Acids, Peptides and Vitamins are common words in the Antiaging Vocabulary. But once we start getting into specific subcatagories I get confused (as I'm sure most of us do)! So here is an explanation of some of the most basic Antiaging "slang". Learn these terms and you will be much wiser when you are spending big bucks on the newest and most promising products!



AHAS: There are five types of this acid:


1. Citric (derived from citrus fruits)


2. Tartaric (derived from grapes)


3. Malic (derived from apples)


4. Lactic (derived from milk)


5. Glycolic (derived from sugarcane).


These types of acid extracts exfoliate the top layer of the skin. They can make the skin brighter and softer. But those with sensitive skin, beware, these sometimes can cause irritation.



BHAS: These acids are similar to AHAS but their origins are from different sources such as Wintergreen, Buteric aid and Salicyclic Acid so therefore, can be less irritating. These acids are very suitable for oily skin with large pores and blackheads and are very effective in clearing up acne. The BHAS exfoliate the blocked up skin cells that get stuck in our oil glands, therefore preventing horrible breakouts.



PHAS: These acids are also similar to AHAS but cause less irritation and do a better job at moisturizing the skin. The results from this acid may disappoint some, but may be good enough for those that easily get irritated skin.



ANTIOXIDANTS: These ingredients are found in vitamins and natural sources and are used to moisturize and repair skin. It is also rumored that they help prevent cell damage caused by free radicals, such as the breakdown of collagen. The most potent antioxidants are Vitamins A, E & C and Beta-carotene. The best way to get them is through your daily diet. The strongest known natural antioxidants are Ginkgo Biloba and Green Tea. Other effective antioxidants include Grapeseed extract, Green Algae, Ginseng, Rosemary, Horse Chesnut & Juniper.



VITAMINS:


Vitamin A: Used to improve the skin's texture and color while reducing fine lines & wrinkles. Look for the Vitamin A derivative called Retinol which is highly effective in exfoliating the skin and therefore making it smoother.



Vitamin C: Is a powerful antioxidant which also offers some protection from UV radiation. Do not be fooled by the creams that contain Vitamin C. The amount is usually minimal and has no effect on the skin.



CERAMIDES: These are synthetic fats that help the skin retain moisture and rebuild damaged lipids.



CO-Q10: This is an enzyme found in human cells which is now used as an antioxidant. It is known as a skin smoothing and anti wrinkling ingredient.



COLLAGEN: When you apply creams containing collagen on your face, it will not rejuvenate your own natural collagen. But it can be used as a great moisturizing ingredient.



ENZYMES: These exfoliants can help even out skin color and slow the breakdown of elastin. They usually are derived from papaya, pineapple or papain.



HORMONES: Usually not effective so do not be fooled by products claiming that the amount of hormones help save the skin.

Thanks for the info. :)

Thanks for the information. I didn't know some of this.

There is some really good info there but the Vitamin c is effective if there is 10% of ascorbyl palmitate in stable packaging. Unfortunately, it breaks down pretty quickly once exposed to air. I suggest its best for oily skin as it really can be drying after awhile. It does lighten and brighten the skin thus reducing age spots. The stable brands are also really darned expensive!

I will look into retinol though for something new to try.

Anyone have a problem with warts? If so how do you remove them, I had one removed by a dermatologist and now its back or one right by where the other was, I read there are over 100 kinds, I had a flat spot on my hand removed one time and I think that was a wart also. Now I am using tea tree oil to see if this one very small on my forehead will disappear.

Good info on the ingredients Ladieg

Try oil of oregano. Its way stronger than tea tree. I rec Joy of the Mountains or St Francis Farms as they are really strong. You can also try Hedd Wynn but its more diluted though it still works.

Anyone have a problem with warts? If so how do you remove them, I had one removed by a dermatologist and now its back or one right by where the other was, I read there are over 100 kinds, I had a flat spot on my hand removed one time and I think that was a wart also. Now I am using tea tree oil to see if this one very small on my forehead will disappear.

Good info on the ingredients Ladieg

No oil will ever remove a wart. A wart is caused by a virus. To remove a wart, you must get the entire thing removed, even the roots. Warts "come back" when the root wasn't killed in the first place or when the virus is still active. Have your doctor remove any real warts you have (not just "spots"). Plus, warts always have a raised surface, so the spot you had removed from your hand was probably must a pigmented spot.

Oil of oregano does help with warts if you apply it topically. Its pretty strong stuff though. Do a google search first before dismissing anything you dont understand.