Collagen is the key to healthy skin that tends to age well. The change in the pH level of the skin caused by just a few uses of a Vitamin A product such as Retin-A can help generate collagen. "Collagen is the skin's structural fiber," dermatologist Dennis Gross said in the October 2005 issue of O Magazine. "As we get older, it breaks down, creating lines and large pores."The best way to keep collagen from breaking down is avoiding the sun at all costs. Dermatologists warn that up to 90 percent of wrinkles, dark spots and sun damage are caused by sun exposure. This is why they're always preaching the use of sunscreen. However, if the damage is done, you can try to recoup the gorgeous skin you once had. To find out your best option, read on.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A really cuts down on the wrinkles, perhaps better than any other type of skin product. I would recommend skipping the over-the-counter vitamin A products, which have not yet been proven to be as effective as prescription strength products. Ask your doctor for a prescription for Retin-A, Renova or Retin-A Micro (Retin-A can be purchased over-the-counter in Mexico, Canada and some European countries, so if you live or are visiting there, you don't need a prescription). These contain the tretinoin, which is proven more effective on fine lines and wrinkles than retinol, found in most OTC products.
Keep in mind that you shouldn't expose skin to the sun when using Retin-A, Renova or Retin-A Micro. You'll want to cover up with sunscreen and a hat. Vitamin A makes skin very susceptible to skin damage. You should avoid tretinoin products if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant because it could cause birth defects. Also, start slowly with this product, which initially can cause redness, peeling and flaking. Too many women give up after just a couple weeks because they are alarmed by the initial effects of tretinoin. Start by using it twice a week, then slowly move to every other day until your skin adjusts.