Advertisements in newspapers and magazines frequently tout products that “rejuvenate” the skin or make the skin younger. Is there truth to these claims?

No. There are no known therapies or products that rejuvenate the skin or make it younger. There are therapies that make the skin appear less wrinkled and thus appear younger. Topical applications of isotretinoin cream and α;-hydroxy acids, such as lactic acid-containing moisturizers, both have been shown in controlled scientific studies to thicken the skin and make wrinkles less noticeable, but the results of these topical treatments vary from almost imperceptible to, at most, moderate. More dramatic results can be achieved by chemical facial peels, laser therapy (laser skin resurfacing), injection of bovine collagen into wrinkles, and facelifts. The best treatment for extrinsic aging of the skin is prevention, by minimizing sun exposure with avoidance, appropriate clothing, and sunscreens. Abstinence from the use of tobacco products also helps.