The anti-aging skincare market is full of promises. But not all ingredients are backed by the same evidence. Here are the natural actives that science actually validates for reducing the signs of aging — and how they work.
What causes skin aging?
Skin aging has two origins:
- Intrinsic: Natural aging, determined in part by genetics. Starting in our 20s, collagen production decreases by approximately 1% per year.
- Extrinsic: Aging caused by external factors — UV radiation, pollution, stress, tobacco. It is responsible for up to 80% of visible aging and, unlike intrinsic aging, it is largely preventable.
The ingredients that work
Polypeptides
Polypeptides are short chains of amino acids that act as messengers, stimulating the skin to produce more collagen and elastin. They are one of the most effective and well-tolerated anti-aging actives, even for sensitive skin.
Vitamin A (retinol and derivatives)
It is the most studied anti-aging ingredient with the most scientific evidence. It accelerates cell renewal, stimulates collagen production, and reduces wrinkle depth. It requires gradual introduction to avoid irritation.
Vitamin E
A potent antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. It also reinforces the skin barrier and boosts the effectiveness of other actives, especially Vitamin C.
Elastin amino acids
Elastin is the protein that gives skin its ability to stretch and snap back into shape. Over time, it degrades and the skin loses firmness. Elastin amino acids help restore that elasticity.
Marine antioxidants
Algae and other marine organism extracts contain unique antioxidants that fight oxidative stress with great efficacy. La Forêt's AmbroSea® active, present in several of our products, is based on this principle: harnessing the regenerative power of the sea to protect and restore the skin.
How to use them?
Order and combination matter:
- Vitamin C + SPF in the morning: antioxidant and sun protection.
- Retinol or Vitamin A at night: cell renewal while you sleep.
- Polypeptides: morning and night, without restrictions.
Avoid combining retinol with exfoliating acids or vitamin C in the same application — it can cause irritation.
Consistency is the best anti-aging ingredient
No active works overnight. Anti-aging skincare results are cumulative: at 4-8 weeks you begin to notice a difference, and at 3-6 months the change is visible. Consistency, more than any ingredient, is what transforms the skin over time.
At La Forêt, the MPC Anti-Aging Face Cream and the Anti-Aging Corrective Cream are formulated with polypeptides and actives that work together to improve firmness, reduce wrinkles, and correct visible signs of aging with consistent use.