“I’ve Got You Under My Skin” is a popular song written by Cole Porter that became a signature of ‘Old Blue Eyes’ Frank Sinatra in the 40’s and a top 10 hit for The Four Seasons in the 60’s. But for the rest of us -- whether young or old – it means maintaining beautiful skin inside and out. It is never too soon to start fighting the signs of aging. From the “age defying” products for women who want to reduce fine lines and wrinkles to products for younger women ages 15-29 who want to get a head start on preventative skin care, there is a product to fit each individual need. Many of these products are designed for women in their 20s and 30s to slow and possibly prevent the appearance of skin aging, as well as for the mature skin market, women in their 40s and beyond, to repair and soften the appearance of older skin. Multiple action products are also becoming popular with busy women who want to take care of their skin, but who have limited time.
 
 Since its approval by the FDA for cosmetic use in 2002, Botox® has enjoyed a huge rise in popularity among those seeking to reduce wrinkles and give their skin a more youthful appearance. Botox is a safer, injectable form of botulism toxin, the same bacteria that causes food poisoning. Botox treatments work by blocking the nerve transmissions that cause facial muscles to contract, resulting in a temporary mild paralysis of the facial muscles where it is injected. Since the facial muscles can no longer contract properly, the wrinkles and “crow’s feet” caused by repeated contractions smooth out and become less noticeable. Botox injections were the #1 most popular cosmetic treatment in 2003, with the average procedure costing about $400-$500. The Botox procedure consists of injections given in the forehead, frown-lines, and outer eye area to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for both men and women.
 
 Many of the products on the market today designed to reduce wrinkles and give skin a more youthful appearance rely on ingredients that work similar to Botox; by limiting the facial muscle contractions to allow skin to smoothen naturally. Instead of relying on expensive injections to paralyze facial muscles, many of the most popular products rely on topical ingredients that reduce the amount of nerve stimulation to the facial muscles, thus causing the area to smoothen and lessen the appearance of wrinkles. These ingredients, called hexapeptides, can produce results similar to Botox without the cost or hassle of visiting a dermatologist for injections. They are also used to extend the effective length of Botox injections, which typically wear off in 2-3 months.
 
 The most popular, and effective, products contain Acetyl Hexapeptide-3, a powerful non-toxic agent that can dramatically reduce fine lines and wrinkles around eyes, mouth, and forehead. In sufficient concentrations (at least 5%) Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 products can cause significant improvements in the youthful appearance of skin. Many products combine it with other moisturizers and fragrances to enhance the effects. When selecting an anti wrinkle product, be sure to find one that contains a high concentration of Acetyl Hexapeptide-3, is hypoallergenic (if you have sensitive skin), and offers a guarantee of satisfaction.
 
 One of today’s hottest trends in skin care is anti-aging for the whole body. Women are beginning to acknowledge the fact that the face is not the only area of the body that shows visible signs of aging. The skin on the body, hands, nails, and even cuticles suffer from the effects of aging as well. Consumers are looking for holistic products that combat more than just fine lines and wrinkles. Women want serious anti-aging skin care products that firm skin, even overall texture, improve skin’s dullness and minimize the appearance of blotches and age spots, as well as fine lines and wrinkles.
 
 Because of their purported ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, products containing retinol and other vitamin A derivatives remain popular, as do products designed specifically to treat mature skin.
 
 The use of organic ingredients has become quite popular as more people become aware of what they put in and on their bodies. Recent discoveries of beneficial compounds in Rainforest plants give new hope for fresh young looking skin. With over 215,000 species of plants, the Amazon Rainforest has been called the greatest celebration of life on earth. Over 40% of modern therapies and medicines are derived from just 21 of these Rainforest botanicals. Deep in the Amazon Rainforest, a life-sustaining cycle of fresh rain nourishes pristine botanicals. Rain is the vital essence and life force of the Rainforest, providing nutrients for growth and regeneration.
 
 While prestige skin care products have always incorporated cutting-edge ingredients, many skin care products available in the mass market use highly effective materials as well. The lines between mass and prestige are blurring as customers who typically buy prestige are purchasing more mass products than ever before. Many mass products today offer the same benefits as prestige brands, yet at a lower cost. In addition, buying at mass is more convenient and in-line with women’s busy lives.
 
 A recent study conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) reports that the $4.2 billion US cosmeceutical industry demand will grow eleven percent annually through 2008, propelled by science and astute marketing to an aging population. Skin care products will remain dominant while professional products (e.g., PROPECIA, BOTOX) lead gains. Chemicals will continue to outpace products with the ongoing discovery of more value-added ingredients by cosmeceutical type including: age-defying, acne, medical, sun protection, hair growth, anti-dandruff, botulinum toxin-based, collagen injections and implants, tooth whiteners, lip care); and by chemical (antioxidants, sunscreens, acids, enzymes, proteins, botanicals, finasteride).
 
 There are many new skin care products using cutting-edge chemicals and ingredients on the market today. The fastest growing segment is those creams and lotions that offer anti-aging properties, and are designed to minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, frown lines, and “crow’s feet”. Many of these products can help people take years off their face, without resorting to Botox® injections or costly chemical peels or face-lifts.
 
 In this fast-paced age, consumers expect a lot from their skin care products. Not only do they expect fast results, but they also want a product with multiple actions. With so many new skin care products being launched, consumers can tailor a skin care treatment system to suit their individual needs. From age-defying products that care for a specific age range to vitamin and nutrient-infused products to treat a specific skin problem, there is a product for everyone. It seems as long as skin care manufacturers continue to meet the growing needs of their consumers, the skin care industry will continue to thrive.
 
 Copyright © Keri Keenan
 
 Author Bio: Keri Keenan is the founder and CEO of EvironHealth International and a avid practitioner of holistic health care, environmentalist and Fengshui For Health lecturer. After being misdiagnosed for 15 years with a Chronic Illness and reoccurring skin problems Keri has made it her life's mission to educate others on how each of us as individuals must take simple steps in our every day lives to take action to protect our own health and the EARTH, which provides us life. For more information, call 910-246-8227 or email: customerservice at environhealth dot net.
 
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