As an esthetician, I am always getting asked “what are the best products for anti-aging?” The top two ingredients that always come to mind are Vitamin C and Vitamin A (retinol). These ingredients when used in conjunction are a powerhouse recipe. Both stimulate collagen production, renew cells and improve the skin’s texture, glow and overall youthfulness.
Excessive UV exposure and a diet low in Vitamin C will speed up collagen loss. Ultra violet exposure breaks down collagen in the skin causing wrinkles. Starting in our 20’s, we begin to lose collagen at a rate of 1% per year. This means that by time we’re 50, we could’ve lost at least half of our skin’s collagen. Our bodies need Vitamin C to produce more collagen, so naturally, a diet rich in both Vitamins C & A will assist our bodies in keeping our skin as youthful as possible. There are many different forms of Vitamin C, each offer a range of benefits that include repair and protection from free radical damage, but are all more beneficial when added to blend of other proven antioxidants and cell communicating ingredients. Vitamin C can also be quite effective in treating sun damage and post acne marks or scarring. Our IMAGE SKINCARE products contain a form of Vitamin C called BV-OSC which is considered a mild version of Vitamin C and remains stable in the air and water for up to 18 months allowing it to serve as a long lasting antioxidant. BV-OSC penetrates directly into the epidermis and dermis, acting as both an antioxidant and a direct stimulate of new collagen.
Retinoid and retinol are both derivatives of Vitamin A and are the only products on the market proven to slow down and reverse signs of aging. Retinoid is prescription strength and is usually irritating to the skin and can cause flaking and redness. Most people do best with retinol creams because of the lower percentages of Vitamin A contained in them and they are able to be used daily without irritation. Vitamin A thickens and stimulates the dermis where our collagen, elastin and blood vessels are, so it reduces wrinkles and increases blood flow to the surface of the skin. It can take a few weeks for the skin to acclimate to new products and even several more before seeing results.
At A White Pond Paradise we carry a range of Vitamin C and Vitamin A products that are both gentle and effective. For instance, Image Skincare has recently introduced a daily, dietary collagen supplement that helps to rebuild and strengthen your skin by boosting the body’s natural collagen production. Adding dark leafy greens, citrus, red fruits and vegetables, omega acids, flaxseed and avocado oil to your diet, will allow your skin to either retain or regain its youthful, healthy glow.
Schedule your appointment with one of our knowledgeable estheticians to get started on this magnificent anti-aging regime. Your skin will thank you for it!
