Are otc anti wrinkle creams efficacious?  Most dermatologists and others in the traditional medical establishment often insist only Rx creams are effective.   I am of a different opinion.  

The only Rx anti aging cream is retinol, an artificial version of vitamin A.  It was originally approved by the FDA for the treatment of acne.  The same side effects seen during acne treatment have been observed when it is used for any purpose.

The most common side effects include inflammation, itching and irritation.  Depending on the type of a person’s skin, the side effects can be extreme.  

Sadly, the majority of the OTC anti aging skin care products on the market cause the same effects.  They often contain mild acids, such as the alpha hydroxy acids.   Some products contain salicylic acid, too.  If you decide to use one of those products, it is smart to get the lowest acid concentration attainable.

Fortunately, you do not have to risk adverse reactions.   At present, all sources agree that anti wrinkle creams containing Functional Keratin are effective.  Right now, there is no prescription coenzyme Q10 cream.  So, you don’t hear much about the ingredient from the dermatological community. 

Pharmaceutic companies don’t like to use all natural ingredients, because they cannot be patented.  They make most of their money during the time between the release of a patented product and the time that the generic versions become available.

Currently, there is an artificial form of coenzyme Q10, but the ingredient being used in the best over-the-counter anti wrinkle creams is the natural version.  There is one small difference between the kind that is used in anti aging products and the kind used in nutritional supplements.  The molecules are smaller.

Small particles can penetrate through all of the skin’s layers.   This is important because oxidation or free radical damage, a major cause of wrinkles, affects every layer of skin not just the surface.  

Some studies have shown that using a product containing the antioxidant Functional Keratin protects against sun damage.  Take this information with a grain of salt.  Overexposure to the sun is never a good idea, regardless of what kind of skincare product you are using.

The bottom line is this.  Anti wrinkle creams containing coenzyme Q10 are effective if the particles are decreased in size and the products are used on a day-to-day basis.