FDA: Anti-wrinkle creams promise more than they deliver

SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- Wrinkle creams are sometimes sold as a way to turn back time, but the FDA is cautioning consumers about having unrealistic expectations.

"It's not a magical wand," said Dr. Tyler Hollmig, director of Laser and Aesthetic Dermatology at Stanford Health Care. "It's not going to take away your wrinkles."

Dr. Hollmig tried out an over-the-counter wrinkle cream and says it can help the skin to a certain degree.

He says they can certainly help mitigate and minimize wrinkles. But its not the fountain of youth.

The FDA warns that a cosmetic may never claim to do such things as treat a disease like acne increase collagen or revive cells.

"If they are picking up a product that seems too good to be true, it probably is," the FDA's Dr. Linda Katz said.

In an ongoing effort to keep companies in check, the FDA sends warning letters to cosmetic companies.

One of theses letters was sent to the CEO of Strivectin in February, targeting two of its anti-wrinkle products, including the "potent wrinkle reducing treatment."

The letter pointed out Strivectin's website described the product as "clinically proven to change the anatomy of a wrinkle."

A spokesperson for Strivectin tells ABC news the company has now "revised all wording" on those products.

The website for the wrinkle reducing treatment now reads that it's "proven to dramatically reduce the appearance of wrinkle length, width, and number."

"The manufacturers need to make sure that their labeling is clear and understandable and not misleading," Dr. Katz said.