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. Plus, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angela Lamb stopped by TODAY to share additional anti-aging ingredients to incorporate into your skin care routine.
Keep reading to discover the best dermatologist-recommended anti-aging ingredients in skin care, along with the editor- and expert-loved products that promise to deliver real results for your skin.
Best anti-aging products seen on TODAY
Retinoids
"[This is] the gold standard," Dr. Lamb says. "The most research-backed, anti-aging ingredient boosts cell turnover, smooths wrinkles and improves texture. It is important to start slowly. Many people cannot tolerate applying one of these every night."
This recently launched moisturizing cream is powered by the brand's patented retinol, which claims to be seven times more powerful than traditional retinol. The brand adds that this key ingredient assists with reversing the three visible signs of estrogen loss — dryness, wrinkles and loss of firmness — which commonly happens during menopause, so skin appears smoother and more hydrated over time.
Hand care
"Hands are just as important in your skin care routine, and they make products that specifically target signs of aging," Dr. Lamb confirms.
You've most likely heard time and time again to "not forget the neck" when applying skin care. But your hands deserve love, too, and can be one of the first signs of aging. Nécessaire's The Hand Retinol combats multiple concerns in one, so your hands are kept moisturized while being treated, too.
Lip care
"Often overlooked, but the fastest to age," Dr. Lamb explains. "Lips lose collagen faster than facial skin and show early signs of aging."
Lip care isn't just for dry, chapped lips. To help preserve the natural collagen in your lips while also deeply nourishing, this Collagen Bank Lip Treatment from Neutrogena supports, volumizes and hydrates the lips without the sting.
Antioxidant serums
"These are your daily skin defense," Dr. Lamb explains. "Neutralize free radicals from pollution, stress and UV damage. Think of antioxidants as your skin’s daily shield. They support your skin’s ability to rebuild collagen."
One of Dr. Lamb's favorite facial oils, the Le Prunier Plum Beauty Oil does a lot more than meets the eye. From defending against damaging free radicals to locking in moisture, this facial oil equally heals, treats and hydrates.
Plus, use code TODAY on the brand's website to receive 25% off the Plum Beauty Oil. Valid until Feb 23.
Peptides
"Peptides are collagen communicators that signal skin to produce collagen and elastin for firmness," the dermatologist notes. "They signal to the skin how to act young again."
Peptides have gained a large following over the years, but we understand why: They're a powerhouse at repairing the skin barrier, per our previous coverage. So you'll want to include them in your routine, starting off with the pick above, which includes six types of peptides to target a broad range of common skin concerns.
Sunscreen
Dr. Lamb refers to SPF as the 'Ultimate Anti-Aging Product,' which prevents up to 90% of visible skin aging. "No sunscreen, no results!"
The lightweight formula inside Beauty of Joseon's Day Dew Sunscreen delivers glowing — not greasy — results that shouldn't leave a white cast or disrupt your makeup. Per the brand, use as a moisture-booster or as a stand-alone moisturizer.
Best anti-aging ingredients, according to dermatologists and editors
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.
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.”
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mary P. Lupo and Lamb 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.
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.
While Differin was previously only available by prescription, you can now get it at major retailers like Amazon and Walmart. 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.
SPF
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.
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.
Deputy managing editor Jess Bender had nothing but praise for this drugstore SPF from La Roche-Posay. "I can’t emphasize enough how velvety this feels on my skin," she raved in our previous sunscreen coverage. "Beyond being completely obsessed with the texture, I love how easily it melts into my skin without leaving lingering residue or white cast, and how it gives a glossy — but not greasy — finish underneath my makeup."
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.
According to L'Oréal, 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.
"Vitamin C was something I’ve avoided using for the past few years after a bad experience," shares associate editor Kamari Stewart. "I’ve been using [this product] 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.
For those new to skin care acids, they can be irritating at first. That's why Dr. Nussbaum recommends using it as a cleanser since it neutralizes when you wash it off. It can also be used on both the face and body to deep clean.
Our editors say the award-winning Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel has no dupes when it comes to performance and application. "This product is what I turn to when my skin is in need of rescuing or feels like it has been through it (especially after travel)," editor Vivien Moon previously said. "They are tiny but mighty, and offer me a glow within one use, which is harder to maintain now that I am in my 30s and [am] more cautious about what I put on my skin."
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.
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 Dr. 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.
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.
“I tend to deal with people with dry skin and other issues, so [they] usually need something (like this) that’s a little more of a heavy moisturizer,” Dr. 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.
Antioxidants
As previously reported from Dr. Lamb, antioxidants protect our skin from external aggressors that could potentially cause inflammation, a disrupted skin barrier, dryness and premature aging. Incorporating antioxidants in your skin care can help protect against these stressors and boost skin health, leading to stronger and smoother skin.
Another recommendation from Dr. Lamb, Tatcha's Longevity Skin Serum uses the concept of 'skin longevity' by using antioxidants and lipids to help boost skin strength and cellular resilience. Consistent use can visibly firm, approve the appearance of wrinkles and delay visibly signs of aging, according to the brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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 the best anti-aging ingredients
Our team features a range of qualified experts and contributors in our broadcast segments to reveal the latest trends, remarkable sale events and all things shopping across a variety of categories. Products were independently chosen by members of the Shop TODAY team along with Dr. Angela Lamb and our experts.
We sorted through years of previous reporting to find the top anti-aging ingredients and products recommended by experts. We also tapped into our own beauty-loving editors to source recommendations.
Meet our experts
- Dr. Angela J. Lamb, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. She’s currently the Vice Chair of Clinical Operations at Mount Sinai Dermatology.
- 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. 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. 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.
