Can Anti-Aging Cosmetics Really Reduce Wrinkles?

Not many studies and research have been done to prove the authenticity of what they are claiming. However, the two most notable studies have been done by the BBC science program "Horizon" in co-operation with the University of Manchester, and Consumer Reports' that did a study of a sample of anti-aging products available.

Study by BBC science program "Horizon"
The BBC program ‘Horizon’ referred a range of anti-aging creams to the scientists at the University of Manchester to do the actual, independent testing. The results were represented in late 2007 and caused a bit of a stir.

The testing included a clinical trial involving 60 volunteers over a period of six months. It was found that one product, unlike the other products tested, actually delivered what the manufacturer advertised. The winner product is called Boots No. 7 Protect or Perfect Beauty Serum in UK, and Boots No. 7 Restore or Renew in Northern American markets. The Boots cream was found to repair damage to the skin structure of volunteers who tried it, resulting in measurable improvements in wrinkle depth.

The professor of dermatology in charge of the study, Chris Griffiths, said at the time on the results: "At both basic science and clinical levels, Boots No7 Protect & Perfect has been shown scientifically to repair photo-aged skin and improve the fine wrinkles associated with photo-ageing."

The ingredients in the Boots cream include silicone, vitamin C, mulberry, ginseng, amino acids derivatives, and white lupin flower extract.

Study by Consumer Reports
The other notable independent study on the question - do anti wrinkle creams work? - was done in 2006 by Consumer Reports, the independent consumer product and service testing organization. They tested a range of products, both expensive and cheap, including such products as Lancome Paris Renergie and La Prairie Cellular. The winner here was Oil of Olay Regenerist range of products.

The testing was done over 12 weeks, and the best performing products, including Regenerist, reduced the average depth of wrinkles by less than 10 percent.

Based on the research, some anti-wrinkle cosmetics are true to what they claim. But note that the individual reactions to individual products vary significantly.

Side effects
Some products may cause skin irritation, rashes, burning or redness. Be sure to read and follow the product instructions to limit possible side effects.