Frequently asked questions
Do antiaging serums really work?
Whether or not a facial serum actually meets its claims depends largely on the efficacy and legitimacy of its formula and your own usage habits. “Serums that contain ingredients to target the causes and visible markers of aging can, and do, work—provided they are well-formulated and used consistently,” says Dr. Engelman.
Dr. Garshick agrees, adding that the results you experience depend on what ingredients are used, the specific concern you’re looking to treat—whether it’s age spots, uneven skin tone, crow’s feet, or other concerns— and how consistently you’re applying the product. You shouldn’t expect results overnight either. “Serums work best with consistent, long-term use, with many helping to both prevent and treat signs of skin aging,” she says.
What ingredients are best for aging skin?
As skin ages, Dr. Engelman says, it loses the ability to hold onto moisture as effectively as younger skin, which is why mature skin tends to be drier. On top of that, our body’s production of collagen and elastin begins to decline, which leads to the development of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. Some other common signs of aging include dullness and hyperpigmentation. To target these issues, Dr. Engleman suggests products with ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and growth factors. “Epidermal growth factors stimulate cells in the skin called fibroblasts, which help with cellular repair and renewal,” she says. “Similar to retinol, they trigger cell turnover and signal the body to produce more collagen and elastin, supporting firmer, bouncier skin and a brighter, more even complexion.”
As for vitamin C’s superpower? Dr. Garshick says it can protect against free radical damage and environmental stressors, and brighten up dull skin.
Should you use retinol or hyaluronic acid on aging skin?
Again, this answer really depends on your skin type and personal skin concerns, but both ingredients can be beneficial for mature skin and pop up frequently in antiaging products. “Hyaluronic acid can be helpful for aging skin, as it helps to boost hydration as well as plump the skin,” says Dr. Garshick. “As we age, our skin becomes dry, so boosting moisture can help to keep the skin looking and feeling healthy.” You’ll find hyaluronic acid in many hydrating antiaging serums that work to plump up dry skin and soften the appearance of fine lines.
A retinoid is arguably one of the most effective ingredients you can incorporate into your routine for treating and preventing signs of aging. According to board-certified dermatologist Ashley Magovern, MD, retinol (a type of retinoid and a form of vitamin A that’s available over-the-counter!) is a gold-standard ingredient because of the wide range of benefits it offers. For instance, it helps to stimulate collagen production, increases cell turnover, improves tone and texture, reduces fine lines and hyperpigmentation, and helps to prevent clogged pores. “With consistent use, skin looks firmer, smoother, and more even,” she says. “Retinol is also now available in more elegant, encapsulated forms and lower strengths for sensitive skin types—which means more people can benefit without irritation.”
Retinol also gets the antiaging stamp of approval from both Dr. Magovern and Dr. Engelman thanks to the ingredient’s ability to increase cellular turnover and effectively smooth fine lines and wrinkles over time with consistent use. “Retinol has long been the gold standard of antiaging skin care because it signals cells to act like younger, healthier cells, thus working to build collagen and elastin, improve cell turnover and moisture retention, and improve tone and texture,” says Dr. Engelman. Some other helpful ingredients for addressing visible signs of aging include niacinamide, growth factors, and hyaluronic acid.
Does concentration matter?
According to Dr. Engelman, serums tend to be formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients than products such as lotions and moisturizers. And due to their lightweight, semifluid consistencies, they can deeply penetrate the skin to deliver better results.
The ingredients in the best antiaging serums vary widely, and the best product for you will largely depend on the specific concerns you’re looking to treat. “When purchasing a serum for aging skin, it’s important to consider both the cause and the type of aging—whether it’s fine lines, laxity, pigmentation, dullness, or texture changes,” says Dr. Magovern. She also says peptides can help support collagen production and improve firmness, while antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid can be helpful for fighting free radical damage and addressing discoloration.
Can I use antiaging face serums on sensitive skin?
“Sensitive skin does not preclude the use of antiaging skin-care products; however, extra caution has to be taken,” says Dr. Haskin. “Potentially irritating ingredients may include retinoids, AHA/BHA exfoliating acids, and even some stronger formulations of niacinamide.” The general rule of thumb, she says, is to follow a gradual introduction, using a conservative amount of product a few times a week to start. “It’s also important to combine these antiaging products with moisturizers that help repair and maintain the skin barrier,” she says.
To find the best antiaging serums, we evaluated formulas based on their key ingredients, claimed benefits, texture, ease of use, and how well they fit into a real-world skin-care routine. We considered both established favorites and newer launches, consulting board-certified dermatologists for their expert recommendations and swiping the serums onto our own skin. We also considered factors like skin type, potential irritation, price, and the specific signs of aging each serum is designed to address. The products that ultimately made our list offered the strongest combination of effective ingredients, visible results, and usability.
- Dendy Engelman, MD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in New York City
- Ashley Magovern, MD, board-certified dermatologist based in Manhattan Beach, California, and a Dermstore Medical Advisory Board member
- Marisa Garshick, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatologist in New York City
- Miriam Hanson, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin and Cedar Park, Texas
- Dr. Whitney Hovenic, a board-certified dermatologist, Mohs surgeon, and co-founder of sunscreen brand SPOOGE.
