Nowadays, there are tons of face creams to choose from, but the best moisturizers for mature skin do more than provide relief from dryness — just ask a few of our go-to dermatologists. They see patients for a countless number of concerns (acne, suspicious moles, dandruff — you name it), some of the most common appointment talking points are fine lines, sagging, and discoloration in skin tone like hyperpigmentation and dark spots. They’re perfectly natural characteristics of skin that’s matured, but some folks would prefer to see themselves with a smoother skin texture and more even complexion.
Dermatologists have access to some of the most effective in-office options, like injectable and laser treatments, but they also know what’s up when it comes to topical products you can use in your everyday routine, like moisturizers, serums, and eye creams. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Michele Green, MD, says that there are quite a few skin-care ingredients you should be looking for when shopping for a skin-care routine for mature skin, including skin-brightening vitamin C, which is “a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals which would otherwise cause oxidative stress to the skin and lead to premature aging,” Dr. Green explains.
Dr. Green also notes alpha and beta hydroxy acids, two groups of chemical exfoliants, as essentials for smoothing skin and addressing discoloration concerns. “Salicylic, glycolic, and lactic acids help exfoliate the outermost layer of cells,” she says. “This can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while evening out your skin tone and skin texture.”
Yes, intensive exfoliating ingredients and antioxidants are important to incorporate into a regimen tailored for mature skin, but Dr. Green says you shouldn’t forget about ingredients that can help replenish moisture. Dehydration can actually lead to more exaggerated wrinkles and dark circles under the eye, especially if you have dry skin to begin with. Dr. Green recommends including niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides in your routine to reinforce the skin’s barrier and help lock in moisture.
In need of more expert-approved guidance for your skin-care routine for mature skin? Then check out the top moisturizing creams, antioxidant-rich serums, and intensive treatments that derms (and Allure editors) can’t get enough of.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced, $85
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Dermalogica Stabilizing Repair Cream, $64
- Best Fragrance-Free: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, $38
- Editor Fave: Caudalie Premier Cru The Cream, $129
- Best Overnight Cream: CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, $21
- Best Makeup Prep: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream Moisturizer, $100
- The Classic (That Keeps Getting Better): Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex, $85