There was a time (a long time, at that), post–getting interested in skincare, when I used to say “Oh, I’m too young for that” about many products and treatments. For the most part, those days are over. As a 37-year-old, I’ve made the jump from low-key anti-aging products to more heavy-duty ones. And although my skin can be pretty dry and sensitive, I’ve managed to find highly effective products that don’t cause a ton of redness and flakiness (with a bit of trial and error, that is).
Apart from the occasional Clear + Brilliant laser treatment (highly recommend!), I very rarely get facials and instead prefer to spend money on skincare products that I can use repeatedly. Considering that most people don’t believe me when I tell them I’m 37, I think it’s paid off (but it should also be noted that I try to stay out of the sun and wear an SPF of at least 30 on my face every day). Below, learn more about the 19 heavy-duty anti-aging products I can vouch for.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare
Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Triple Correction Eye Serum
I actually don’t mind that my eyes are a little more crinkly than they used to be, but I did switch over to a retinol eye product to help delay the inevitable. This one by Dr. Dennis Gross glides right on without any tugging and has a satisfying jelly-like consistency. I’ve found that my eyes are a little less crinkly since I’ve been using it consistently.
Eighty Day
Regenerative Serum
I actually get excited on the nights that I use this serum. I don’t use it every night since it’s quite expensive, but I honestly think it’s worth it. My skin literally glows the day after I use it and I swear that the lines around my mouth have lessened since I started using it. It’s one of those products I’d be thrilled to have a lifetime supply of.
Shani Darden
Retinol Reform
After a terrible encounter with a too-strong retinol product a few years ago (but determined not to give up on retinol), I started using Retinol Reform, and I’ve never looked back. My skin has been able to tolerate this gentle yet powerful serum from the start and I think I’ll be a fan for life.
Alastin Skincare
Renewal Retinol
This is the other retinol product I’ve found that I’m able to tolerate. It includes ingredients that help to calm, hydrate, and soothe skin. It’s so skin-friendly that I think I’d even be able to use it on a nightly basis (if I didn’t like to experiment with so many different products all the time).
Augustinus Bader
The Cream Cleansing Gel With TFC8 Gentle Cleanser
Much to my delight, Augustinus Bader introduced lots of new products into its lineup last year, all of which have been met with high anticipation and equally high praise. This anti-aging cleanser is one of my new favorites. It’s perfect for the winter season as it doesn’t strip your skin, but it also feels clean (which isn’t always the case with very moisturizing cleansers).
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare
Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel
When my skin looks dull and needs a quick pick-me-up, I always rely on these peel pads. I gravitate toward them when I need a good exfoliation. My skin inevitably looks fresh and youthful the next morning.
Dr. Barbara Strum
Face Mask
I first tried a little sample packet of this face mask and was instantly convinced that I needed to spring for the full size. It’s particularly amazing after a late night or a flight when your skin is dull and in need of an antioxidant boost.
Alastin Skincare
Restorative Skin Complex
One of my other favorite Alastin products (I have many) is Restorative Skin Complex. I like to use it in the morning before sunscreen as it sinks right in and isn’t greasy in the least. Its powerful ingredients restore volume and improve elasticity and the effect it has on fine lines is very noticeable. It’s truly a desert-island product for me.
NuFace
Mini Facial Toning Device
I’m easily intimidated by skincare tools (honestly, who isn’t), but NuFace makes me feel like a professional facialist. If you’re not yet familiar, it’s a microcurrent device that tones facial muscles, reducing wrinkles and fine lines. You’re supposed to use it daily, but I use it a few times a week and still have found my face to look significantly more lifted and sculpted afterward.
Tatcha
Violet-C Radiance Mask
I’ve never but a Tatcha product I didn’t like, but this one is a longtime favorite of mine. This is what I like to call my morning mask, as it gives you bright, glowy skin (thanks to AHAs and two different types of vitamin C) for the rest of the day. Bonus: It’s unbelievable how soft it makes your skin feel.
SkinBetter Science
AlphaRet Overnight Cream
My trusted dermatologist first recommended this to me when I was asking what to do about the lines around my mouth that have become more prominent in my 30s. I tried it, and she was right. It somehow feels both rich and lightweight and when used on a nightly basis, your skin will look notably smoother (thanks to retinoid combined with AHA).
SkinBetter Science
EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream
I loved the night cream so much that I had to try the eye cream, and just wow. Not only does it combat wrinkles, but it also reduces puffiness and dark circles. I tend to have redness and dryness under my eyes and this eradicated it.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare
DRx SpectraLite BodyWare Pro
As far as skincare tools go, this LED device is as easy to use as it gets. Like Dr. Dennis Gross’ LED facial device, this one targets wrinkles, dark spots, and breakouts on the body. I like to use it on the all-important neck and chest areas.
Tatcha
Ageless Revitalizing Neck Cream
Speaking of the neck, Tatcha’s neck cream is my go-to. It’s packed with antioxidants from vitamin C and it makes me feel good knowing that I’m taking that extra preventative step for my neck and chest, even if they aren’t yet showing signs of aging. (Plus it smells amazing.)
Peter Thomas Roth
Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum
Peter Thomas Roth’s new Resurfacing Serum already has incredible reviews, and I can see why. The potent combination of glycolic acid and retinol is very effective, and the addition of hyaluronic acid and collagen work to hydrate.
U Beauty
The Resurfacing Compound Skin Care Treatment
This does-it-all serum brightens, smooths, tightens, moisturizes, and protects. It can even be used under the eyes. I love using it when I just can’t with multiple products, and it’s also great for travel. My skin tone and texture are greatly improved thanks to this little bottle.
Dr. Devgan
Microdermabrasion Scrub
If you want to look like you just got an amazing two-hour facial that cost $500 but don’t want to actually do (or spend) that, buy this $65 jar. It’s super powerful (yet non-abrasive) and leaves you with fresh, soft baby skin.
Fresh
Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask
I’ve always been intrigued by the flawless reviews of this mask, and they’re definitely not a hoax. I don’t know how it’s done, but it makes my skin look firmer, bouncier, and incredibly moisturized (but not in a greasy way) literally overnight.
Skinceuticals
Antioxidant Lip Repair
You probably already know and love SkinCeuticals, but I’m here to introduce you to yet another epic product it makes. I’ve recently been prioritizing lip care more and find this to be a great preventative product to combat premature aging of the lips. It’s great to apply before bed—just let it work its magic while you sleep.
Next up, 30 under-$50 a senior beauty editor will buy until the end of time.
This article was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.