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37 best anti-aging skin care products dermatologists love

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Aging is inevitable, but that doesn’t mean we can’t try our best to keep our skin as healthy as possible.

If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you’ve noticed your first few wrinkles, or maybe you’ve put your anti-aging skincare routine on the back burner for one too many years.

Whatever the reason, the New York Post is here to help! From CeraVe Eye Cream and Moisturizer to La Roche-Posay Gentle Cleanser, we’ve found the best anti-aging skincare products for your needs, including the at-home laser Nira Precision and this dermatologist loved eye cream.

RELATED: Best retinol serums and creams, per derms

Ahead, we categorized all of our top picks for easy shopping. Be sure to check out our in-depth FAQ section for more expert-approved tips.

post wanted picks

While some people have a knack for skincare, most of us get pretty overwhelmed by the myriad options available today. “Which product do you use first? How long does it take to see results? What does each ingredient do?”

Shopping for skincare doesn’t need to be so daunting. For anti-aging products, consider your unique skin type and needs, active and expert-recommended ingredients that are proven to reverse signs of aging and above all, SPF to prevent further skin damage.

Best Overall: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream

Pros

  • Good for a.m. and p.m. routine
  • Skin brightening and moisturizing
  • Top rated

Cons

  • May feel too lightweight for those who prefer a cream with a heavier texture

Garshick and more than 46,000 Amazon reviewers are fans of the CeraVe Eye Repair Cream.

“This drugstore favorite uses hyaluronic acid and ceramides to help hydrate the undereye [area] while strengthening the skin barrier, helping to improve the appearance of dark circles and puffiness,” says Garshick.

“It also contains niacinamide which is soothing on the skin, plus a marine and botanical complex which helps brighten the area. The CeraVe Eye Repair Cream also uses a patented delivery system, known as MVE technology to provide long-lasting hydration.”

Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide

Best Moisturizer: Pond’s Anti-Wrinkle Face Cream Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer

Pros

  • Rich texture
  • Great for those with dry skin
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • AHAs may irritate those with very sensitive skin
  • Contains mineral oil

The Pond’s Anti-Wrinkle Face Cream Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer is highly recommended by both NYC dermatologists Garshick and Dr. Hadley King.

“This daily moisturizing cream incorporates alpha hydroxy acids to exfoliate the skin gently, collagen [to keep your skin youthful], as well as hydrating ingredients [to help] the skin look firmer and brighter,” Garshick explains. “It is also thought to improve the overall appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”

Note: Using alpha hydroxy acids in your skincare routine may cause heightened skin sensitivity. Remember always to apply sunscreen. 

“It’s a great option for moisturizing while also delivering anti-aging benefits,” King adds. 

Key Ingredients: Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Collagen

Best Cleanser: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

Pros

  • More than 30,000 ratings on Amazon
  • Ideal for multiple skin types
  • Supports the skin barrier

Cons

  • May not be a favorite for those who prefer a lathering cleanser

The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser is another fan favorite among the skincare community. It’s a daily face wash with a creamy, milky texture to help skin retain essential moisture while gently removing face and eye makeup, dirt and impurities. This facial cleanser also helps maintain your skin’s natural protective barrier and pH balance.

“This cleanser is good for anti-aging because it provides hydration to the skin, keeping it healthy and supple,” says New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Sperling.

Celebrity esthetician Nicole Caroline is also a fan of this product, particularly for those with sensitive skin, which usually goes hand in hand with anti-aging clients.

“This formula is safe for all skin types but especially sensitive skin because it’s formulated with niacinamide for soothing redness and ceramides for hydration,” Caroline says.

Maryland-based dermatologist, Dr. Chesahna Kindred, also stands by this La Roche-Posay cleanser. “I prefer cleansers that gently clean and hydrate the skin — and this cleanser does just that. It’s a great gentle cleanser at an affordable price,” Kindred said.

Key Ingredients: Prebiotic Thermal Water, Ceramide-3, Niacinamid, Glycerin

Best SPF: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

Pros

  • Protectant for those with acne-prone skin
  • Oil-free formula
  • Doesn’t leave a residue

Cons

  • On the pricier side

Sperling’s favorite sunscreen is the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46.

“Sunscreen is one of the most important anti-aging products to add into your daily routine!” Sperling exclaims. “This is one of my favorites, as it’s good for all skin types, including those with acne, rosacea, and sensitive skin. It’s both lightweight and hydrating.”

Key Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide

Best Retinol Alternative: Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10%

Pros

  • Addresses skin texture
  • Good for those with redness, and acne scars
  • Cruelty Free, Fragrance-Free, Dermatologist-Tested

Cons

  • May be drying for some.

The Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10% is an excellent alternative for pregnant people who can’t tolerate a retinoid or anti-aging retinol.

“This formulation also incorporates niacinamide and vitamin C to improve the overall texture and tone [of your skin], reducing hyperpigmentation, blemishes and redness — all signs that go along with aging,” Garshick says. “[You can use it] once or twice per day, and it is recommended [you follow up] with a moisturizer.”

Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, Vitamin C, Niacinamide

Best Anti-Aging Serums & Retinols

Best Retinol: The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2%

Pros

  • Good for all skin types
  • Budget friendly
  • Targets fine lines and uneven texture
  • Great retinol for beginners

Cons

  • We wish a higher percentage was available
  • Can pill

If you’re not a fan of skincare with a plethora of ingredients, you probably know The Ordinary. It has a wide collection of products with one or two active ingredients, and the Granactive Retinoid 2% is one of them. It’s creamy but absorbs fast like a water-based serum, and doesn’t leave a sticky residue. Because retinol makes skin sensitive to the light, we suggest this for nighttime use. A few drops are all you need to promote a more even texture and minimize the appearance of pesky fine lines.

Key Ingredients: Retinol

Best Clean: Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum

Pros

  • Contains antioxidants that fight free radials that damage skin
  • Promotes collagen production
  • Reduces the appearance of dark spots

Cons

  • Product has to be premixed before use, but it’s not complicated!

“This serum is designed to be mixed at home before first use to ensure freshness and maximum potency,” says Garshick. “It is best used once daily in the morning and can be applied to the face, neck, chest, and hands.”

The formula includes potent vitamin C (as l-ascorbic acid), vitamin E, and ferulic acid, plus fruit enzymes and extracts to help fight free-radical damage while brightening and firming the skin and improving the overall complexion.

Key Ingredient: L-Ascorbic Acid, Ferulic Acid, Vitamin E

Best for Night: Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex

Pros

  • Made for every skin type
  • Boost hydration
  • Free of phthalates, mineral oil, and sulfates SLS and SLES

Cons

  • Contains fragrance, but only 1%

Sperling is a fan of the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Complex. “This serum [includes] key ingredients [like] hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, which target fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness,” Sperling says. “Apply at night time to increase hydration and suppleness of the skin.”

Hyaluronic acid is a key skincare ingredient that gives your skin a nice plump and will help restore moisture.  

Tip: if you’re not ready to invest $54 on the full-size bottle, you can also get a mini version of the same product for a fraction of the cost.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid

Best Firming: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Serum

Pros

  • Absorbs fast
  • Fragrance-free formula
  • Moisturizing

Cons

  • None that we’ve found

“This accessible serum contains peptides, which are composed of amino acids. They function as the building blocks of protein production to encourage collagen production for firmer skin,” Camp said.

According to the brand’s website, this serum is ultra-lightweight, creamy and fast absorbing. The non-greasy formula is specially designed to regenerate surface cells and deliver anti-aging ingredients 10 layers deep into the skin’s surface.

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Peptides

Best Luxury Serum: Ideo Skin Memory Serum

Pros

  • Lightweight formula
  • Locks in moisture
  • Skin brightening

Cons

  • More than $100

Coupon Code: $25 off a 30ml bottle with code NYPOST

Revitalize skin cells with Ideo’s Skin Memory Serum. It has a blend of hydrating hyaluronic acid, free radical fighting maleate, and antioxidants like brightening Vitamin C. Resveratrol aids in skin elasticity and the minimization of fine lines, while niacinamide improves overall skin tone. Best of all, the serum is lightweight, fragrance-free, and can be used in the morning and evening.

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid

Best Affordable Serum: Pond’s Rejuveness Skin Tightening Serum

Pros

  • Improves skin texture
  • Helps minimize look of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Needs to be avoided if you’re pregnant
  • May be irritating to retinol newbies

Regarding retinol, King recommends Pond’s Rejuveness Skin Tightening Serum.

“It’s formulated with retinol as well as vitamin B3 and pro-ceramides that help to support the skin barrier,” King told The Post. “Vitamin B3 helps to even skin tone and smooth skin texture.”

Retinol is a key ingredient in anti-aging skin care and works well to prevent wrinkles and smooth fine lines by increasing cell turnover and collagen production. 

Note: Do not use retinol if you’re pregnant; always consult your doctor before using new products.

Retinol should also only be used at night, as it can make your skin sensitive to the sun. Since retinol can irritate the skin, when you first add it to your nighttime skincare routine, start slow (try it once or twice per week), then increase the frequency if your skin can tolerate it. This will minimize the chances of dry skin, redness and breakouts.

Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Retinol

Best Tinted: Typology Face Serum

Pros

  • Silicone-free
  • Moisturizing and brightening
  • Leaves a dewy finish

Cons

  • Six shades are available, but we wish there were a few more

If you like an anti-aging product that multitasks, go with this Tinted Face Serum from Typology. It has vitamin C, which promotes collagen production and brighter skin, as well as moisturizing squalene. Best of all, the added tint blurs dark spots and pores like a foundation or B.B. cream without being heavy. Don’t be surprised if this bestseller becomes a favorite in your routine!

Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Aloe Vera, Squalene

Best Medical Grade: SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF with Ferulic Acid

Pros

  • Award-winning skincare product
  • Contains skin brightening vitamin C
  • Addresses damage from free radicals

Cons

  • May not be ideal for dry skin

For a luxurious and impactful serum that you don’t mind spending a small fortune on, Kansas City-based dermatologist Dr. Brittany Oliver recommends this option from SkinCeuticals.

“No antioxidant serum has ever toppled Skinceuticals Phloretin CF from the No. 1 spot in my book,” Oliver praised. “

I consider this a splurge for sure, but the combination of ingredients in this formulation is particularly helpful for oily skin and evening out skin tone, so I often recommend this to those who struggle with hyperpigmentation or acne-prone skin.”

This is best used by applying four or five drops directly to the face and neck after cleansing. 

Key ingredients: Phloretin, Vitamin C, Ferulic acid

Best for Sensitive Skin: Advanced Retinol Nightly Multi-Correct Serum

Pros

  • Gentle formula
  • Good for retinol beginners
  • Layers well with other products

Cons

  • May not be great for those with oily skin, but fine with combination, normal or dry

When it comes to anti-aging retinols, Oliver’s top choice is the Advanced Retinol Nightly-Multi-Correct Serum.

“This retinol was formulated for comfort, which those of us who have struggled to incorporate retinols [into your routine] can certainly appreciate,” Oliver told The Post. 

“Unique surface release technology allows for continuous delivery of retinol that’s gentler on the skin. It also contains polyglutamic acid, ashwagandha, and a patented form of niacin that all work together to minimize irritation while maximizing efficacy in reducing the appearance of wrinkles.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, Ashwagandha, Polyglutamic Acid

Best Anti-Aging Devices

Best At-Home Laser: Nira Precision

Pros

  • FDA-Cleared and award-winning
  • Only need less than 5 minutes a day
  • Great for under eye wrinkles and crows feet

Cons

  • Takes up to 90 days to see significant results

If forehead lines and crows feet have you down, go with the Nira Precision. The At-Home Laser is designed to address the fine lines around the eyes — both static and dynamic, as well as other areas of the face. It’s FDA cleared, easy to operate and only takes 2 minutes of your time! The narrow nozzle is small enough to place right beneath peepers to boost collagen and firm — what we all want — plus, its cordless design is perfect for using in bed or while watching TV. The anti-aging device offers 5 levels intensity but is surprisingly painless, and can also be used on smile lines, lip lines and other crepey places you’d like to tighten up.

Best Microcurrent: NuFace Trinity Starter Kit

Pros

  • FDA cleared and clinically tested
  • Great for jowls
  • Smooths crepey skin

Cons

  • Takes 60 days (on average) to see significant results

Just like the body, the face has muscles that benefit from a workout. The NuFace uses microcurrent to wake those bad boys up, while promoting natural collagen production. It can be used on the face and neck, helping to create a more even complexion with less visible fine lines and wrinkles. Best of all, it’s lifting! Not face-lift quality lifting, mind you, but in a plumping way, which may make you look more youthful and refreshed. It only needs to be used 5 minutes per day, too, which we all can find in our schedule.

Best with Red Light Therapy: Aphrona LED Facial Mask

Pros

  • Has three types of light therapy to address signs of aging
  • FDA registered
  • Meets the mark when it comes to effectiveness, according to Amazon customers

Cons

  • On the heavy side

Red light therapy is a great option if you’re looking to take your skincare routine a step further. It’s great for boosting collagen, which can plump skin and minimize the look of wrinkles. It also just feels therapeutic every time you slip it on. Although this LED Facial Mask is on the heavier side, it’s easy to use, offers red light, as well as green for texture and blue for acne. Our favorite part? It’s under $200, which is way less than other masks on the market!

Best Anti-Aging Face Moisturizers

Best with Active Ingredients: CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30 and Hyaluronic Acid

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Good for those prone to breakouts or sensitive skin
  • Helps with redness

Cons

  • Those with extra dry skin may prefer a thicker formula

Sperling recommends this combination anti-aging moisturizer with SPF for those looking for an effective but budget-friendly and anti-aging daily lotion.

“This lotion is great for all skin types, especially sensitive skin and or acne-prone skin. It moisturizes the skin throughout the day and is formulated with SPF 30,” says Sperling, who recommends using at least SPF 30 every day for optimal protection. 

“[It doesn’t] produce the white residue that makes some patients look like the Tin Man from the ‘Wizard of Oz.’ It also contains hyaluronic acid for hydration and niacinamide to reduce redness,” Kindred said.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Zinc Oxide, Ceramides, Niacinamide

Best Hydrating: Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream

Pros

  • Addresses fine lines and wrinkles
  • Thicker texture, ideal for nighttime use
  • A wide range of skin loving ingredients

Cons

  • Needs to be paired with SPF if wearing during the day

If you’re intimidated by the idea of using retinol but want similar results, Camp recommends using this anti-aging wrinkle cream from Dr. Dennis Gross.

“This smooth, hydrating moisturizer contains retinol as well as bakuchiol, a plant-based product that offers similar benefits to retinol with less irritation,” says Camp.

Key Ingredients: Retinol, Bakuchiol, Rambutan, Ferulic acid

Best with SPF: Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50

Pros

  • Dermatologist tested, vegan and cruelty-free
  • Gives a highlighted dewy hue
  • Contains moisturizing squalene

Cons

  • None that we found

One of our commerce editors loves this moisturizer with SPF and the natural glow it gives. “People started complimenting my skin immediately after I started using it,” she says. “I wouldn’t even be wearing makeup!”

Armed with a broad spectrum SPF 50, it leaves a slight shimmer, almost like you have highlighter on. It absorbed fast, and has lots of skin nourishing ingredients, too, including niacinamide and squalene to lock in that plumping moisture.

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (derived from vitamin C), Squalene

Best Plumping: Reserveage Beauty Firming Face Cream

Pros

  • Hydrates and firms
  • Improves texture
  • Moisturizing

Cons

  • Contains fragrance

This face cream is made with a unique, proprietary formula that’s packed with elements that help promote the appearance of beautiful skin. With the help of collagen and other natural ingredients the facial skin tone, evenness, smoothness and texture can improve in weeks. 

“Copper-encapsulated peptides help support healthy collagen production which minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” Libby explains.

Key Ingredients: Peptides, Collagen

Best for Mature Skin: DRMTLGY Peptide Night Cream

Pros

  • Formulated for normal, sensitive, and dry skin
  • Fragrance-free, and cruelty-free
  • Rich texture that isn’t heavy

Cons

  • Those with dryer skin may prefer something heavier

“A solid product at an attractive price point, this moisturizer is rich without being too heavy – for that reason, I use it year-round, day and night!” said Oliver.

“It contains peptides important in collagen production as well as ceramides important in skin barrier function [and hydration]. Hydration is essential for maintaining a healthy, youthful appearance to the skin and this moisturizing cream ranks among the best in my book.”

Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Peptides, Antioxidants

Best Anti-Aging Cleansers

Best Gentle: Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Face Wash

Pros

  • Fragrance free
  • Effectively removes makeup and oil without stripping skin
  • Hypoallergenic

Cons

  • None that we could find

Since some anti-aging products like retinoids and exfoliating acids can be especially harsh on the skin, Garshick likes to recommend this gentle (and affordable) cleanser from Neutrogena to her clients.

“This gentle cleanser is a great option. It effectively cleanses to remove dirt, makeup and buildup, while helping to replenish lost moisture, leaving the skin feeling healthy and refreshed,” Garshick tells the New York Post.

Key Ingredients: Glycerin

Best Exfoliating: RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Facial Cleanser

Pros

  • Satisfying, foamy lather
  • Encourages a glowy complexion
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • Has citrus scent, which some may not prefer

“The glycolic acid in this product is an alpha-hydroxy acid that helps gently exfoliate to reveal brighter, healthier skin. It also contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects against some of the effects of UV radiation,” explains Camp.

The RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Cleanser is made with a clinically-proven formula that helps remove impurities and delivers a more radiant complexion, leaving you with refreshed and glowy skin.

Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Glycolic acid

Best with AHAs and BHAs: SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

Pros

  • Gently removes dead skin cells for softer skin
  • May improve appearance of large pores

Cons

  • May be too much on skin when using other strong active ingredients, such as retinol or retinal

Oliver’s anti-aging cleanser choice is this option made by SkinMedica.

“This gentle exfoliating cleanser combines alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids to improve skin texture without being too abrasive,” Oliver said. “I find this suitable for daily use, but when you’re first starting out I recommend using 2-3 times per week and working your way up from there.”

Aimed to enhance a smoother and brighter complexion with round soft jojoba spheres that provide gentle exfoliating action, while lavender extract tones and soothes inflammation. The mildly astringent citrus oils minimize large pores for a radiant and refreshed appearance.

Key Ingredients: Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid

Best Anti-Aging Eye Creams

Best for Crows Feet: Olay Total Effects 7-in-One Anti-Aging Transforming Eye Cream

Pros

  • Moisturizing
  • Targets puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles
  • A little goes a long way

Cons

  • Bottle size is on the smaller size

King likes the Olay Total Effects 7-in-One Anti-Aging Transforming Eye Cream for anti-aging because it’s “rich in moisturizing ingredients and antioxidants, as well as niacinamide.”

According to the brand, this product fights seven signs of aging in one formula. It replenishes moisture, reduces the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, enhances brightness around the eyes, evens skin tone appearance as well as smoothes and evens your skin texture.

Key Ingredients: Antioxidants, Niacinamides

Best for Fine Lines: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum

Pros

  • Contains three types of retinol
  • Doesn’t contain mineral oil or parabens
  • Good for all skin types

Cons

  • Doesn’t have caffeine, which we like to see in eye creams

When it comes to anti-aging eye treatments, Sperling’s top choice is the Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum.

“This eye serum is a great choice for wrinkle prevention, hydration and under-eye brightening,” Sperling says. “The key ingredient is retinol, which works well to prevent wrinkles and smooth fine lines by increasing cell turnover and collagen production.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, Marine Complex, Cotton Wool Grass Extract

Best for Dark Circles: Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Dark Circle Reducing Vitamin C Eye Serum

Pros

  • Addresses hyperpigmentation under the eyes
  • Promotes collagen production

Cons

  • Some reviewers found it drying

Camp stands by this Kiehl’s eye cream for the best anti-aging results.

“This eye serum contains vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant to neutralize free oxygen radicals that develop from the body’s natural metabolism and UV exposure,” Camp says. “Oxygen radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cellular structures like DNA, lipids, and proteins. This product helps encourage collagen production and treat dark circles.”

Key Ingredients: Tri-Peptides, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic acid

Best Anti-Aging Face Sunscreens

Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Sunscreen

Pros

  • A high SPF
  • 4.6 rating on Amazon
  • Contains antioxidants
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Pricey for a sunscreen

While all sunscreens are, in effect, anti-aging, of course, there are a few specific picks that the experts we interviewed like best.

The Isdin Eryfotona Actinica Sunscreen, for instance, was recommended by both King and Garshick.

“This ultralight zinc sunscreen absorbs so well it’s hard to believe it contains zinc,” says Garshick. “It also contains DNA repair enzymes and antioxidants to help protect against and repair [sun] damage, making it particularly helpful in an anti-aging skincare routine.”

According to Garshick, it can be used on all skin types and is also easy to apply under makeup because it doesn’t leave a greasy finish.

Due to the combination of DNA repair enzymes, zinc oxide and antioxidants, King loves this sunscreen because “it’s actually repairing and protecting [your skin all] at the same time.”

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, Antioxidants

Best for Acne Prone: Neutrogena Clear Face Break-Out Free Liquid Lotion Sunscreen

Pros

  • Formulated to not trigger breakouts
  • Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Not really a con, but doesn’t have any active anti-aging ingredients

“I look for sunscreens [like this one from Neutrogena] that have physical blockers in them (like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) because these physically block the sun, causing the sun to bounce off the skin and deflect the sun’s rays,” said board certified dermatologist Dr. Sandra Lee, a.k.a Dr. Pimple Popper.

The Neutrogena Clear Face Break-Out Free Liquid Lotion Sunscreen contains a dermatologist-tested formula that’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. It’s also water resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Key Ingredients: n/a

Best for Dry Skin: Supergoop! Daily Dose Hydra-Ceramide Boost + SPF 40 Oil

Pros

  • Locks in moisture
  • A Clean at Sephora product
  • Moisturizing squalene

Cons

  • May not be ideal for those with oily skin
  • On the pricier end

Feel even more hydrated while keeping your skin protected from harmful UV rays with this Supergoop! sunscreen oil.

“In addition to offering SPF 40 protection, this hydrating sunscreen oil contains ceramides to keep the skin barrier healthy and hyaluronic acid to encourage moisture retention and hydration,” said Camp.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, Squalene

Best with Blue Light Protection: Dr. Dennis Gross All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30

Pros

  • Also protects against blue light
  • Non-greasy and hydrating

Cons

  • On the pricier end, especially with multiple applications each day

“A 100% mineral sunscreen that leaves no white cast, layers well with other products in my morning routine, protects against UVA/UVB, AND contains antioxidants to help fight signs of aging? Need I say more?” Oliver said. “This has and always will be an all-time personal favorite and is probably the best purely physical sunscreen I have ever used.”

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, Ferulic acid, Antioxidants

Best Anti-Aging Face Masks

Best for Uneven Texture: Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Rescue Mask

Pros

  • Good for all skin types
  • Doesn’t contain silicones or parabens

Cons

  • None that we have found at this time

When Sperling’s clients ask her which mask she likes best for anti-aging, she always mentions the Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Rescue Mask.

“It targets dull, rough and uneven skin [and is] formulated with hydrating ingredients to promote youthful-looking skin,” Sperling says simply.

Key Ingredients: Okra Fruit Extract, Super Lotus, Kombu seaweed, Red algae, Lotus seeds

Best Sheet Mask: Loops Beauty Sunrise Service Mask 5 Pack

Pros

  • Easy to travel with
  • Five masks come in a container
  • Depuffing and hydrating

Cons

  • None that we’ve found thus far. According to customers, the mask is very easy to apply

“The Sunrise Service mask is rich in baobab oil, pumpkin extract, flower extracts and a probiotic, designed to hydrate, moisturize, brighten, smooth, depuff and protect [your skin] from free radicals,” King says.

All Loops Beauty masks are compostable, cruelty-free and free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates and synthetic fragrances, which is always an added plus!

Key Ingredients: Pumpkin extract, White flower extract, Baobab oil, Bio Duoferm

Best Anti-aging Makeup

Best Anti-Aging CC Cream: IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Illumination with SPF 50+

Pros

  • Full coverage
  • Includes SPF
  • Good for all skin types

Cons

  • Not enough shade options

Achieve a radiant and youthful complexion with IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Illumination, a multitasking powerhouse that not only provides full coverage but also offers a luminous finish, all while delivering sun protection with its SPF 50+ formulation.

Key Ingredients: Vitamin B, Collagen, Peptides

Best Face Powder: Supergoop! 100% Mineral (Re)setting Powder

Pros

  • Good for all skin types
  • Great for SPF touch-ups when wearing makeup
  • Portable

Cons

  • To much may highlight fine lines and wrinkles

Combat the sun’s rays while setting your makeup flawlessly with Supergoop! 100% Mineral (Re)setting Powder, a finely milled powder that blurs imperfections, controls shine, and enhances your skin’s natural radiance, all with the added benefit of broad-spectrum SPF protection.

Key Ingredients: Mineral Zinc Oxide, Coated silica, Ceramides

Best for Glowing Skin: Jones Road Miracle Balm All-Over-Glow

Pros

  • Hydrating
  • Highlights
  • Can be used on lips and cheeks

Cons

  • Not easy to find the right shade

Enhance your skin with a youthful and dewy glow with Jones Road Miracle Balm All-Over-Glow, a versatile balm that effortlessly adds a luminous sheen to your skin. Packed with nourishing ingredients, it not only enhances your natural beauty but also provides a hydrating and anti-aging boost for a refreshed appearance.

Key Ingredients: Antioxidants, Fatty acids

An FAQ on Anti-Aging Skincare

Ahead, find the expert-level tips and tricks before your next anti-aging skincare haul.

What are anti-aging skin care products? 

While it may be obvious, sometimes a simple definition gives a better understanding of anti-aging products.

“Anti-aging skincare products are formulated to help reduce visible signs of skin aging like wrinkles, fine lines, leathery skin and dark spots,” said Dr. Dendy Engelman, a spokesperson for The Skin Cancer Foundation and board-certified dermatologic surgeon practicing in New York City. “They can be preventative or work to reduce signs of aging that are already there.”

What is the difference between serum, retinol and retinoid?

Board-certified dermatologist Tiffany Libby explained the difference between these three popular skincare products.

  • Serums are a category of products that typically come in a liquid to a gel-like texture, containing more concentrated ingredients, formulated to be applied after cleansing onto clean skin to reap maximum benefits.
  • Retinol is a retinoid typically more widely found in over-the-counter (OTC) formulations. Retinoids refer to a larger group of vitamin A derivatives that are touted for their abilities to increase skin cell turnover, smooth fine lines, treat acne, even skin pigmentation, and stimulate collagen production.
  • Retinols are weaker than retinoids as they require more conversions to reach the active ingredient, retinoic acid. More potent, prescription-level retinoids like tretinoin and adapalene (now also available OTC) have a higher level of retinoic acid.

At what age should I start investing and using anti-aging skincare products? 

While there is no perfect age to start investing and using specific anti-aging products, most experts say your 20s are an excellent time to start thinking about the long-term health of your skin.

“Start early and don’t wait for [skin] problems to arise or for changes to start bothering [for] you to commit to a skincare routine,” said NYC-based, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa K. Garshick.

“As the saying goes, ‘the best thing you can do for your skin in your 50s is wearing sunscreen in your 20s,'” Garshick says. “We begin to lose one percent of our collagen each year beginning in our 20s, and we know that the loss of collagen can contribute to fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, laxity and [the] overall textural changes in the skin.”

What is the best skincare product for aging skin?

Bottom line: of all the best anti-aging products one can use, it’s sunscreen.

“Since an estimated 90 percent of skin aging is caused by the sun, protecting your skin from these harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is the most important thing you can do in any anti-aging skincare routine,” Engelman tells The Post. “Sun damage is cumulative, so it’s never too early or too late to start practicing sun protection. Everyone — men, women and children over the age of 6 months — should use sunscreen, including those who do not burn easily or have darker skin tones.”

Adding to that, Garshick explains that sun protection (even in childhood and adolescence) can significantly impact your skin’s aging. So, committing to optimal sun protection as early as possible will ultimately be the best investment for your skin in the long run.

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Update: 2024-08-23