There’s no one-size-fits-all in skincare. What works for one person may not necessarily have the same results for someone else. But it’s only natural to want the best! Luckily our team of licensed dermatology providers are regularly reviewing and assessing products on the market and are happy to offer a few recommendations! So here, you’ll find the products that hold up to our rigorous standards.

In the ever-evolving world of skincare, there’s a dizzying array of products, all promising the fountain of youth. With so many claims, how do you sift through the noise to find ingredients that will actually help your skin? 

Here we’ll take a look at the science behind skincare ingredients that are proven to combat the most common visible signs of aging, like dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. We’ll also spotlight some of 2023’s best anti-aging products and go over how to integrate these gems into your skincare routine, ensuring you get the most out of their rejuvenating properties.

What ingredients to look for in anti-aging products 

If you’re looking for effective anti-aging products, it’s helpful to know the key ingredients that can help make a tangible difference. Here are some ingredients backed by science to keep your skin youthful and vibrant:

Topical retinoids

These are powerhouses in the anti-aging world. They encourage skin cell turnover, exfoliating dead cells and revealing fresh, younger skin underneath. By stimulating fibroblasts, they boost collagen and elastin production, crucial proteins for youthful skin. This ingredient can also even out skin discoloration.¹ Topical retinoids have also been proven to combat UV-induced early skin aging signs like wrinkles, reduced elasticity, and hyperpigmentation.²

Vitamin C

A natural protector, vitamin C (or L-ascorbic acid) is the most abundant antioxidant found in human skin as it defends against oxidative stress and UV damage.³ But it’s not just a protector; it’s a rejuvenator. Essential for collagen production, it helps the skin remain firm and supple. Vitamin C can also fade hyperpigmented areas, addressing sun or age spots for a more even complexion.⁴

Copper peptides

These tiny molecules have a big impact. Peptides, in general, can stimulate collagen production.⁵ But copper peptides, specifically, go a step further by not only increasing the synthesis of both collagen and elastin, but also protecting and improving the overall condition of aging skin.⁶

Tranexamic acid

If a bright and radiant complexion is your goal, this ingredient may be one to consider. Tranexamic acid inhibits melanin synthesis and thus it may help lighten sun or age spots, which may lead to a more luminous appearance.⁷

Azelaic acid

Another champion in tackling uneven skin tone, azelaic acid inhibits tyrosinase, leading to a reduction in sun or age spots.⁸ The result? A more even and harmonized complexion.

So if you’re shopping for anti-aging products, you may want to look for these key ingredients on the label. They offer a comprehensive approach to aging, addressing everything from wrinkles to skin tone to overall vibrancy. If you still have questions, it can help to consult with a licensed dermatology provider for recommendations for your unique needs.

Our picks for best anti-aging products 

Wrinkles and dark spots are directly associated with—and early signs of—premature photo-aging.⁹ That’s why no anti-aging regimen is complete without a good sunscreen. Even if you don’t choose to use any other anti-aging products, make sure to include sunscreen in your skincare routine—and use it every day!

Sunscreens

Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Control SPF 30

What we liked about it:

• Combination sunscreen and lotion to provide protection against UV rays and dryness.

• Oil-free formula that is also noncomedogenic

• Oil absorbing technology gives a matte finish, good for oily skin types

La Roche Posay Anthelios UV Correct Face Sunscreen SPF 70 With Niacinamide

What we liked about it:

• Helps to protect skin from signs of sun damage, such as uneven skin tone, fine lines and rough skin texture

• Contains Vitamin E and niacinamide

• Suitable for all skin types

Curology Everyday Sunscreen

What we liked about it:

• Formulated to be non-comedogenic for acne-prone skin

• Mineral sunscreen that won’t leave white streaks behind

• Quick-absorbing formula that leaves a silky finish

Moisturizers

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration 

What we liked about it:

• Suitable for those with sensitive skin or eczema

• Fast-absorbing moisturizer for both face and body

• Contains oatmeal and shea butter to moisturize and protect dry skin

EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer 

What we liked about it:

• Good for combination and oily skin types

• Contains niacinamide and vitamin C to help with signs of aging

• Fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic

Curology’s Rich Moisturizer

What we liked about it:

• Helps restore skin barrier without clogging pores

• Contains hyaluronic acid and other ingredients to plump skin and lock in moisture

• Provides rich hydration for dry skin

Serums

CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum 

What we liked about it:

• Contains a topical retinoid (retinol) to help improve the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone

• Also contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides to hydrate and soothe skin

• Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free formula

TruSkin Vitamin C Facial Serum 

What we liked about it:

• Contains vitamin C to brighten and even skin tone

• Also contains vitamin E and hyaluronic acid for hydration

• Formulated for all skin types

Treatments

Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Treatment

What we liked about it:

• Combines retinol and vitamin C for anti-aging effects

• Also contains licorice extract and oat extract to prevent redness 

• Controlled-release formula allows for even, consistent absorption

Curology Future-ProofRx 

What we liked about it:

• Contains prescription-strength ingredients

• Customizable formula may contain tretinoin, azelaic acid, niacinamide, or tranexamic acid

• Helps to treat signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and dullness

Eye creams

Advanced Clinicals Puffy Eye Serum

What we liked about it:

• Helps to brighten and firm up the under eye area

• Contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and peptides 

• Free from alcohol or fragrances, which may irritate sensitive skin

Neostrata Comprehensive Retinol Eye Cream

What we liked about it:

• Features a topical retinoid and hydrating ingredients to target signs of aging

• Fragrance-free and oil-free formula

• Lightweight and easy-absorbing formula

Adding anti-aging products to your skincare routine 

You don’t have to wait until later in life to take an interest in these skincare products—the truth is there’s no age restriction to benefiting from an anti-aging routine. In fact, everyone, regardless of age, can reap the rewards of preventative care.

First, the basics: hydration and sun protection. A regular moisturizer keeps your skin supple, while sunscreen acts as your first line of defense against the sun’s harmful UV rays, a leading cause of premature aging. Both of these are essential pillars of an effective anti-aging strategy. They maintain the skin’s vitality and shield it from external stressors.¹⁰

Also, a word of caution as you venture into the vast world of anti-aging products: less may be more. The allure of using multiple products that promise youthful radiance can be tempting, but overloading your skin may do more harm than good. Using too many products, particularly several anti-aging ones, risks irritating your skin.¹¹

If you decide to incorporate specialized anti-aging products into your routine, it’s important to follow the package directions. A general guideline to keep in mind is to first cleanse your face to remove any impurities. This sets a clean base for the subsequent products. Then, when layering products, start with the thinnest consistency and gradually move to the thickest. This ensures that each product is absorbed efficiently before the next is applied.

A prescription-strength formula customized for your skin concerns

If you’re interested in treating or preventing early signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, why not consider a product that can be customized for your skin’s specific needs? 

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Start your skin quiz

With Curology’s Future-Proofᴿˣ for anti-aging, you can prevent early signs of aging while also helping promote healthy, glowing skin with a prescription-strength formula customized for you. Your custom formula may include anti-aging ingredients like tretinoin, niacinamide, and more.

Getting started is easy, just take a quick skin quiz and snap a few photos of your face. You’ll be paired with a licensed dermatology provider who will help design a skincare regimen to target your specific skin concerns. And your formula can evolve with you over time!

P.S. We did the homework so you don’t have to:

1. Michalak, M., et al. Bioactive Compounds for Skin Health: A Review. Nutrients. (January 2021).

2. Ganceviciene, R., et al. Skin anti-aging strategies. Dermato-endocrinology. (2012, July 1).

3. Telang, P.S. Vitamin C in dermatology. Indian Dermatology Online Journal. (April-June 2013).

4. Telang, P.S. Vitamin C in dermatology. Indian Dermatology Online Journal. Ibid.

5. Ganceviciene, R., et al. Skin anti-aging strategies. Dermato-endocrinology. Ibid.

6. Michalak, M., et al. Bioactive Compounds for Skin Health: A Review. Nutrients. Ibid.

7. Kim, H.J., et al. Efficacy and Safety of Tranexamic Acid in Melasma: A Meta-analysis and Systematic Review. Acta Derm Venereol. (2017, April 4).

8. González-Molina, V., et al. Topical Treatments for Melasma and Their Mechanism of Action. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. (May 2022).

9. Ganceviciene, R., et al. Skin anti-aging strategies. Dermato-endocrinology. Ibid.

10. Shanbhag, S., et al. Anti-aging and Sunscreens: Paradigm Shift in Cosmetics. Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin. (August 2019).

11. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Skin Care Tips Dermatologists Use. (n.d.).

12. Shanbhag, S., et al. Anti-aging and Sunscreens: Paradigm Shift in Cosmetics. Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin. Ibid.

13. Shanbhag, S., et al. Anti-aging and Sunscreens: Paradigm Shift in Cosmetics. Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin. Ibid.

Erin Pate is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Curology. She earned her Masters of Science in Nursing at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL.

*Cancel anytime. Subject to consultation. Results may vary.

Written by

Curology Team