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Younger-looking, firmer skin is something that women of all ages constantly seek, and something that skincare brands constantly guarantee. But with so many skin firming and plumping creams on the market, it can be tough to choose one that's right for you ... and one that will really work. So, what's a girl to do? Read labels! They are key in figuring out which products will really give you a gorgeous, glowing complexion.
Retinol
Retinol is one of the biggest buzzes in anti-aging skincare. This vitamin A compound was the first antioxidant used in over-the-counter plumping creams. We all know that free radicals --- those unstable oxygen molecules that wreak havoc on your skin and spur wrinkles --- are bad news. But did you know that retinol can de-charge them and fight off their damaging ways? So with retinols, you get plumping action and wrinkle protection, too. And if you want some serious fighting power, your dermatologist can still provide prescription-strength versions of this powerhouse antioxidant.
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids
Have an AHA moment with alpha hydroxy acids, one of the most commonly-found compounds in plumping facial creams. AHAs are synthetic versions of acids naturally found in sugar-containing fruits ... and they're absolutely gorgeous for your skin. They provide light exfoliation, whisking away the surface layer of dead skin cells. They also help smooth out the surface of the fresh, glowing skin underneath, and firm it up. It's like the ultimate one-two sag-fighting punch.
Copper Peptides
Copper peptides are like a dream come true for truly damaged, wrinkled, saggy skin. Copper is found naturally in our bodies, and when it is applied to skin, it reinforced the cells, making them stronger and --- you guessed it --- smoother. It also stimulates collagen production, which is the body's main protein that makes skin look plump, juicy and young. Collagen production decreases as women age, so any change to boost it is welcome.
Caffeine
Want to tighten up, tone up, or bust up cellulite? Reach for caffeine ... but not in a cup of coffee. Caffeine is one of the key ingredients in skin-firming creams. Caffeine energizes the skin, making it temporarily taut and tight. Dr. Ava Shamban, an assistant professor of dermatology at the University of California at Los Angeles, told CBS's "The Early Show" anchor Julie Chen that caffeine naturally tightens blood vessels, making the skin temporarily appear firmer, tighter and smoother. Caffeine creams can be used all over the body to firm up jiggly and cellulite-prone areas. But don't expect your skin to be as smooth as a baby's butt forever. Caffeine won't provide long-term changes in your skin's appearance. If you're looking for a quick fix, this will certainly be more effective than a cup of joe.
