I hear from lots of people every day who are concerned about how their diet is affecting their health.

They need answers based on facts, in other words, from the peer-reviewed medical literature, and that is what I'm here for.

Welcome to the Nutrition Facts Podcast.

I'm your host, Dr. Michael Greger.

If you think the claim of younger-looking skin overnight sounds a bit too good to be true, you may

be right.

Today's the first in our two-part series on the efficacy of anti-aging creams.

What is the truth about over-the-counter anti-aging products which cost a billion dollar

industry?

There is a psychological effect from spending more, wrote a team of dermatologist, but don't be seduced by fancy packaging and high prices.

Many products advertise dramatic results that are frequently exaggerated and misleading

and are rarely scientifically supported.

An independent product testing institute questioned the efficacy of anti-aging creams generally find that beneficial effects could only be picked up

using sensitive instruments without becoming clinically or noticeably detectable.

They suggest these products may not work any better than typical moisturizers.

Cross-sectional studies of Chinese and British women

found that those who regularly used facial moisturizers were guessed to be about two years

younger than those at the same age who didn't.

However, a third larger Dutch study did not, and regardless,

snapshot in time studies can never establish cause and effect. Studies on moisturizers are limited, but they can

improve the appearance of dry skin, which can otherwise look discolored, flaky, and rough.

Moisturizers can hydrate the skin and may reduce the appearance of fine lines by 15 to 20 percent,

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