Sunday, October 5, 2008

Why Dermatologists don't use your average night time moisturizer.

By Dr. Grace Angel

Night time moisturizers have been hugely successful selling millions of dollars of product every year. In some instances they might not be worth the container they are packaged in. The internet, drugstores, and beauty boutiques have been bombarded with a multitude of night creams, each promising to be the new fountain of youth. Many doctors agree including Dr. Patty Farris, a Louisiana dermatologist, "there are a lot of expensive night time moisturizers that don't have the bang for the buck."

Night Time Moisturizer Manufacturers Inflate Results

Makers exaggerate the individual results that most women see after using a night time moisturizer. These companies are out to sell a product and, of course, try to portray it in the best light possible. However some doctors believe that the companies behind the products go too far. "These companies make outrageous statements, claiming that the skin undergoes all sorts of strange processes at night that it doesn't during the day. This is patently wrong and without proof," according to Dr. Les Baumann, professor of dermatology at the University of Miami.

Dermatologists Agree that Some Night Creams Contain Proven Anti-Aging Ingredients.

Proven anti-aging compounds do exist: Retinol, Peptides (proteins), and Vitamin C have been shown to improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles. And the use of Retinol in a night time moisturizer, "makes perfect sense because retinol can be rendered inactive by sunlight," says Dr. Baumann. Peptides and Vitamin C boost the skin's product of collagen, which smoothes wrinkles and improves skin firmness.

To be effective a night time moisturizer must (a) contain the right ingredients (retinol, vitamin C, and peptides) in the right concentration and (b) be used for a long enough period of time to activate and work. Typically for at least five hours a night for eight weeks. If the creams are used inconsistently, the desired results will not be achieved. According to Seattle, Washington dermatologist Dr. Sandy Read, "A moisturizer will not do any good unless it is given enough time to penetrate the skin."

The End Result

A night time moisturizer need not cost arm and a leg but quality creams should contain Peptides, Vitamin C, and Retinol. Many reputable brands can be found online using search engines but I do recommend a quality source, http://www.nighttimemoisturizers.com . This website is devoted solely to night creams and, of course, night time moisturizers. They have a wealth of knowledge and research on the matter. Do your research, do not fall prey to advertisers that promise much and fail to deliver the right ingredients in the right proportion. A quality night cream can help you fight the effects of aging, soothe the skin, and boost collagen production. - 15343

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