This Not That: Anti-Aging Serums

In the never ending battle against fine lines and wrinkles, anti-aging serums are some of the most popular skincare products sold in drugstores and at makeup counters. It has been projected by premier marketing firm Global Industry Analysts that by 2015 Americans will by spending $114 billion a year on just anti-aging skincare. With hundreds on different products on the market, how do you know what you should try? Before you purchase any skincare product you should make a list of your skincare needs and what you want to achieve. For example, if you have oily skin you maybe want to look for an oil free formula or if you think your skin it dull, a serum that is designed to brighten the skin maybe something your interested in.

Serums are light and have a much thinner consistency then lotions and moisturizers. Some formulas are specifically designed to be applied at night, but most serums can be applied as a part of your morning routine. Since serums have a lipid-soluble base it’s easier for the product to penetrate the layers of skin unlike moisturizers which just sit on top of the skin. If you have acne prone skin, ingredients you should looking for in a serum are L-ascorbic acid and retinol. For those with normal skin, serums with alpha lipoic and glycolic acid would be most beneficial. Like with any skincare product, trial and error is really the only way to find what works for you. To apply a serum, use a pea sized amount on dry skin. Place the product on your face, neck, and chest in upward circular motions.

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Origins’ Planscription anti-aging serum is one of the most popular serums on the market. It can be purchased at Sephora, Origins ‘counters, or at Origins’ website. This all natural product promises a 51 percent reduction in wrinkles and fine lines in 4 weeks. All of Origins products (including Plantscription) are made with natural and certified organic ingredients. There products don’t include mineral oil, parabens, phthalates, animal ingredients or paraffin. The active ingredient in this product is Anogeissus, a type of tree found in Africa. The bark of the tree is a traditional healing medicine and was study by Origins for 5 years before they started using it. This serums is great for sensitive skin and doesn’t cause irritation.  Lets look over both the pros and cons of Origins’ Plantscription anti-aging serum.

Pros

• Made with all natural ingredients
• Doesn’t cause irritation
• Is free of mineral oil, parabens, or animal ingredients

Cons

• Cost $55 for only one ounce of product
• Is only available a a small amount of retailers
• Doesn’t improve anything besides wrinkles

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Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Kris Jenner swear by StriVectin when it comes to anti aging products. The most popular facial from StriVectin is their Power Serum for Wrinkles. This product can be purchased through QVC, Sephora, or from StriVectin’s website. This serum is one of the most powerful on the market because it contains 10 percent of the active ingredient NIA-114 (Niacin). Niacin repairs skin damage and and reduces all signs of aging. Some of the ingredients include plant stem cells and peptide actives. Forbes Magazine, The Dermatology Review, and BzzAgent all gave rave reviews to this product, echoing the sentiment that it actual does what it says its going to do. This product can be purchased alone in full size or it can be purchased in a smaller size a part of a travel set. Below are some of the pros and cons of StriVectin’s Power Serum.

Pros

• Is proven effective
• Is available in different sizes at different price points
• Works in  4 weeks or less

Cons

• A full size cost $99
• Contains a lot of different chemicals
• May not be preferred by those  with oily skin types

The Verdict: Although StriVectin may promise quit results, there are a lot of different chemicals in this serum. Some of the ingredients are natural but most aren’t and these chemicals may have a negative affect long term. We prefer Origins’ Plantscription because not only is it effective, it is made of natural ingredients that have been proven to have positive effects. Before you choose a serum, you should consult your doctor of a dermatologist.

What’s your favorite skin serum?

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