22 Best Anti-Aging Products of 2022 that Actually Work

Chicago-based celebrity dermatologist Dr. Jordan Carqueville lauds this zinc oxide-based blocker not only for its sun protection abilities but because it also has added benefits. Namely, antioxidant-rich vitamin E and DNA repair phytase enzymes to help undo the damage UV rays have on skin cells’ DNA. She gives it added bonus points for the weightless feel that’s nearly undetectable on the skin.

“I use this hyaluronic acid serum under my moisturizer to enhance water retention at the skin’s surface throughout the day,” says Dr. Carqueville. The other upshot? It makes for smooth makeup application, keeps your complexion looking fresh, and helps minimize the look of fine lines, she says.

Dr. Carqueville describes this formula as, “light, yet very hydrating,” and says she uses it to keep her skin dewy. It’s especially choice for those with normal to oily skin, given that it touts botanical extracts to reduce the look of large pores.

Antioxidants were universally-recommended as topnotch topical ingredients by the derms we spoke with; look for them in serums to get the most bang for your buck (they’re more concentrated than creams or lotions). Dr. Carqueville likes this one in particular, which touts a whopping 19 different antioxidants to help counteract the damage caused by free radicals. 

Dermatologists agree that retinol smooths fine lines and wrinkles, but it’s important to find one that’s the right strength for your skin. This hydrating serum uses 2.2% encapsulated retinol to deliver effective anti-aging results without experiencing the irritation caused by many other retinol products. It also contains lactic acid, which helps brighten and smooth skin, so you can get both long term and immediate results.

Scottsdale-based dermatologist Dr. Jen Haley applies this to her face, neck, chest, and back of her hands every morning. (Take a page out of her book and keep in mind that sun protection is paramount for all these exposed areas of your body, and not just your complexion). With mineral-based blockers, it’s ideal for sensitive or easily irritated skin and has the added benefit of a subtle tint that makes it especially ideal for no-makeup makeup days.

Dr. Haley reaches for this serum nightly; it contains a long list of proven anti-aging ingredients. “Kojic acid brightens and lightens, niacinamide reduces inflammation, and retinol encourages cell renewal and collagen formation,” she says.

The alpha-hydroxy acids in this formula remove dirt and dead skin cells, unclogging pores so that skin can be blemish-free, says Dr. Haley of one of her go-to face washes. The other benefit? It also helps skin maximally absorb active ingredients in the products you use afterward, she points out.

Dr. Haley applies this after her fave antioxidant serum every morning, post-cleansing. “Along with delivering some additional vitamin C, it also has exfoliating glycolic acid to gently remove adherent unnecessary dead skin cells,” she says.

It’s easy to deliver big anti-aging promises, but this highly active serum is clinically proven to improve the delicate skin around the eyes. It’s quite the splurge, but within 28 days of use, natural oils and botanical extracts visibly help to reduce bags and puffiness, and increase firmness.

Dermatologists are just like the rest of us, in that they too have to battle dark undereye circles after a late night or early morning. To do just that, Dr. Haley reaches for this “very elegant formulation” that simultaneously brightens dark circles and hydrates—both right away and over time.

“As we age, there’s a breakdown in both collagen and elastic fibers in the skin, causing thinning, wrinkling, and laxity. Alastin products contain peptides, small protein chains, that stimulate both,” says New York-based dermatologist Dr. Daniel Belkin. He likes this pick, which also touts both moisturizers and antioxidants, though notes there’s also a simpler version, the Regenerating Skin Nectar, for those who might be prone to acne or irritation.

Of all the antioxidant serums out there, this is arguably the tried-and-true derm favorite, and Dr. Belkin agrees. “It has both vitamin C and E, which the body cannot produce on its own, and ferulic acid, an antioxidant that improves the efficacy of the other two,” he says of the formula.

Dr. Haley is a fan, too, applauding the trifecta of specific antioxidants, and telling us that she uses it daily. “These antioxidants help reverse and prevent DNA damage caused by the environment, aging, and sun exposure,” says Dr. Belkin, a win both for the appearance and health of your skin.

The star of the show here? Growth factors to stimulate tissue regeneration. It’s one of Dr. Belkin’s picks due to the impressive, proven efficacy: “SkinMedica’s studies show a reduction in fine lines and improvement in tone and texture after a couple of months of regular use.” He likes this particular product, though notes that the TNS Essential Serum also contains the growth factors and contains antioxidants as well, a good pick for anyone looking to minimize the number of products in their routine. 

Dr. Haley also likes the serum, calling the growth factors the brand uses, “the highest quality ones on the market,” and notes that it can be used both morning and night.

There’s no easier way to get a dermatologist’s backing on a product than to use a dermatologist formulated product. This concentrated yet non-irritating retinol serum combined with Dr. Rose Ingleton’s signature Jamaican blend targets fine lines and wrinkles for smoother, younger looking skin.

Ask any dermatologist what the single most effective anti-aging ingredient out there is and we’re willing to bet they’ll say retinoids. These vitamin-A derivatives have a long track record of proven efficacy, working both on the surface of the skin to help with things such as tone and texture, as well as deeper in the skin to boost collagen production and smooth wrinkles. Dr. Belkin likes this particular retinol serum, thanks to the addition of, “hyaluronic acid and a similar molecule called heparan sulfate, which moisturizes and prevents irritation from the retinol,” he says.

Glycolic acid is one of Dr. Belkin’s favorite anti-agers: “Though this is generally used for exfoliation of the top layer of the skin, it is the only peeling agent that has been shown to create new collagen formation deeper in the dermis,” he says. He likes it in this inexpensive toner that can be used nightly.

Wouldn’t you know it, another antioxidant serum. “I use this serum every morning after cleansing as it contains a synergistic combination of vitamin C, phloretin, and ferulic acid. It combats environmental and UV damage resulting in more even tone, texture and a reduction of fine lines,” says New York-based dermatologist Dr. Marnie Nussbaum. 

The thin skin around your eyes is the most susceptible to signs of aging, making a dedicated eye cream an anti-aging essential. Dr. Nussbaum says she “could not live without” this multi-tasking option, which she applies twice daily. “It contains neuro-calming peptides to relax crow’s feet, vitamin C which provides antioxidants and skin brightening effects, caffeine to depuff, and humectants for intense hydration,” she tells us. 

This dermatologist-created night treatment enhances skin’s clarity and diminishes fine lines while you sleep. Retinol smooths wrinkles while licorice extract fades dark marks, and linoleic acid provides calming benefits. The results? Skin that is brighter and smoother.

There’s no need to shell out big bucks on a moisturizer, particularly one that’s fairly simple. “I have long been using this moisturizer to increase hydration without causing acne. It contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide which hydrates and minimizes redness. I can titrate my use up to three times a day and down to once a day depending upon the season without worrying about breaking out,” says Dr. Nussbaum.