Best anti-aging skincare products, tested by experts and editors

Let’s get one thing straight — aging is a vibe. Laugh lines, life lived, confidence earned, it’s all part of the deal. But, if your skin’s been looking a little less radiant than you feel? There’s no shame in calling in reinforcements.

Today’s anti-aging skincare is smarter, more luxurious and seriously effective. Think: dermatologist-approved formulas to glow-inducing essentials that feel like a treat and a treatment.

As a full-time beauty product tester and commerce reporter of more than 4 years, I turned to a roster of board-certified dermatologists and my rich experience testing nearly every brand to round up the best anti-aging skin care products that go beyond marketing hype and actually deliver results. From listing the best skincare to use in your 20s to unveiling a derm-approved routine for your 40s, you can trust that each product in this guide has been well-researched and, more often than not, tested and reviewed.

After all, the best anti-aging cream that smooths without smothering, a quality anti-aging wrinkle cream can make a world of difference and the best anti-aging serum layers like silk and works like a boss. Add in the ultimate anti-aging moisturizer, a few skin-reviving anti-aging supplements and yes — that Korean sunscreen we swear by — and your routine just leveled up.

From under-the-radar anti-aging hand cream to the best anti-aging eye cream that fakes eight hours of sleep, we’ve got you covered from forehead to fingertips. There’s also a dreamy anti-aging night cream that does the heavy lifting while you rest, a gentle yet effective anti-aging face wash and even the best anti-aging face oil that gives you an instant glow and long-term payoff.

Oh, and tretinoin? Still the gold standard — if you’re ready for it. However, you’ll want to consult your board-certified dermatologist to see if this prescribed treatment is right for you.

This guide is your backstage pass to the best anti-aging face products that actually do what they say. Because taking care of your skin isn’t about erasing the past; it’s about showing up to the future with radiance, resilience and one seriously good routine.

For more, check out our in-depth FAQ section at the end of this guide.

If you’ve ever waged war against fine lines, dryness or that mysteriously dull “I slept eight hours but still look tired” glow, let me introduce you to your new secret weapon: COSRX The Ceramide Skin Barrier Moisturizer. This moisturizer is one of my absolute favorites — a tall order, BTW — but it’s because it works and contains a match made in heaven for anti-aging: ceramides and hyaluronic acid.

“For anti-aging, specifically in your 40s, I recommend a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid or ceramides to keep the skin hydrated, and then a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher (a physical formula containing zinc oxide),” Debra Jaliman, MD, board-certified dermatologist in NYC and assistant clinical professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, shared with The Post.

Loaded with ceramides (the stuff your skin naturally makes but sadly produces less of as you age), this COSRX moisturizer rebuilds my moisture barrier like a pro. Think of it as a warm, cozy blanket for your face, only this one actually reverses the clock a little.

The best part? It teams up ceramides with hyaluronic acid, a dermatologist-loved hydration heavyweight that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Translation: your skin gets that juicy, plump, “I’ve been drinking water and minding my business” kind of look.

Jessica Garelik, MD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and member of the American Academy of Dermatology, also recommendes a gentle cream containing ceramides for your anti-aging regimen. “For those with dry or sensitive skin, maintaining a healthy skin barrier and minimizing irritation is important; this may be achieved by using moisturizers that contain ceramides and a low strength, over-the-counter retinol, one to two times per week, as opposed to every night,” she recommended.

This moisturizer doesn’t hold any overpowering scents and no filler ingredients; just a silky, rich texture that melts in and leaves my skin feeling cared for.

Size: 2.70 ounces | Key ingredients: Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol (B5)

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This wouldn’t be a guide to the best anti-aging products without a mention of every single dermatologist’s recommendation: a broad-spectrum SPF.

If you’re serious about anti-aging, the Anua Heartleaf + Panthenol Silky Moisture Mild Sunscreen SPF 50+ is your best bet. It’s one I can’t stop using, featuring an elegant, feather-light texture that glides on beautifully. this SPF doesn’t just sit on your skin; it becomes one with it.

Its SPF 50+ broad-spectrum protection means you’re guarded against both UVA (the wrinkle-makers) and UVB (the sunburn villains), making it a true anti-aging powerhouse. Because, let’s be real — what’s the point of all those serums and night creams if you’re letting sun damage run wild every day?

Its formula is what makes this formulation stand out. Heartleaf, beloved in the Korean skincare for its calming, anti-inflammatory powers, soothes redness and irritation, making this ideal for my sensitive skin. Then there’s panthenol, a great ingredient for hydrating the skin, keeping that plump, bouncy feeling. It’s not greasy, doesn’t pill and leaves a silky (not shiny) finish that plays well with makeup or bare skin.

Another reason why this face sunscreen ranks as the best anti-aging MVP is for its SPF 50+ count, recommended by dermatologists I consulted.

“In the morning, after cleansing the face with a gentle facial cleanser and moisturizing with a gentle facial lotion, apply a SPF 50+ sunscreen liberally to all exposed areas of face AND other exposed areas of the body, including the arms and hands,” John M. Evans, MD, board-certified dermatologist, owner of his practice Alabama Dermatology and Skin Specialists in Huntsville, advised.

Size: 1.69 ounces | Key ingredients: Heartleaf, Panthenol (B5)

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If there’s one product that’s managed to seduce those keen on anti-aging it’s the Olay Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer that’s the best wrinkle cream I reviewed. It’s a dreamy, no-nonsense wrinkle cream that delivers results while you sleep. It doesn’t cause redness and is incredibly gentle, despite it containing a potent ingredient like retinol.

It works well for my sensitive skin because it marries the proven wrinkle-fighting abilities of retinol with the intense hydration of hyaluronic acid, striking the perfect balance between correction and comfort. The result? Smoother, plumper, visibly younger-looking skin when used consistently — with zero drama.

The magic is in the formula. Olay didn’t just toss in a trendy ingredient or two; they curated a smart blend that actually works. The retinol complex dives deep to boost collagen production and accelerate cell turnover, tackling fine lines, uneven tone and dullness head-on. Meanwhile, that beloved hyaluronic acid ingredient acts like a sponge, drawing moisture into the skin to prevent the dryness that often accompanies retinol use. Together, they create a luxurious cream that’s both high-performance and incredibly nourishing. Think: clinical results with a cashmere finish.

While everyone’s skin has different needs, I find this formula to work exceptionally well on my sensitive skin and nurture the dry and oily parts of my skin, too. If your skin skews on the drier side but you still want anti-aging benefits, this retinol-hyaluronic acid cream is a winner.

“If your skin is dry, I might add a hyaluronic acid serum before the moisturizer,” Hannah Kopelman, MD, board-certified dermatologist who specializes in both cosmetic and medical dermatology, as well as hair loss, shared with The Post. “For oily skin, I’ll sometimes recommend a BHA like salicylic acid instead of a heavy cream. Sensitive skin types may need a slower intro to actives, or to use bakuchiol instead of retinol. It’s all about balance and consistency.”

Size: 1.70 ounces | Key ingredients: Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid

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The Beekman 1802 Golden Booster Amla Berry Vitamin C Serum gives me that “wow factor” glow. It’s a great anti-aging treatment, thanks to its unique formulation centered around the amla berry, an ingredient renowned for containing 20 times more vitamin C than the average orange.

This serum delivers a powerful dose of antioxidants that visibly brighten skin, even tone and reduce dark spots, all while being remarkably gentle. It absorbs into my skin beautifully, and it’s a gentle, good-for-sensitive-skin option, especially if you’re layering your anti-aging routine with other actives like retinol.

“Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots by preventing excess melanin production,” Toral Vaidya, MD, MPH, board-certified dermatologist in NYC, shared with The Post.

It’s also a great serum if you’re on the market for a gentle anti-aging routine. “A simple regimen might include a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils, followed by a vitamin C serum in the morning to protect against environmental damage and boost collagen,” Dr. Jaliman noted.

Texture-wise, this serum is a joy to use. Infused with botanicals like ashwagandha, holy basil and carrot oil, it nourishes and soothes the skin, making it feel plump, hydrated and comfortably balanced. It leaves a radiant, dewy finish. The formula’s luxurious yet lightweight feel elevates everyday skincare as well.

Size: 0.5 ounces | Key ingredients: Vitamin C, Amla Berry, Ashwagandha

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Murad’s Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum is a standout retinol product in the realm of anti-aging skincare, and it’s because of its innovative Retinol Tri-Active Technology. This proprietary blend combines a fast-acting retinoid, a time-released retinol and a retinol booster to deliver both immediate and sustained benefits. This trifecta ensures that the delicate skin around the eyes receives continuous treatment which, in turn, helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while minimizing potential irritation.

“Retinol is a powerhouse. It increases skin cell turnover, stimulates collagen, smooths out fine lines and helps fade discoloration,” Dr. Kopelman said. “I’ve seen it dramatically improve skin texture and tone in patients across different age groups. You just have to use it properly; start low and go slow to minimize irritation, especially if you’re new to it.”

Alongside its advanced retinol formulation, the serum is enriched with a Marine Kelp Complex, known for its firming and lifting properties. This ingredient helps revitalize the under-eye area. It’s also gentle enough to pair with your other skincare ingredients.

Size: 0.5 ounces | Key ingredients: Retinol, Marine Kelp Complex

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If I can write a love letter to ALPYN for literally *all* of its skincare, I would. Actually, I did in my full review of the brand.

The best dermatologist-approved retinol alternative is bakuchiol, a plant-based side-sister to the active ingredient. “Bakuchiol is known to be more gentle on the skin causing fewer side effects such as redness, peeling and irritation,”  Azadeh Shirazi, MD, cosmetic dermatologist at La Jolla Laser Dermatology specializing in surgical and laser dermatology, once told me. “In terms of stability, retinol can be unstable, break down when exposed to light whereas bakuchiol is more stable and tends to have a longer shelf life.”

This whipped beauty of a cream is great to use either day or night, and I love how replenished my skin feels even hours later or overnight. Ceramides work behind the scenes to fortify your skin barrier as well, locking in moisture and keeping environmental stressors out. Then there’s ALPYN’s signature wildcrafted alpine plant complex — harvested sustainably from the mountains of Wyoming — which adds a unique layer of antioxidant protection and nourishment. The result is a formula that feels plush and restorative, melting effortlessly into the skin without greasiness or residue.

Size: 1.70 ounces | Key ingredients: Bakuchiol, Ceramides

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Ranked as the best night cream for mature skin we reviewed, the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Hydra-Firm Night Cream is a step-above the usual moisturizer that packs in the hydration oh-so-well. Essentially, If your skin could write a thank-you note, it would be addressed to this formula right here.

It’s got all the greatest hits: plumping peptides, calming colloidal oatmeal and glow-boosting niacinamide. Basically, it tucks your skin in with a lullaby and a 10-step skincare routine’s worth of goodness in one velvety dollop. It has buttery hydration and firming action that’s unlike the roster of creams on the market, so it’s a must-try.

“In the evening, cleanse again to remove makeup and impurities, then a peptide serum to support overnight repair,” Jaliman said. “A richer night cream to deeply hydrate and nourish the skin during sleep is also great to incorporate into your routine.”

Size: 1.70 ounces | Key ingredients: Peptides, Colloidal Oatmeal, Niacinamide

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Many dermatologists will argue that an eye cream isn’t necessary for your skincare routine if you’re dotting the Ts and crossing the Is on your cleanser, moisturizer and SPF, but the Sarah Creal Firm Offer Ultimate 4-in-1 Peptide Eye Cream is worth the buy. As soon as I used it, I thought, “wow, this is soothing.”

“If you want to go the extra mile, ‘extra credit’ steps might include adding peptides or growth factors, which can offer additional support for firmness and repair, especially when combined with the basics,” Samantha Ellis, MD, board-certified dermatologist, owner of the Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology and Aesthetics practice in Northern California and skincare expert with 445K+ followers on Instagram, told The Post.

Peptides are a very broad skincare category but they are considered safe and generally well-tolerated. “They help support the skin’s structural proteins and can improve firmness and elasticity, especially when used consistently as part of a broader routine,” Dr. Ellis explained. “It’s important to note that not all peptides do the same thing. Those that have the most evidence for skin firming/collagen production are Matrixyl 3000 and copper peptides.”

As for this eye cream, its packaging is luxurious, but its formula even more so. It’s cruelty free, fragrance free and helps eliminate natural dark circles like a charm. It also primes my eyes well underneath makeup, so it’s well worth the investment.

Size: 0.5 ounces | Key ingredients: Peptides, Hyaluronic Acid, Caffeine

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When I spoke to more than a handful of board-certified dermatologists for this guide on anti-aging products, all of them recommended a “gentle cleanser.” Dr. Evans even gave CeraVe a shoutout as a respected brand. So, we’ve arrived at the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser as a standout option for any one, any age.

I’ve been a fan of this particular face wash for years, and so have more than 121,000 shoppers on Amazon. It’s packed with three essential ceramides (the ingredient class recommended here for anti-aging, specifically), and hyaluronic acid — because who couldn’t use the extra hydration, anyway?

“A basic anti-aging routine includes a gentle cleanser, antioxidant serum (like vitamin C) in the morning, followed by moisturizer and broad-spectrum SPF 30+,” Dr. Vaidya said. “At night, use a retinoid or exfoliant, a targeted eye cream, and a nourishing moisturizer. For dry skin, richer creams are helpful to use, where as oily skin benefits from lightweight, non-comedogenic products. For those with sensitive skin, using lower percentage actives, and using them less frequently may be required.”

Size: 16 ounces | Key ingredients: Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin

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Exfoliators: some people love them, other people hate them, but even sensitive skin users can benefit from including one in their routines. One to two times per week, Jaliman recommends using a “gentle exfoliant like lactic acid to promote cell turnover without irritation, or an enzyme peel with pomegranate.”

While the Maelove Night Renewer Glycolic Acid Cream doesn’t include pomegranate, it boasts shea butter, arnica flower, hyaluronic acid and glycerin in its ingredient list, along with glycolic acid, a dermatologist-approved AHA.

Think of it as your skin’s overnight reset button, blending 10% medical-grade glycolic acid with soothing botanical extracts to gently dissolve dead skin cells while you sleep. The result? A morning glow so luminous it might just make your highlighter obsolete. What makes it stand out isn’t just the science-backed formula: an elegant balance between power and gentleness, which is notoriously hard to find in chemical exfoliants.

Size: 2.0 ounces | Key ingredients: Glycolic Acid, Shea Butter

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Yes, hand creams contain retinol — and as a years-long fan of Beauty Pie, the Super Retinol Anti-Aging Hand Cream with 1% Retinol is an A+ option to pick up for your anti-aging regimen.

As one of the most forgotten areas of the body to hydrate and pay special attention to, your hands deserve some TLC, too. To help prevent wrinkles and to ensure you have smooth skin on repeat, this bring-everywhere hand cream is a premium option.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, floral-scented fluff in a tube; it’s a smart, science-backed treatment dressed up as hand cream. With a potent 1% encapsulated retinol at its core, this formula doesn’t just sit pretty — it gets to work, smoothing fine lines, fading sun spots and coaxing collagen back to life like a motivational speaker for your skin cells.

Smooth, firm, and luminous hands may not trend on TikTok, but they will turn heads when you’re handing someone a business card, a glass of wine, or simply living life with elegance, so it’s worth the pick-me-up if you’re in the market for a new hand cream.

Size: 2.5 ounces | Key ingredients: Retinol, Collagen

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If your skincare shelf is overflowing but your results are still underwhelming, it might be time to look inward, literally. Enter: Ritual HyaCera Wrinkle Support, the sleek, clinical-chic supplement redefining what it means to age well. It’s not a mystery-pill blend; it’s a scientifically formulated capsule that targets skin aging at its source — from within.

With just two powerhouse ingredients, HyaCera combines cutting-edge beauty science with Ritual’s signature transparency. And trust us, your future face will thank you.

At the heart of HyaCera’s glow-up magic are two clinical-grade ingredients: Hydrocurc (a highly bioavailable turmeric extract) and Ceratiq (a plant-based ceramide derived from wheat seed extract). Together, they form a minimalist, no-filler duo that packs a serious punch. Ceratiq helps lock in moisture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, while Hydrocurc supports the body’s natural response to oxidative stress— which, in beauty speak, means fewer lines and a more luminous complexion.

Ritual is also a trusted brand that has the approved seals that medical experts we consulted recommended looking for (non-GMO, we’re looking at you). The brand is respected for its ingredient transparency, which is a refreshingly honest approach to beauty marketing. There aren’t any miracle claims here, just clinically-backed, visible results in 90 days or less.

Size: 30 capsules | Key ingredients: Hydrocurc (a highly bioavailable turmeric extract), Ceratiq (a plant-based ceramide derived from wheat seed extract)

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If your skincare routine is missing that one product that makes everything snap into place, meet your new holy grail: Farmacy Filling Good Hyaluronic Acid Plumping Serum. This serum is one of my favorites and ideal for any age, transforming my skin from dull and deflated to plump, juicy and radiant.

Powered by a high-tech blend of advanced hyaluronic acid and vegan collagen peptides, it dives deep beneath the surface to smooth fine lines and bring back the bounce, fast. It holds a buttery-soft texture and sensorial experience; it glides on like a dream, absorbs in seconds and leaves my skin feeling like velvet. There’s no stickiness or pilling, either. Not to mention, Jaliman and Kopelman both recommend using a hyaluronic acid serum in your anti-aging regimen, especially if your skin is on the dry side.

The hyaluronic acid is encapsulated, meaning it keeps working all day, while Farmacy’s signature honey and turmeric ferment give it that soothing, anti-inflammatory edge your skin didn’t know it needed. It’s clinical skincare with a side of comfort, and your fine lines? Already sweating.

Size: 1.0 ounce | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides

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If you’re still searching for the best peptide serum to combat the signs of aging, look no further than SkinCeuticals P-TIOX Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Serum. It’s renowned for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, P-TIOX is often dubbed “Botox in a bottle,” which simply seems like a calling for anyone upgrading their anti-aging routine. Its advanced peptide complex works synergistically with other potent ingredients to deliver visible results, too.

“In your 40s and above, consistent skincare routine focused on hydration, collagen support and protection is key,” Jaliman said. “In the morning a gentle cleanser to refresh the skin without stripping its natural oils. Follow with a peptide serum to help boost collagen production and improve skin firmness. Layer a vitamin C serum on top for antioxidant protection and a brighter complexion.”

One of the standout features of P-TIOX is its formulation. The serum combines a unique blend of peptides, including hexapeptide and dipeptide, with 5% polyhydroxy acid (PHA), 5% niacinamide, and 1% laminaria extract. These ingredients work together to relax facial muscles, help smooth out expression lines and enhance skin texture and radiance.

Beyond its wrinkle-reducing capabilities, P-TIOX also offers additional skincare benefits. The inclusion of niacinamide helps to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, while laminaria extract provides hydration and soothing properties.

Size: 1.0 ounce | Key ingredients: Peptides, Collagen

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If you’re hunting for that one product to zap away discoloration while giving your skin a serious glow-up, the Naturium Azelaic Topical Acid 10% is basically your new BFF. It’s like the skincare equivalent of a smooth operator — tough enough to tackle stubborn dark spots and uneven tone, but chill enough not to freak out your skin.

While other acids can leave you red-faced and irritated, this gem quietly gets to work, calming redness and refining your texture with the kind of subtle magic that leaves you wondering why you didn’t try it sooner. In fact, it’s recommended by Jaliman.

“For those in their 30s with sensitive skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, it’s important to focus on strengthening the skin barrier while gently addressing early signs of aging.,” she said. “Instead of retinol, which can be too harsh, I often recommend incorporating niacinamide or azelaic acid into their routine. Niacinamide helps calm redness, improve skin tone, and support the skin’s natural barrier, making it ideal for inflamed or reactive skin. Azelaic acid is another excellent option; it soothes inflammation, reduces redness, and brightens the skin without causing irritation.””

These two ingredients each offer anti-aging benefits while being safe for sensitive skin types, and this product contains both.

Lightweight, fast-absorbing and totally fuss-free, this acid plays nice with your other skincare products and slots perfectly into any routine, morning or night. If you want to simplify your anti-aging game without compromising on results, this little bottle is a game changer.

Size: 1.0 ounce | Key ingredients: Azelaic Acid, Niacinamide

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An FAQ on Anti-Aging Skincare Products

What does “anti-aging” mean?

When Dr. Ellis thinks of anti-aging, as it pertains to skin specifically, it’s preserving, or in some cases, restoring, your skin’s health, function, and appearance as you age. “Often the focus is on protecting the collagen you have as well as stimulating the skin to make new collagen, preventing sun damage as well as clearing away signs of existing damage such as brown spots and broken blood vessels, and maintaining hydration and skin barrier strength so that skin stays resilient, smooth, firm and as even-toned as possible over time,” she shared.

When should people begin thinking about an anti-aging regimen?

Honestly, the earlier the better —but that doesn’t mean starting with aggressive products.

“In your 20s, wearing daily sunscreen and using an antioxidant serum like vitamin C is a great start,” Dr. Kopelman shared. “By your 30s, you can add a retinoid or retinol at night to promote collagen and smooth texture. In your 40s and beyond, we can tailor your regimen to support firmness, hydration and more targeted concerns like pigmentation or deeper lines.”

What does an anti-aging skincare routine look like?

A typical anti-aging routine starts with a gentle cleanser (only if oily), followed by an antioxidant serum like vitamin C in the morning to protect against environmental damage and support collagen, per Ellis.

“After that, apply a moisturizer suited to your skin type, and finish with broad-spectrum sunscreen (this is the single most important step for preventing premature aging),” she shared. “At night, cleanse again, use a retinoid to boost cell turnover and collagen production, and follow with a nourishing moisturizer to support the skin barrier. For oily or acne-prone skin, stick with lighter, gel-based formulas. If your skin is dry or sensitive, opt for creamier cleansers and richer moisturizers, and start with a gentle retinol (rather than prescription tretinoin, for example) a few nights per week, slowly working your way up.”

What are some skincare concerns that people may experience with age?

“With age, we tend to see more fine lines, uneven tone, sun spots, dullness and loss of firmness,” Ellis said.

The skin also becomes drier and more sensitive as the barrier weakens and natural oil production decreases. Because of this, supporting collagen, improving texture, and maintaining hydration become key goals.

What anti-aging ingredients should I look for?

“Retinoids and sunscreen should be the highest priority topical ingredients for anyone interested in an anti-aging regimen,” Dr. Evans shared, first and foremost. “Vitamin C serums can also be beneficial but are irritating to some patients and can cause perioral dermatitis.”

Avoid fragrances as these often lead to allergic contact dermatitis, and also avoid the use of too many products or overcomplicating a regimen, as rashes such as perioral dermatitis commonly develop when too many irritants (e.g. retinoid, Vitamin C, AHA, salicylic acid) are used together.

Can anti-aging products actually reduce wrinkles, or just prevent them?

They can do both. “While no cream will erase deep wrinkles, retinoids and peptides can meaningfully decrease the appearance of fine lines and improve skin texture,” Ellis said. “With long-term use, you’ll not only slow the formation of new wrinkles but also see improvement in existing ones.”

How long does it take to see results from anti-aging skincare?

You’ll usually start noticing brighter, smoother skin in about six to 12 weeks. “For deeper changes like increased firmness and reduction in fine lines, it often takes three to six months of consistent use and the benefits will still continue to accrue beyond that,” Ellis said.

Should people use anti-aging skincare devices?

Here’s the deal: Ellis isn’t the biggest fan of most at-home devices, as they need to be used with consistency and certainly can’t offer the improvements that in-office treatments can.

However, we reviewed the best LED face masks, which are great to consider if you’re in the market for one.

What does retinol do for aging skin?

Retinol increases cell turnover, stimulates collagen, slows the breakdown of collagen and reduces irregular pigment production, which helps reduce fine lines, smooth out texture, and even out your skin tone.

“It’s one of the most effective ingredients we have for visible signs of aging, and it works best when used consistently over time,” Ellis said.

Is vitamin C really effective for dark spots?

“Vitamin C isn’t my top pick for dark spots, but it can help slowly fade dark spots by interrupting pigment production,” Ellis said. “It also provides antioxidant protection against UV radiation which can help reduce dark spot formation in the first place when paired with sunscreen and other forms of sun protection.”

Are peptides safe, and do they help with firming the skin?

Peptides are a very broad skincare category, but they are considered safe and generally well-tolerated, according to Ellis.

“They help support the skin’s structural proteins and can improve firmness and elasticity, especially when used consistently as part of a broader routine,” she said.

What’s the difference between AHAs, BHAs and PHAs in anti-aging skincare?

AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid exfoliate the skin’s surface, improving texture and tone. BHAs (salicylic acid) are attracted to fats/oils in the skin, and thus can penetrate deeper into pores, making them great for oily or acne-prone skin.

“There are different types of PHAs, and they are much gentler,” Ellis noted. “They offer very mild exfoliation, but I think of them more as great hydrating ingredients.”

Can hyaluronic acid plump up deep wrinkles?

Hyaluronic acid can temporarily plump the skin, making fine lines look softer — but it won’t fill deep wrinkles.

“It can still be a valuable part of an anti-aging routine to keep the skin looking supple and smooth, but it doesn’t offer the same long-term wrinkle-reducing benefits of retinoids or peptides, for example,” Ellis said.

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This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.

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