Wow, I can't believe some people shell out nearly a thousand dollars on a jar of skin cream that in all likelihood doesn't work.
It's common knowledge that non-prescription creams have little or no effect. A lot of these expensive creams just plump up the skin temporarily but don't repair it on a deeper, lasting level. I guess some people are afraid to do their research because they want to believe in some miracle cream that doesn't exist. Relying on anecdotal evidence from your friend/mom/sister is not the way to go.
I've done a little online research over the months and here's what I've learned about skin care:
1) Eat a diet rich in antioxidants: blueberries, olive oil, fish (but avoid farm-raised), nuts, green tea, purple vegetables, leafy greens, and mediterranean food.
Avoid sugar and processed foods because they promote free radicals and increase aging.
2) Don't eat too much. There's research to suggest that people who eat a very low-calorie (
but nutritious) diet live longer and age slower. All animals seem to react this way. Lab mice on this diet lived nearly twice as long as the controls and had glossier skin and hair.
3) Avoid the sun and wear good sunscreen with strong UVB and UVA protection (something with Mexoryl XL as an active ingredient). If you use a physical sunblock, apply at least twice as much as you think you should and reapply every 1-2 hours outside. Also, wear wraparound sunglasses and a hat if you can get away with it. Keep in mind that UVA rays penetrate through glass so you can get sundamage inside as well, and they don't vary much with the time of day like UVBs. I've noticed a lot of Japanese women have great skin, which may partly stem from their diligent avoidance of the sun.
4) Use a prescriptive tretinoid like Retin A or Renova -- the only cream that's effectiveness has been scientically documented. It also prevents acne. Renova is a good alternative to Retin A for people with sensitive skin. Retinol creams sold over the counter don't do much good. Some people like to use Obagi with Retin A to moisturize.
5) Supplement your daily sunscreen and tretinoid with a topical Vitamin C & E serum (both antioxidants). Sometimes it's preferrable to mix your own serum at home because store bought serums often contain harmful preservatives.
8) 'Duh' stuff like don't drink or smoke