From PDRN and exosomes to growth factors and ectoin, there’s a rapidly growing array of anti-aging skin-care ingredients that are, to quote Wendy Williams, “the moment.” (Well, until the next buzzy ingredient has its moment.) While this innovation is exciting for clinicians and consumers alike, it can be overwhelming to keep up with the latest best practices for an anti-aging skin-care routine—even for someone like me, who writes about skincare every day.
Vogue’s Favorite Anti-Aging Skin-Care Products:
The Cleanser: Guerlain Orchidée Impériale The Oil in Gel, $130
The Multi-Purpose Serum: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Face Serum, $22
The Hydrating Essence: Prequel Half & Half Peptides + Ceramides Fluid Moisturizer, $26
The Retinol: Medik8 Crystal Retinal Serum, $56
The Hydrating Eye Cream: Blue Lagoon Skin Science BL+ Eye Cream, $165
The Firming Moisturizer: SkinCeuticals P-TIOX Cream, $150
The Tinted Sunscreen: Carte Blanche Multi-Hyphenate Skin Tint Mineral SPF 35, $68
During a recent visit to The Spa at The Belgrove Resort & Spa in West Palm Beach, Florida, esthetician Patricia Conrad helped me stop spiraling about whether to add peptides to my morning routine, PDRN to my nighttime routine, or exosomes, well, anytime. Conrad assured me that an anti-aging skin-care routine needn’t be complicated so much as sustainable—for one’s schedule and one’s skin. “The best routine is consistent and balanced, protecting the skin in the morning and repairing it at night,” she said.
To start, a good cleanser is key. Then, a toner or essence can keep the skin luminous and smooth and allow active ingredients to work harder. And speaking of actives, it’s better to know what your skin needs—and to find the right product to provide it—than to hop on the latest ingredient trend. But you don’t have to do the legwork alone.
To help you design a regimen that addresses the needs of aging skin with products that deliver proven results, we tapped the pros. Ahead, see what dermatologists, estheticians, and other skin experts recommend for keeping skin smooth, supple, and strong at any age, plus which classic and cutting-edge ingredients they actually recommend.
In This Story:
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What’s the best skin-care routine for aging skin?
In what order should you use anti-aging skin products?
How We Tested
Meet the Experts
Start With a Gentle Cleanse
A good cleanse helps other products be more effective—and can also be cost-effective. “The most important thing to understand about this step is that it’s only designed to do one thing: prep your skin for the actives to follow,” says Dr. Peterson Pierre, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology in Thousand Oaks, California. “Don’t put too much effort, energy, or money into this step. A cleanser may have wonderful anti-aging ingredients, but they won’t be on your skin long enough to do any good.”
Of course, active ingredients will come into play later on, particularly with serums. But for this initial step, Dr. Pierre tells mature patients to find a formula that’s gentle, non-irritating, and—if needed—able to remove makeup. Dr. Peter Bittar, MD, a double-board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Miami Dermatology and Laser Institute, emphasizes the importance of fragrance-free cleansers. “Fragrances often irritate the skin, which can make it harder to use actives such as retinoids,” he says.
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Guerlain
Orchidée Impériale The Oil in Gel
$130 GUERLAIN
Inspired by the longevity of orchids, Guerlain’s Orchidée Impériale collection draws upon research into Vanda coerulea, a blue orchid that can survive for up to 100 years. The firming, plumping cream is a favorite at Vogue HQ—beauty shopping editor Kiana Murden has been raving about this oil-in-gel. Formulated with Orchid Totum Molecular Extract and 40% skincare oil, it melts into the skin to dissolve dirt and makeup—even waterproof formulas—before transforming into a milky veil upon coContact with water. The result? Luminous skin with refined texture and the softness of an orchid petal.
Save to wishlistSave to wishlistCeraVeRenewing SA Cleanser$16 $12 (25% off) AMAZONDr. Bittar recommends CeraVe’s fragrance-free cleanser, which exfoliates and smooths the skin as it washes away dirt, oil, and debris. Thanks to its star ingredient—salicylic acid—the formula also helps clear pores. “If you are dealing with blackheads or want an exfoliating action, a salicylic acid wash can go a long way,” Dr. Bittar says.
Finish Skin Prep With a Toner or EssenceAfter cleansing, a toning step can remove any leftover impurities from the pores and balance the skin’s pH level, while essences—which have a slightly thicker texture—tend to be more hydrating. “For aging skin, toners and essences should be alcohol-free and infused with soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or peptides,” says Nikki Miller, professional esthetician and director of Kohler Waters Spa in Kohler, Wisconsin. “This helps prep the skin for better absorption of subsequent products.” She adds that the lightweight products can also plump the skin.Save to wishlistSave to wishlistPrequelHalf & Half Peptides + Ceramides Fluid Moisturizer$26 AMAZON”I love this concept, and the product seems to live up to its marketing claims,” says Fiona Rahbar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Mara Dermatology in South Carolina. “This moisturizer boasts both ceramides and peptides, and lists them first in the ingredients, as opposed to many products that talk about peptides in the marketing but then list them last in the ingredients. Red flag!” The green flags in this formula? Multiple ceramides, which help support the skin barrier, as well as two peptides commonly used in collagen signaling.
Save to wishlistSave to wishlistTatchaThe Essence Healthy Aging Firming Treatment$157 TATCHA”I love this product for someone seeking a fragrance-free, natural, plant-based product for skin hydration and plumping,” Rahbar says. Rayva Khanna, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City and Greenwich, Connecticut, notes that the formula combines traditional Japanese botanical ingredients with modern skin-care science. “Green tea contains polyphenols with antioxidant properties that help protect against oxidative stress, a contributor to premature skin aging. Algae-derived components help retain moisture and temporarily plump the skin, softening the appearance of fine lines. This makes it a particular favorite of mine for mature skin,” she says. ” I also like this product for dry, dehydrated skin because it delivers an additional layer of hydration without feeling heavy.”
Use a Serum to Target Specific Signs of AgingWith the skin thoroughly prepped, it’s time to get active. “Serums are lightweight and designed to absorb deeply, delivering potent anti-aging actives where they’re needed most,” Dr. Mraz explains. According to Audrey Zmigrodski, licensed esthetician and director of Spa and Warm Springs Pools at The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa in Hot Springs, Virginia, the best serums for mature skin contain ingredients that target concerns such as wrinkles, elasticity, and uneven tone. “Look for serums with retinol—or bakuchiol for sensitive skin—peptides, antioxidants, and niacinamide,” she says. “Apply the serum after toning and before moisturizer to maximize absorption.” Below, find the best anti-aging serums broken down into the benefits they provide.Antioxidant ProtectionFor aging skin, dermatologists recommend protecting collagen and warding off free-radical damage with a serum that contains proven antioxidants, including the pure form of vitamin C, L-ascorbic acid. “In general, the ingredient L-ascorbic acid is very well studied,” Dr. Khanna notes. “Supporting antioxidants are also important in the formula. The classic pairing we see is vitamin E and ferulic acid.” She also recommends seeking out serums with active ingredients like niacinamide or green tea polyphenols—Pay attention to packaging. Since vitamin C can break down when exposed to light or air, she recommends choosing opaque or airtight packaging.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
$185 at BLUEMERCURY
Packed with antioxidants and praised by dermatologists, SkinCeuticals’ C E Ferulic serum is one of Dr. Bittar’s top picks. “This is the gold standard of vitamin C serums, especially for mature skin,” he says. “It was one of the first products to stabilize vitamin C with vitamin E and ferulic acid. It’s expensive, but it’s one of the few skincare products I believe is actually worth the splurge.”
La Mer The Concentrate Serum
$225 at NORDSTROM
La Mer’s newly reformulated Concentrate is a barrier-focused serum designed to soothe visible irritation and help aging skin handle environmental stressors. Its formula includes Concentrated Miracle Broth, antioxidant-rich Lime Tea Concentrate, and Clarity Algae to help defend against free radicals and improve discoloration. “The formula is rich in silicones, which form a protective layer over the skin to help maintain hydration,” says Dr. Khanna, who also points to its barrier-supporting lipids, including cholesterol and linoleic acid. She considers it a good option for dry or barrier-compromised skin, though its fragrance and aromatic botanical ingredients may cause problems for highly reactive skin.
Firming Serums
“When considering adding a serum designed for firming, you want to set realistic expectations for what your serum can and cannot do,” says May Hall, DO, a double board-certified dermatologist in Kentucky. She notes that no firming serum can reverse severe sagging or provide long-term skin tightening. However, “Can your topical firming serum boost collagen production and support skin elasticity with ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid?” she asks. “Absolutely!” With consistent use, Hall says a good firming serum can improve the appearance of skin by plumping the surface.
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Face Serum
$22 $18 (18% off) at AMAZON
“This serum contains a Tri-Peptide Complex to support better skin elasticity and collagen production,” Hall says. “It also has ingredients like hyaluronic acid to help lock in moisture and vitamin C for an overall brightening effect. At this affordable price, it’s a great addition to an anti-aging skincare routine.”
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx BioRejuvenation Serum
$89 at AMAZON
“This is an ambitious, multi-ingredient formula,” says Nupur Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Clearwater, Florida. Designed to lift, tighten, and sculpt the skin, the serum “combines amino acids—the building blocks of proteins—with niacinamide, glutathione, adenosine, peptides, and several moisturizing ingredients,” she explains. “I like that it aims to address multiple aspects of skin quality rather than focusing only on wrinkles. For someone who wants one comprehensive treatment serum, it’s an interesting option!”
Serums for Overnight Repair
You don’t have to keep the same hours as your skincare. In fact, some of the most effective products for aging skin work while you sleep. SkinCeuticals’ P-Tiox Serum, for instance, is a bedside staple for many Vogue editors, while retinol remains the long-reigning MVP of after-hours skincare. “Retinoids have the strongest body of scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness in promoting collagen synthesis and increasing cellular turnover,” says Brandon Richland, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Richland Aesthetics in California and Nevada. Dr. Richland also suggests using barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides or ectoin at night. These ingredients help maintain hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss, which can make retinoids easier to tolerate and reduce irritation.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal SAccording to Dr. Pierre, the key to finding a good retinoid for aging skin is making sure it doesn’t irritate your skin. Medik8’s Crystal Retinal makes this easier by offering the product in different strengths suited to sensitive skin and those new to retinal, as well as experienced retinoid users.
Allies of Skin Copper Tripeptide & Ectoin Advanced Repair Face Serum, $199 on Amazon: “This is great for a compromised barrier,” Dr. Khanna says. “It’s a fragrance-free formula with ectoin, which helps support the barrier, reduces water loss, and may protect against oxidative stress.” She recommends the serum for people prone to rosacea or eczema, or for general overnight barrier repair.
Apply an Eye Cream (Without Tugging)
“The skin around the eyes is delicate and typically shows the first signs of aging,” says Miller. “Choose eye creams with peptides or caffeine to reduce puffiness, firm the skin, and smooth fine lines.” Hydration is also key, she adds, and the ideal eye cream will have a rich yet non-irritating formula. Miller recommends applying eye cream after serum and before moisturizer, day and night—and doing it gently. “Tap gently with your ring finger to avoid pulling the delicate skin,” Zmigrodski instructs.
Blue Lagoon Skin Science BL+ Eye Cream, $165 at Blue Lagoon Skincare: Designed specifically for the eye area, Blue Lagoon’s BL+ Complex uses an advanced system to deliver collagen-boosting microalgae and silica deep into the skin. Made with ceramides, bakuchiol, and niacinamide, the cream has a rich, melting texture that makes it a treat to apply.
Tata Harper Brightening Eye Gel, $76 at Nordstrom: Designed to brighten, hydrate, and depuff, Tata Harper’s soothing eye gel is one of my morning must-haves—and it’s also dermatologist-approved. “Made with vitamin C and Japanese plum, which is known for its antioxidant and anti-glycation properties, this formula is great for dark circles or tired under-eyes,” Dr. Hall says. What’s more, “the whipped texture feels soothing and smooth on the thin under-eye skin.”
With Moisture, More Is More
“Moisturizing is a crucial step in improving the vibrancy and health of mature skin,” Dr. Bittar says. “As we get older, our skin gets drier, which leads to a dull appearance.” He says the best moisturizers for aging skin not only hydrate but also include active ingredients—such as niacinamide, panthenol, or hyaluronic acid—that target common signs of aging. And in this category, it’s okay to double up. “I often recommend investing in a moisturizer with built-in sunscreen to help simplify your morning routine, and buying one without SPF for evening use,” Dr. Bittar says. According to Miller, night creams should focus on repair and regeneration, and the best ones help mimic the effects of a restful night’s sleep.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer SPF 30, $25 on Amazon: “This is my favorite face moisturizer,” Dr. Bittar says. “I keep a bottle at home, in my bag, and even in my car. It has ceramides and glycerin to hydrate, and niacinamide to help soothe and brighten tone. The UV version has a built-in SPF 30 that doesn’t pill up and goes on super smooth.”
SkinCeuticals P-TIOX Cream, $150 at Blue Mercury: A firming favorite among Vogue editors, this SkinCeuticals cream targets deep lines, enlarged pores, and uneven texture. Its formula combines peptides, niacinamide, and exfoliating lipohydroxy acid to help skin look smoother and brighter while keeping it hydrated for hours. “I absolutely love the P-Tiox Serum, and my skin drinks up the P-Tiox Cream,” Dr. Hall says. “I love how silky the consistency is, and I know my skin is actively benefiting from the high-potency peptide formula.” She recommends using the cream on its own or layering it with other actives like retinol.
SPF Is a Daily Must
This last step is crucial. “Sunscreen“Sunscreen is the single most important anti-aging product,” Dr. Mraz stresses. “It protects against UV rays that speed up the breakdown of collagen and elastin.” As collagen and elastin break down, she says, skin becomes more prone to visible wrinkles, increased laxity, and UV-induced hyperpigmentation. Dr. Bittar often tells his patients that sunscreen is “a fountain of youth in a bottle.” Like most dermatologists, he says a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is ideal, since SPF 30 blocks 97% of UV light. But he stresses that reapplication is the key to efficacy for any sunscreen. “What most people don’t realize is that sunscreen only lasts about two hours, so if you put it on at 9 a.m. and then go out to lunch at noon, your morning application is no longer protecting you,” he notes.
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EltaMD UV AOX Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 Tinted Face Sunscreen
$46 AMAZON
$45 BLUEMERCURY
Dr. Bittar often recommends tinted sunscreen to streamline a morning routine, since it can double as a foundation. “Almost all of EltaMD’s sunscreens are super lightweight mineral sunscreens that come with or without tint and go on incredibly smoothly,” he says. “This one is specifically designed for sensitive skin and has antioxidants—vitamins C and E—to help with photoaging as well.”
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Carte Blanche Multi-Hyphenate Brightening Skin Tint Mineral SPF 35
$68 VIOLET GREY
Carte Blanche’s new skin tint is a true multitasker, combining mineral sun protection with ingredients that target hyperpigmentation. “It contains zinc oxide for broad-spectrum UV protection and iron oxides that help protect against visible light,” Khanna says. “This is particularly beneficial for patients with melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.” She notes that the formula also includes licorice root extract, vitamin C, and bakuchiol, which offer antioxidant and potential skin-brightening benefits.
Everything You Need to Know
What’s the best skin-care routine for aging skin?
“The best routine is different for each person’s specific needs, but most ideal routines for aging skin are composed of sunscreen, a retinoid, a gentle wash, a solid moisturizer, and a vitamin C serum—in that order of importance,” Dr. Bittar says. “If you have all of these components in your regimen, your routine is already in great shape.” Below, Dr. Bittar outlines his go-to routine for aging skin:
AM:
Gentle face wash or salicylic acid face wash
Vitamin C serum
Moisturizer with SPF 30+ sunscreen
Throughout the day:
Reapply sunscreen every two hours
PM:
Gentle face wash
Retinoid treatment
Moisturizer
In what order should you use anti-aging skin products?
“In general, you should use your products from lightest to heaviest,” Dr. Bittar says. He typically recommends using a cleanser, followed by active ingredients in a toner, serum, and/or cream, and layering on a moisturizer. “Finally, sunscreen goes on top,” he says. To keep skin care simple, he also recommends splitting a routine into the morning and evening components outlined above. “Stick with only a few steps in each to make it easier to stay consistent and to make sure that your actives work well together,” he advises.
Meet the Experts:
Dr. Peter Bittar, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Miami Dermatology and Laser Institute.
Patricia Conrad is an esthetician and massage therapist at The Spa at The Belgrove Resort & Spa in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Nikki Miller is a professional esthetician and the director of Kohler Waters Spa in Kohler, Wisconsin.
Audrey Zmigrodski is a licensed esthetician and the director of Spa and Warm Springs Pools at The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa in Hot Springs, Virginia.
Dr. Deanne Mraz, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut.
Dr. Peterson Pierre, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology in Thousand Oaks, California.Fiona Rahbar, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Mara Dermatology in South Carolina. May Hall, DO, is a double board-certified dermatologist in Kentucky. Rayva Khanna, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City and Greenwich, Connecticut. Brandon Richland, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon and the founder of Richland Aesthetics in California and Nevada. Nupur Patel, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Luma Dermatology in Clearwater, Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs The Best AntiAging Skincare Routine According to Top Dermatologists and Estheticians
1 What does a good antiaging skincare routine actually look like
Keep it simple a gentle cleanser a moisturizer and sunscreen every morning plus a targeted treatment like retinol at night Consistency matters more than having a dozen products
2 What age should I start an antiaging routine
Most dermatologists suggest starting in your mid20s to early 30s That said sunscreen and moisturizer are smart at any ageits never too early or too late
3 Whats the single most important antiaging product
Sunscreen UV damage is the top cause of premature wrinkles and dark spots so daily SPF 30 does more for aging skin than any serum
4 Do I really need to wear sunscreen indoors or on cloudy days
Yes if youre near windows or spend time outdoors UVA rays pass through glass and clouds and theyre the main culprits behind wrinkles and pigmentation
5 What is retinol and why does everyone recommend it
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that boosts collagen smooths fine lines and speeds up cell turnover Its the most proven antiaging ingredient besides sunscreen
6 How do I start using retinol without irritating my skin
Begin with a low concentration two nights a week apply a peasized amount over moisturizer and build up slowly Skip it if your skin feels raw or flaky
7 Can I use retinol and vitamin C together
Yes but many people prefer vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night to reduce irritation If your skin tolerates both layering is fine
8 What does vitamin C do for aging skin
It brightens dull skin fades dark spots and protects against environmental damage It also supports collagen production
9 Are eye creams necessary
Not strictlyyour moisturizer and sunscreen can often do the job A dedicated eye cream helps if you want to target puffiness or fine lines around the eyes with gentler formulas
10 What ingredients should I look for in an antiaging moisturizer
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin for hydration ceramides