Wrinkles occur as a natural part of the aging process. When skin ages, it loses elasticity and becomes thinner, which results in the formation of creases, lines and wrinkles. Drugstore shelves are lined with expensive anti-wrinkle creams and moisturizers, but you can make your own treatment at home for much less money. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a natural form of vitamin A known as retinol may work just as well as tretinoin, the only topical prescription medication available for treating photoaging. Combined with moisturizing oils, retinol produces an effective homemade anti-wrinkle moisturizing cream.
Warm the rose water in a small, nonreactive saucepan over very low heat. Do not bring to a boil.
Combine the avocado oil, almond oil and wheat germ oil in a glass measuring cup. Place the measuring cup in a small saucepan containing 1 to 2 inches of water.
Place the pan on the stove over medium-low heat. Bring the water to a simmer, reduce the heat to low and stir the oils occasionally while gently warming.
Stir in the lanolin until melted, turn off the heat and remove the measuring cup from the pan. Stir the ingredients vigorously with a wire whisk.
Pour the warmed rose water into the oil mixture very slowly, while beating constantly with the whisk. Continue whisking until you achieve a thick, creamy consistency.
Add the vegetable glycerin and retinol serum to the oil and water mixture. Pierce the vitamin E capsule and add the contents. Stir well until all ingredients are well combined.
Add the geranium essential oil and stir again to combine. Pour the cream into a glass or plastic storage jar and allow to cool completely. Secure the lid and store in a cool, dry place.
Tip
Use lavender water, elder flower water or spring water instead of rose water, if desired.
Nonreactive pans are made from glass, clay, enamel or stainless steel. They do not produce chemical reactions with the ingredients, which may ruin your cream. Do not use aluminum or copper pans.
Heat the oils in the top of a double boiler, if necessary or desired. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper use.
Purchase retinol serum at your local drugstore or order online. Choose a product that contains at least 0.10 percent retinol for the best results.
