When dealing with matters of the skin, everyone turns to the same type of person: a dermatologist. They're the experts on not only what's good for you, but also the things that actually work. What better way to discover the most effective products than by finding out what the pros use on their own skin?
Shop TODAY interviewed several dermatologists about the anti-aging products they actually use, as well as the best practices they recommend, to keep their skin looking youthful. Some noteworthy findings: Sun exposure is a big culprit, the time of day and order you use certain products matter, and — surprise! — it's never too early to start using products with anti-aging properties. ("You can start in your early 20s," Dr. Debra Jaliman, a NYC-based board-certified dermatologist, tells us.)
Keep reading to find out what exactly you should look for in an anti-aging product, what your skin care routine should have, answers to your frequently asked questions, and — of course — the list of our experts' and editors' 18 recommendations for the best anti-aging products.
Types of anti-aging products and ingredients | Top products with anti-aging retinoids | Picks with vitamin C, acids, peptides and more | Anti-aging face moisturizers | Sunscreens that help with anti-aging | How we chose | Meet the experts
Editor's pick$24.00$46.69
Types of anti-aging products and ingredients
Anti-aging products, like other kinds of skin care, come in a variety of forms, including creams, serums, lotions, gels, ointments and even powders. To help you sift through the abundance of choices out there, our experts listed the following products and ingredients you should be looking for:
Sunscreen
Yes, there's moisturizing and exfoliating — but preventing damage from the sun's UV rays is arguably the most important part of your skin care routine, according to Jaliman and Dr. Rebecca Baxt, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director at CosMedical in New Jersey. Why? Because those rays degrade your skin's collagen, which causes hyperpigmentation and wrinkles, the latter explained.
"I could do a whole long article on sunblock, but the basics are to make sure it's at least an SPF 30 broad spectrum and [to] apply daily to sun-exposed surfaces," she said, adding that the hardest part for many people are reapplying sunscreen every 1 to 2 hours, instead of only when they go to the beach. This leads to "incidental sun exposure," one of the most common causes of skin aging, Baxt added. She also said that there's no "safe" amount of time to be outside in the sun without your skin experiencing its rays' degrading effects.
Retinoids
After protecting your skin from UV rays and making sure it's moisturized, retinoids are the next most important ingredient to add to your regimen, Baxt said. She pointed out over-the-counter examples of this chemical compound that's a derivative of vitamin A — serums with retinol or Differin, for instance. (There's also Retin-A, a stronger retinoid, available via prescription.)
Retinoids have a plethora of benefits: They diminish the appearance of wrinkles by thinning the skin's top layer, reduce hyperpigmentation and stimulate collagen production, Baxt explained. Plus, Jaliman said, the increased cell turnover from this ingredient helps unclog pores.
Vitamin C products
After sunscreen and retinoids, there are other categories of skin care products you can use that Baxt said are less important, but that still contribute to small anti-aging improvements when added to your routine. The first of these is vitamin C, "a potent antioxidant that stimulates collagen production and also brightens the skin," explained Jaliman. When applied first thing in the morning, before sunscreen, "[it] can help reverse skin damage if any rays get through," Baxt explained.
Acids, peptides and other ingredients
Acids and peptides are similar to vitamin C in the sense that they also contribute to small anti-aging improvements, Baxt said. Examples of helpful acids include glycolic acid, a sugarcane-derived alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates skin, and hyaluronic acid, a substance our skin produces naturally and that binds its weight 1,000 times in water (read: very, very hydrating). "It helps minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles due to its plumping properties," Jaliman explained.
Peptides are a type of amino acid that, Jaliman said, "stimulate new collagen production [and] improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles." Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is another effective antioxidant she also recommends, not only because the substance, like other antioxidants, help counteract the stressful oxidative effects of UV rays, but also "helps even skin tone ... and is anti-inflammatory, so it helps reduce redness," the dermatologist said.
Moisturizers
Moisturizing is another necessary step in your anti-aging skin care routine that Jaliman said is important to be doing "at any age." Moisturizers of any variety (e.g., lotions, creams, serums and ointments) generally "are often labelled as antiaging since moisturizing reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and the FDA allows that labeling," Baxt added.
Squalane is another moisturizing ingredient that you'll see in many anti-aging products, said Jaliman. Squalane is a lipid that's a stable, cosmetic-ready (and thus skin-friendly) form of squalene, which is the oil our skin naturally produces to protect our skin and keep moisture in. We produce less of this natural oil as we age, which is why Jaliman recommends looking out for squalane as one of the ingredients in your moisturizing and anti-aging products. "[It] is an anti-inflammatory lipid, so it reduces redness in the skin. It is also very hydrating," she added.
Top products with anti-aging retinoids
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
- "Great for dry or sensitive skin"
- Can be added to either morning or night routine
- Some reviewers had delivery and packaging issues
Size: 1 oz. | Other notable ingredients: N/A | Skin Types: All; those with uneven texture
This creamy-textured emulsion of a "next-generation" retinoid that, the brand claims, achieves the same anti-aging and skin-brightening effects of other forms of non-prescription retinoids — without the latter's tendency to irritate and dry sensitive skin. Because of the creamier texture of this serum, it should be applied at night after lighter substances but before any heavier creams or ointments. You should also note that it shouldn't be used in conjunction with other retinoid-based skin care products.
We like this for people with oily skin that can't handle a lot of oil-based products like a squalane-retinoid formula, due to the fact that it's oil-free. In fact, one Ulta reviewer raved that, in contrast to an oil-based The Ordinary retinoid she previously used, "this formulation sinks nicely into my skin really well, and I have had far fewer breakouts and better healing after acne breakouts while using it."
Differin Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
- "Game changer" product
- Works on both mature and tween skin
- Reviewers say patience is key when it comes to seeing results with this product
Size: 0.5 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Adapalene (another type of retinoid) | Skin Types: Acne-prone skin
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology in New York City, can't speak highly enough about Differin.
"It used to be a prescription and then it went over-the-counter — I love Differin gel," she said.
Thanks to the powerhouse ingredient retinoid (in the form of 0.1% adapalene), this gel doesn't just fight acne; it also helps reduce signs of aging. It works by reducing inflammation deep in the skin to clear clogged pores and combat fine lines.
And we'd be remiss not to mention its effectiveness against acne. If the almost 34,000 five-star Amazon reviews (all from verified customers, no less) isn't enough to convince you, take it from Fran Sales, associate editor at Shop TODAY: "I discovered this in the midst of a really bad bout of 'maskne' and kept using it for my hormonal chin acne, which really took off after the past few stressful years," she said. "Yes, it's drying, so I always moisturize after, but it cleared probably about 75 percent of my stubborn breakouts," she added.
Paula's Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream
- "Go-to" for dry winter skin
- "Good level to start using retinol"
- Some with sensitive skin experienced reactions and irritation
Size: 1.7 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Hyaluronic acid | Skin Types: Dry, normal
This hydrating nighttime cream by Paula's choice contains 0.01% retinol, hyaluronic acid (HA) and peptides — a combination that, the company claims, both minimizes the appearance of wrinkles, plumps up the skin and binds moisture. It's also got antioxidants in the mix, which helps tackle the effects of environmental stressors like UV damage. Reviewers with very dry skin give this cream positive reviews, with one verified customer raving: "My skin is aging and VERY dry, and after applying this to my skin, it drinks it up!"
Picks with vitamin C, acids, peptides and more
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
- Has a lightweight texture
- Affordable compared to other brands
- Product "pilled" when paired with other skincare products
- Some reviewers noticed no difference in their skin
Size: 1 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Hyaluronic acid | Skin Types: All
Henry calls hyaluronic acid a “miracle molecule” — and this serum is full of it.
“It really helps plump up your skin,” she explained. “As we get older, we lose hydration in our skin and this ingredient can help restore moisture.”
L'Oreal Paris Skincare 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum
- A little goes a long way; tube lasts a while
- "Holy grail" product
- Texture has changed from a previous version; feels more grainy compared to the old one
Size: 1 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Vitamin C | Skin Types: All
"I used to use this and it's a great price point, really helps with texture and fades dark spots. It's thick so can actually be used as a moisturizer," said Shannon Garlin, associate editor at Shop TODAY. She's talking about L'oreal Revitalift, a serum formulated with vitamin C, which the brand claims visibily reduces fine lines and wrinkles, as well as brightens skin, in one to two weeks. It's also safe for sensitive skin and can be used both day and night.
Timeless Skin Care Hyaluronic Eye Cream
- A little goes a long way
- Unscented
- None to note at this time
Size: 0.5 oz. | Other notable ingredients: N/A | Skin Types: All; including sensitive skin
Shop TODAY editor Amanda Fama relies on this "refreshing" eye cream to help hydrate the skin underneath her eyes, noting that she can spot a difference after using it.
"It’s super hydrating upon application and seemingly plumps the skin underneath my eyes," she says.
RoC Multi Correxion Hydrate + Plump Night Serum
- Perfect amount in a capsule
- A little difficult to open
Size: 30 capsules | Other notable ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid Complex | Skin Types: All skin types
If you’re looking for a travel-friendly product, this is the one.
“It’s an effective solution to keep my face hydrated overnight, especially in my dry apartment where my skin is always thirsty and salivating for nourishment. It also serves as a perfect travel-friendly option to keep my skin care routine going while I’m separated from my precious beauty standbys and don’t want to put product in a variety of tiny bottles,” says Bender.
Greek Yoghurt Wide Awake Eye Gel
- Near-instant effect
- Application is easy
- Slight staining on packaging
This is another favorite from Bender for its cooling and instant effect. "I’ve heard many people sing the praises of caffeine for the eye region, so this easy-to-navigate gel roller from Korres (a brand that I’ve loved for a long while) spoke to me and my lazy girl beauty routine. The instant massage effect the application provides does wonders for whatever puffiness I may be feeling in the morning, plus I’ve seen a bit of reduction in my under-eye darkness over the last month," she adds.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Firming Collagen Cream
- Truly helps to firm and brighten skin
- Reviewers notice a "huge difference" almost immediately
- Has a heavy texture
- Some with sensitive skin experienced breakouts, irritations
Size: 1.7 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Collagen, niacinamides | Skin Types: Dry, normal, combination
Jaliman highly recommends this highly moisturizing cream for its skin-plumping niacinamide and wrinkle-fighting peptides. But, she added, the glycerin and squalane, which boost hydration, as well as firming collagen, are a welcome bonus. Its compatible with normal, dry and combination skin, and reviewers love its lightweight texture and application. Furthermore, this is one of the products Jaliman highlighted that actually do reduce wrinkles on the face.
Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment
- High-potency AHA
- Noticeable results
- Has a strong fragrance
Size: 0.5 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Licorice, arnica, aloe | Skin Types: Sensitive skin
Associate commerce editor Shannon Garlin uses this product once or twice weekly to brighten her dark spots. "I’ve been using this about once a week and have noticed brighter skin and fading dark marks that have seemed impossible to get rid of. It’s really moisturizing so you can just use it as your final step but since I have dry skin, I use it right before a moisturize! Also you can use it as a mask, too," she adds.
Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum
- "A must," for your skincare routine
- "Holy grail of serums"
- Has a strong amount of retinol; reviewers advise against it if this is your first retinol-based product
Size: 1 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Vitamin C | Skin Types: All
"I was given this at an event and will buy again, it doesn't smell and is really lightweight, applies nicely under makeup!" raved Garlin. In addition to the vitamin C (which targets acne scars in addition to sunspots), this gentle night serum also contains collagen sodium hyaluronate, a combination which, the brand claims, both moisturizes and brightens the skin. All you need is a few drops, and make sure to apply before any night creams.
La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum
- Easy to use
- Absorbs into skin well
- Has a scent some reviewers might not like
Size: 1 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Salicylic acid | Skin Types: All
“When I think of anti-aging, I think of protecting, preventing and correcting, so I always like to have an antioxidant in the morning,” said Dr. Michelle Henry, clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City.
Henry recommends La Roche-Posay’s vitamin C serum because it brightens skin, gets rid of dark spots and stimulates collagen. “It makes skin look fresher and gets rid of lines and wrinkles,” she added.
Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum
- A little goes a long way, helping the product last longer
- Helps keep skin looking "healthy and hydrated"
- Some with sensitive skin experienced irritations
- Splurge item, pricier compared to other brands
Size: 1.69 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Pineapple ceramide, Vitamin B5 | Skin Types: Normal, dry, combo, oily
“I started researching natural skin lines a few years ago when I was looking to replace my underperforming hydrating gel,” said Dr. Jessica Weiser, a New York City-based dermatologist.
“That’s when I discovered this gel and serum combo. I was initially attracted to the hypoallergenic and nontoxic nature of these two products, but after I tested them, I was immediately drawn to their silky texture and smooth application — and their results.”
She first found the superstar Drunk Elephant duo (see below) when they were sold in a set of smaller sizes. That set is no longer available, but don’t fret! You can achieve just as radiant skin with the full-size bottles that will last you even longer.
“I apply the serum every morning — its powerful antioxidants brighten my complexion and help prevent UV and environmental damage,” she said. “Then comes the gel, which contains hyaluronic acid, which gets ‘set’ over the smaller molecular nutrients and vitamins in the serum. The combination leaves my skin glowing, radiant and perfectly prepped for sunscreen, the final and most important step of my skin care routine.”
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Vitamin-C Day Serum
- "Absorbs easily"
- A little goes a long way, helping the product to last longer
- Splurge pick
Size: .94 oz. | Other notable ingredients: L-Ascorbic Acid ,ferulic acid, 1.0% Tocopherol (Vitamin E) | Skin Types: Normal, dry, combo, oily
Saint Jane Beauty Serum with Niacinamide
- Lightweight packaging
- Calming ingredients
- Luxe price point
Size: 1.5 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid | Skin Types: Dry
This luxury serum has niacinamide, which helps to reduce wrinkles and dark spots.
"Saint Jane’s PR team was kind enough to send me an advanced sample of their new serum launch earlier this year. Since I started incorporating it into my daily morning skin care routine last month, I can confidently say that it leaves my skin looking supple and revitalized, even if I feel parched and dehydrated on the inside," says Bender.
"I can’t speak for its plumping effects since I don’t necessarily need that yet, but other adds in its formulation — predominantly the namesake ingredient for blotchiness and niacinamide for texture improvement — works wonders during struggle mornings," adds Bender.
Skin Medica Age Defense Retinol Complex
- Reviewers saw results almost immediately
- Pricier compared to other brands
Size: 1 oz. | Other notable ingredients: N/A | Skin Types: All; does not specify
“I swear by retinoids! Every dermatologist learns about this form of vitamin A in residency as part of our training," said Dr. Gary Goldenberg, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. "As an anti-ager, retinoids help soften wrinkles and lines and decrease pigmentation caused by the sun. But they also treat breakouts and stimulate collagen and elastin fibers."
Goldenberg also loves its exfoliating properties.
"Want more? Retinoids can improve pigmentation issues, like brown spots and melasma, thanks to its exfoliating properties and they can shrink the size of your pores and give your skin a glow," he added. "Any product that's left on my fingers goes right to the backs of my hands for some anti-aging there.”
Skinceuticals C E Ferulic Acid
- Absorbs well
- Provides a glow
- Strong scent
Size: 30 ml | Other notable ingredients: Vitamin C | Skin Types: All skin types
Editorial director Adrianna Brach loves this product despite its strong smell. "I’ve been using it for about 10 years and love the results. The smell isn’t great but it’s one of the few products that has worked on dark spots and brightened my dull skin. I use it in the morning and then layer sunscreen on top," she adds.
Anti-aging face moisturizers
Eucerin Daily Protection SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizing Face Lotion
- "Exceeded expectations"
- "Essential part" of routine
- May leave a residue
Size: 4 oz. | Other notable ingredients: N/A | Skin Types: All; does not specify
“I love this anti-ager because it’s dual acting: It’s an oil- and fragrance-free moisturizer, plus it’s a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen that contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide but doesn’t leave your skin looking pasty and chalky,” said Dr. Sonia Badreshia, clinical instructor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco. “It’s a must-wear for your face, neck, décolleté and hands. I recommend it to treat and prevent dark marks and it’s my secret weapon for fighting rough knees and elbows.”
CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
- Absorbs well; non-greasy
- Great multitasking product
- Some reviewers had breakouts
Size: 1.7 oz. | Other notable ingredients: SPF | Skin Types: All
Levin recommends this combination moisturizer with SPF 30. “It has three essential ceramides that really hydrate and protect the skin barrier. It also has hyaluronic acid, which is a super hydrating skin care ingredient that I love,” she explained.
Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15
- Lightweight texture
- Includes SPF
- May feel oily
Size: 4 oz. | Other notable ingredients: SPF | Skin Types: Dry, combo, mature, normal
“While there are many expensive skin care treatments on the market, nothing is better at preventing both skin cancer and premature skin aging than sunscreen,” Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital.
“Studies have shown time and time again that regular use of sunscreens prevents the development of skin cancers, including melanomas, which can be potentially fatal,” he said. “In one recent yearlong study, regular sunscreen use was even shown to improve the cosmetic appearance of the skin, likely because protective skin was able to heal itself.”
Ultimately, consistency is key when it comes to skin care.
“The best treatment for aging skin is preventing ultraviolet light damage to begin with,” Zeichner said. “Skipping one day will not result in too much loss, but if you regularly take a pass, your skin will ultimately pay the price.”
Zeichner said he was impressed with the product’s brightening properties.
“I was introduced to this product when I was a resident,” Zeichner shared. “I love that it not only protects from UV exposure, but it’s the one product that really brightens up the skin, thanks to its soy complex and light diffusers.”
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream
- "Holy grail" product for those with dry and sensitive skin
- Lightweight; absorbs quickly
- Has a scent some reviewers dislike
Size: 1.7 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Hyaluronic acid | Skin Types: Normal
“I've been applying hyaluronic acid to my skin for years," said Dr. Rachel Nazarian, assistant clinical professor at The Mount Sinai Hospital Department of Dermatology. "It’s a substance naturally found in the skin and works to maintain water for a fuller, more youthful look."
Nazarian said drugstore products with hyaluronic acid are now better than ever.
"Today, smaller molecules of high-grade hyaluronic acid with better topical absorption capabilities can be found in over-the-counter products, including this gel-cream that I apply nightly. Bonus: Its hydrating properties curb the irritation caused by retinols," she told us. "I still use a few tricks to enhance absorption, such as applying it after I shower while my skin is still damp or using it after an exfoliating wash."
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Pro+ Anti-Wrinkle Night Moisturizer
- Has hydrating ingredients
- Still need to use moisturizer
- Some may need a stronger prod.
Size: 1.7 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Ceramides | Skin Types: All
Emma Stessman, an associate editor at Shop TODAY, incorporated this moisturizer and retinol combination product into her night routine over the past few months and has noticed a "big difference" in her skin.
"It definitely helps with uneven texture and fine lines," she says. "It’s also more moisturizing than other retinol formulas I’ve tried so it doesn’t dry out my skin as much."
Sunscreens that help with anti-aging
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen
- "Gentle" product; great on sensitive skin
- Doesn't blend well with certain skin tones, according to reviewers
Size: 1.7 oz. | Other notable ingredients: N/A | Skin Types: All
Shop TODAY senior editor Jess Bender swears by this tinted sunscreen, which she's been using more regularly as of late. "Aside from being a lighter option over concealer or moisturizer, it has a higher SPF, so I don't have to worry that much about getting burned throughout the day," she said.
"Beyond offering plenty of pigmented coverage to save me some extra coverage swipes, I love how easily it absorbs into my skin without leaving the greasy feel I tend to get with other facial sunscreens," adds Bender.
EltaMD UV Physical Tinted Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 41
- Worth the cost, according to some reviewers
- Good for those with oily skin
- Pilling occurs sometimes when paired with other skin care products
Size: 3 oz. | Other notable ingredients: Zinc oxide | Skin Types: Oily and mature skin
“Sunscreen is the most important anti-aging product because the sun is responsible for 90 percent of skin aging," said Dr. Arielle Kauvar, a New York City-based dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology at Langone NYU Medical Center.
Better yet, this moisturizer is perfect for sensitive skin.
"This is my favorite face sunscreen because it doesn’t irritate even the most sensitive skin — we even use it on patients after laser procedures," said Kauvar. "It’s water-resistant and adds a light tint to your skin, which is great for when you want to go sans makeup. I apply it after my moisturizer and before my makeup. Just be sure to reapply if you’re outdoors all day."
How we chose
To curate this list, we interviewed 11 dermatologists to ask for the ingredients to look for an anti-aging product, and what best practices they recommend for a well-rounded skin care regimen. We then asked some of these dermatologists, as well as some of our skin-savvy Shop TODAY editors, for their anti-aging product favorites. We also pored through dozens of bestselling products on the internet that contain top anti-aging ingredients and that have mostly positive verified customer reviews.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Sonia Badreshia is a clinical instructor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco.
- Dr. Rebecca Baxt, MD, MBA, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New Jersey.
- Dr. Gary Goldenberg is an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
- Dr. Michelle Henry is a clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City.
- Dr. Debra Jaliman is board-certified NYC dermatologist, assistant pofessor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and author of the book, “Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist."
- Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology in New York City.
- Dr. Arielle Kauvar is a New York City-based dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology at Langone NYU Medical Center.
- Dr. Rachel Nazarian is assistant clinical professor at The Mount Sinai Hospital Department of Dermatology.
- Dr. Kim Nichols is a Connecticut-based dermatologist.
- Dr. Jessica Weiser is a New York City-based dermatologist.
- Dr. Joshua Zeichner is the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital.