Retinol is also a go-to ingredient in nighttime skin moisturizers since it can help boost skin cell turnover, promote collagen production, and increase elasticity. (That said, just follow it up with a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 during the day, since retinoids can contribute to sun sensitivity.) Dr. Green also notes alpha and beta hydroxy acids, two groups of chemical exfoliants, as essentials for smoothing skin and addressing discoloration concerns. “Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, 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. Dehydrated skin can appear with more exaggerated wrinkles and dark circles under the eye, especially if you have dry skin to begin with. Dr. Green recommends including niacinamide skin-care products, hyaluronic acid serums, and ceramide-packed formulas in your routine to reinforce the skin’s barrier and help lock in moisture.
Scroll ahead to find what dermatologists and Allure editors consider to be the best moisturizer for mature skin.
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