Choosing an anti-wrinkle cream can be a real challenge, and experts say it’s never too early to start looking after your skin. The offer is prosperous and varied from anti-wrinkle creams with a preventive role to those that contribute to reducing wrinkles for a more refreshed and velvety complexion.  

To make your work easier and to help you, we have created a guide on choosing the best anti-wrinkle cream, the most sought-after active ingredient in skincare routines, and, of course, a top of the best cream anti-wrinkle since 2023. 

How to choose the best anti-wrinkle cream

You have to take into account a lot of things when choosing an anti-wrinkle cream. From your budget to your skin type to your age, all these factors should be considered to choose the best anti-wrinkle cream to suit your needs. Here are the most important criteria to consider before starting shopping: 

1. Texture 

Serums, creams, and gels have different textures, and each helps to fix skin problems differently. In some cases, a simple serum may be enough for your problems. Other times, you’ll need several serums with different active ingredients and even a moisturizer or two.

Sera

Serums usually have an extremely light, almost watery texture and contain active ingredients with a role in relieving various skin problems. Usually, serums need to penetrate the skin as deeply as possible, so they should be applied immediately after cleansing the skin, before moisturizers, or those with SPF. 

They absorb quickly and can be used morning and night, followed by toner and/or moisturizer. They are not recommended for people with dry or sensitive skin because they do not offer the same moisturizing sensation as regular creams for these skin types. In addition, due to the high concentrations of active ingredients, they can irritate people with sensitive skin. 

Gels 

As with serums, gels have a lighter texture and often contain ingredients that slightly moisten the skin on the surface (humectants) and trap water molecules. The gels offer good hydration without leaving an oily filter on the skin. They are recommended for people with oily skin for a matte finish that does not burden the skin.  

Creams 

Creams are thicker in texture than serums and gels to hydrate the skin better and help the skin retain water. Some moisturizers also contain active anti-wrinkle ingredients, thus having a double effect. But to combat more severe skin problems like wrinkles, combining a quality serum with a moisturizer is best.    

They are not recommended for people with oily and acne-prone skin because the thicker texture of these creams clogs the pores.

2. Active ingredients

As with any care product, the active ingredients play a vital role. They often treat different issues; some ingredients target different skin types and age groups. Here are the most sought-after active ingredients you must introduce into your anti-wrinkle care routine. 

Ceramides 

Ceramides represent the skin’s protective barrier and have the role of protecting and hydrating the skin. Regarding anti-wrinkle effects, the more hydrated your skin is, the younger it will look. In addition, ceramides are very good against irritation and suitable for all skin types. 

Collagen

Collagen is one of the most critical proteins in the skin, which keeps it firm and elastic. The body’s collagen production decreases as you age, accentuated by external factors such as pollution or exposure to the sun. That’s why it is recommended that after 25 years, you introduce creams into your routine that help restore collagen cells. 

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is one of the alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), just like lactic acid. It has the lowest molecular weight, so it penetrates the skin best and has exfoliating properties. Glycolic acid removes dead skin from the skin, improving texture, shrinking pores, and giving it more radiance. It also stimulates the skin’s collagen production for more elasticity. 

However, glycolic acid can irritate people with sensitive skin or when used in massive amounts. It is best to gradually introduce it into the care routine and give your skin time to get used to it.  

Lactic acid

Lactic acid is derived from milk and is generally milder and less irritating than glycolic acid. It is often used in anti-wrinkle products in peels and exfoliants to leave skin looking brighter. 

Unlike other ingredients that leave the skin dry if not used correctly, lactic acid naturally helps to hydrate the skin. It is recommended to use it with an SPF cream to increase the photosensitivity of the skin. 

Niacinamides 

If you experience skin redness or irritation, ensure niacinamides are listed as ingredients in your anti-wrinkle care products. These are a form of vitamin B3 that calms inflamed skin, tolerated by all skin types. In addition, they provide more brightness to the skin and calm unwanted pigmentation spots. 

Retinol

Also known as vitamin A, retinol is one of the most effective ingredients in the fight against ageing. It speeds up the process of exfoliation and cell regeneration, helping to reduce fine lines, refresh sun-damaged skin, and fight red spots and even acne. 

If it sounds too good to be true, it is because, for many of us, it is. Retinol can be a very irritating ingredient, so it is recommended to gradually introduce it into the skincare routine, sometimes even between two moisturizing creams. In addition, it increases the photosensitivity of the skin, so it is recommended to use it only in the evening, before going to bed, and during the day to protect your skin by applying a cream with SPF 50+.

3. Age 

Age is another significant factor to consider when choosing an anti-wrinkle cream. Depending on your age, you can choose creams to help treat or even prevent the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles. 

20-30 years

Between 20 and 30 years old, it is advisable to choose creams that help you keep your skin very well hydrated and protect you against UV rays. Try to use serums with vitamin C, which has an antioxidant effect, fighting against pigment spots, and creams with a vital sun protection factor, regardless of the season. Thus, you will keep your skin healthy and practically prevent wrinkles. 

30-40 years

With the appearance of the first fine lines, turn to creams with active ingredients that fight against them. Suppose you do not have sensitive skin and tolerate retinol after 30. In that case, including it in your daily routine is good so your skin can regenerate more efficiently. 

At the same time, as you age, your skin will take on a duller and less luminous appearance. Use products with alpha and beta acids and vitamin C for a refreshed appearance. 

40+ years

After age 40, you should focus on minimizing wrinkles and choose creams with active ingredients such as retinol, hyaluronic acid, and collagen. Keep in mind that the appearance of wrinkles will not wholly disappear except with the help of invasive procedures, the effect of creams being relatively subtle. 

Continue to use sunscreen creams regardless of the season, and focus on deeply moisturizing your skin in the morning and at night. 

What are the best anti-wrinkle creams you must try

1. Lotus Antioxidant Moisturizer by Fresh

The Lotus Antioxidant Moisturizer range of creams is ideal if you want your skin to look rested, healthy, and much younger. Thanks to its moisturizing and antioxidant properties, it not only makes your skin much more radiant but also minimizes the signs of ageing, helping to reduce and prevent fine lines. 

Lotus Antioxidant Night Moisturizer has in its composition shea butter and peach leaf extract, which contribute to the restoration of the skin overnight. 

Live in a highly polluted environment or are behind on your sleep hours. This night-day anti-wrinkle cream duo will be your best friend, especially if you want your skin to look straight and fresh at any time!

2. Banana Bright Eye Cream by OLEHENRIKSEN

Banana Bright is an anti-wrinkle eye cream that restores your brightness while diminishing the unsightly appearance of dark circles and fine lines. With a significant concentration of vitamin C, it instantly corrects the colour around the eyes, giving the appearance of smooth, rested, and refreshed skin. Thanks to the collagen in the composition, your skin will look firm and hydrated.

Banana Bright Eye Cream is inspired by “banana powder,” the secret of make-up artists to improve the application and resistance of the concealer, thus helping to achieve a complexion that defies time and age. 

3. Ultra-Active Lift Cream by Aslavital

The anti-wrinkle cream with a lifting effect from Aslavital will make your skin feel younger and healthier from the first use. The complex of gatulin and clay gives the cream unique anti-wrinkle properties. At the same time, ferulic acid associated with vitamins A and E stimulates the production of elastin and collagen, increasing skin elasticity and preventing the destructive action of UV radiation.

The formula is enriched with natural oils, vitamins, and active principles that contribute to a good softening and hydration of the skin, being suitable for all skin types. It is enough to apply it twice daily, morning and evening, for the skin’s microrelief to improve only after 10 days of using the cream.

4. Buffet Anti-aging Serum by The Ordinary

Buffet Anti-Aging Serum is a multi-effect water-based anti-wrinkle serum aimed at improving the signs of skin aging, significantly improving overall skin health. Thanks to the complex of peptides, amino acids, hyaluronic acid, and probiotics, The Ordinary’s serum helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, increase hydration and fade pigment spots, giving the skin a much brighter and more vibrant appearance.

And the best part is that it can be used on any skin type without causing irritation or acne breakouts. Whether you have normal, dry, combination, or oily skin, use it in the evening and morning. You will already notice the difference: firmer and refreshed skin! 

5. C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream by Drunk Elephant

If we were to describe the C-Tango contour cream, it is a dance between powerful antioxidants, moisturizing ceramides, plant oils, and soothing active ingredients, an ideal mix for firmer and brighter skin around the eyes. Thanks to cucumber extracts and vitamin C, it helps to even out skin tone. At the same time, fine lines and wrinkles are significantly reduced.

The 5C vitamin complex gives the skin a luminous and firm appearance, and the eight peptides can restore and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Drunk Elephant’s C-Tango Contour Cream is perfect for adding to your morning or evening anti-wrinkle routine, giving you the dose of deep hydration the skin around your eyes needs. Thanks to its rich and comforting texture, you’ll feel at the spa for a few moments daily!