We all want young, wrinkle-free, flawless skin. But with so many products out there, it’s no wonder we’re all so confused. What exactly are we slathering on our faces, and is it actually doing anything? The effects of many skincare ingredients are supported by proven scientific facts, while others are not. So which actually work?

Anti-aging skin specialist, Monsia, have done the research for you and are revealing the truth about anti-aging ingredients and which natural products make a difference to delaying, minimising and sometimes even reversing the signs of aging.

Hyaluronic Acid

Don’t be put off by the word acid! Hyaluronic acid is just the opposite of what you might think it is. This super-significant ingredient retains over 1,000 times its weight in water within the cells of the skin, making it excellent for adding moisture. In fact, no other biological substance can retain as much water, meaning hyaluronic acid will also increase smoothness, decrease wrinkles and even stimulate the production of anti-aging superstar, collagen!

SPF

Sun damage is one of the top causes of premature skin aging. So wearing a moisturiser with an SPF of 30 or higher is essential. It will protect the skin from harmful UV rays, which destroy the collagen and elastin fibres and damage your DNA. Look out for a sunscreen with antioxidants, as they will bolster the effectiveness of the SPF.

Shea Butter

One of the most effective natural anti-aging skin care ingredients is Shea butter. Essentially, it’s an antioxidant that absorbs quickly in the skin to protect, treat, heal and reduce skin irritations. It improves skin tone and elasticity while moisturising to help skin appear smoother, making wrinkles less noticeable. Although shea butter is not a recognised sunscreen, it does also offer sun protection which only adds to its anti-aging benefits.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has long been used to treat many skin conditions. But what is it about this plant based ingredient that is so effective, especially when it comes to anti-aging? Firstly, aloe vera has proven to stimulate the renewal of fibroblast cells (responsible for producing collagen) six to eight times faster

than normal cell production. Not only this, but aloe vera also has a healing effect on our skin, helping to moisturise, nourish and protect.

Oils

There are certain oils to look out for that have a super high percentage of fatty acids which have been found to work very well on aging, dry or damaged skin. Jojoba Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Coconut Oil and Emu Oil are just some of the most powerful and potent additions to anti-aging skin care products.