We are as old as we look or, rather, our skin looks .

Although a smooth skin remains the glowing aspiration of  all women, it becomes an unreal goal with age. This is when antiaging creams steps in.

But how safe are these ‘harbingers of youth’? It seems that the users of these products have more to fear than just aging.

It has been recently reported in the media that several prominent brands of  anti ageing creams contain the active ingredient alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs).

According to Dr Sam Epstein, chairman of the US Cancer Prevention Coalition, these are “probably the most dangerous cosmetic products on the market”.

Many of these age- controlling products, that claim to erase fine lines and diminsh wrinkles, actually work by peeling away the top -most layer of the skin, thereby making it vulnerable to damage through sun exposure and  enviornmental toxins.It is exactly for this  reason that many  companies that sell  products with AHA  warn  consumers that it is mandatory for them to use a sunscreen.

But obviously,  it is not enough!

The US Food and Drug Administration has cautioned consumers that AHAs “could destroy the upper layers of skin, causing severe burns, swelling and pain”.

Apparently, AHA is not the only culprit. Another  harmful product, limonene, a known carcinogen also finds its way into several anti -aging creams.

What is it that prompts these companies to churn out these creams in tons? I believe it is our obsession — with  youth and anything young. We started living out of harmony with nature, and the consequence was telling.That is when the ‘cosmetic rasputins’ stepped in with their bottled remedies.

I have just named a few harmful products  but it is anyones guess that there are many many more . It is ok for the countries where  paranoia and regulations control  the sale and recall of such products.What about ‘lesser’  countries? Do we allow ourselves  to be  enthralled by porcelain models and blissfully  continue to use these creams ?

There are so many factors that promote  aging. Poor nutrition, lack of exercise and stress are just a few.It goes without saying that diseases and familial predisposition are also among the factors that enhance ageing. Therefore, it is important to understand what is wrong in the first  place and analyse thoroughly before succumbing to charlatans.

The need for the hour is the ‘back to nature’ approach .Make sure you put the right things into your system to support it for life — this includes sensible healthy foods and clean water. Regular exercising is mandatory for a youthful and a disease-free state.Eliminate stress .You can choose your own methods to de stress—there are plenty around.All these methods will reduce the production and action of free radicals which damage cells.

Traditional practices have come up with their own antiaging products and beauty -enhancing creams that use only natural ingredients. Ayurvedic products are one of them. .It would be worth while to give them a try.

Aging is unstoppable. The challenge is to age gracefully and not cut a sorry figure .If the above  tips are carefully followed  you will be forced to smile at the  youthful  ‘stranger’ you see in the  mirror.

What’s stopping you?
 
Dr. Reeja Tharu