You can be in your 20s and dolloping on SPF daily. Or, you can be in your 50s and want to know how to mitigate the appearance of fine lines. The common link? The desire to focus on anti-aging — and it begins with a skincare regimen that works for you.
With a Cheesecake Factory-sized menu of formulations that tout being the best wrinkle cream on the market, it can become confusing to understand which is really the most optimal for your skin type. Coupled with the fact that these creams take some time to see tangible results, the process can seem daunting.
Luckily, I put together a top-button list of the best wrinkle creams, broken down by category, so you can easily shop the ones that made the cut. For reference, I’m in my 20s and don’t have deep-set wrinkles as, say, someone in their 60s, but everyone naturally has fine lines, and I was able to put top brands like Clinique, Shiseido and Sulwhasoo to the test and assess the results over time.
For others that either weren’t fit for my skin type (combination) or I couldn’t speak to based on my age, I called in the pros: board-certified dermatologists and a dermatologic surgeon.
“In addition to moisturizing, wrinkle creams are meant to target specific signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity,” Lauren Penzi, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MCDS Dermatology on Long Island, told Post Wanted. “They contain specific ingredients that stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture or reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
While supplementary ingredients vary to add to the creaminess or bounciness of a moisturizer, there are a few key ingredients to scope out when wanting to relinquish wrinkles.
“Retinol is the gold standard ingredient in wrinkles creams, addressing skin texture and tone, fine lines and wrinkles, and to enhance collagen production for overall skin improvement,” Howard Sobel, MD, clinical attending dermatologic surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital, told The Post. “Hyaluronic acid helps to plump the skin, locking in moisture and strengthening the skin barrier for younger-looking skin. Niacinamide, vitamin C and bakuchiol increase skin-brightening, bringing more radiance to skin, too.”
Ahead, we outlined the best wrinkle creams that we reviewed and our experts recommend. Plus, check out our in-depth FAQ section for more anti-aging tips and what to know.
Pros:
- Contains both retinol and peptides to help smooth fine lines when used consistently
- Hydrating, non-greasy feel
- Gentle on sensitive skin as it’s fragrance-free
Cons:
- May not be suited for those with extremely dry skin as retinol tends to dry out the skin
- May not be best for daytime use as retinol tends to make the skin more sensitive to sun exposure
“The Olay Regenerist Retinol24 + Peptide Night Face Moisturizer contains a blend of its proprietary retinoid complex, along with niacinamide and amino peptides, that help to revive and rejuvenate the skin.” Dr. Penzi explained. “It penetrates deep into then skin surface to address many concerns including fine lines and wrinkles, smoothness, brightness, firming, dark spots and pores.”
Moreover, it also hydrates the skin and help to maintain the natural skin barrier, with Olay being Penzi’s “favorite drugstore brand for retinol.”
I also tried this product and love how it’s suitable for any age — in your 20s or in your 60s alike (yes, my mom has stolen this tub!) With a pleasing whipped consistency, it hydrates and nourishes my skin as well, with a non-greasy finish that smooths out my skin by the morning. Of course, its anti-aging benefits make using it even more worthwhile. I noticed the biggest difference around the natural corners by the eyes.
Dr. Sobel also recommends this wrinkle cream as it “contains a combination of wrinkle-reducing peptides, retinol and niacinamide to improve the look of pores, brighten dark spots and improve skin elasticity,” much to what Penzi echoes as well.
Key ingredients: Niacinamide, Retinol, Peptides | Size: 1.7 ounces | When to use: Evening
Pros:
- Affordable price, appealing to many shoppers
- Lightweight formulation
- Fragrance-free, so wonderful on sensitive skin
Cons:
- May not be suited for those with extremely dry skin as retinol tends to dry out the skin
- May not be best for daytime use as retinol tends to make the skin more sensitive to sun exposure
“This anti-wrinkle face cream with retinol and hyaluronic acid helps to both moisturize and smooth out the skin,” Penzi noted, recommending the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream.
In addition to containing superstar anti-aging ingredient retinol, it also boasts hydrating ingredients that help minimize the effects of dry skin. Thought to be one of the most lightweight as well, it doesn’t leave any unwanted residue.
More benefits? It’s just shy of $30 when you order it online and it’s also fragrance-free to appeal to sensitive skin.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Retinol | Size: 1.7 ounces | When to use: Evening
Pros:
- Taut consistency that fares well with lines and wrinkles when applied
- Becomes more lightweight when blended, offering line-soothing nourishment
- Hydrating and firming feel
The Clinique Smart Clinical Repair Wrinkle-Correcting Eye Cream is a standout product for targeting fine lines and wrinkles — and not just because it has the words “wrinkle-correcting” in its title.
With a beautiful pearl shade that’s taut and firm in the tub, I noticed something particularly nice about this formulation: it becomes more lightweight as I blended it into my skin, which helps noticeably nourish and soothe fine lines. It’s the best eye cream I reviewed for anti-aging after testing more than 50. While I’m in my early 20s and don’t have wrinkles per se, this eye cream stood out from the pack in terms of making my under-eye area look slate-clean.
Not only that, but Clinique is a brand I’ve trusted for years as it’s typically regarded as a brand “good for sensitive skin” (you’ve probably heard much about that if you’ve ever shuffled across a Macy’s beauty counter). With hyaluronic acid as a key ingredient to help restore suppleness, this fragrance-free formula is hydrating and impactful.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Peptides | Size: 0.5 ounces | When to use: Morning + Evening
Pros:
- Helps firm and tighten the neck and décolletage area
- Contains antioxidants and peptides in its formula to help address sagging
- Helps deliver a more youthful appearance to the skin when used consistently
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- May not be geared toward extremely sensitive skin as there are some exfoliating acids in its formulation
“This product has been around for a long time and is a well-known neck cream,” Nava Greenfield, MD, board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor at Mount Sinai Hospital specializing in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology, told The Post. “It uses hydrating ingredients to [help] improve the appearance of wrinkles and discoloration on the neck and chest.”
Additionally, this formula is enriched with pro-amino acids and a proprietary Neocitriate complex that’s said to help stimulate collagen production and, in turn, pave the way for healthier-looking skin over time. Though a splurge, its oil-free formula is simple to blend into the neck area with just a swipe or two — and one of the best neck creams we rounded up.
Key ingredients: Peptides, Bakuchiol, Vitamin E | Size: 2.8 ounces | When to use: Evening
Pros:
- Helps deliver a more even skin tone, in addition to targeting with fine lines
- Contains hyaluronic acid and shea butter, which are great for dry skin
Cons:
- May not be best for daytime use as retinol tends to make the skin more sensitive to sun exposure
- Price point may be unreachable for some
For deep wrinkles, you typically want a cream or treatment that targets both the surface of the skin and stimulates collagen production beneath it.
“The Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream is a powerful overnight cream with actives like retinol and swertia flower that visibly minimize wrinkles and restore your skin’s smooth texture,” Penzi said. She also pointed out that results can be seen in as little as one to two months.
What’s more, its Retinol Tri-Active Technology is said to help fight lines and wrinkles more quickly than usual as fast-acting retinoids are characteristic of its proprietary blend.
Key ingredients: Retinol, Niacinamide | Size: 2.8 ounces | When to use: Evening
Pros:
- Deeply hydrating, thanks to the brand’s thermal spring water, glycerin and shea butter, which is great for dry skin
- Helps protect against environmental stressors, thanks to the brand’s thermal spring water
- Helps create a bouncier complexion when used consistently
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- Thought to have a heavier texture than most
“This is a daily anti-aging cream for mature skin that combats signs of skin laxity and helps replenish skin’s bounce,” Penzi said. “This intensely moisturizing formula helps skin feel firmer and tighter.”
The La Roche-Posay Substiane Riche Anti-Aging Cream also contains shea butter, like the Murad Resurgence Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream, for an enhanced soothing feel while helping to prevent skin sagging simultaneously. Its affinity for prevention, along with its ability to hydrate, make it one to try next.
What’s more, it’s designed to address signs of aging, particularly for dry, mature skin. After reviewing the lion’s share of La Roche-Posay products, I found the brand’s proprietary thermal spring water to be refreshing in its creams, though I haven’t tried this particular formulation quite yet. The thermal spring water, mixed in with glycerin, is simply a dollop of moisture to your skin, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles as it’s making the skin more supple. The result? A smooth, more refreshed feel.
Key ingredients: Thermal Spring Water, Glycerin, Shea Butter | Size: 1.35 ounces | When to use: Morning + Evening
Pros:
- Great for sensitive skin as it contains a blend of soothing ingredients, like oat
- Helps minimize skin irritation, thanks to peptides and antioxidants
- Helps promote firmer-looking skin with consistent use
Cons:
- Not recommended for beginner retinol users
- Price point may be unreachable for some
“In addition to retinol, the Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment contains soothing oat, willow bark and licorice extracts, making it ideal for sensitive skin,” Penzi shared, highlighting the product as a quality, retinol-leading ingredient.
Additionally, it also contains a triple peptide blend that enhances its efficacy in fighting signs of aging. With consistent use, you’ll notice firmer-looking skin as well. The formula also includes a cocktail of peptides and antioxidants, working in tandem to minimize irritation. Though 1% retinol doesn’t sound like all too much, it’s recommended for more experienced users as your skin must progressively grow used to the already potent ingredient. If a beginner, try the DRMTLGY Retinol Complex (0.5%).
Key ingredients: Retinol, Vitamin C, Peptides | Size: 1 ounce | When to use: Evening
Pros:
- Delivers impressive hydration to the skin, with a rich formula that’s lovely for evening use
- Excellent for those with hyperpigmentation
- Has a non-greasy finish
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- Contains subtle fragrance, which may be unsuitable for those with sensitive skin
One of the most acclaimed, albeit expensive, products in the beauty market for wrinkle creams is the Shiseido Future Solution LX Regenerating Cream. No, it doesn’t contain gold as its price point may suggest, but it does in fact contain the brand’s proprietary ReNeura Technology+, helping to deliver anti-aging goodness at the cellular level.
Aside from addressing wrinkles, this cream also targets firmness and uneven skin tone. Michelle Moezam, senior commerce social media marketing manager, swears by the product. She named this “one of the best [she] tried, especially for hyperpigmentation and helping dry skin areas on the face.”
With an innovative ingredient blend and a silky, non-greasy finish, this formulation is equipped to serve as your best wrinkle cream and night cream all in one. It’s impressive for a cream to be this rich without a streaky, filmy finish, making it a top product to consider — and use consistently — if you’re looking to diminish the look of wrinkles.
Key ingredients: Future Solution LX proprietary anti-aging blend, Oshima Sakura Leaf Extract | Size: 1.69 ounces | When to use: Evening
Pros:
- Contains ginseng which has been tested to have wonderful anti-aging properties
- Leaves the skin firmer and smoother with consistent use
- Lovely absorption and application
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- Small size for the price point
Another wrinkle cream that’s worth the splurge, but make it Korean. I’ve been using the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream Classic and was way too excited to twist off the cap and dive into its formulation. Right off the bat, it nurtured my combination skin, slathering on well and absorbing deeply into the dry spots while mitigating the natural sheen that tends to creep up on my forehead.
In a nutshell, this is a luxurious anti-aging moisturizer that contains ginseng, a key ingredient that has been tested and proven to have anti-aging benefits, per a 2022 study. I didn’t expect to notice the cream to show much of a difference at first (as mentioned, the effects of the best wrinkle creams are mostly noticeable in about a month), though I immediately noticed ample nourishment, a reduction in natural smile lines and a bit more firmness.
I’ll be honest, Korean skincare is top-of-the-line in my books. Unlike most Korean skincare formulations I’ve tried, this one acts as more of a taut wrinkle cream, a contrast from the glass-skin, dewy finishes that the class of skincare falls privy to. It’s a lovely addition to my skincare routine for some balance and smoothness, and I love reaching for this in the evening. If you can swing the price, your skin will be thanking you tenfold.
Key ingredients: Ginseng, Glycerin | Size: 2.03 ounces | When to use: Morning + Evening
Pros:
- Delivers multi-purpose benefits: anti-aging, sun protection and lifting
- Affordable price point for the multi-benefit effect
- Helps brighten the skin
Cons:
- Contains subtle fragrance, which may be unsuitable for those with sensitive skin
- May be too heavy for some
“This product has a lovely, lightweight formula that can be used on the face, neck and chest area,” Penzi shares, explaining how the versatility of the RoC MULTI CORRECTION Even Tone + Lift Chest, Neck & Face Cream with SPF 30 can even double as a neck cream.
“It improves the appearance of sagging, dryness, dull skin tone and wrinkles while boosting overall radiance,” she added. “It contains SPF 30 to protect against future sun damage as well.”
Unlike the others, Penzi recommends applying this product in the morning. “It’s great for someone who is short on time and wants to apply an all-in-one product that can be used daily to moisturize, protect and prevent aging on the face, chest and neck,” she said.
Key ingredients: SPF, Hexyl-R Complex Technology proprietary anti-aging blend | Size: 1.7 ounces | When to use: Morning
Pros:
- Multi-purpose in that it hydrates, helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and eliminates dull skin
- Wonderful absorption
- Helps brighten the skin, impressively
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- May not be suitable for oily skin as it may be a bit too greasy
Unlike any other dry skin moisturizer I’ve used, the SkinCeuticals Renew Overnight Dry Nighttime Skin-Refining Moisturizer is an effective solution at targeting dry skin and smoothing out lines and imperfections on the skin. It doesn’t feel as creamy as you’d think, either; its quite firm feel dissolves beautifully onto my fingertips whenever I use it and quenches my skin’s thirst every time.
Aside from working overtime on fine lines, it also noticeably decreases the pores near the apples of my cheeks and on my nose. In addition, I notice my skin looking more replenished and a bit brighter as well, though you won’t find vitamin C here. It’s ideal for helping with dull, dry skin.
With consistent application, this multi-use cream will become one of your favorites, especially when layered over the brand’s sensational C E Ferulic Serum ($162). Trust me on this one.
Key ingredients: Hydroxy Acid Blend, Aloe | Size: 2 ounces | When to use: Evening
Pros:
- Offers some sun protection
- Serves as an excellent base before makeup
- Helps drive moisture to the skin’s barrier
Cons:
- Not SPF 30, which dermatologists recommend as a baseline standard for adequate coverage
Hydrating and equipped with SPF? Sign me up. I’m all about sun protection, and the Shiseido Benefiance Wrinkle Smoothing Day Cream SPF 23 is a bona fide product for dull skin. While designed for mature skin, I’m a believer that it would work for most other skin types as well, as the cream targets fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity. If these are your problem areas, this formula is worth looking into.
It holds a rich yet easily blendable texture to create a makeup primer-esque result: a soft, smooth finish that helps restore your skin’s texture. To top it off, it comes with a silky, smooth finish and is workable on all skin types.
Key ingredients: SPF, Red Algae, Turmeric Extract | Size: 1.69 ounces | When to use: Morning
Pros:
- Affordable price point, appealing to most shoppers
- Helps firm the skin when used consistently
- Versatile, multi-purpose cream that brings lovely hydration to chapped skin
Cons:
- Because of its rich formula, it may clog pores for some users
“The Eucerin Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Face Creme is formulated to protect against the damaging effects of free radicals and also firms and moisturizes for softer, smoother skin,” Penzi said, recommending the budget-friendly formulation. “This anti-wrinkle face moisturizer is enriched with antioxidants, vitamin E and beta-carotene to help boost the skin’s overall feel.”
This anti-wrinkle face cream is also one of the best for sensitive skin, as Penzi shared with me, and “can be used alone or under makeup.”
Because of its lightweight and buildable consistency, it’s also a lovely choice for mature skin as it won’t seep into fine lines further.
Key ingredients: Beta Carotene | Size: 1.7 ounces | When to use: Morning + Evening
Pros:
- Contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and retinol: the dreamy trifecta to hydrate, brighten and fight wrinkles
- Affordable price point, appealing to most shoppers
- Fragrance-free, so wonderful for sensitive skin
Cons:
- May be too potent for some with an array of active ingredients, so we recommend doing a patch test first
Behold, another wrinkle cream that won’t break the bank: the L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Fragrance-Free Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer. Its thoughtful ingredients, coupled with its affinity for firming, makes this quick-absorbing, silky smooth cream a no-brainer purchase.
“This Revitalift moisturizer feels incredibly nice on the skin and combines three of my favorite anti-aging ingredients: pro-retinol, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C!” Nazanin Saedi, MD, board-certified dermatologist, told The Post. “It will hydrate, plump, protect and help improve the signs of aging.”
Above all, Saedi says it’s “a good choice for sensitive skin types because it’s unscented, paraben-free, dye-free, and allergy-tested.” With the ultimate ingredient trifecta, it’s accommodating to a variety of skin types to brighten, hydrate and deliver wonderful anti-aging benefits when used over time.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Retinol, Vitamin C | Size: 1.7 ounces | When to use: Evening
Pros:
- Said to have an instant smoothing effect on fine lines when used
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Non-invasive alternative to treatments like Botox
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
“The Dr. Brandt Needles No More Wrinkle Smoothing Cream is an injectable-inspired skincare solution designed to target and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines,” Penzi highlighted, recommending the product as a splurge worth making. “It’s formulated to smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, provide hydration and improve the overall texture of your skin.”
Moreover, its key ingredients include lactic and glycolic acid and neuropeptides, among others. If you’re seeking a formulation to help target the pesky areas near your line, this solution will help target them when used consistently.
Key ingredients: Tri-blend skin smoother, Magnesium, Neuropeptides | Size: 0.5 ounces | When to use: Evening
Pros:
- Affordable price point, appealing to most shoppers
- One of the few body lotions on the market to contain retinol, helping to provide allover body wrinkle treatment
- Hydrating and great for post-shower application
Cons:
- May take longer than usual to notice results, especially if you already have cellulite
Penzi swears by the Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body & Face Lotion because it’s “one of the few options that is meant for both body as well as face.” Specifically, it has a powerful retinol and peptide complex that exfoliates to support the skin’s renewal process.
“It has seven intensive moisturizers and three vitamins that provide 24-hour hydration, and works to infuse moisture-rich nutrients with your skin while you sleep,” she added.
Though formulated to help target wrinkly skin, it may take longer to notice results, especially if you already have cellulite. However, its firming and moisturizing abilities render it a step above some other formulas.
Key ingredients: Retinol, Peptides | Size: 13 ounces | When to use: Evening
How we tested
After running the gamut of some top formulations, here’s the testing criteria Post Wanted used when assessing the best wrinkle creams:
- Efficacy: It’s crucial to understand that testing wrinkle creams takes time. After testing each one for at least four weeks consistently, we made sure to note which, if any, made a difference to the quality and overall appearance of our skin.
- Skin sensitivity: Some wrinkle creams are thick and tend to be packed with ingredients that may not mesh well with certain skin types. To test, we did a patch test for each wrinkle cream and made note of any irritation or flare-ups.
- Skin type: With different feels and finishes, it’s natural for one wrinkle cream to work best on one skin type as opposed to another. When testing, we compared each formulation to see if any reduced shine (great for oily skin), brought in more hydration (great for dry skin), among other tangible differences.
An FAQ on Wrinkle Creams
Ahead, our team of board-certified dermatologists best explain what to look for in a quality wrinkle cream, how to use them and more.
What ingredients should I look for in a wrinkle cream?
“The most common ingredient for wrinkle creams is topical retinoids, which tend to exfoliate the skin and also stimulate collagen over time,” Keniya Kobets, MD, director, cosmetic dermatology, and assistant professor, dermatology at Montefiore-Einstein, told the New York Post. “Vitamin C and its derivatives have also been proven to stimulate collagen and elastin in the skin. Other ingredients like copper peptides also can be used for anti-aging.”
More, hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid tend to increase hydration the skin and make the skin appear more plump — and, most importantly, help improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
Be sure to note that topical retinoids and some vitamin C derivatives can be irritating and should be using caution with sensitive skin and dry skin, per Dr. Kobetts.
Oh, and we didn’t forget about superstar ingredient, retinol. “Retinols help to increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen production, improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” Penzi said. “It’s not ideal for those with dry or sensitive skin, as these can be drying and irritating with initial use, especially depending on strength or formula.
Editor’s note: Based on our testing, start with a small concentration of retinol, ideally 0.5%.
“Skin sensitivity is a major factor that determines which ingredients you incorporate into your anti-aging routine,” Turner added. “If you have very sensitive skin, look for products with low concentrations of these actives when starting to add them into your regimen; you may want at first to avoid retinol altogether starting with other actives or consider starting a retinol alone and build up your skin’s tolerance.”
How to apply wrinkle cream step by step, per dermatologists
After cleansing and applying your skin serum of choice, apply wrinkle cream to the forehead, cheekbones and chin using circular movements in a lifting motion, according to Sobel. “Additional cream can be added to the neck and décolleté in an upward sweeping motion,” he adds.
According to Dr. Saedi, a moisturizer or wrinkle cream should be the last step of your skincare routine. “It will seal in the benefits of any serums or ingredients you applied before it,” she adds. “The total amount you use should be about the size of a quarter.”
How often should I apply wrinkle cream?
“For best results, wrinkle cream should be applied at least once daily yet may be used twice daily pending the active ingredients and their concentrations,” Ryan Turner, MD, board-certified NYC dermatologist and co-founder of TRNR Skin, told The Post. “Look for a product that also contains sunscreen for morning use.”
Penzi echoed the same sentiment. “Ideally, wrinkle creams should be applied once daily, but because they often contain powerful active ingredients, it’s possible that daily can be too strong or irritating; about four times per week may be more realistic, especially for those with dry, sensitive skin.”
This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest and greatest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include reviewing the viral Korean beauty brand, Cosrx, and testing dermatologist-recommended acne cleansers. Victoria has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
