Wrinkle creams: Your guide to younger looking skin
Do over-the-counter wrinkle creams really reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles? It depends.
People buy nonprescription wrinkle creams and lotions with the hope that these products can reduce wrinkles and prevent or reverse damage caused by the sun.
Do they work? That often depends on the products' ingredients and how long you use them. Because these over-the-counter (OTC) wrinkle creams aren't classified as drugs, they're not required to undergo scientific research to prove their effectiveness.
If you're looking for a face-lift in a bottle, you probably won't find it in OTC wrinkle creams. The benefits of these products are usually only slight.
Common ingredients in anti-wrinkle creams
Moisturizing alone can improve the appearance of your skin. It temporarily plumps the skin, making lines and wrinkles less visible. Moisturizers are lotions, creams, gels and serums made of water, oils and other ingredients, such as proteins, waxes, glycerin, lactate and urea.
Wrinkle creams often are moisturizers with active ingredients that offer additional benefits. These added ingredients are intended to improve skin tone, texture, fine lines and wrinkles. The effectiveness of these products depends in part on your skin type and the active ingredient or ingredients.
Here are common ingredients that may result in some improvement in in the appearance of your skin.
- Retinoids. This term is used for vitamin A compounds, such as retinol and retinoic acid. These ingredients have long been used topically to help repair sun-damaged skin and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, which means it protects the skin from free radicals — unstable oxygen molecules that break down skin cells and cause wrinkles. Vitamin C may help protect skin from sun damage and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Before and between uses, wrinkle creams containing vitamin C must be stored in a way that protects them from air and sunlight.
-
Hydroxy acids. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) include glycolic, citric and lactic acid. They are used to remove dead skin cells (exfoliate). Using an AHA product regularly prepares your skin to better absorb other products and stimulates the growth of smooth, evenly pigmented new skin.
AHAs, beta hydroxyl acids and a newer form called polyhydroxy acids have also been shown to be effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
- Coenzyme Q10. This ingredient may help reduce fine wrinkles around the eyes and protect the skin from sun damage.
- Peptides. These molecules occur naturally in living organisms. Certain peptides are able to stimulate collagen production, and have been shown to improve skin texture and wrinkling.
- Tea extracts. Green, black and oolong tea contain compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Wrinkle creams are most likely to use green tea extracts.
- Grape seed extract. In addition to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, grape seed extract promotes collagen production.
- Niacinamide. A potent antioxidant, this substance is related to vitamin B-3 (niacin). It helps reduce water loss in the skin and may improve skin elasticity.
No guarantees: Assessing safety and effectiveness
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies creams and lotions as cosmetics, which are defined as having no medical value. So the FDA regulates them less strictly than it does drugs. This means that cosmetic products don't undergo the same rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness that topically applied medications undergo.
Because the FDA doesn't evaluate cosmetic products for effectiveness, there's no guarantee that any OTC product will reduce your wrinkles.
Consider these points when judging the merits of using a wrinkle cream:
- Cost. Cost has no relationship to effectiveness. A wrinkle cream that's more costly may not be more effective than a less costly product.
- Lower doses. Nonprescription wrinkle creams contain lower concentrations of active ingredients than do prescription creams. So results, if any, are limited and usually short-lived.
- Multiple ingredients. A product with two or three active ingredients is not necessarily more effective than a product with just one of them. Likewise, using several anti-wrinkle products at the same time may irritate your skin rather than benefit it.
- Daily use. You'll likely need to use the wrinkle cream once or twice a day for many weeks before noticing any improvement. And once you discontinue using the product, your skin is likely to return to its original appearance.
- Side effects. Some products may cause skin irritation, rashes, burning or redness. Be sure to read and follow the product instructions to limit side effects. It may help to select products that don't cause allergic reactions (hypoallergenic) or acne (noncomedogenic). Choose products that offer a consumer hotline in case you have questions.
- Individual differences. Just because your friend swears by a product doesn't mean it will work for you. People have different skin types. No one product works the same for everyone.
Your anti-wrinkle regimen
An anti-wrinkle cream may lessen the appearance of your wrinkles, depending on how often you use it, the type and amount of active ingredient in the wrinkle cream, and the type of wrinkles you want to treat.
But if you want to take the guesswork out of your skin care regimen, try these more reliable ways to improve and maintain your skin's appearance:
- Protect your skin from the sun. Exposure to UV light speeds up the natural aging process of your skin, causing wrinkles and rough, blotchy skin. In fact, sun exposure is the No. 1 reason for signs of aging in the skin, including uneven pigmentation. Protect your skin — and prevent future wrinkles — by limiting the time you spend in the sun and always wearing protective clothing and a hat. Also, use sunscreen on exposed skin year-round when outdoors.
- Choose products with built-in sunscreen. When selecting skin care products, choose those with a built-in SPF of at least 15. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends SPF of 30 or higher. Also, use products that are broad spectrum, meaning they block both UVA and UVB rays, and water resistant. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours — or more often if you're swimming or perspiring.
- Use moisturizers. Moisturizers can't prevent wrinkles, but they trap water in the skin, temporarily masking tiny lines and creases.
- Don't smoke. Smoking causes narrowing of the blood vessels in the outermost layers of your skin. It also damages collagen and elastin — fibers that give your skin its strength and elasticity. As a result, skin begins to sag and wrinkle prematurely. Even if you've smoked for years or smoked heavily, you can still improve your skin tone and texture and prevent future wrinkles by quitting smoking.
A dermatologist can help you create a personalized skin care plan by assessing your skin type, evaluating your skin's condition and recommending products likely to be effective. If you're looking for more-dramatic results, a dermatologist can recommend medical treatments for wrinkles, including prescription creams, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections or skin-resurfacing techniques.
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May 04, 2021
- Neligan PC, et al., eds. Skincare and nonsurgical skin rejuvenation. In: Plastic Surgery. 4th ed. London, U.K.: Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Jan. 4, 2018.
- Azizzadeh B, et al., eds. Topical skin care and the cosmetic patient. In: Master Techniques in Facial Rejuvenation. 2nd ed. New York: N.Y.: Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Jan. 4, 2018.
- McCook JP. Topical products for the aging face. Clinics in Plastic Surgery. 2016;43:597.
- Lee CM. Fifty years of research and development of cosmeceuticals: A contemporary review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2016;15:527.
- How to select anti-aging skin care products. American Academy of Dermatology. https://www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/anti-aging-skin-care/selecting-anti-aging-products. Accessed May 9, 2019.
- How to maximize results from anti-aging skin care products. American Academy of Dermatology. https://www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/anti-aging-skin-care/maximizing-anti-aging-products. Accessed May 9, 2019.
- Wrinkle treatments and other anti-aging products. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/wrinkle-treatments-and-other-anti-aging-products. Accessed May 9, 2019.
- Gibson LE (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota. May 16, 2019.
- Krutmann J, et al. The skin aging exposome. Journal of Dermatological Science. 2017;85:152. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 9, 2019.
- Saluja S, et al. A holistic approach to antiaging as an adjunct to antiaging procedures: A review of the literature. Dermatologic Surgery. 2017;43:475.
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See also
- Aging skin
- Botox injections
- Cheek lift
- Chemical peel
- Collagen injection
- Dermabrasion
- Dry skin
- Face-lift
- Facial fillers for wrinkles
- Hand rejuvenation
- How to heal cracked heels
- How to heal cracked skin at thumb tip
- Laser resurfacing
- Mayo Clinic Minute: Moisturizer tips from a dermatologist
- Neck lift
- Skin care tips
- Skip flavored lip balm
- Time your lotions right
- Ward off dry skin
- Winter doesn't mean you can sideline the sunscreen
- Wrinkle relaxing injections
- Wrinkle treatment
- Wrinkles
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FAQs
What is the #1 wrinkle cream? ›
The All-Around Pick
Skinbetter's AlphaRet Overnight Cream is by far the most recommended wrinkle cream, with the stamp of approval from Hartman, Greenfield, Shirazi, and Marino. In short, experts love it because it works well while being gentle on skin.
Ageless Derma Retinol Anti Aging Face Cream by Dr. Mostamand is an Wrinkle Facial Moisturizer for a Firmer Youthful Skin Tone and Texture.
What is the best face cream to reduce wrinkles? ›Because it packs a potent punch with retinol and peptides, Drunk Elephant's A-Passioni Retinol Cream tops our list of wrinkle creams. If you're looking for a less pricey product, we recommend RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream for its resurfacing results.
Do any creams actually get rid of wrinkles? ›AHAs , beta hydroxyl acids and a newer form called polyhydroxy acids have also been shown to be effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Coenzyme Q10. This ingredient may help reduce fine wrinkles around the eyes and protect the skin from sun damage.
What does Jennifer Aniston use for wrinkle cream? ›The 53-year-old actress uses Tatcha's Serum Stick before applying her makeup for a moisturized, bright complexion. Jennifer also uses at-home skincare gadgets to de-puff and sculpt her face.
What wrinkle cream does Jennifer Garner use? ›But not Garner's pick: She swears by the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Pro+ . 5% Power Serum, which you can snag on Amazon for less than $25! “It's as good if not better than any super fancy retinol out there,” Garner tells Women's Health. “It's a very gentle, effective formula.
What is the name of Kelly Ripa's new face cream? ›It's under $50 and even has SPF! Kelly Ripa revealed she uses Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer every day. The tinted moisturizer hydrates skin while also offering broad spectrum SPF 30 for sun protection.
What Botox alternative is sold at Target? ›1. Daxxify Works Similarly to Botox.
What is the best treatment for 70 year old skin? ›Here's what you can do: Wash with a gentle, fragrance-free, moisturizing bar soap, cleanser, or body wash. Doing so will help soothe rather than dry your skin. Moisturizing ingredients that can help reduce dryness include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and lanolin.
What gets rid of wrinkles permanently? ›- Laser resurfacing. ...
- Photodynamic rejuvenation. ...
- Chemical peel. ...
- Dermabrasion. ...
- Microdermabrasion. ...
- Botulinum toxin type A (Botox). ...
- Soft tissue fillers. ...
- Face-lift.
Is Olay Regenerist good for wrinkles? ›
Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Face Moisturizer
This targeted night cream contains a retinol blend (retinol and retinyl propionate) to increase cellular turnover and improve healthy skin functions, in turn improving the look of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, and texture.
“Everyone wants a quick fix when it comes to making skin look better, but drinking more water isn't going to help get rid of wrinkles or plump up your skin unless you are extremely dehydrated,” says Elizabeth Damstetter, MD, a dermatologist at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.
What makes wrinkles worse? ›Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.
Ultraviolet radiation, which speeds the natural aging process, is the primary cause of early wrinkling. Exposure to UV light breaks down your skin's connective tissue — collagen and elastin fibers, which lie in the deeper layer of skin (dermis).
Apply a night cream with retinol
One of the best treatments for wrinkles around the mouth is night cream formulated with retinol, as it works alongside the skin's natural production of collagen. No7 Pure Retinol Night Cream helps to visibly smooth the appearance of wrinkles around the mouth and face in just two weeks.
Vital Proteins® Original Collagen Peptides
Jen Says: "My go-to collagen routine is adding Vital Proteins® Collagen Peptides ($27; shop now) in my morning cup of coffee or smoothie – so easy to use."
Worth the Hype! Jennifer Aniston's Facialist Created This $200 Brightening Serum.
What skincare products does Reese Witherspoon use? ›Reese Witherspoon uses a variety of Biossance products to help keep her skin looking its best. She often uses the brand's face wash, moisturizer, and serum to help keep her skin hydrated and looking radiant. Witherspoon also enjoys using Biossance's body lotion and body oil to keep her skin soft and glowing.
Which hairstyle make you look younger? ›Loose waves are more younger-looking, while straight hair can be aging. Play around with face-framing layers to give your hair some softness and movement. Layers can also make your hair appear to be more luscious and healthy. Parra recommends asking your stylist for perimeter layers that are cut in a straight line.
What makes old skin look younger? ›Skin brightening treatments, like Microdermabrasion, Light Peels, Micro Laser Peels, or the Clear & Brilliant Laser treatment all help patients to look 10 years younger or more, with just a few treatments. These treatments can be used in order to combat the signs of aging in the face, such as: Wrinkles. Age spots.
What does JLo use for anti-aging? ›After washing off her makeup, she uses That JLo Glow Serum, That Blockbuster Hydrating Cream, and That Fresh Take Eye Cream, all from her eponymous brand. She also revealed that she uses the eye cream on her 11s, her smile lines, and even on her neck: "anywhere that needs a little extra love."
Does Jennifer Aniston have a skin cream? ›
Positively Radiant Night Cream
Jennifer loves to add an overnight treatment to feel extra glowy the next morning and swears by Aveeno's night cream. "I leave it on overnight and when I wake up I have that dewy, glowing, twinkling skin," Jennifer told Shape.
Luckily, we don't have to work hard to find it, as the actor has credited Swisscode Pure Hyaluron serum as the product behind her enviable, glowing skin.
What kind of face cream does Oprah use? ›Oprah Winfrey just announced the release of Oprah's Favorite Things 2022. The 68-year-old is a big fan of Dr. Barbara Sturm's Cleanser, Enzyme Cleanser, and Glow Drops. The combination is how the star “keeps her skin glowing.”
What face cream does Dolly Parton use? ›Dolly Parton Loves Olay Regenerist Anti-Aging Moisturizer.
What face cream does Gwyneth Paltrow use? ›GoopGenes All-in-One Nourishing Face Cream
Moisturizing is a key part of any skin care routine, and Paltrow says this face cream is “like heaven.” It is “incredibly nourishing and it really boosts that youthful, dewy look,” she raves.
The Smile Lines Solution
It contains a 10% argireline peptide complex which has been dubbed the closest thing to botox you can get. Star ingredients: Argireline peptide complex.
Retinol is a doctor's favorite, and many recommend it for at-home use in tandem with in-office Botox treatments for youthful, glowy skin. One of many reasons retinol is beloved is that it helps soften wrinkles by increasing collagen production and speeding up the rate of cell turnover.
What is Botox in a bottle at Target? ›Botox-in-a-Bottle works by applying a few drops of Argireline Solution 10% to the skin twice daily, then layering it with Matrixyl 10% + HA High Strength Peptide Formulation. When used daily, the effects resemble the results of Botox treatment, hence the term “Topical Botox.”
What is the best skin lotion for seniors? ›- Cetaphil Restoring Lotion.
- Eucerin Daily Hydration Lotion.
- Vaseline® Intensive Care™ Advanced Repair.
- Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion Shea + Enriching Cocoa Butter.
- Gold Bond Healing Lotion.
- CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.
- Kiehl's Crème de Corps Hydrating Body Lotion.
- CeraVe Moisturizing Cream. ...
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Moisturiser for Dry Skin. ...
- SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2. ...
- Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich Cream Moisturizer. ...
- La Roche-Posay Substiane Riche Face Moisturizer. ...
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer. ...
- OLAY Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream Fragrance-Free.
How can I tighten my skin after 70? ›
...
Summary
- increasing exercise levels.
- using firming products.
- massaging the skin.
- including supplements in the diet.
- Water. Let's start with the obvious one: water. ...
- Grapefruit juice. Start off your mornings with a refreshing glass of pink grapefruit juice. ...
- Green tea. ...
- Beetroot juice. ...
- Milk. ...
- Cocoa.
Drinking enough water each day replenishes your skin's tissue and cells, allowing for younger and healthier looking skin. Another key to maintaining a youthful appearance is to simply get some rest! When you sleep, your body continuously releases hormones that promote cell turnover and renewal.
Can you rub wrinkles away? ›Massaging your face for just one minute per day can help combat those unsightly wrinkles, according to massage expert Annic Lefol-Malosse, who has devised a do-it-yourself system that offers salon-worthy results.
Which Olay cream is best for older skin? ›If you're looking for an affordable cream for mature skin, you'll want to get your hands on a container of Olay's Regenerist Collagen Peptide 24 Face Moisturizer. Buy it for $29 on Amazon today.
Does Oil of Olay really work on wrinkles? ›Olay's retinoid complex of retinol and retinyl propionate work together to speed up skin cell turnover and slow down the aging process. It can firm, smooth and brighten skin from within while also lessening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Which is better Olay Regenerist cream or serum? ›Both the products offer the same key ingredient but in terms of experience and results, I prefer the Olay Retinol 24 Serum. The texture is nice, and it's perfect for those with sensitive skin or dry skin (since retinol generally causes a lot of dryness) as it is a very gentle formulation.
Does lemon water make you look younger? ›Yes, Vitamin C in lemon boosts collagen that helps repair the damaged skin cells as well as rejuvenates skin which makes it an excellent anti-ageing ingredient. It reduces fine lines and wrinkles and gives you firmer, youthful skin.
How do I stop my skin from looking old? ›- Protect your skin from the sun every day. ...
- Apply self-tanner rather than get a tan. ...
- If you smoke, stop. ...
- Avoid repetitive facial expressions. ...
- Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. ...
- Drink less alcohol. ...
- Exercise most days of the week. ...
- Cleanse your skin gently.
Caffeine consists of certain antioxidants that protect skin cells. Skincare products with caffeine can give the skin a youthful look and help fight off blemishes.
What vitamin helps to reduce wrinkles? ›
Skin benefits of vitamin C
A few clinical studies have demonstrated that vitamin C can improve wrinkles. One study showed that daily use of a vitamin C formulation for at least three months improved the appearance of fine and coarse wrinkles of the face and neck, as well as improved overall skin texture and appearance.
- Retinoids. ...
- Micro-needling. ...
- Microdermabrasion. ...
- Dermabrasion. ...
- Chemical peels. ...
- Laser skin resurfacing. ...
- Botulinum toxin type A (Botox®, Dysport, Xeomin, Juveau) injection therapy. ...
- Fillers.
- Spinach. Spinach is a green leafy vegetable that is rich in all vitamins, iron, magnesium, and beta carotene. ...
- Broccoli. ...
- Nuts. ...
- Blueberries. ...
- Papaya. ...
- Sweet potatoes. ...
- Dark chocolate. ...
- Pomegranate seeds.
- Chemical peel. ...
- Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. ...
- Microneedling. ...
- Platelet-rich plasma. ...
- Dermal fillers. ...
- Botox. ...
- Laser skin resurfacing. ...
- Facelift.
- Yawning and opening the mouth as far as possible, then closing it very slowly without letting the teeth touch.
- Puckering the lips outwards. ...
- Blowing the cheeks up as far as comfortable.
- Chewing with the head tilted slightly up.
- SkinMedica TNS Essential Serum. ...
- RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream. ...
- Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream. ...
- Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream. ...
- Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Overnight Cream. ...
- First Aid Beauty Hello Fab Coconut Water Cream.
With 1% retinol, it works to visibly reduce wrinkles, age spots and acne scars, leaving you with a smoother, more rejuvenated complexion.
What removes wrinkles immediately? ›- Retinoids. ...
- Micro-needling. ...
- Microdermabrasion. ...
- Dermabrasion. ...
- Chemical peels. ...
- Laser skin resurfacing. ...
- Botulinum toxin type A (Botox®, Dysport, Xeomin, Juveau) injection therapy. ...
- Fillers.
Vitamin C can also help fend off the signs of aging because of its vital role in the body's natural collagen synthesis. It helps to heal damaged skin and, in some cases, reduces the appearance of wrinkles. Adequate vitamin C intake can also help repair and prevent dry skin.
What is the strongest over the counter retinol product? ›RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream
Houshmand recommends RoC's Deep Wrinkle Night Cream, which is one of the highest-strength retinol you can get over the counter, meaning you may see its resurfacing effects sooner than with other products.
What is the best retinol to reduce wrinkles? ›
- SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3. ...
- Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer. ...
- Kate Somerville +Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer. ...
- Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment. ...
- RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream. ...
- CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum.
Tretinoin is considered to be the most widely used prescription retinoid treatment for wrinkles. It comes in the form of a gel. During use, you must wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin from sunburn and photoaging.