When used consistently and correctly, the best antiaging ingredients can deliver real results. From lifting and firming skin to smoothing wrinkles, the best creams and serums for mature skin use actives to target an array of skin concerns.
According to Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, as we age our collagen and elastin production starts to decline, which can result in fine lines and volume loss. Other concerns include dryness, hyperpigmentation, and dullness. Using the best antiaging ingredients can help combat all of the above.
“The exact results vary depending on the formula and its ingredients, but many of my patients have seen transformative results—ranging from reduced fine lines and wrinkles to brighter, bouncier and more hydrated skin,” says Dr. Engleman.
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Below, we asked dermatologists to break down the best antiaging ingredients to add to your skin care routine.
What are the best antiaging ingredients?
According to Jae Yong Ban, MD, medical director of Banobagi Dermatology Clinic and CEO of Bano Cosmetics, retinol is one of the most powerful ingredients to combat signs of aging. A vitamin A derivative, retinol is used in serums, face creams, and eye creams. “Retinol is known for its ability to stimulate collagen production, which helps improve skin firmness and elasticity with consistent use,” says Dr. Ban.
If you’re introducing retinol to your routine, it’s important to start slow and steady. “It may cause mild irritation or sensitivity, especially for those with delicate skin,” explains Dr. Ban.
Dr. Engelman echoes this, adding that consistent use is key to get results. “Retinol has long been the gold standard of antiaging skin care because it signals cells to act like younger, healthier cells, thus working to build collagen and elastin, improve cell turnover and moisture retention, and improve tone and texture,” the expert says.
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Firm, plump skin, here we come.
This multitasking ingredient tackles a variety of skin concerns in addition to antiaging. According to Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama, “Vitamin C also aids in reducing hyperpigmentation and dark spots caused by acne scarring or sun exposure. Research has also shown that vitamin C helps stimulate collagen production, which makes skin appear firmer and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Brigitt Earley testing the Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Retinol + Vitamin C Dark Spot Corrector
- Original photo from Brigitt Earley testing the Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Retinol + Vitamin C Dark Spot Corrector
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- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing the Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Brightening Treatment Serum
- Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing the Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Brightening Treatment Serum
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- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Youth To The People 15% Vitamin C + Caffeine Energy Face Serum
- Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Youth To The People 15% Vitamin C + Caffeine Energy Face Serum
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A skin care favorite, hyaluronic acid is a go-to ingredient for quenching dry skin. “Hyaluronic acid can be helpful for aging skin, as it helps to boost hydration as well as plump the skin,” says Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. “As we age, our skin becomes dry, so boosting moisture can help to keep the skin looking and feeling healthy.”
According to Jodi LoGerfo, DNP, a family nurse practitioner certified in dermatology, hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant—it can hold onto as much as 1,000 times its weight in water. This also helps with skin elasticity, irritation, and smoothing skin.
Best of all, it’s suitable for all skin types. “Using it topically will never make you look ‘overdone’ or ‘cosmetic,’ but only make your skin look healthier," says Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology. “Because it’s a natural substance, it’s also well tolerated by just about everyone. There’s really no skin type that can’t use it.”
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You’ve likely seen peptides used just about everywhere in skin care and makeup recently. The It ingredient is a favorite of brands like Rhode, The Inkey List, and Peter Thomas Roth—and for good reason. According to Tiffany Libby, MD, director of Mohs micrographic and dermatologic surgery at Brown Dermatology, peptides are short chains of amino acids that support cell signaling, tissue repair, and collagen production.
“Peptides can be applied to the skin twice a day under makeup and sunscreen,” says Howard Sobel, MD, a clinical attending cosmetic dermatologic surgeon at NYC’s Lenox Hill Hospital. With consistent use, peptides signal cells to “act younger,” minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. “Peptides also have hygroscopic properties, meaning they can attract and retain water, which helps hydrate skin and improve moisture retention.”
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