The LifeCell Skin Care system is designed to eliminate the fine lines and crow’s feet that aging skin typically exhibits. While touted by a stream of Hollywood celebrities, there is very little information about the product on its own website. However, there is a small listing of some of the main ingredients in the cream.
D3PA
Also known as Dithiolane-3-Pentoic Acid, D3PA is an antioxidant that penetrates skin cells to help neutralize free radicals, according to the Mayo Clinic. Neutralization of free radicals helps increase the effectiveness of other antioxidants. The Mayo Clinic says the ingredient may work as a type of chemical peel to exfoliate dead skin, which would then improve some of the fine lines on a person’s face.
Deanol
Also known as dimethylaminoethanol, or DMAE, deanol is the name most associated with the chemical, which has been used in Europe for more than 30 years. While preliminary results showed that it increased skin protection, “The British Journal of Dermatology” showed in May 2007 that deanol decreased cell growth, and in some cases, stopped cell growth completely.
Ubiquinone
Ubiquinone is also known as coenzyme Q10. Coenzyme Q10 works like a vitamin in cell protection. The “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” in March 2006 published a report stating that it may be an antioxidant for the skin and fight free radical damage. This may decrease the wrinkled appearance of skin.
Ascorbyl Palmitate
This additive is a preservative but it is included in this skin care formula for its antioxidant and vitamin-like properties. It helps mix different vitamins into a suspension, particularly the vitamins A, C and D. As a preservative it will keep the formula fresher longer without spoiling or having mold and fungi growth.
Acetyl Hexapeptide 3
This is a peptide that is derived synthetically and added to relax facial muscles. While the LifeCell website calls it a Botox alternative, studies from the “International Journal of Cosmetic Science” in October 2002 show that it isn’t as effective. In the same study, it was shown as needing a 10% concentration to reduce wrinkle depth 30% after 30 days of usage.
