Anti-ageing products have long been up for debate as to their effectiveness – is it best to opt for natural products or do we choose expensive creams and lotions which are packed with essential ingredients? The market is brimming with an array of products that promise youthful skin and a wrinkle-free face. But how effective are they?

There’s no denying that millions of people buy these products every year, so they must work on some level. However, how safe they are for your skin is quite another matter. There are several factors that impact how effective and safe a product is for your skin. One such factor is your skin type and texture – if you have particularly sensitive skin, a product crammed with harsh chemicals will no doubt cause a rash or inflammation. Likewise, the efficiency of an expensive lotion will depend on the condition of your skin to begin with – if your skin is particularly damaged, you may not see the same effect that someone will smoother skin may experience.

One way to ensure that the products you are buying are safe is to avoid artificial preservatives, as these can irritate your skin and cause more problems than they solve. Try to opt for natural products wherever possible, and aim to find products that have essential oils in them – the higher up the list of ingredients they are, the higher the quantity, so these will be better for your skin. Eating a balanced diet that is rich in healthy oils, vitamins and minerals will help to promote a healthier complexion too, as well as improving your general health and wellbeing. As well as improving your diet, you should aim to drink plenty of water and cut back on sugar and fat as these will have a negative impact on your skin. If you combine these tips, you should notice an improvement in no time.