of our patented collagen molecule."
Lysdane Cosmetics
http://www.primafacie-us.com/
"Collagen5 for Deep Wrinkles is the only advanced collagen
replenishment line featuring new pentapeptide technology - designed to
vanquish even deep wrinkles.
Replenishes your skin's own, natural collagen. Fills in wrinkles from
the bottom up. Results continue to improve, not fade away!
Non-irritating - perfect for sensitive skin. Reduced deep wrinkles up
to 70% in clinical studies."
Complete La Femme
http://www.completelafemme.net/collagen.htm
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ORAL SUPPLEMENTS
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Here you'll find a ranking of several nonprescription supplements that
are marketed as having anti-aging properties:
Fountain of Youth
http://www.fountain-of-youth.com/main.html
More information on the products rated by the Fountain of Youth site:
Fountain of Youth
http://www.fountain-of-youth.com/more_info_skin.htm
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Some good reading on the subject of wrinkles:
I-Wrinkle.com
http://www.i-wrinkle.com/
Here's a list of anti-aging products, with users' ratings and reviews:
PriceTool
http://www.pricetool.com/beat-Skincare-Anti_Aging_Treatments-All-Wrinkle_Aging_Treatments
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Perhaps the most important anti-wrinkle technique is one of the
simplest: use sunscreen.
"In the lexicon of cosmetics marketing, the maxim "truth is beauty and
beauty is truth" is sometimes lost. Paula Begoun claims to help
consumers strip away the hype and discover products that produce
results. Here are a few of her guiding principles:
The single most effective thing you can do to prevent wrinkles is to
use a sunscreen... Whether you use AHAs, BHAs or a manual scrub, you
must always use a sunscreen if you are exfoliating your skin."
Melbourne CitySearch
http://melbourne.citysearch.com.au/profile?id=27466
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Search terms used:
"botox cream"
"collagen cream"
"anti-aging" + "nonprescription"
"anti-wrinkle" + "nonprescription"
"retinol" + "wrinkles"
"pentapeptides" + "wrinkles"
"hexapeptides" + "wrinkles"
"ogliopeptides" + "wrinkles"
"retinol" + "wrinkles"
"vitamin a" + "wrinkles"
"vitamin c" + "wrinkles"
"botox" + "alternative"
"botox" + "substitute"
I'd like to thank my friend and colleague, voila-ga, and my
long-distance correspondent Kiki, a licensed aesthetician, for
providing valuable help to me as I researched this question.
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I hope this is useful. Please keep in mind that Google Answers is not
a source of authoritative medical advice; the material I've presented
is for informational purposes, and should not be regarded as a
substitute for the services of a qualified medical professional. If
anything is unclear, or if a link does not function, please request
clarification; I'll gladly offer further assistance before you rate my
answer.
Best wishes,
pinkfreud |
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