<p>These products vary in formula and function, but ultimately, the result is smoother-looking skin. According to Bryan Barron, the director of skin care research at <a href=”https://www.paulaschoice.com/” target=”_blank”>Paula’s Choice</a>, “[Wrinkle filler serums] may have a temporary filling, a soft-focus or blurring effect, or interact with factors in the skin that lead to muscle contractions and their resulting expression lines. These products may be applied over or under other skin care staples like moisturizers, serums, and eye creams.” </p><p>Although these serums and treatments may seem too good to be true, don’t knock it ‘til you try it. If you don’t want to commit to injectables just yet, wrinkle filler serums can be a viable way to get a little lift without a doctor’s visit. We searched far and wide for the most impressive options, had experts weigh in, tested products, and perused reviews, ultimately landing on this list of the 12 best wrinkle fillers that turn back time.</p>”/>
1
Best Wrinkle Filler Serum
Dr Dennis Gross DermInfusions Fill + Repair Serum
Pros
- Deeply penetrates the skin
Cons
- Pricey
Many skin care ingredients often sit on top of the barrier, which can prevent you from seeing noticeable results. That’s why this serum was formulated with ingredients specifically designed to deeply penetrate the skin, plump fine lines, and repair damage.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, peptide proteins, niacinamide
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “While I’m concerned about fine lines on my forehead, I’m staving off Botox for as long as possible (and hopefully forever). With this being said, I’ve been hyper-focused on products that can fill in my wrinkles. People rave about Dr. Dennis Gross and many say he is the dermatologist to see in NYC. His products are known for their efficacy, which is why I was okay dropping $75 on a product. It deeply penetrates your skin, minimizing wrinkles immediately with long-lasting changes you’ll see over time.” —Danielle James, digital beauty director
2
Best Peptide Wrinkle Filler
Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen Multi-Peptide Booster Serum
Pros
- Works quickly
Cons
- Packaging can be hard to work with
This serum is jam-packed with peptides and hydrating ingredients that not only treat signs of aging in the long term, but also in the short term, too. The goal is to strengthen and plump the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines in just fifteen minutes.
Key ingredients: Collagen peptides, amino acids, hyaluronic acid
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “My face and lines around my eyes are plumped about 10 mins after applying it. The appearance of wrinkles diminished, and my face just firmed up a lot. I applied it every night for about two weeks now, and today my aesthetician wondered what I have done to my face. She said I looked so great but couldn’t tell what made the difference…. I’m purchasing a second one now!”
3
Best Retinol Wrinkle Filler
RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Filler
Pros
- Works in both the short and longterm
Cons
- May not be suited for sensitive skin
If you’re serious about reducing signs of aging over time, the best ingredient to help with that journey is retinol. While it provides great results over time, it also instantly plumps the skin and reduces fine lines quickly.
Key ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid
Ulta rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I saw results after two weeks. I used to have two deep vertical wrinkles in between my eyebrows, and they’re almost invisible now. It’s very hydrating and smooth. Highly recommend this product!!”
4
Best Botox Alternative
Biotulin Supreme Skin Gel
Pros
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Temporary results
This product is royalty-approved—how many products can claim that? Kate Middleton is reported a fan of this wrinkle filler, which employs spilanthol to relax muscles that cause those pesky wrinkles and fine lines within an hour. The addition of hyaluronic acid helps to plump and hydrate the skin as well.
Key ingredients: Spilanthol, hyaluronic acid
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I was overdue for an injectable touch-up before shelter-in-place. As the weeks slipped by, and my forehead began looking more and more haggard and lined, my go-to “no-needles” cream wasn’t giving me any results, and I remembered an advert about Biotulin. I’m glad I remembered. This is working. Truly and honestly after a week of use, I woke up and looked in the mirror and didn’t see a riverbed of furrows. I can still see some faint lines around my temples in the right light, but that’s a massive step ahead of where I was last week.”
5
Best Instant Wrinkle Filler
Plexaderm Rapid Reduction Serum
Pros
- Instant results
Cons
- Temporary tigthening
Looking for an instant lift? This serum can be used around the eyes or on the entire face; it uses a tightening ingredient derived from clay that helps smooth lines instantly. The effects last 10 hours or so, which makes it a perfect prep step before important events.
Key ingredients: Collagen, peptides, silicate
Amazon rating: 3.8/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve been using this for about a week now. What I found was that it does what it says it will do. I have bags under my eyes, and to make it work, it took me a few tries to place it where it had the most effect. In my case, not directly on the bags, but a little under the bags. It took at least 80% of the bags and made them disappear. It lasted for 8 to 10 hours. You can feel it working. A little fountain of youth that temporarily slows down the effects of time.”
6
Best Viral Wrinkle Filler
The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10%
Pros
- Affordable
Cons
- Some dislike the watery texture
This product went viral on TikTok for being “Botox in a bottle,” thanks to its keen ability to reduce fine lines after just a few uses. The key ingredients plump, hydrate, and repair the skin.
Key ingredients: Argireline peptide complex
Ulta rating: 4/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I have been using this every evening on my forehead for one week so far, and oh my God it works!! The serum is watery so a little goes a long way but I pat it into my forehead and let dry a bit before adding my next product. My deep wrinkles are fading! Would recommend!”
7
Best Instant Wrinkle Filler
Peter Thomas Roth Instant FIRMx Temporary Face Tightener
Pros
- Instant results
Cons
- Leaves a white residue on the skin
Another viral TikTok product, this “temporary tightener” gained traction after users showed how quickly it erased wrinkles and tightened the skin. While the results aren’t permanent, the infused vitamins help nourish the skin barrier for great results over time.
Key ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B5
Amazon rating: 3.7/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “If you are looking for a skin tightener, this is for you! It’s a game-changer! I thought it was just me, but people were asking what I did to my skin. I kept it a secret for some time, then I turned my sister on to this, then my adult daughters. THEY WENT CRAZY FOR THIS! They ALL purchased this, and absolutely love it!”
8
Best Wrinkle Smoothing Cream
Dr. Brandt Needles No More Wrinkle Smoothing Cream
Pros
- Works in the short and long term
Cons
- Smaller amount of product
Created to target expression lines around the eyes and forehead, this serum lifts the skin and plumps up deeper lines. It works in as little as 15 minutes, but the ingredients help fade signs of aging over time.
Key ingredients: Magnesium, peptides, adenosine, glycolic acid
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’m over 40 and a big smiler with wrinkles to prove it. One application and, *poof*—the laugh lines softened and didn’t crease my makeup once applied over it!”
9
Best Vitamin C Wrinkle FIller
Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Vitamin C Booster
Pros
- Can double as a makeup primer
Cons
- Is the most effective for only 21 days
Existing somewhere between a makeup primer and a skin care product, this serum uses vitamin C to brighten the skin, while hyaluronic acid plumps it. This product is designed to fill in wrinkles, leaving you with an even base for makeup.
Key ingredients: Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid
Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I am very happy with the product. I have immediately felt that my skin looks better and is more hydrated. Love it.”
10
Best Targeted Wrinkle Filler
StriVectin High-Potency Wrinkle Filler
Pros
- Works in the short and longterm
Cons
- Some may dislike thick texure
This product targets fine lines and wrinkles in three ways: smoothing their appearance immediately, fading them overtime, and preventing them in the future. The brand’s targeted NIA-114 peptides plump and heal the skin around the mouth, eyes, and forehead.
Key ingredients: Patented NIA-114, peptides
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve been using this for a month now. I was apprehensive at purchasing an expensive product I have never used. I have say, I use it every night and can tell a difference and my skin looks smooth. The viable lines I had have shrunk and barely visible now. This stuff doesn’t make your skin tight and actually makes it feel soft. I think it works wonderful for a night cream. Highly recommend it if you’re an older woman and have deep wrinkles you need to fade.”
11
Best Makeup Primer
Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Can flake if too much is applied
Wearing makeup can exacerbate texture, but this primer is designed to eliminate that issue. A thin layer is enough to fill wrinkles and fine lines and blur pores for picture-perfect skin.
Key ingredients: Vitamin E, Acacia micro-pearls
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Been using this off and on for years. It is amazing. I was in a car accident years back and have a long deep line from the nose down on one side. It fills it so both sides match. Also have a tiny frown line it fills so easily.”
12
Best Multi-Purpose Wrinkle Filler
Lawless Forget the Filler Skin-Plumping Line-Smoothing Perfecting Cream
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- May not be suitable for very oily skin
You can use this cream as both a texture-blurring makeup primer or as an overnight face mask. Its hyaluronic complex plumps skin, and two other hardworking ingredients, octapeptide-3 and hexapeptide-8, tighten and help minimize the appearance of wrinkles.
Key ingredients: Octapeptide-3, hexapeptide-8, hyaluronic acid
Sephora rating: 4.6/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I have been using this for a few weeks now, and I wish I had taken before and after pictures because it’s made a huge difference. My crows feet were pretty noticeable, and now you can hardly see them.”
Meet the Experts
Dr. Karan Lal is a double-board certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist, based in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Bryan Barron is the Director of Skin Care Research at Paula’s Choice.
Dr. Dennis Gross is board-certified dermatologist, dermatologic surgeon, and brand founder.
What are wrinkle filling serums?
When we think of “fillers,” we often think of injectables administered in a medical office. However, wrinkle fillers are actually topical skin care products that target signs of aging. “Wrinkle-filling serums are products composed of peptides, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and even retinol. The purpose of these serums is not to replace a filler, but to stimulate collagen, hydrate the skin, and soften the appearance of fine lines in the area where the product is applied,” says Dr. Lal.
These products can work in both the long term, minimizing fine lines, or immediately. “Wrinkle-filling serums are typically specialized skin care products that often make an immediate difference in the appearance of wrinkles. These products may be applied over or under other skin care staples like moisturizers, serums, and eye creams,” adds Barron.
What causes wrinkles and fine lines?
Fine lines and wrinkles are completely normal signs of getting older. But knowing what causes them can help reduce their appearance, if that’s what you choose. “Wrinkles occur from repetitive facial movements and muscles that are active in the skin for facial expression. For example, smiling causes the formation of crows’ feet over time. Over a long period, it can cause the formation of the lines. Lines often occur from repetitive movements and loss of collagen, leading to etching in skin lines,” says Dr. Lal.
Our skin comprises building blocks that naturally fade as we age. “Fine lines and wrinkles are caused by the breakdown of essential proteins collagen and elastin in the skin. Collagen and elastin are our skin’s building blocks and help keep it smooth and resilient. However, as we age, these fibers start to naturally break down and degrade, which causes the skin to lose its strength and elasticity and triggers the formation of fine lines and wrinkles,” says Dr. Gross.
Wrinkles can also be exacerbated by damage to the skin, like what occurs with prolonged exposure to the sun. Barron explains, “The leading cause of wrinkles and fine lines is cumulative UV light exposure, both from intentional tanning–indoors or outside–and from the day-to-day small exposures we get over the years. This is why a broad-spectrum sunscreen is the best anti-wrinkle product. Without it, skin is left vulnerable, and no amount of wrinkle-filling serum will be of much help. Secondary causes of fine lines and wrinkles include blue light exposure–including from our smartphones, laptops, and tablets–airborne pollutants, and muscle movement that comes from facial expressions such as smiling, frowning, and squinting.”
Can topical serums reduce the appearance of wrinkles?
While no cream can instantly rewind the clock, topical products can and do significantly impact reducing signs of aging. Some wrinkle fillers work at getting instant yet short-lived results, while others work to reduce fine lines over time. However, depending on the ingredients, both types of products can work in both the long and short term. “Topical products do have the ability to soften and hydrate the skin, which can give the skin a plump appearance, therefore softening the presence of wrinkles and fine lines,” says Dr. Lal.
The effectiveness of these types of products can come down to the ingredients and how they are formulated. “It’s always important to look for a product with clinically proven active ingredients and advanced delivery systems. The delivery system is critical for a product to be efficacious and deliver real results. One of the skin’s incredible benefits is to protect us from outside pathogens, which is why we need a product designed to penetrate the intercellular matrix and stimulate cell receptors deep within the skin layers,” says Dr. Gross.
Barron adds, “The effect [of some wrinkle fillers] is temporary, but ongoing use coupled with daily sunscreen use can absolutely reduce the look of wrinkles and keep skin from reverting to its previous ‘aged’ appearance. Even better if you include other products in your routine whose formulas also work in their own distinct ways to soften lines. Examples include leave-on exfoliants containing alpha, beta, or polyhydroxy acids, antioxidant-packed serums, retinoid products, and peptide-spiked treatments. Each works via different pathways to help repair and rebuild skin’s supportive elements so its surface regains a youthful smoothness, bounce, and resilience that forestalls further wrinkling.”
What ingredients should you look for in a wrinkle fillers?
When you’re assessing a wrinkle filler product, ingredients are key. “My favorite serums for wrinkles are those that contain peptides and hyaluronic acid. Both hydrate and nourish the skin, providing a plump, dewy look,” explains Dr. Lal.
The ingredient list may look slightly different if you’re looking for instant results. “The instant smoothing and blurring effect of silicone elastomers is helpful, so ingredients such as dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer or polysilicone-11 are worth seeking. We also like line-smoothing signal peptides such as tridecapeptide-1 and sh-polypeptide-121 since these target instant and long-term line-smoothing. Various forms and molecular weights of classic hyaluronic acid can also be helpful due to their smoothing and plumping action. Another good one similar to hyaluronic acid–or its salt form, sodium hyaluronate–is polyglutamic acid,” adds Barron.
How long does it take to see results from wrinkle fillers?
Because wrinkle fillers are formulated with different ingredients, the time it takes to see results can vary. “This will vary by formula and the concentration of key actives. For some wrinkle fillers, results will be seen immediately or within 15 minutes of use; for others, the effect may take an hour or two to become visible. Results should last for a few hours, and you should see maintenance of fine lines and more apparent wrinkles with ongoing use, preferably twice daily, morning and evening,” says Barron.
If you are using a skin care product, patience is key. “Wrinkle-filling serums take approximately 12 weeks to start showing signs of improvement. Consistency is very important, especially when softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” adds Dr. Lal.
Do wrinkle filler serums compare to in-office treatments?
If you are considering a wrinkle filler as an alternative to in-office anti-aging treatments like Botox, there are some important factors to consider. “There is no replacement for Botox or filler. Some people say these are the next best thing. Topical products are often used to maintain and prolong the results of injectables like Botox and filler,” says Dr. Lal.
Barron adds, “Topical wrinkle fillers do not penetrate as far as Botox and usually act on different channels of the muscle contraction process that either complement or enhance what Botox or Dysport can do. Generally, a topical wrinkle filler can be a good pairing with dermatologic injections since their use helps prolong results, letting you go longer between treatments. This saves time and money.”
However, it is also important to remember that despite their efficacy, injectables have their drawbacks. “While injectable procedures are amazing for quick and dramatic results, they are costly and pose potential risks such as bruising, swelling, and infection. In my practice, I have seen the hesitancy for needles firsthand because of those factors, so I wanted to create a serum for my patients who were looking to support their skin health with topical ingredients that stimulate the skin’s production of collagen. The topical option is a much more affordable way to treat fine lines and wrinkles, and can be done from the comfort of your own home,” explains Dr. Gross.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Tatjana Freund spoke with experts and industry leaders about anti-aging wrinkle fillers. Freund also tested a few top-rated products, and she and Carol Lee pored over reviews for dozens of others, evaluating each on their features and customer feedback.
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