Just because it's the most popular anti aging cream, doesn't mean it's the best. In 2008, US sales of anti-aging skincare products exceeded a billion dollars, surpassing sales of facial cleansers. So, there is no question about the popularity of these products. The question is whether or not they are actually effective.

Consumer reports tested dozens of anti-wrinkle creams and concluded that no product provided more than a 10% improvement in any volunteer's appearance. The Mayo Clinic warned consumers in 2007 against spending too much on these creams and suggested they be used with caution.

The latest creams contain the same active components found in nutraceuticals; health supplements. The industry is refers to their active ingredients as "cosmeceuticals". While most are naturally occurring vitamins, proteins or other nutrients that should be safe, the Mayo clinic reminds consumers that they are not subject to rigorous testing for effectiveness or safety.

Thousands of adverse effects are reported to the FDA on an annual basis. Most of the reactions are minor. Redness, itching and irritation are the common ones. Occasionally the reactions are more serious ones that require a visit to the dermatologist.

There are only a few things that the FDA can do. For example, companies are prohibited from making claims about medicinal activity.

Right now, the most popular anti aging cream is probably one of those containing argireline. Argireline is a protein peptide that is supposed to relax the tiny facial muscles and make wrinkles appear less deep. The FDA has cited several companies for making this claim.

They say that if the claim is true, it means that argireline is a new drug and must be regulated as one (tested for safety and effectiveness). If it's not true, then the companies need to stop making the claim.

For many years, the most popular anti aging cream was trans-retinoic acid. Although the high concentrations found in the prescription strength creams have proven to be effective, the low concentrations available in over-the-counter products have never been tested for effectiveness. From a safety perspective, the lower concentrations are just as likely to cause redness, itching and irritation.

Regardless of how effective the ingredients may be, the Mayo clinic says that we should not expect immediate results. It takes time for these new ingredients to work.

There is one compound that has an immediate cosmetic effect and works to improve your appearance over time, according to clinical trials. But, you won't find the ingredient in the most popular anti aging cream. It is an active form of the protein keratin.

The protein is extracted from sheep's wool. So, limited quantities are available. A company that sells millions of bottles of their products every year could not include an ingredient like that.

The best-selling items contain synthetic compounds that can be mass-produced, cheaply. The ones that are best for your skin's health and appearance are the natural ones that cannot be mass-produced.

So, now you have plenty of reasons not to buy the most popular anti aging cream. Break away from the crowd and buy something really effective.