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Anti-aging supplements are ingestible products—such asvitamin capsules, powders, or teas—marketed with the message of slowing or reversing theaging process. However, there is noclinical evidence that such products provide any effect on health or the process of aging.[1]Anti-aging creams (oranti-wrinkle creams) arecosmetics products, typically moisturizer-based, that are promoted for reducing, masking, or preventing visible signs ofskin aging, such as wrinkles, discoloration, or loss of elasticity. These claims are not supported by conclusive scientific evidence.[2]
In the United States, anti-aging products are commonly marketed with falsehealth claims, and are deemed to be scams on consumers.[1][3] Since 2007, the USFood and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued dozens ofwarning letters to manufacturers of skin care products with false marketing – including supposed anti-aging effects – about the benefits of such products, which are not authorized to be marketed asdrugs that would require FDA approval as safe and effective for treating the aging process.[2][3]
Social media marketing has been effective at getting children and teenagers to buy anti-aging skin care products.[4]
Traditionally, anti-aging creams have been marketed towards women, but products specifically targeting men are common in the 21st century.[5] Marketing of anti-aging products has been criticized as reinforcingageism, particularly against women.[6] Anti-aging promotions specifically reinforce the belief that older people should look like middle-aged people, and that old age comes with a loss of gender identity.[7]
Despite claims about pills and treatments leading to the fountain of youth, there's nothing you can buy that has been proven to slow or reverse the aging process. And many companies selling these lotions, creams, and supplements don't have sufficient scientific evidence to show they work.
products are not generally recognized as safe and effective for the above-referenced uses and, therefore, these products are "new drugs" under section 201(p) of the Act [21 U.S.C. § 321(p)]. New drugs may not be legally introduced or delivered for introduction into interstate commerce without prior approval from FDA.
products are being marketed with drug claims—indicating that they are intended to treat or prevent disease, or change the body's structure or functions. The agency tells companies that they need to remove any drug claims from their products' labeling or seek FDA approval to market these products as drugs.
