Collaborative research by different departments of the Louisiana University has proven that skin care products that have the lowest levels of synthetic ingredients are best for your skin’s appearance in the long-term. The study was a collaborative effort of the sociology department and dermatology research group, which saw 4500 individuals take part over a 5 year period.

The study aimed to determine which type of skin care products made people look more beautiful not only in the short term (1-10 weeks) but also the long term (1-5 years). A whole host of products were tested, including high street brands, those from small organic companies, health spa products, high end luxury products and even supermarket own-brands.The people taking part in the study were given one of a number of products to use for a period of five years, without knowing which one they had.They each had to meet up to have their photo taken every 7 days, which were later assessed by a group of impartial people.

There were some interesting findings from the study.The first finding showed that products at the top end of the scale in terms of cost, also had the greatest short-term benefits on looks, i.e. between week 1 and week 10.Secondly, those participants who had been given skin care products to use that had the lowest levels of synthetic ingredients, actually came out top on the improved attractiveness rating, when judged over the long term, i.e. between 1 and 5 years.

The researchers suggest that whilst the more synthetic products improved looks short-term, buy causing skin to tighten, plump up and develop more colour, the chemicals causing the effects were not good for the skin and had a negative effect longer-term

Their advice is to always check the labels when you buy skin care products and make sure you know that the products used are high quality and natural when you go for any spa treatment .