As we age, one of our most common beauty concerns is the dreaded arrival of wrinkles. From fine lines around the eyes to deeper creases on the forehead, these signs of aging can have a significant impact on our confidence and self-esteem. In our quest for youthful skin, my colleagues and I decided to embark on a journey to test the five most popular methods for preventing wrinkles.
Armed with determination, a bit of skepticism and our own unique set of wrinkles, each of us picked one of the five methods to try out for four weeks, and then we compared results at the end of the month. Which method would prove to be the ultimate champion?
5th place: The Facial Exercise Enthusiasts
This group explored the unconventional world of facial exercises, believing that toning and strengthening facial muscles could reduce sagging skin and the associated wrinkles.
Science: Facial exercises target the underlying facial muscles, aiming to enhance muscle tone.
Result: While participants in this group noted improved skin firmness and a more lifted appearance, the direct effect on wrinkles was less pronounced. Wrinkles are influenced by factors such as collagen loss and external damage, which exercises alone cannot fully address.
4th place: The Sunscreen Advocates
This group was composed of individuals who were dedicated to the daily application of sunscreen. Their mission was to protect their skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the primary cause of premature aging.
Science: Sunscreen, when applied consistently, forms a barrier that absorbs and reflects UV rays. This protection prevents UV-induced DNA damage, collagen breakdown, and sunburn, all of which contribute to the formation of wrinkles.
Result: The results from this group showed a significant reduction in new wrinkle formation and a marked improvement in skin texture. The reason why we only give this method 4th place is that Sunscreen turned out to be great for wrinkle prevention, but not so much for wrinkle correction.
3rd place: The Anti-Aging Cream Devotees
This group focused on anti-aging creams, carefully selecting products enriched with ingredients like retinol, peptides, and antioxidants. They aimed to rejuvenate their skin and stimulate collagen production.
Science: Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is known to boost collagen production and encourage skin cell turnover, resulting in smoother skin. Peptides and antioxidants help repair damaged skin and protect against oxidative stress.
Result: The members of this group reported increased hydration, a more radiant complexion, and a gradual reduction in the appearance of wrinkles.
2nd place: The Botox Believers
For immediate wrinkle reduction, this group opted for Botox injections. These injections temporarily paralyze facial muscles, diminishing wrinkles caused by muscle contractions.
Science: Botox works by blocking nerve signals to specific muscles, preventing them from contracting. This temporary paralysis results in smoother skin.
Result: The individuals in this group experienced almost instant wrinkle reduction, but they were aware that Botox requires ongoing injections to maintain results, and potential side effects and long-term consequences should be considered.
1st place, our winner: The Hyaluronic Acid Serum Hypers
The final group, to which I belonged, took a different path by embracing hyaluronic acid serum. We aimed to restore moisture and volume from the deepest layers of the skin, in order to reduce the appearance of wrinkles on long-term basis, while also getting an immediate sensation of firmness in our skin.
Science: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that retains moisture, keeping it hydrated and plump. It is really like a superhero molecule, that keeps your skin firm and moist. As we age, our hyaluronic acid levels decrease, leading to dryness and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid serums replenish this essential molecule, restoring hydration and volume to the skin.
Result: In just a few short weeks of consistent use, we watched in awe as our fine lines and wrinkles seemed to vanish before our very eyes, leaving behind skin that felt rejuvenated and positively radiant. Our group experienced the most visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles by far, although consistency in use is fundamental for obtaining such a positive effect.
In conclusion…
… our diverse group experiences shed light on the science behind five popular wrinkle prevention methods. While each group had its own journey and results, hyaluronic acid serums stood out as the unexpected champion in the battle against wrinkles. Their ability to address the fundamental issue of skin dehydration and volume loss, combined with its non-invasive nature, made it a top choice among the methods we explored.
Once we reached this result, we wondered whether there is any scientific research out there to support our conclusions. Turns out: there’s plenty. Since we thought you might like to have a look at it, here’s a sample of the latest scientific studies we have found:
1. Study conducted in Munich: the depth of wrinkles is significantly reduced after 3 months
In the clinical study, 20 subjects were divided into four groups. Each group received different hyaluronic acid products suitable for daily use. Before and after the 3-month study, wrinkle depth and skin firmness were measured.
The result: wrinkle depth was reduced by up to 20% after just three months, and the skin was up to 30% tighter. [1]https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27221554/
2. Japanese study: skin is firmer and tighter after 12 weeks
A Japanese study conducted at the University of Tokyo showed, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, that the skin became firmer and tighter after taking hyaluronic acid, and this within 12 weeks. [2]https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28761365/
3. University Hospital Basel: Hyaluronic acid slows down ageing
As early as 2012, a joint study by the Medical Faculty of Thessaloniki and the University Hospital of Basel showed that hyaluronic acid could slow down the ageing process. [3]https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23467280/
It is therefore useful to take preventive measures.
4. University of Miami: 96% more moisture and 55% more elasticity
The new nano-hyaluronic acid (complex 4) clearly showed a significant benefit in reducing wrinkle depth (up to 40%). Skin hydration (up to 96%), firmness and elasticity were significantly improved (up to 55%) at the end of the 8 week trial period. [4]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3970829/
5. Hungarian study: Hyaluronic acid reaches connective tissue in a measurable way
The Institute of Applied Radioisotopes in Budapest has now proven the link between hyaluronic acid intake and its ability to reach connective tissue in a measurable way. [5]https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18959406/
There were no side effects in any of the studies.
But beware: not all hyaluronic acid serums are equal. There are major differences in quality. According to the researchers, it is important that the molecules have the right composition.
Which hyaluronic acid product is right for me?
To make things easier for you, we went on with our experiment and had everyone in our group test one of the 17 most popular hyaluronic acid serums. We ranked the 5 best products here below. After reading this, you will not only save money in the future, you will know how to get a safe product that reliably delivers real results. You can thank us later!
So here it is, our top 5 hyaluronic acid products.
Spoiler: with the exception of one element, the first and second place share the first place for efficiency.
1st place: super pro-ageing serum for firm and supple skin
This serum blew us away! I had never heard of Plants are Purple until a friend and dermatologist introduced me to the brand, and I have been recommending it to my readers ever since.
Whoever of my friends uses it ends up telling me that her boyfriend or husband congratulated her on her newfound radiance and silky skin.
As for consistency, the Super Pro-Aging Serum is super light and literally penetrates the skin – without leaving any residue.
The secret of its anti-ageing superpowers? Its unique formula with a hyaluronic acid concentration as high as 3%! That’s unheard of in serums.
Thanks to the high-quality natural ingredients such as antioxidants, black truffle and the medicinal mushroom “Snow Fungus”, the anti-ageing effect appeared after only one week of daily use, whereas no other serum has ever worked faster.
What we liked
- Perfect for firmer skin, with immediate action and long-lasting anti-wrinkle benefits.
- Absorbed in seconds, it is easy to integrate into any routine.
- 100% secure and encrypted online shop with an easy ordering process (even on account)
- Fast delivery by DHL from Germany
- Efficiency proven by hundreds of testimonials
- 90-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free test
Can be improved
- Unfortunately, they are often exhausted due to high demand and low production.
- Currently only available online and in selected pharmacies.
Summary
Pro-Aging Super Serum is our recommendation for anyone looking for a truly effective hyaluronic acid product.
2nd place. SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Moisturiser
SkinMedica’s HA5 Rejuvenating Moisturiser may cost a fortune at £165, but if you suffer from stubborn, parched skin, this rich serum could be a great option for you.
It is enriched with 4 different types of hyaluronic acid that work together to maximise hydration, as well as peptides that stimulate collagen production and instantly plump and smooth the skin – while preventing fine lines in the long term.
It comes second instead of first because we got the same results as Plants are Purple, but it costs more than three times as much.
What we liked
- Ideal for firmer skin with an immediate effect and a long-lasting anti-wrinkle effect.
- Absorbs quickly and is not sticky
- It also contains peptides that increase collagen production.
Can be improved
- Very high price, but same results as the Super Serum Pro-Aging.
- Only available online
Summary
SkinMedica is a very effective hyaluronic serum with good ingredients. It is just as effective as the Super Pro-Aging Serum. But those who like this serum need to dig a little deeper into their pockets.
3rd place: SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier
This serum is expensive, but it is very effective in restoring dehydrated skin. It also contains additional ingredients such as licorice root and purple rice, which reduce signs of aging such as hyperpigmentation.
We found that this acid works, but it takes a little longer to be absorbed than the others, so it comes third in my ranking.
What we liked
- Works effectively on very dry skin and fine lines.
- Cools comfortably on the skin.
Can be improved
- Less rapid absorption through the skin.
- The effect is not as convincing as its predecessor.
4th place: Cosmedica Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Most people are familiar with Cosmedica. This trusted brand contains gentle ingredients that are best suited for sensitive skin and at a reasonable price. It also contains vitamin B5 and ceramides that help reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
This product made our list because of its low price, but we did not get the same results as Plants are Purple or Skin Medica.
What we liked
- Good for sensitive skin
- Reduces fine lines
- Reasonable price
Can be improved
- The result could be much stronger
- Concentration of hyaluronic acid could be higher
5th place: Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Serum
This product contains a very high content of hyaluronic acid as well as silk proteins, zinc, copper, manganese, iron and silicon, which increase the skin’s moisture content and make it softer.
For those who want to avoid minerals in their skincare, this may not be the product for you, but it is extremely moisturising. It’s a bit sticky, which is why we would only use it at night, but it definitely adds plumpness to the skin. The reason why Water Drench comes fifth is that it may not be suitable for people with sensitive skin.
What we liked
- High concentration of hyaluronic acid.
Can be improved
- The price/performance ratio is not very good
- The consistency should not be sticky.
- Not suitable for sensitive skin.
Daily Rituals reader discount and negotiated trial offer for you
Since we really want you to join us in our enthusiasm for hyaluronic acid, we have negotiated a special offer for you, the reader, with the test winner and manufacturer of the “Pro-Aging Super Serum”. It was important to us that you could test a high quality serum without taking any risks.
There is, however, one small drawback: Plants are Purple has unfortunately only put 350 products on sale for this unique offer. If you want to be one of the lucky ones, you have to act fast.
And if you still have doubts, Plants are Purple has extended its 60-day money-back guarantee to 90 days for us. If, for any reason, you are not satisfied, just write a short message to Plants are Purple.
All we can say is: good luck in getting your hands on one of these coveted packages!
So it’s clear: hyaluronic acid is worth the hype!
We’re really glad we did this experiment because we’re now all so happy with how our skin feels and looks. We can only highly recommend you to try out the winner of our long and hard research!
If you still have some doubts, here are all the answers you are looking for:
How long should I use the serum to see the first results?
Many reviews and testimonials report visible changes after only a few applications (immediate effect). This is probably due to the high molecular weight hyaluronic acid which fills and plumps up deep wrinkles directly.
However, scientific studies are underway for at least three months to really evaluate the lasting anti-ageing effects.
We therefore recommend that you use it for at least three months in order to evaluate its effects in the field.
Our tip: We took a photo of our face without make-up before applying the serum and then a new photo every four weeks. This allowed us to document and compare all the positive improvements in the skin.
Is one treatment enough to achieve long-term results?
There are no studies to prove this. As the body naturally reduces its own production of hyaluronic acid with age, we recommend regular use for best results.
Are there any side effects? No.
No side effects were detected in the studies on the active ingredients.
What age range is the serum suitable for? The Super Serum is suitable for skin of all ages.
The youngest participants in our evaluation were 30 years old.
However, we particularly recommend the serum to women over 40, as we have developed it to meet the high skincare needs of this age group. We have also received good results from women up to the age of 60.
Will it still be useful when I am older (60+)?
It is especially at this time that the use of hyaluronic acid is recommended, as the body’s own production has already largely decreased. The skin is therefore particularly happy to have access to this nutrient again to tighten the skin and fill in wrinkles.
That’s it from us! We hope our research will benefit you as much as it did us!
