You know how they say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure? Well, nearly every dermatologist I’ve ever interviewed will agree, but they’ll substitute “SPF” for “prevention.” Indeed, those who regularly use sun protection have the best chance of staving off fine lines and wrinkles for longer; add in the best wrinkle creams, and you have a winning (well, smoothing) antiaging combo. According to Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, the best wrinkle creams not only help people of a certain age (like my age, 46) address dryness, fine lines, and crepiness—they also benefit a younger crowd.
As with making SPF a daily habit, “Using antiaging products preventatively over time will help skin remain younger-looking in the long term,” she says. Finding the right formula. According to Lauren Moy, MD, a triple board-certified dermatologist and facial plastic surgeon, “The best wrinkle creams have three factors: proven active ingredients, tolerability, and consistency of use.” As it happens, the expert-approved picks in this list check all the boxes, including our top overall option, the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Face Moisturizer and the L’Oreal Paris Revitalist Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer, two drugstore powerhouses to firm skin and even out texture.
Let’s smooth things over! Best Overall: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Face Moisturizer, $38 Best for Fine Lines: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interruptor Advanced Corrective Cream, $185 Best for Sensitive Skin: L’Oreal Paris Revitalist Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer, $28 Best for Deep Wrinkles: RoC Fill + Treat Derm Correxion Serum, $30 Best for Dry Skin or Best for Early Signs of Aging: Clinique Smart Clinical Repair Collagen + PDRN Cream, $68 What we love: What could improve: Budget-friendly Can take a while to absorb Made with clinically tested ingredients May be too strong for those with rosacea or compromised skin barriers Hydrating “This cream is an all-around winner for me,” says Pearl Ugwu-Dike, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
Ugwu-Dike notes that the antiaging MVP is paired with “reliable humectants,” including glycerin. And, good news for drugstore shoppers, and anyone looking to save a few bucks in this economy: According to Dr. Ugwu-Dike, “This is a compelling example of the tenet that effective skincare doesn't really need an extravagant price tag.” What we love: What could improve: Suitable for sensitive skin Pricey Silky texture May be too rich for oily skin types Non-greasy finish According to Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York, SkinCeuticals’ A.G.E.
Interruptor targets the effects of glycation, a cellular process that leads to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which can cause fine lines and wrinkles. It strengthens the skin to improve firmness, plumpness, and hydration, all of which make fine lines less noticeable. Plus, it works as an anti-inflammatory, which makes it particularly appealing for those with mature or sensitive skin.
Pro tip: The formula is also available as an eye cream to help with crow’s feet and other signs of aging. What we love: What could improve: Hydrates The original version has a somewhat strong scent Plumps Slightly tacky finish Layers seamlessly under makeup May be too rich for oily skin This drugstore powerhouse comes in fragranced and fragrance-free iterations—for those with sensitive skin, dermatologists recommend the latter. What we love: What could improve: Works immediately (to plump) and over time (to stimulate collagen production) Small product size Can rebuild epidermal thickness Fragrance-free Layers well under makeup “This product is really well-conceived,” says Dr.
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