Treating fine lines and wrinkles doesn’t necessarily require a trip to the cosmetic surgeon. In fact, there are plenty of excellent anti-aging creams that can make a real difference in how your skin looks and feels. From night creams to eye creams and serums, there are options for every skincare concern. To help you navigate the overwhelming number of products on the market, we’ve rounded up the 17 best anti-aging creams of 2024, according to dermatologists.
Best Overall: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
This cream contains hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate, amino peptides to firm the skin, as well as niacinamide (a.k.a. vitamin B3), a potent antioxidant that helps improve the appearance of enlarged pores and dullness. It also doesn’t hurt that the brand is trusted by celebrities like Jennifer Hudson, Drew Barrymore, and Quinta Brunson. We also love that it’s at a great price point, unscented, and free of parabens, phthalates, and synthetic dyes.
What the reviews say: One reviewer joked they looked “20 years younger” after using the product. “My skin looks great and well nourished. It is thick and creamy and absorbs well,” they wrote.
How to apply: Use daily, morning and night. After cleansing your skin, apply the desired amount and gently massage into the skin until fully absorbed. When applying in the morning, make sure to follow up with an SPF for sun protection.
Best Value Anti-Aging Cream: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream
This product “has the needed retinol to treat and prevent wrinkles, along with effective hydrating ingredients to minimize the irritation that most will experience with retinol-containing products,” says Dr. Ilyas. Made with pure RoC retinol, it’s quite potent. It’s also oil-free, non-comedogenic, and under $20. Plus: It’s Prevention’s pick for the overall best retinol cream, and it boasts tens of thousands of five-star ratings on Amazon.
What the reviews say: “I’ve been using retinol for a while. So far, this is my favorite,” one reviewer noted. “It does not dry my skin. It feels great, and I see a difference in my fine lines.”
How to apply: Apply to face and neck at night. The brand recommends first applying this product every other night to evaluate your skin’s response to the formula and then gradually increasing frequency to every night.
Best Firming Anti-Aging Cream: Shiseido Bio-Performance Advanced Super Revitalizing Cream
Specifically formulated to address signs of aging, this rich, quick-absorbing cream from Shiseido firms skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Raspberry extract and rose apple leaf extract help to maintain visible tightness in the skin and protect it from external stressors. Plus, super bio-hyaluronic acid delivers intense, long-lasting moisture for a soft and dewy, youthful-looking complexion.
What the reviews say: “My skin was almost instantly firmer, lifted, less fine lines, smoother with a glow,” one Sephora customer wrote. “Even to the touch it feels like silk has been applied to your face.”
How to apply: Apply daily, morning and night. Shiseido recommends using the provided spatula to scoop two pearl-sized amounts, then dotting the cream on five points of your face: forehead, nose, chin, and both cheeks. Then, gently smooth the cream outward over your face before applying an additional pearl-sized amount for your neck, sweeping the cream upward from your neck to jawline.
Best Hydrating Anti-Aging Cream: Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream
This popular Tatcha cream deeply moisturizes and plumps skin while smoothing out the appearance of fine lines with a hydrating hyaluronic acid and algae blend and squalane, which helps improve the skin’s moisture barrier. Plus, antioxidant-rich Japanese purple rice protects skin from free radicals.
What the reviews say: “Best face moisturizer ever…This product is absolutely fabulous. Keeps skin silky and hydrated for hours. I have been using it for years and people always compliment me on my skin!”
How to apply: Use daily, morning and night. Tatcha recommends scooping the desired amount of cream with the provided gold spoon, then massaging the product onto your face, neck, and décolletage in upward strokes.
Best Anti-Aging Cream for Sensitive Skin: L’Oréal Revitalift Cicacream
If your skin tends to be sensitive (and you want something affordable), this cream “contains tiger grass to help calm and repair the skin barrier, along with pro retinol to strengthen the deeper skin layers,” says Dr. Zeichner. It works to fight wrinkles, resist signs of aging, firm skin, and hydrate—all without fragrance, parabens, and common allergens.
What the reviews say: “This wonderful cream was light yet very moisturizing,” one reviewer raved. “Even though I have just been using it for about a week, it seems to be helping with the dryness I’ve been experiencing this season. It absorbs very quickly, without looking greasy at all. A great addition to my daily beauty routine!”
How to apply: Use daily, morning and night. Smooth over the face until thoroughly absorbed. For optimal results, the brand recommends using in conjunction with other Revitalift products.
Best Award-Winning Anti-Aging Cream: PCA Skin Intensive Age Refining Treatment 0.5% Pure Retinol
“When it comes to retinol, I don’t compromise,” says Dr. Gohara. “I like to have the science (knowing it’s been tested to build collagen), the right percentage (at least 0.5%), and the ability to use it regularly without irritation. When I find a product that has all those things, I stick with it.” That’s why she backed this pick for our 2020 Healthy Beauty Awards. This treatment has retinol to target wrinkles and vitamin E to block free-radical damage. All you need is a pea-sized amount nightly to see results over time.
What the reviews say: “This PCA retinol is a great product. I use every other day and my skin is brighter and firmer,” said one shopper. “Yes this product is expensive but a little goes a long way. It’s worth the investment.” Another reviewer noted that though the product may sting a bit, it is “fantastic” and “the results are incredible.”
How to apply: Apply a pea-sized amount in the evening after cleansing and toning. PCA recommends first starting to use twice a week, then gradually increasing application frequency to every other night, before finally applying every evening or as tolerated. Follow up with a moisturizer.
Best Nighttime Anti-Aging Cream: CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
“The ingredients in this moisturizer can achieve results of some much more expensive products,” says Dr. Jaliman. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, making it an excellent hydrator that helps to reduce the skin’s crepey appearance, while niacinamide helps even out skin tone. It’s a light formulation that won’t clog pores (and is super-easy on the wallet).
What the reviews say: One reviewer who uses it in conjunction with retinoids wrote, “I love this product by CeraVe. It’s another win for my beauty routine at a reasonable price point.”
How to apply: Use nightly before bedtime. CeraVe recommends applying in small dots where needed around your face, then gently smoothing the cream onto your skin until it’s thoroughly absorbed.
Strongest Anti-Aging Cream: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Night Moisturizer
This is a retinol product that helps bring new skin cells to the surface while encouraging new collagen growth over time, says Dr. Shainhouse. It is strong enough to be irritating to some, though, so start by applying a thin layer two nights a week and increase slowly as tolerated.
What the reviews say: “I have frown wrinkles on my forehead, and I can visibly see those wrinkles looking softer than before,” one shopper explained. “Not to mention this product gives so much hydration at night. It’s a bit on the oily side, but I think that’s the point to give that night-long hydration. I love this night cream, and it has become part of my routine.”
How to apply: Use daily on cleansed face and neck, applying a pearl-sized amount evenly in gentle massaging strokes until fully absorbed. Neutrogena recommends gradually phasing it into your skincare routine, working up to twice daily as tolerated. When using in the daytime, always follow up with an SPF.
Best Anti-Aging Cream for Scars: Murad Rapid Age Spot Correcting Serum
Dealing with acne scars or sun spots? This serum will help brighten your complexion as it prevents future pigment formation, says Dr. Loucas. Chalk it up to its blend of antioxidant-rich vitamin C, exfoliating glycolic acid, and skin-lightening hydroquinone. Plus, it works well for all skin types and tones.
What the reviews say: “Noticing dark acne scars starting to lighten,” wrote one reviewer. “I haven’t had any cystic acne since I started this new skincare journey,” another said. “My skin looks almost normal again. The spots of hyperpigmentation are definitely fading. My skin texture is improving.”
How to apply: Use daily, morning and night, after cleansing. Massage evenly over face, neck and chest. Follow up with a moisturizer, and make sure to use with an SPF sunscreen during the day.
Best Prescription-Strength Anti-Aging Cream: Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
This derm favorite is the only prescription-strength retinoid (adapalene) available OTC, and it treats everything from acne to discolorations to wrinkles. Apply a gentle moisturizer on top, since it acts like more of a treatment. If you experience irritation, apply your moisturizer underneath to provide a bit of a barrier.
What the reviews say: One reviewer over 60 said that, with some patience, her skin eventually cleared up after a few months of using the product. “I am now flabbergasted! My skin hardly breaks out now!” she wrote. “I have had acne for as long as I can remember. Thanks to this fabulous product, I have much better skin now. Hardly any acne! It seems to have purged my skin to a clearer state.”
How to apply: Use once every day. After cleansing, apply a thin layer all over your face. Follow up with an SPF moisturizer in the daytime, and a non-SPF moisturizer at night.
Most Versatile Anti-Aging Cream: Neocutis Lumière Illuminating Eye Cream
“With this cream, you don’t need to worry about whether or not it’s only going to help with puffiness or just improve crow’s feet because it really does do it all,” says Dr. Schlessinger. Its formula utilizes powerful growth factors to smooth and firm the eye area, while caffeine improves the appearance of puffiness and dark circles.
What the reviews say: “This is by far the best eye cream I’ve tried, and I’ve tried quite a few,” said a 51-year-old reviewer who has been using the products for two years.
How to apply: Use once or twice daily, morning and night. After cleansing, apply to the skin area surrounding the eye, using a dabbing or patting motion, but avoid rubbing the delicate eye area. Follow up with a facial moisturizer.
Best Anti-Aging Cream for Tightening Skin: NeoStrata Triple Firming Anti-Aging Neck Cream
Your neck is one of the first parts of your body to show signs of aging. This cream firms the area with unique ingredients for a trifecta of results. It helps tighten skin by boosting collagen production, exfoliates to fade dark spots, and hydrates with vitamin E and shea butter.
What the reviews say: “It works,” one customer said. “Being on Zoom calls all day long and having to see myself on the camera made me notice my saggy neck. I started using this at the beginning of the year and I love it. It actually works! My neck looks drastically different.”
How to apply: Apply twice daily, gently smoothing over neck and décolletage. NeoStrata recommends applying it in an upward motion from the bottom of the neck all the way up to the jawline. Follow up with moisturizer and SPF.
Best Retinol Anti-Aging Cream for Sensitive Skin: Naturopathica Argan & Retinol Wrinkle Repair Night Cream
“This is a nice product to use if you have sensitive skin and are looking for a retinol,” says Dr. Ilyas. While more studies are needed to test argan’s benefits, the results have been promising. “At the very least, it hydrates the skin effectively to boost the benefits of retinol and reduce the potential irritation from its use,” she says. We love that it’s also sustainably sourced, cruelty-free, and made with alternative ingredients.
What the reviews say: One 72-year-old reviewer raved, “I like the Naturopathic produce line and have more recently been using argan and peptide water cream in place of serums. I very much like the result!”
How to apply: Use nightly, after cleansing. The brand recommends warming a nickel-sized amount between the fingers, before massaging onto skin in upward and outward motions and ending with short, upward strokes on the neck and décolleté.
Best Anti-Aging Cream for Quick Results: SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator
Hyaluronic acid, a peptide complex, and vitamin E “draw in moisture from the air and deliver it to your skin for up to eight hours after application,” says Dr. Kollipara. “It’s great for fine lines and works almost immediately.” This product uses five forms of hydrators to improve the appearance of the skin and provide extra moisture.
What the reviews say: “This feels like silk on my skin. No irritation and no breakout. I definitely see a difference in my skin. Less red and less irritated. I am thrilled by this.”
How to apply: Use twice daily, in the morning and night, after cleansing, toning, and treating your skin and before you apply moisturizer and SPF. Apply to your face, neck, and décolleté. Pro tip: The brand advises first wetting your fingertips prior to applying HA5 to your skin, since HA5 is a “water-loving” substance.
Best Anti-Aging Product for Oily Skin: SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF
“Phloretin is my favorite vitamin C antioxidant serum to help protect against and repair free radical damage, which is a key step in a daily skincare routine,” says Dr. Marchbein. “It can help reduce brown spots, even skin tone, and protects from further sun damage.” She notes that it’s great for all skin types, but especially those who skew oily or acne-prone.
What the reviews say: One 55-year-old reviewer said, “Best way to start the day. I have been using Phloretin CF for three years, and I have seen a difference in brightness and smoothness. I get so many compliments on my skin.”
How to apply: Use in the morning after cleansing and toning. SkinCeuticals recommends applying four to five drops to your dry face, neck, and chest before other skincare products—it can also be used on the back of the hands.
Best Anti-Aging Cream for Dry Skin: Cosmedix Harmonize Microbiome Boosting Moisturizer
To hydrate dry skin and protect the skin barrier from environmental stressors, turn to Cosmedix’s Harmonize Microbiome Boosting Moisturizer. Its formula contains a blend of fruit and plant extracts that protects and soothes all skin types. It also includes a probiotic called Lactococcus Ferment Lysate that supports the skin’s microbiome, strengthening its natural defenses.
What the reviews say: “This is the only moisturizer that delivers the moisture I need without being too emollient or contributing to breakouts,” said a reviewer. “My skin has rebalanced and my texture has greatly improved. And the bonus is that it smells terrific.”
How to apply: Apply morning and night, to freshly cleansed and toned skin.
Best Clinical Strength Anti-Aging Cream: Kate Somerville KateCeuticals Total Repair Cream
With hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and vitamin E, this anti-aging cream from Kate Somerville moisturizes and plumps skin. Though it’s a clinic-grade formula, it’s safe to apply morning and night.
What the reviews say: “Since I’ve been using this product my skin has been smooth and fine wrinkles noticeably softer,” wrote a reviewer. “The cream smells nice and glides on without feeling tacky. I would absolutely recommend!” Prevention’s own senior commerce editor is also a fan of the moisturizer. “It instantly plumped my skin. I recently ran out of a sample and can’t wait to restock.”
How to apply: Use morning and night, applying a thin, even layer to face and neck. The brand notes that you can use alone, or layer over a treatment or serum.
How to choose the best anti-aging cream or serum
When selecting an anti-aging cream or serum, it’s important to consider the ingredients and your specific skin concerns. Retinoids, peptides, antioxidants, and hydrators like hyaluronic acid are key ingredients to look out for. Additionally, it’s essential to know your skin type and any sensitivities you may have. Avoid potential irritants such as fragrances and artificial dyes, and choose products with stable packaging to preserve the effectiveness of active ingredients.
Benefits of using anti-aging creams
The right anti-aging cream can help with an array of aging concerns, including reducing wrinkles, replenishing hydration, and boosting skin’s radiance. These creams are formulated to target skin concerns that come with age. Ingredients like retinols, retinoids, antioxidants, and hydrators work together to prevent free radical damage, promote collagen production, even out skin tone, and restore moisture to the skin.
When should you start using anti-aging cream?
Dermatologists recommend starting an anti-aging skincare regime as soon as possible, even in your 20s, to tackle the signs of aging before they occur. Prevention is key, and using anti-aging products early can help prevent damage and maintain youthful-looking skin.
By incorporating these expert-recommended anti-aging creams into your skincare routine, you can effectively target and address your specific skin concerns. Remember to choose products that suit your skin type and needs, and always follow the recommended application instructions for optimal results. With the right products and consistency, you can achieve healthier, more youthful-looking skin.