Anti ageing skin SOS: lines and wrinkles

Is there really a solution to lines and wrinkles? There are definitely products out there to help

We all know that much of how we age is genetically programmed, but other factors, such as the sun, contribute to and accelerate the process. Repeated facial movements eventually cause lines too, but I for one refuse to stop laughing and smiling just to keep wrinkles at bay!

What's the solution?

A daily sunscreen, whatever the season, is the real key to looking younger for longer, while antioxidants create a second line of defence from UV and pollution and boost your skin's natural functions. Use both as part of your morning routine, either in layers or, if you find that's too heavy for your skin type or some of the product starts flaking off, go for an all-in-one.

Try Boots Time Delay Wrinkle Reduce Moisturiser, with SPF15, antioxidants and other line-busters - at the great price of £8.99. For active repair, go for vitamin A derivatives known as retinoids, which are best used at night. There's a stack of evidence that they really do repair existing photo-damage.

A dermatologist can prescribe a gel such as Retin A (around £10 on a private prescription), although it can irritate some skins. L'Oréal's very effective Revitalift range, from £10.99, contains milder forms of retinoids, while RoC uses pure retinol in its excellent RoC Retin-Ox Plus Night, £24.95. 

Peptides, another beneficial ingredient, were discovered during medical research into wound healing. These help to plump up skin, keeping it youthful while smoothing out fine lines. My favourites include the Olay Regenerist range, from £7.50, and Estée Lauder Perfectionist (CP+) Correcting Serum, £42.

Find the perfect treatments for:

Skin SOS: pigmentation

Skin SOS: enlarged pores

Skin SOS: sagging jawline

Skin SOS: broken capillaries

Skin SOS: rosacea

Classic anti ageing all-rounders

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