Just like graying hair or stiffer joints, wrinkles and dark spots are a natural part of the aging process. In fact, we’d argue that they can often be signs of a life well-lived. Still, we don’t blame you if you’re looking for ways to keep your skin looking young for as long as possible.
That’s why we’ve consulted with dozens of dermatologists through the years to help cut through the noise and discover the ingredients that actually work. From retinol to vitamin C, they’ve told us about the ingredients they swear by to help fade fine lines, improve discoloration, boost brightness and revive tired, dull skin.
Keep reading to discover their recommendations, along with the expert and editor-loved products that promise to deliver real results for your skin.
Retinol | Adapalene | Sunscreen | Vitamin C | Glycolic acid | Bakuchiol | Hyaluronic acid | FAQs | How we chose | Meet our experts
Retinol
Anyone who has dipped their toe into the world of anti-aging skin care has likely heard of retinol. Retinol is a type of retinoid, which is derived from vitamin A. The over-the-counter treatment tends to be one of the most recommended ingredients for aging concerns — and there’s a good reason why.
“Retinol works to increase cell turnover, in turn helping to refine the skin and signs of aging that are often caused by environmental factors,” Dr. Kim Nichols, a board-certified dermatologist previously told Shop TODAY.
Because retinol products strip the top layer of the skin, they can help diminish the appearance of wrinkles, reduce hyperpigmentation and stimulate collagen production, explained Dr. Rebecca Baxt, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director at CosMedical in New Jersey.
RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Face Cream
Size: 1.7 oz. | Key ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mary P. Lupo and Dr. Angela J. Lamb, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, both previously recommended this retinol face cream to Shop TODAY. The formula blends hyaluronic acid with retinol, so the brand says that it helps to fight wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles and uneven skin tone, while still being gentle enough for everyday use.
Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum
Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Retinol, niacinamide, ceramides
This retinol serum was named the best budget anti-aging serum during the 2023 Shop TODAY Beauty Awards.
According to dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman, this serum “contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides, which hydrate the skin, and niacinamide and licorice root extract, which help with uneven dark discoloration.”
Neutrogena Retinol Pro+ Anti-Wrinkle Night Moisturizer
Size: 1.7 oz. | Key ingredients: .3% retinol
As someone with sensitive skin, I’ve always been wary of incorporating retinol products into my routine. But I’ve been using this retinol night cream for months now without any dryness or irritation. Even better, with regular use, I’ve noticed that the fine lines around my eyes and forehead are less noticeable. A little goes a long way, so the jar lasts a long time.
Adapalene
Similarly, adapalene is a type of retinoid that packs a powerful punch when it comes to treating signs of aging.
Topical retinoids, like this one, also come from vitamin A and are said to help normalize skin cell turnover, preventing clogged pores and acne, as well as improving skin discoloration, texture and tone, shares Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology.
According to Levin, retinoids are the stronger, fast-acting sister of retinol.
Differin 0.1% Adapalene Gel Acne Treatment
Size: 0.5 oz. | Key ingredients: adapalene
While Differin was previously only available by prescription, you can now get it at major retailers like Amazon, Target and more. It’s marketed as an acne treatment, but experts say that it can also be a helpful tool to fight signs of aging.
“Differin is a fantastic anti-aging product as it stimulates collagen production by cells in our dermis (the deeper layer of the skin),” Dr. Mohiba Tareen, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Tareen Dermatology previously shared. “This is what helps with fine lines and overall skin thickness.”
Not only that, but it can help with discoloration as well. “It exfoliates the surface of the skin cells to prevent the brown spots and mottled pigmentation that contribute to an aged appearance,” she shared.
Sunscreen
Listen, we know that sunscreen is a category of products, not an ingredient — but is a non-negotiable part of your beauty routine and we’d be remiss not to include it on our list. It’s essential for a number of reasons, including protecting your skin from signs of aging. According to Baxt, the sun’s rays break down the collagen in your skin, which causes hyperpigmentation and wrinkles.
There are two classes of sunscreen, mineral (physical) and chemical. Physical sunscreens feature mineral ingredients like zinc and titanium oxide, while chemical sunscreens typically use ingredients like avobenzone, octocrylene and oxybenzone.
Experts agree that the best kind of sunscreen is simply the type that you will actually wear (and reapply). That being said, mineral sunscreen may be the better choice to prevent signs of aging. “Mineral sunscreen can be more effective by preventing UV light from ever penetrating and can definitely be a better choice for those looking to prevent signs of aging,” shares dermatologist Dr. Robert Finney.
While she shared that you want to make sure you’re applying a formula with at least SPF 30 protection, you also need to remember to reapply it throughout the day (every one to two hours). Otherwise, you’re at risk for “incidental sun exposure,” which she said is one of the most common causes of skin aging.
Elta MD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
Size: 1.7 oz. | Key ingredients: SPF 40, hyaluronic acid, zinc oxide
Not only is this sunscreen from UltaMD a favorite of editors and experts — but it’s an award winner, too! It was named the best sunscreen for dry skin during the 2023 Shop TODAY Beauty Awards.
Unlike other mineral sunscreens, this one is designed to have a sheer finish, which NewBeauty editor-at-large Sarah Eggenberger previously shared is not typical for a sunscreen that contains zinc. “The resulting application is virtually transparent.”
“It holds well under makeup and none of my products seemed to react negatively to it,” writer Danielle Murphy shared about the product.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt In Milk SPF 60 Body and Face Sunscreen
Size: 3 oz. | Key ingredients: Cell-Ox Shield technology, La Roche-Posay thermal spring water
This award-winning sunscreen can be used on both your face and your body to help keep you protected all over. “This is definitely a top sunscreen for me now!” shared associate editor Lauren Biggerstaff. “It was lightweight, didn’t leave a white cast and felt super moisturizing.”
Vitamin C
“When applied topically, vitamin C reduces damage to our cells by neutralizing free radicals — which are highly reactive — and harmful molecules formed by exposure to environmental stressors (think pollution, UV light, etc.),” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman shared with us.
Not only that, but Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Director of Clinical and Cosmetic Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City said that the powerful antioxidant can aid in collagen production and helps to block the production of abnormal pigmentation to lighten dark spots and bright skin tone overall — making it an anti-aging powerhouse.
L’Oréal Revitalift Derm Intensive Vitamin C Serum
Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Vitamin C
According to L’Oreal, vitamin C is a highly unstable molecule that degrades when it’s exposed to air, light or water. That’s why this serum was formulated without water and comes in an air-tight metal tube, to help boost potency and efficacy, the brand says.
Hartman shared that it’s a good option for anyone who is new to using vitamin C. “At 10%, it will still be effective, but mild enough so that it does not cause irritation.”
“I used to use this and it’s a great price point, really helps with texture and fades dark spots. It’s thick so it can actually be used as a moisturizer,” shared associate editor Shannon Garlin.
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum for Face
Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, aloe vera, jojoba oil
This shopper-favorite formula has more than 94,000 perfect five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers who say that it has “transformed” their “dull, lifeless skin,” softened fine lines and more.
One writer who tried the TruSkin serum shared that she noticed a difference in her skin almost immediately. “After a few days, I noticed my skin appeared more radiant. After one week, my skin also felt much smoother to the touch. While I didn’t have any acne or many dark patches at the time (some reviewers have noted the serum’s ability to make blemishes and spots disappear), my skin appeared clearer and more even overall.”
Paula’s Choice C15 Vitamin C Super Booster
Size: .67 oz. | Key ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid
“Vitamin C was something I’ve avoided using for the past few years after a bad experience. Paula’s Choice has always had a vitamin C but, at an event for the reformulation, explained that they’re always looking for ways to improve upon even their bestsellers,” shares associate editor Kamari Stewart. “According to a clinical study conducted by the brand, 100% of participants experienced zero irritation, which is impressive and ultimately, the stat that convinced me to try it. I’ve been using it for two weeks about twice a week and I have experienced zero irritation but absolutely glowing skin! I use it in conjunction with the brand’s BHA (which they recommended at the event for the best results possible) and I’ve gotten so many compliments on my skin.”
Glycolic acid
“Alpha hydroxy acids are by far probably the most common things we use in skin care to treat sun spots, pigmentation, to help with texture and tone in the skin, to help with fine lines,” Dr. Jennifer Chwalek, a dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York, previously told TODAY.
While there are multiple varieties of these acids, dermatologist Dr. Marnie Nussbaum shared that glycolic acid is the smallest of the AHA molecules and therefore “penetrates the best.” The small molecule helps to dissolve the bonds that hold skin cells together, increasing turnover and triggering collagen production to boost firmness and elasticity.
Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser
Size: 6 oz. | Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, sage extract, chamomile extract
For those new to skin care acids, they can be irritating at first. That’s why Nussbaum recommends using it as a cleanser since it neutralizes when you wash it off. She likes this one from Mario Badescu.
“I love this cleanser!” wrote one Amazon shopper. “I use it on my face, chest, and back in the shower. It’s the perfect amount of acid for my sensitive skin. It helps with any small breakouts and the overall appearance of my skin.”
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Glycolic Acid Face Serum
Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Glycolic acid, aloe
Dermatologist Dr. Macrene Alexiades previously recommended this serum to help brighten skin, thanks to the gentle exfoliation. She recommended that acids, like this one, be applied as a part of your nightly routine and added that you should follow directions to determine how often to use the product.
Kiehl’s Ultra Pure 9.8% Glycolic Acid Serum
Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Glycolic acid
“In an effort to smooth out my skin texture, I gravitated towards this Kiehl’s glycolic acid serum since I’ve heard about how effective it is at removing dead skin cells,” shares senior editor Jess Bender. “I could definitely see (and feel!) the results after over a month of consistent use. While I didn’t notice much change in my pore size before and after long-term usage, my skin didn’t have as much roughness around problem areas like my chin and crevices around my nostrils and it had some additional radiance that I didn’t experience beforehand.”
Bakuchiol
While retinol is an effective tool for fighting signs of aging, it can also be pretty harsh, especially for those with sensitive skin. That’s where bakuchiol comes in. The buzzy ingredient has been nicknamed “nature’s retinol,” and according to one dermatologist that we spoke with, it packs many of the same benefits, but with less risk of irritation.
“As we age, our fibroblasts become senescent, so they stop producing as much collagen,” Dr. Jordan C. Carqueville, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of The Derm Institute of Chicago said. Retinoids and bakuchiol help counteract that. “When you use topicals like these, you stimulate these cells to become alive again … that means that you’re growing new cells, and your skin is supple and tighter. It helps to reduce photodamage as well because you’re stimulating those cells.” For the same reason, bakuchiol can also help reduce the appearance of static wrinkles.
Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum
Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Encapsulated retinol, bakuchiol and arophira
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry previously recommended this treatment, which combines retinol and bakuchiol. “It’s going to get the effect of a full concentration [of retinol] without the irritation,” she said.
According to the brand, the microencapsulated retinol sends the ingredient deep down into the skin, while bakuchiol boosts the anti-aging effects without making it harsh on the skin.
Hyaluronic acid
When it comes to aging, hydration is key. As Baxt said, “moisturizing reduces the appearance of wrinkles.” (That’s why many moisturizers are labeled as anti-aging.)
And as experts told us, hyaluronic acid is a great moisturizer. “It can affect the skin by making the cells plump up, make it more dewy and more hydrated and moist, and it can minimize the appearance of fine lines,” shared dermatologist Dr. Charisse Dolitsky.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
Size: 1.7 oz. | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, olive extract
“I tend to deal with people with dry skin and other issues, so usually need something (like this) that’s a little more of a heavy moisturizer,” Dolitsky said.
This gel is said to “instantly quench” dry skin, thanks to its unique consistency, which is designed to absorb quickly like a gel but provide the long-lasting hydration of a cream.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Size: 30 ml | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5
There are so many things to love about this formula. First and foremost, at just $10 the price is pretty unbeatable. I also have pretty dry skin and I find that this, (along with my other serums and moisturizers) helps keep it moisturized and prevents flaking. My skin is noticeably plumper and my fine lines are less visible when I’m using it.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes skin aging?
There are a number of factors that can affect how your skin ages. As you get older, your skin stops producing as much collagen. This contributes to the fine lines and wrinkles, crepey appearance and prominent pores that occur with age, Zeichner says.
Sun exposure also speeds up the aging process. The sun “creates free radical damage, which decreases our skin’s self-repair mechanisms causing skin cancer, fine lines and hyperpigmentation,” shared Nussbaum.
Should your skin care routine change as you age?
Yes! In your early 20s you may be able to get away with having a minimal skin care routine and poor lifestyle habits. But as you enter your late 20s and 30s, oftentimes that starts to catch up with you. In your 30s and 40s, you want to focus on incorporating ingredients like retinol and vitamin C and continue to be diligent about sunscreen use to protect from future damage. Click these links to read our skin care guides for your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s.
How we chose
We sorted through years of previous reporting to find the top anti-aging ingredients and products recommended by experts. We also sourced recommendations from our own beauty-loving editors.
Meet our experts
- Dr. Kim Nichols, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Greenwich, Connecticut.
- Dr. Rebecca Baxt, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and medical director at Baxt CosMedical in New Jersey.
- Dr. Mary P. Lupo, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University School of Medicine.
- Dr. Angela J. Lamb, MD, is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist.
- Dr. Debra Jaliman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and author of the book, “Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist,”
- Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology.
- Dr. Mohiba Tareen, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Tareen Dermatology.
- Dr. Robert Finney, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and hair loss expert based in New York City.
- Sarah Eggenberger is the NewBeauty senior editor-at-large.
- Dr. Corey L. Hartman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.
- Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, is the director of Clinical and Cosmetic Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
- Dr. Jennifer Chwalek, MD, is a dermatologist at Union Dermatology in New York.
- Dr. Marnie Nussbaum, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College.
- Dr. Macrene Alexiades, MD, is a dermatologist at the Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center of New York.
- Dr. Jordan C. Carqueville, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of The Derm Institute of Chicago.
- Dr. Michelle Henry, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon. She is the CEO and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, as well as a Clinical Instructor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College.
- Dr. Charisse Dolitsky, MD, is a dermatologist with the Schweiger Dermatology Group.
