Frequently asked questions
What do dermatologists recommend for aging skin?
“With time, the skin becomes drier due to increased transepidermal water loss,” says board-certified dermatologist Sandra Oska, MD. “As patients age, their barrier becomes more reactive to external forces and takes longer to recover from injury.” The first step in a barrier-supporting routine, she says, is to focus on gentle cleansers with ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid.
When it comes to treatments, focus on active ingredients that combat common signs of aging and boost collagen production, such as retinol, vitamin C, and peptides.
When it comes to moisturizing, board-certified dermatologist Kseniya Kobets, MD, recommends formulas with barrier-supporting ingredients, such as ceramides, glycerin, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. And of course, all dermatologists agree that a daily SPF of 30 or above is the MVP of anti-aging skin care products.
Can you exfoliate mature skin?
“Intentional exfoliation with chemical exfoliants—starting once per week and building up to two to three times per week—is ideal for mature skin,” Oska says. Kobets notes that hydroxy acids, such as salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and glycolic acid, are all effective for gently exfoliating aging skin.
But no matter which exfoliating acid you use, don’t overdo it: “Exfoliating more than once or twice a week dries the skin out, irritates it, prolongs inflammation, and compromises the skin barrier,” Oska says.
How we tested:
Whittling down the best face cleansers for aging skin began at the sink. I, along with several Glamour editors, washed away the day with formulas that have different textures and price points and cater to skin concerns. Along with noting how each formula made our skin look and feel, both right away and over time, we spoke to top dermatologists about the cleansers’ ingredients, format, and efficacy. The list above represents the cream of the cleansing crop.
- Sandra Oska, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles and Santa Monica
- Jessie Cheung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York and Illinois
- Kristina Collins, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Austin, Texas
- Ariel Ostad, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon
- Kseniya Kobets, MD, director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care
