Skin Care

The ABCs of Anti-Aging

Everything you need to know about fighting wrinkles, saggy skin, dark spots and other signs of aging

by Hayley Mason | 5 COMMENTS

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A Vitamin A
Vitamin A is the source of the anti-aging powerhouse retinol. It's what builds and repairs collagen and elastin, says Dr. Harold Lancer, author of "Younger: The Breakthrough Anti-Aging Method for Radiant Skin." "It's also what keeps the color in your skin uniform and protected." Just as important as using a retinol product on your skin at night: boosting the amount of vitamin A in your body by eating a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and other veggies, fruits and lean proteins. And if all else fails, take a multivitamin or supplement.

AHAs
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid and lactic acid are often found in cleansers, exfoliating agents and moisturizers. "As you age, cell turnover slows down and you accumulate more dull, dead skin," says Dr. Lancer. When applied directly to your skin, AHAs speed cell turnover, shedding dead cells and revealing new ones.

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You know those stories about the latest, greatest breakthroughs and research into anti-aging -- the ones that make you feel like you need a masters degree in chemistry, biology and dermatology to understand? This isn't one of them. Because creating an amazing anti-aging skin care regimen isn't about knowing every nuance behind the science of anti-aging. It's about distilling all of the research and how-to tips out there into a plan that suits you -- a plan that fits your life and your unique skin care needs.

Consider this your elementary guide to youthful, wrinkle-free and radiant skin. It's as easy as A-B-C.