We can’t avoid getting older. But we can potentially slow down premature skin aging with the right skincare routine. By fighting the effects of the aging process, anti-aging creams can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels, regardless of whether you want to get rid of wrinkles or prevent their formation. Choosing the best anti-aging cream isn’t as simple as it sounds, though. With so many options out there, it’s all too easy to get overwhelmed.
We reviewed dozens of anti-aging creams to help you find the best products for keeping your skin looking young and firm for years to come. During our comprehensive research, we looked at factors such as ingredients and their dosage, skin type, anti-aging skin concerns, scent, side effects, packaging, size, cost, and customer reviews. Whenever possible, we chose products that come with a money-back guarantee to give you the option of trying anti-aging creams risk-free.
We chose the Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer as our top pick. This anti-aging cream, which is great for men and women of all skin types, can hydrate your skin, minimize wrinkles, and refresh dull skin. Made from natural ingredients, this cream is formulated with 2.5% retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin B and E and is free from toxic ingredients like parabens and alcohol.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Anti-Aging Cream
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Anti Aging Cream Overall | Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer | 4.4 |
| Best Anti Aging Serum | Organixx Restore Vitamin C Serum | 5.0 |
| Best Budget Anti Aging Cream | Simplified Skin Retinol Moisturizer Cream | 4.3 |
| Best Anti Aging Eye Cream | Organixx Renew Eye Cream | 5.0 |
| Best Day and Night Anti Aging Cream | Poppy Austin Retinol Cream with Green Tea & Vitamin E | 4.4 |
*Ratings are from the time of publication and can change
Best Anti Aging Cream Overall: Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer
Suitable for both men and women aged 25+, the Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer does much more than just moisturize your skin. Because the cream contains 2.5% retinol (a synthetic derivative of vitamin A that can help fight signs of aging), it can also soften wrinkles, reduce the appearance of fine lines, brighten dull skin, fade dark spots, and improve skin elasticity.
The cream is made using natural and organic ingredients and is free from alcohol, parabens, sulfates, and other chemicals. It’s also cruelty-free. Besides retinol, this facial moisturizer is formulated with hyaluronic acid, green tea, vitamin B and E, shea butter, and jojoba oil — some of the best ingredients for your skin. You can see the entire list of ingredients on the product page.
With the Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer, you don’t have to worry that your face will feel sticky or greasy post-application. Although the cream is rich, it’s also light and absorbs into your skin instantly. As such, you can layer this cream underneath makeup or sunscreen. The cream is non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic, which means that it won’t clog your pores. You can apply this cream, which has a mild citrusy scent, day and night on a cleansed face and neck, even if you have sensitive skin.
Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer Key Features:
- Airless packaging
- Suits women and men aged 25+
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- With retinol and hyaluronic acid
- Free from sulfates, parabens, and alcohol
- Natural & organic ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Citrusy scent
Best Anti Aging Serum: Organixx Restore Vitamin C Serum
Tighten loose skin, fade dark spots, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles with the Organixx Restore Vitamin C Serum.
Check PriceVitamin C is often referred to as the “holy grail of skincare.” It can promote collagen production, minimize fine lines, and tighten sagging skin. Because vitamin C is an antioxidant, it can also safeguard skin cells against daily aggressors like UV damage. Plus, vitamin C inhibits skin’s melanin production, thus preventing skin discoloration by stopping dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Organixx Restore Vitamin Serum claims to contain the highest concentration (26%) of vitamin C in the industry, so if you apply it to your face regularly, your skin is sure to get a good dose of vitamin C.
The serum, which is vegan-friendly and cruelty-free, is third-party lab tested and certified clean. It’s free from preservatives, parabens, sulfates, fragrances, GMOs, and other artificial ingredients. Instead, it contains mostly organic ingredients, including witch hazel, vitamin E, and aloe vera, as well as glycerin (excellent for locking in moisture) and hyaluronic acid (known for promoting healthier, smooth, and supple skin).
In addition, the serum is also formulated with Matrixyl 3000 and Skin Tightener ST, two ingredients developed by Sederma, a company that specializes in a range of cosmetic ingredients for skincare products. Matrixyl 3000 is an anti-aging peptide that promotes the production of collagen and elastin, whereas Skin Tightener ST is a combination of marine and botanical ingredients known for lifting effects. If for some reason you’re not happy with the results, Organixx offers a one-year money-back guarantee.
Organixx Restore Vitamin C Serum Key Features:
- 26% vitamin C concentration
- Free of preservatives and parabens
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- No pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, or GMOs
- Formulated with Matrixyl 3000 and Skin Tightener ST
- Third-party lab tested
- 1-year money-back guarantee
Best Budget Anti Aging Cream: Simplified Skin Retinol Moisturizer Cream
The Simplified Skin Retinol Moisturizer Cream won’t hurt your wallet but will make a big difference to your skin. This anti-aging cream is formulated with 2.5% retinol and other bio-active ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, vitamin E, shea butter, jojoba oil, and green tea. The product is 98% natural, 71% organic, and is free from harmful chemical substances like parabens, sulfates, fragrances, and gluten. Since the product isn’t tested on animals, it’s also cruelty-free.
Suitable for all skin types, this moisturizer cream promises not only to hydrate your skin and reduce wrinkles but also to repair sun damage and acne, prevent breakouts, shrink pores, and brighten skin tone. Because the product is lightweight, fast-absorbing, and has a non-greasy finish, you can apply it day and night and use it under makeup. That being said, if you’re fairly new to retinol, you might want to use this product only a few times a week at first, slowly increasing the usage over time for better results. Some customers also suggest only applying the cream to areas with fine lines and wrinkles to avoid potential irritation.
If, after buying and trying this moisturizing cream, you realize that it doesn’t suit you as well as you hoped it would, you can always get a refund. Simplified Skin provides a 100% money-back guarantee — no questions asked. You don’t even have to return the product.
Simplified Skin Retinol Moisturizer Cream Key Features:
- Suitable for all skin types
- 2.5% active retinol
- 98% natural and 71% organic
- Free from parabens, sulfates, fragrances, and gluten
- Cruelty-free
- Money-back guarantee
Best Anti Aging Eye Cream: Organixx Renew Eye Cream
Designed specifically for the skin around the delicate eye area, Organixx Renew Eye Cream will keep your skin hydrated and plump.
Check PriceThe Organixx Renew Eye Cream can hydrate the skin around the eyes as well as reduce puffiness, dryness, redness, and dark circles under the eyes. Although a bit more expensive than similar products on the market, this eye cream contains only nine ingredients: organic jojoba oil, organic olive oil, purified water, organic avocado oil, organic apricot kernel oil, beeswax, organic witch hazel, crodarom manuka honey, and matrixyl morphomics.
Jojoba oil, olive oil, avocado oil, purified water, and beeswax all have a deeply moisturizing effect on the skin. Jojoba oil might also help treat skin conditions like eczema and rosacea, whereas avocado oil can safeguard your skin against UV rays and increase collagen production. On the other hand, apricot kernel oil can minimize signs of aging and reduce dark circles and puffiness around the eyes. Witch hazel shrinks big pores, whereas manuka honey might help balance the pH level of your skin and remove dead cell debris. Last but not least, matrixyl morphomics helps combat four different vertical lines, including crow’s feet.
This eye cream is third-party lab tested and contains no herbicides, pesticides, heavy metals, or GMOs. You can apply this cream to the area around your eyes as often as needed, morning or night. Organixx is so sure that this eye cream will make a difference to your anti-aging beauty routine that it has a one-year money-back guarantee. All you have to do is return the bottle (even if it’s empty) to get a full refund. However, judging by dozens of happy customers, it probably won’t come to that.
Organixx Renew Eye Cream Key Features:
- Free from preservatives and parabens
- Organic ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Third-party lab tested
- 1-year money-back guarantee
Best Day and Night Anti Aging Cream: Poppy Austin Retinol Cream with Green Tea & Vitamin E
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a man or a woman and have normal or sensitive skin. The Poppy Austin Retinol Cream with Green Tea & Vitamin E is gentle enough to be used twice a day (morning and night) without causing irritation or discomfort. However, because retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, make sure you wear sunscreen before heading outdoors.
The cream is non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and is made from natural and organic ingredients, including green tea, shea butter, jojoba oil, and vitamin E. As the name of this cream probably makes it quite clear, it also contains 2.5% retinol. The cream is free from fragrances, synthetic fillers, and colors.
The product arrives in a large, 100ml bottle (the majority of anti-aging creams come in smaller packaging) and can last up to five months, depending on how often you use it. The product also comes in an airless pump dispenser, thus preserving the freshness and effectiveness of the active ingredients in the cream. Unlike similar products, this cream by Poppy Austin is apparently made fresh every day in small batches at a women-owned and operated facility in the U.S. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Poppy Austin Retinol Cream with Green Tea & Vitamin E Key Features:
- 100ml
- All skin types
- 2.5% retinol
- Mostly organic ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Non-greasy
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Who Should Buy Anti-Aging Creams
If you’re unhappy with how your skin is aging, or want to prevent the appearance of wrinkles and age spots, you might want to consider buying and using an anti-aging cream. However, it’s worth remembering that there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to using anti-aging creams. Some people start using anti-aging products when they’re in their 20s or 30s, whereas others wait until they’re in their 40s or 50s.
The most important thing when deciding whether or not you need an anti-aging cream is paying attention to your skin’s needs. As skin ages, sebum production decreases, which can lead to dry skin. For this reason, most anti-aging skincare products target drier complexions. So, if your skin is on the dry side, an anti-aging cream might do you wonders regardless of your age. But if you have an oily complexion, an anti-aging cream can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.
Your lifestyle matters, as well. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, smoke, consume excessive amounts of alcohol, eat a lot of junk food, or lead a very stressful life, you might need to start using anti-aging creams sooner than others to revitalize damaged skin. The timing at which we develop wrinkles can also be genetic or caused by things like dramatic facial expressions.
If you’re interested in other skincare products that might help you reverse aging (at least to some extent), check out our review of The Best Eye Creams.
Important Features to Consider
- Ingredients. Retinoids, vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids, peptides, tea extracts, and niacinamide are some of the most common ingredients in anti-wrinkle creams and can improve your skin’s appearance. By the way, anti-aging creams with several active ingredients aren’t necessarily better than creams with just one active ingredient. In general, you should avoid creams that contain 1,4-dioxane (a likely human carcinogen), chemical sunscreens, mineral oil (both might lead to accelerated aging), artificial dyes, fragrances, and other toxic ingredients.
- Dosage. Over the counter, anti-aging creams usually contain lower doses of active ingredients than prescription creams, which means that their results mightn’t be as visible or long-term.
- Skin type. Different skin types have different needs. Because most anti-aging creams contain emollients and oils, choosing one that suits oily skin can be a challenge. If you have oily skin, make sure that the cream you’re looking at buying is either water-based or explicitly formulated for oily skin. Also, keep an eye out for creams with salicylic acid and green tea. Conversely, if you have very dry or sensitive skin, you might want to opt for an oil-based cream loaded with antioxidants and avoid products with a high percentage of retinol as it can further dry out the skin even further.
- Anti-aging skin concerns. Not every anti-aging cream will treat the same skin concerns. Figure out what skin concerns you want to deal with most (fine lines and wrinkles, crows feet, dark undereye circles, sagging skin, etc.) and make sure that the product you’re about to buy can tackle them. For example, anti-aging cream for your face and neck won’t be suitable for the area around your eyes.
- Scent. Some anti-aging creams have a strong smell, whereas others are scentless. If you’re sensitive to scents, your best bet is to opt for the latter. Otherwise, you mightn’t want to use the product, even if it promises eternal youth.
- Side effects. A product that works for your friend mightn’t work for you. If you experience side effects like skin irritation, redness, rashes, or a burning sensation after using a specific anti-aging cream, stop using it immediately. Whenever possible, opt for anti-aging creams that are hypoallergenic (i.e., unlikely to cause an allergic reaction) and non-comedogenic (unlikely to clog pores and cause acne).
- Packaging. From glass jars to squeeze bottles and airtight pumps, anti-aging creams come in a variety of different packages. Ideally, you want anti-aging products containing valuable ingredients like peptides, retinol, and antioxidants to come in containers with airtight pumps. Otherwise, these ingredients can degrade and become unstable.
- Size. Most anti-aging creams come in 30ml containers. However, it’s possible to find creams that come in larger packaging (50ml or more).
- Cost. Just because an anti-aging cream is expensive doesn’t mean that it works. There is no correlation between price and effectiveness.
- Money-back guarantee. Many companies offer a money-back guarantee, so if you’re wary of spending money on a product that mightn’t work for you, keep an eye out for sellers who promise a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
- Customer reviews. Customer testimonials can be a good indication of whether a product is genuine or not. Make sure you read all the reviews, not just the five-star ones. To be extra safe, you might also want to look for product reviews on other websites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does anti-aging cream really work?
That depends on your skin type, the product’s ingredients, and how long you use it. For example, moisturizers plump up the skin and can, therefore, temporarily reduce wrinkles. However, a moisturizer can’t reverse the effects of aging. Once the product is no longer on your skin, the effects will disappear, too. That being said, most anti-aging moisturizers contain other ingredients that can help fight signs of aging. Retinoids are especially popular, and for a good reason — they’re scientifically proven to minimize fine lines and wrinkles and repair sun damage.
Keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration classifies anti-aging creams as cosmetics, which means that they’re regulated less strictly than drugs (i.e., they’re not regulated for effectiveness and safety).
What is better for wrinkles: retinol or hyaluronic acid?
Definitely retinol. A derivative of vitamin A, retinol (a type of retinoid) is a key anti-aging ingredient. It boosts collagen levels and stimulates the production of new blood vessels, which can help reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, fade age spots, improve skin color, and soften dry patches on the skin. Prescription retinoid is stronger than over the counter retinol and is, therefore, more effective. However, first-time users should only use retinoid every other day and slowly work up to daily use. Even then, it’ll likely take three to six months before you notice results in your wrinkles.
Of course, that’s not to say that hyaluronic acid is useless. Some studies have found that topical application of hyaluronic acid to the skin can help reduce wrinkles.
Are face cream and moisturizer the same?
Moisturizer is a broad term that can apply to face creams. The main benefit of moisturizers is that they add moisture to the skin and prevent it from drying out. However, many moisturizers also contain active ingredients like retinol and hyaluronic acid, which help fight aging.
Do I need both serum and moisturizer?
Serums are skincare products that deliver high concentrations of powerful ingredients to your skin. They’re not meant to replace a moisturizer. Instead, they typically target specific skincare concerns, like dull skin or wrinkles.
For best results, experts recommend using both serum and moisturizer. Remember to apply the serum before moisturizer to help lock in moisture.
Other Anti-Aging Creams We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other anti-aging creams. Even though they didn’t make our five anti-aging creams list, they’re the best of the rest, and each is still a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Anti-Aging Serums
This serum by CBD FX contains 250mg full-spectrum hemp oil, 5 essential oils (including lavender and orange), 4 botanicals (such as chamomile and vitamin E), 2 absolutes (rose and jasmine), and 12 oils (argan, jojoba, and rosehip among others).
Key Features:
- 250mg hemp oil
- Great for sensitive skin
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Comforting smell
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cost: $60
The 72% organic TruSkin Vitamin C Serum comes with a 90-day money-back guarantee.
Key Features:
- With vitamin C, E, and hyaluronic acid
- 72% organic
- Free from fragrances, stabilizers, and synthetic color additives
- Cruelty-free
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Cost: $20
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Face Serum
Not only does the dermatologically-tested L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Serum hydrate your skin and reduce wrinkles, but it can also act as a primer under makeup.
Key Features:
- Suits all skin types
- 1.5% hyaluronic acid
- Fast-absorbing and lightweight
- Use as a primer under makeup
- Free from mineral oil, parabens, fragrances, and synthetic dyes
- Dermatologist-tested
Cost: $25
Foxbrim Naturals Peptide Face Serum
This face serum from Foxbrim Naturals combines a peptide blend with hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, and Gotu kola to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and restore your skin’s youthful glow.
Key Features:
- With hyaluronic acid
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy and fast-absorbing
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed
Cost: $50
Formulated with clinical-strength retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, the Tree of Life Retinol Serum is 98% natural and 72% organic.
Key Features:
- With hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin E
- 98% natural and 72% organic formulation
- Free from parabens
- Non-greasy
- Applies smoothly
- Cruelty-free
Anti-Aging Eye Creams
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream
See a difference in how the area around your eyes looks in just a week with the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream.
Key Features:
- Dermatologist-recommended brand
- With retinol, hyaluronic acid, and glucose complex
- Results in 1 week
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- 100% money-back guarantee
Cost: $20
Olay Total Effects 7-in-One Eye Transforming Cream
The Olay Total Effects 7-in-One Eye Transforming Cream brings seven skin benefits in one product.
Key Features:
- With vitamin B and E
- Fights seven aging signs
- Instantly evens skin tone and texture
- Non-greasy and fast-absorbing
- Oil-free
Cost: $20
Free from harmful ingredients like parabens, phthalates, and petrochemicals, the M3 Naturals Eye Cream is instead infused with hydrolyzed collagen, stem cells, and hyaluronic acid and is loaded with natural oils and extracts.
Key Features:
- All skin types
- For both women and men
- With hydrolyzed collagen, stem cells, and hyaluronic acid
- Cruelty-free
- Fast-absorbing
- Lightweight
Cost: $30
Essy Naturals Anti-Aging Rapid Reduction Eye Cream
The Essy Naturals Anti-Aging Rapid Reduction Eye Cream guarantees results in just 120 seconds! It creates a temporary tightening effect in the short term and hydrates the skin and repairs damaged tissue in the long term.
Key Features:
- All skin types
- Instant results
- Natural ingredients
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing
- Non-greasy
- Strong scent
Cost: $25
Estee Lauder Revitalizing Supreme + Global Anti-Aging Cell Power Eye Balm
Use this light and airy eye cream by Estee Lauder, which has been ophthalmologist and dermatologist-tested, every day, or once a week as an eye mask.
Key Features:
- All skin types
- With moringa extract
- Ophthalmologist and dermatologist-tested
- Can be used as an eye mask
- Doesn’t clog pores
- Lightweight
Day and Night Anti Aging Cream
Arvesa Retinol Skin Moisturizing Cream
The Arvesa Retinol Skin Moisturizing Cream works for all skin types, including normal, combination, oily, and dry.
Key Features:
- For both women and men
- All skin types
- Dermatologist-recommended
- 2.5% retinol and hyaluronic acid
- Free from fillers, parabens, fragrances, and dyes
- Cruelty-free
Cost: $19
STAY SHARP NATURALS Men’s Anti Aging Face Cream
Made specifically for men, STAY SHARP NATURALS Men’s Anti Aging Face Cream has a unique masculine scent and can exfoliate and moisturize the skin.
Key Features:
- For men of all skin types
- With glycolic acid
- Contains aloe, squalane, jojoba oil, and green tea
- Formulated with vitamins B5, C, and E
- Masculine scent
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed
Cost: $30
This all-natural, cruelty-free anti-aging cream by Bella Beauty can restore skin’s elasticity, improve skin complexion, and minimize the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.
Key Features:
- For all skin types
- With 2.5% retinol and hyaluronic acid
- Contains jojoba oil, vitamin E, and green tea
- Only natural and organic ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Fast-absorbing
Cost: $15
bareMinerals Firming & Wrinkle Smoothing Neck Cream
Ideal for sensitive skin, the bareMinerals Firming & Wrinkle Smoothing Neck Cream is formulated with gold, peptides, edelweiss extract, algae extract, jasmine extract, and gardenia extract.
Key Features:
- With gold, peptides, and edelweiss and algae extracts
- For sensitive skin
- Dermatologically-tested
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Fast-absorbing
- Strong scent
Cost: $45
BeautyRx By Dr. Schultz Retinol Cream
Based on the feedback of over 180,000 patient visits, the BeautyRx By Dr. Schultz Retinol Cream provides lasting hydration, accelerates skin renewal, and improves skin tone.
Key Features:
- For all skin types
- With 2.5% retinol and hyaluronic acid
- Free from parabens and sulfates
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist and allergy-tested
Cost: $15
Advanced Clinicals Retinol and Collagen Cream Skin Care Set
Made in Chicago, this value set comprises two anti-aging products: a retinol moisturizer (to reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging) and collagen lotion (to tighten loose skin on your face, neck, decolletage, and hands).
Key Features:
- Two products: retinol moisturizer and collagen lotion
- Pump bottles
- For all skin types
- Free from parabens and fragrances
- Cruelty-free
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed
Cost: $20
L’Occitane Anti-Aging Divine Cream
Voted best Anti-Aging Miracle Cream by the Anti-Ageing Beauty Bible, the L’Occitane Anti-Aging Divine Cream is formulated with immortelle, a blend of rare essential oils known for their beautifying, regenerative, and protective properties.
Key Features:
- With immortelle oil
- Contains 7 plant-derived active ingredients
- Luxurious
- Lightweight and silky texture
- Pleasant scent
Cost: $110
Great for normal to combination skin (including sensitive skin), the La Roche Posay Redermic C reduces wrinkles and plumps skin.
Key Features:
- Brand recommended by dermatologists worldwide
- With hyaluronic acid and vitamin C
- Normal to combination skin
- Sensitive-skin tested
- With thermal spring water
- Free from parabens
Cost: $50
The Essy Retinol Moisturizer contains all-natural ingredients and is 71% organic.
Key Features:
- For all skin types
- With 2.5% active retinol
- Contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and green tea
- All-natural ingredients
- 71% organic
- 100% money-back guarantee
Cost: $16
Maryann Organics Collagen Day & Night Anti-Aging Cream
Since the natural Maryann Organics Collagen Day & Night Anti-Aging Cream has no noticeable scent, it’s perfect even for those with highly sensitive skin.
Key Features:
- With hyaluronic acid
- Non-GMO and gluten-free
- Free from parabens
- Cruelty-free
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
Cost: $28
