Are Skincare Products with "Anti-Aging" Claims Worth The Extra Money?

Are Skincare Products with "Anti-Aging" Claims Worth The Extra Money?

Sabrina Schrope

Cosmetic Chemist, Owner of Vitamin You

Introduction:

            The anti-aging industry is massive with different niches in skincare, supplements, and lifestyle. However, this concept has been around for over 4,700 years with roots based on myths and legends. Fortunately, in today’s society the term “anti-aging” is now a scientific term backed with evidence and research.¹ Skin aging refers to the breakdown of collagen and elastin that lead to loose skin and wrinkles. There is no way to stop the natural process of aging but with the help of certain ingredients, it can be slowed down. Medical News Today recognizes these actives as the “most effective anti-aging skincare ingredients”²:

Retinol, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Copper Peptides, Polyphenols, Aloe Vera, Jasmine Rice Extract, and Bee Products.

Answer:

No.

Explanation:

            As a good rule of thumb, never equate the cost of a product to its quality. For the majority of the time, the most expensive component of a skincare product is its packaging. This includes a customized bottle or dispenser, custom boxes, pamphlets or brochures, labels, and any other add-ins like scoopers or filler paper. Skincare dupes happen all the time because of this large discrepancy in costs of packaging and marketing.

            The Mayo Clinic also agrees that “cost has no relationship to effectiveness.” A more reliable way to protect from premature skin aging is to just wear sunscreen.³ A study found that UV exposure can account up to 80% of premature wrinkles, pigmentation, and photoaging.⁴

             Unless it’s a cosmeceutical that is being prescribed by a dermatologist, spending extra money on a $100 miracle product probably isn’t worth it. Instead, wearing sunscreen and having a well-rounded skincare routine will work better.

Citations:

1. Fossel, M. (2002). “Anti-Aging: Claims, Words, Reality”. Journal of Anti-Aging Medicine. 5(4) <http://doi.org/10.1089/109454502763485421>.

2. Lewsley, J. (2022). “Which anti-aging products work best, and when should you start using them?” Medical News Today. <https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/when-to-start-using-anti-aging-products>.

3. (2023). “Wrinkle creams: Your guide to younger looking skin”. Mayo Clinic. <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wrinkles/in-depth/wrinkle-creams/art-20047463>.

4. Amaro-Ortiz A, Yan B, D'Orazio JA. (2014). “Ultraviolet radiation, aging and the skin: prevention of damage by topical cAMP manipulation”. Molecules. 19(5):6202-19. doi: 10.3390/molecules19056202.