When you are shopping for and comparing labels on anti aging cream products, it can be very confusing. The names of the ingredients may seem foreign to you. You may wonder what these ingredients do and if they really work. Becoming familiar with some of the ingredients used in these products will help make comparing them easier and less confusing.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids exfoliate dead skin cells from the outer layers of your skin. When dead skin cells build up, it leaves you with a dull complexion. Exfoliating these cells will leave you with younger looking skin.

Alpha Lipoic Acid is one of the strongest antioxidants on the market. It is used in anti aging creams to counteract the damage done by free radicals.

Antioxidants, such as Vitamin A, C and E, are used to protect against the damage done by free radicals. These particles result from the oxidation of cells. Free radicals cause damage to the cells and have a part in the aging process. They are also thought to play a role in certain diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants bind free radicals and stop the damage done by these particles.

Beta Hydroxy Acids work in the same way as Alpha Hydroxy Acids. The main difference is that Beta Hydroxy Acids are less irritating to the skin. Salicylic acid is the most common beta hydroxy acid found in anti aging creams.

Botanicals are plant extracts that are used in many beauty products. Some of the common botanicals found in anti wrinkle creams are ginseng, aloe and gingko. These all have regenerative properties when used on the skin.

Coenzyme 10 is a nutrient found in the cells of the skin. It works to minimize wrinkles.

Collagen is a protein that makes up connective tissue in the body. Skin is made up of about seventy percent collagen. In anti aging creams, this ingredient works to tighten the skin. This helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sagging of the skin.

Elastin is a protein found in the skin. It gives the skin its elasticity and resilience. Elastin helps the skin return to its original shape after movements, such as smiling or frowning. Elastin naturally decreases with age. This results in the skin not returning to its original shape and causes smile lines, frown lines, worry lines and crow's feet. Elastin in anti wrinkle creams helps return elasticity to the skin.

Emollients are used as a moisturizer in skin care products. They are essential for helping the skin retain moisture. Emollients act as a moisture barrier to help prevent moisture loss.

Essential oils are plant oils that are used in skin care products and in aromatherapy. Lavender and chamomile are two essential oils that are used in anti aging creams. These essential oils soothe irritation in the skin.

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that is used in anti aging creams. Retinol helps build and strengthen collagen fibers in the skin. It also exfoliates the skin to help remove dead skin cells.

SPF stands for sun protection factor. This is used in some anti wrinkle creams that are intended to be worn during the day. SPFs help screen out the ultraviolet rays from the sun, which are implicated in premature aging. If your cream doesn't contain this ingredient, be sure to apply sunscreen when you are going outside.

Learning to read labels will help take the guess work out of purchasing anti aging cream and skin care products. When you know what is in the cream and how the ingredients benefit your skin, it's easier to find the products that are right for your skin. Reading reviews is another great way to find great products for reducing and preventing wrinkles.