Fountain of Youth ... Anti-Aging Remedies for Younger Skin

In 1513, an explorer named Juan Ponce de Leon set sail in search of an island that natives of Puerto Rico, Cuba and Hispaniola boasted contained a river with curative powers and anti-aging effects. Among this island's supposed other riches were gold and treasures. It is surmised that de Leon was more interested in the gold and treasure, more so than the fabled "fountain of youth" spring. Yet, to this day, his name is forever linked with this mysterious spring. And, nearly 500 years later, people world-over still seek out ways to preserve their youth ... if only for a little bit longer.

Anti-aging remedies are a billion dollar business. According to Euromonitor, a market researcher, retail sales of anti-aging skin-care products across the globe are up 71 percent since 2000. These products are rising faster than any other segment of the skin-care market. As medical advancements ensure the population can live longer, people want to look their best in the process. From creams to lotions to injections, there is no limit to the steps one will take to look and, in turn, feel younger. Here's a look at the most popular ingredients designed to banish wrinkles and give your skin a youthful glow.

Copper peptides: Copper is an element found in some amount in just about every cell. In topical skin products, copper is combined with small protein fragments called peptides. Copper peptides are supposed to enhance wound healing. They may also stimulate production of collagen and the action of antioxidants. Lately, copper peptides have been included in a number of anti-aging products. Researchers and dermatologists have found that they are marginally effective at reducing the appearance of wrinkles, age spots and sun damage. However, more research needs to be conducted. Since peptides have no known side effects, usage of products containing them are relatively safe.

Retinol: A derivative of vitamin A, Retinol is the first antioxidant (substance that neutralizes free radicals -- unstable oxygen molecules that break down skin cells and can cause wrinkles) to be used in over the counter anti-wrinkle creams. Retinol concentration varies from product to product, therefore you could be paying top dollar for a cream that actually only has trace amounts of Retinol in it. Also, this ingredient may cause irritation and redness. Retinol and other vitamin A derivatives may cause birth defects, so avoid these products if you are pregnant.

Hydroxy Acids: All hydroxy acids are derived from sugar-containing fruit. They are used as an exfoliant -- sloughing off dead skin cells to reveal new, fresh skin underneath. Use of these acids may lead to modest improvements in fine lines and wrinkles. However, side effects can include burning, itching, pain and possible scarring. Also, use a sun-protection product in conjunction with hydroxy acids, as the acids put your skin at risk for sun damage.

Coenzyme Q-10: This is a nutrient that helps regulate energy production in cells. Wrinkle-reduction results are quite good, with no notable side effects. The nutrient has also been shown to prevent sun damage when applied around the eyes -- the area of the face very susceptible to wrinkling. Yet, more research needs to be conducted.

Collagen: Many skin creams contain collagen, a fibrous protein that keeps skin plump and supple. However, collagen can't be absorbed through the skin. Therefore, skin may feel firm after applying a product containing collagen, but it's likely due to other moisturizing agents and not the collagen itself.

Oligo-peptide (called Pal-KTTKS): This ingredient is the main component of the stretch mark cream StriVectin-SD. Originally designed to reduce the appearance of stretch marks after child birth, it was discovered that the cream also reduced the appearance of fine lines and other wrinkles when applied to the face.

Botox: A derivative of the botulinum toxin, when used in tiny amounts, it can temporarily paralyze a muscle and reduce or eliminate wrinkles or frown lines. It's quickly becoming one of the most popular anti-wrinkle cosmetic procedures.

CAPTION: Billions of dollars are spent each year on products promising wrinkle reduction.