Thereās no one-size-fits-all in skincare. What works for one person may not necessarily have the same results for someone else. But itās only natural to want the best! Luckily our team of licensed dermatology providers are regularly reviewing and assessing products on the market and are happy to offer a few recommendations! So here, youāll find the products that hold up to our rigorous standards.
In the ever-evolving world of skincare, thereās a dizzying array of products, all promising the fountain of youth. With so many claims, how do you sift through the noise to find ingredients that will actually help your skin?
Here weāll take a look at the science behind skincare ingredients that are proven to combat the most common visible signs of aging, like dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Weāll also spotlight some of 2023ās best anti-aging products and go over how to integrate these gems into your skincare routine, ensuring you get the most out of their rejuvenating properties.
What ingredients to look for in anti-aging products
If youāre looking for effective anti-aging products, itās helpful to know the key ingredients that can help make a tangible difference. Here are some ingredients backed by science to keep your skin youthful and vibrant:
Topical retinoids
These are powerhouses in the anti-aging world. They encourage skin cell turnover, exfoliating dead cells and revealing fresh, younger skin underneath. By stimulating fibroblasts, they boost collagen and elastin production, crucial proteins for youthful skin. This ingredient can also even out skin discoloration.Ā¹ Topical retinoids have also been proven to combat UV-induced early skin aging signs like wrinkles, reduced elasticity, and hyperpigmentation.Ā²
Vitamin C
A natural protector, vitamin C (or L-ascorbic acid) is the most abundant antioxidant found in human skin as it defends against oxidative stress and UV damage.Ā³ But itās not just a protector; itās a rejuvenator. Essential for collagen production, it helps the skin remain firm and supple. Vitamin C can also fade hyperpigmented areas, addressing sun or age spots for a more even complexion.ā“
Copper peptides
These tiny molecules have a big impact. Peptides, in general, can stimulate collagen production.āµ But copper peptides, specifically, go a step further by not only increasing the synthesis of both collagen and elastin, but also protecting and improving the overall condition of aging skin.ā¶
Tranexamic acid
If a bright and radiant complexion is your goal, this ingredient may be one to consider. Tranexamic acid inhibits melanin synthesis and thus it may help lighten sun or age spots, which may lead to a more luminous appearance.ā·
Azelaic acid
Another champion in tackling uneven skin tone, azelaic acid inhibits tyrosinase, leading to a reduction in sun or age spots.āø The result? A more even and harmonized complexion.
So if youāre shopping for anti-aging products, you may want to look for these key ingredients on the label. They offer a comprehensive approach to aging, addressing everything from wrinkles to skin tone to overall vibrancy. If you still have questions, it can help to consult with a licensed dermatology provider for recommendations for your unique needs.
Our picks for best anti-aging products
Wrinkles and dark spots are directly associated withāand early signs ofāpremature photo-aging.ā¹ Thatās why no anti-aging regimen is complete without a good sunscreen. Even if you donāt choose to use any other anti-aging products, make sure to include sunscreen in your skincare routineāand use it every day!
Sunscreens
Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Control SPF 30
What we liked about it:
- Combination sunscreen and lotion to provide protection against UV rays and dryness.
- Oil-free formula that is also noncomedogenic
- Oil absorbing technology gives a matte finish, good for oily skin types
La Roche Posay Anthelios UV Correct Face Sunscreen SPF 70 With Niacinamide
What we liked about it:
- Helps to protect skin from signs of sun damage, such as uneven skin tone, fine lines and rough skin texture
- Contains Vitamin E and niacinamide
- Suitable for all skin types
What we liked about it:
- Formulated to be non-comedogenic for acne-prone skin
- Mineral sunscreen that wonāt leave white streaks behind
- Quick-absorbing formula that leaves a silky finish
Moisturizers
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration
What we liked about it:
- Suitable for those with sensitive skin or eczema
- Fast-absorbing moisturizer for both face and body
- Contains oatmeal and shea butter to moisturize and protect dry skin
EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer
What we liked about it:
- Good for combination and oily skin types
- Contains niacinamide and vitamin C to help with signs of aging
- Fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic
What we liked about it:
- Helps restore skin barrier without clogging pores
- Contains hyaluronic acid and other ingredients to plump skin and lock in moisture
- Provides rich hydration for dry skin
Serums
CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum
What we liked about it:
- Contains a topical retinoid (retinol) to help improve the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone
- Also contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides to hydrate and soothe skin
- Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free formula
TruSkin Vitamin C Facial Serum
What we liked about it:
- Contains vitamin C to brighten and even skin tone
- Also contains vitamin E and hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Formulated for all skin types
Treatments
Paulaās Choice 1% Retinol Treatment
What we liked about it:
- Combines retinol and vitamin C for anti-aging effects
- Also contains licorice extract and oat extract to prevent rednessĀ
- Controlled-release formula allows for even, consistent absorption
What we liked about it:
- Contains prescription-strength ingredients
- Customizable formula may contain tretinoin, azelaic acid, niacinamide, or tranexamic acid
- Helps to treat signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and dullness
Eye creams
Advanced Clinicals Puffy Eye Serum
What we liked about it:
- Helps to brighten and firm up the under eye area
- Contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and peptidesĀ
- Free from alcohol or fragrances, which may irritate sensitive skin
Neostrata Comprehensive Retinol Eye Cream
What we liked about it:
- Features a topical retinoid and hydrating ingredients to target signs of aging
- Fragrance-free and oil-free formula
- Lightweight and easy-absorbing formula
Adding anti-aging products to your skincare routine
You donāt have to wait until later in life to take an interest in these skincare productsāthe truth is thereās no age restriction to benefiting from an anti-aging routine. In fact, everyone, regardless of age, can reap the rewards of preventative care.
First, the basics: hydration and sun protection. A regular moisturizer keeps your skin supple, while sunscreen acts as your first line of defense against the sunās harmful UV rays, a leading cause of premature aging. Both of these are essential pillars of an effective anti-aging strategy. They maintain the skinās vitality and shield it from external stressors.Ā¹ā°
Also, a word of caution as you venture into the vast world of anti-aging products: less may be more. The allure of using multiple products that promise youthful radiance can be tempting, but overloading your skin may do more harm than good. Using too many products, particularly several anti-aging ones, risks irritating your skin.Ā¹Ā¹
If you decide to incorporate specialized anti-aging products into your routine, itās important to follow the package directions. A general guideline to keep in mind is to first cleanse your face to remove any impurities. This sets a clean base for the subsequent products. Then, when layering products, start with the thinnest consistency and gradually move to the thickest. This ensures that each product is absorbed efficiently before the next is applied.