Ingredients To Watch For

Collagen. This protein gives strength and flexibility to the skin's connective tissues.

Topical Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Vitamin C helps the skin make collagen. Topical Vitamin C provides 20 times the amount of C normally delivered to the skin and is effective for three days after use. It protects against the effects of aging, acts as a weak sunscreen and may reduce aging pigments such as liver spots.

Retinol (vitamin A). A necessary component of healthy skin, retinal may prevent or decrease acne, wrinkling, and eczema. Rough, dry, pimply skin may signal vitamin A deficiency.

Elastin. This protein enables your skin to stretch and snap back into place when you pinch it. Your body stops producing elastin after puberty.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA). A derivative of fruit and milk sugars, AHA helps slough off the skin's dry outer layer and stimulates growth of the fresh layer underneath. This acid may increase sensitivity to the sun and has caused adverse reactions in some people. The most common AHA's in cosmetics are glycolic acid and lactic acid.

Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA). Primarily used for premature aging and adult acne, BHA exfoliates the skin to encourage the growth of new skin cells. The most common BHA in cosmetics is salicylic acid.

Hyaluronic Acid. This fluid lubricates the skin's connective tissues while keeping them sturdy.

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