Lip wrinkle creams are moisturizing ointments that are designed to reduce the appearance of perioral wrinkles, which appear around the lips and mouth. Many of these products are formulated to reduce wrinkles by increasing collagen production and restoring skin elasticity. Some products also work by removing dead skin cells and stimulating new growth. To choose the best lip wrinkle cream, look for one that contains ingredients that are able to exfoliate and nourish your fragile facial skin.
One of the most common mistakes that consumers make while choosing lip wrinkle treatments is selecting products that contain collagen. The best treatments stimulate collagen production; they do not contain collagen. Collagen is a protein that makes up a large portion of the body’s connective issues. Although this protein is found in the body, collagen molecules are too large to be absorbed through the skin.
Instead of choosing a lip wrinkle cream that contains this ingredient, look for one that will help the body increase its natural supply. Two ingredients that are believed to increase collagen production are kinetin and copper peptides. These substances are also believed to even the skin tone, neutralize free radicals and support tissue repair.
Another ingredient that is effective at neutralizing free radicals is retinol. Retinol is a powerful antioxidant that is derived from vitamin A. This antioxidant is a less potent version of tretinoin, a prescription medication that is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including wrinkles. Tretinoin cannot be used directly on the lips but can be applied to the surrounding skin. This limitation is why retinol is the form used in many lip wrinkle creams.
Retinol, in fact, is one of the most common ingredients used in these creams. In addition to working as an antioxidant, retinol promotes cell regeneration and improves the skin’s ability to retain collagen. Retinol’s effectiveness at reducing wrinkles is why it is one of the most important ingredients to look for in a lip wrinkle cream.
Two more ingredients to look for are alpha hydroxy acid and glycolic acid. These acids work by removing dead skin cells. When used regularly, the constant removal of dead cells will reduce the appearance of lip wrinkles and support new growth. Alpha hydroxy acids are most effective at eliminating wrinkles when combined with retinol and other nourishing ingredients.
To choose the best lip wrinkle cream, pay close attention to ingredients. Although vitamins and plant extracts are nourishing, these ingredients aren’t always enough to eliminate lip wrinkles. Before choosing a product, carefully review the ingredients list for potent antioxidants, exfoliants and collagen-stimulating substances. Over time, these are the ingredients that will improve the appearance of lip lines and wrinkles.
Also look for a lip wrinkle cream that is affordable, easy to use and will not cause severe side effects. If you have sensitive skin, creams that contain retinol and alpha hydroxy acids might be irritating, especially if they are not used as directed. Certain products also should be avoided by women who are pregnant and people who suffer from eczema, rosacea or perioral dermatitis. If you are unsure of whether a lip wrinkle cream is safe to use, consult with a dermatologist or other healthcare professional before incorporating the product into your skin care routine.