Q: I am a 27 year old female. Is it time to use an anti-wrinkle cream?
A: I want to start by saying the most important way to protect yourself from aging and getting wrinkles and also unsightly liver spots is to use sun screen regularly. Start off by using a daily moisturizer with an Sun Protection Factor of at least 30. If you plan to be outside in the sunny environment for a long time – don’t forget reapply every 2 to 3 hours.
So when is the time to start using an anti-aging or anti-wrinkle cream? Some dermatologists advocate waiting until the first wrinkle or sun spot appears. I think it is reasonable to be proactive and start using anti-aging creams like Renova, Retin-A, Differin or Tazorac in your 20’s as a preventive treatment. If you have signs of aging or sun damage whatsoever, I think it makes sense to start sooner. Start using the cream two to three times per week at night. They can all be drying , so don’t forget to moisturize after application.
-Dr. Schweiger
NYC Dermatologist