In a hurry? Here are our top picks:

In this article, we will be reviewing the best natural anti-aging creams and serums on the market.

We are going to discuss what to look for when choosing the best organic anti-aging skincare products, our top-9 picks, information on how to use these anti-aging products properly, and answer some frequently asked questions about them.

Research into skin aging has revealed insights into a lot of the mystery of what happens to our skin as we age, and some effective treatments to slow and reverse the signs of aging.

Even if you are not experiencing the signs of aging yet, it may worth introducing an anti-aging cream or serum into your routine as they can help slow the process, keeping your skin looking bright and youthful!

We formulated our Zelen Life Night Cream (Anti-Aging) to reverse the signs of aging by improving cell turnover, removing dead cells, and promoting the growth of healthy collagen, giving your skin a firmer, brighter look. Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, this nutrient-dense cream is non-greasy, goes on smooth, and absorbs quickly.

Our all-natural antiwrinkle cream is free of alcohol as well as parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, and synthetic colors and fragrances. All of our ingredients are naturally sourced and organic, giving you a potent anti-aging treatment that is suitable for all skin types from oily to dry to sensitive. All of our ingredients are noncomedogenic or help to control the production of sebum (the skin’s natural oil).

We all have different concerns when it comes to our skin, and we will all experience the signs of aging differently. What works for one person’s skin may not bring the desired results for another’s. These personal considerations in skincare are why we strive to bring you an array of products that cover the gamut of concerns when it comes to caring for your skin.

Anti-aging treatments are great additions to any skincare routine for anyone who is over the age of 20 because the aging process starts deep in the skin, long before we see the signs on the surface.

Before we get into the organic skincare product reviews, let’s begin with 7 important considerations when you are searching for the best natural anti-aging cream or serum.

Quick summary

Before you buy: 7 Things to consider when purchasing a natural anti-aging cream or serum

If you are starting to see the signs of aging on your face, your first instinct might be to grab up all the anti-aging products you can find and lather them all over your face. However, that is more likely to be counterproductive. Too much of a good thing can be harmful, and skincare is not an exception to this rule.

Applying too much or too many products can cause irritation and even breakouts. In this section, we are going to cover a few basics about skin aging and how to keep your skin looking healthy. Keeping these things in mind will make you a more informed shopper when choosing your next anti-aging cream or serum.

1. Understand skin aging

Skin aging is the result of damage and degradation to the structures of our skin. There are two primary sources of this degradation:

• Intrinsic or chronologic aging, which is the result of natural genetically programed changes that develop in our skin over time. While we cannot do much to change these factors, you can lessen the effects and reverse some of the damage using the treatments we will discuss below.
• Extrinsic aging is often called photogenic aging as the primary contributor is UVA and UVB rays from sunlight or tanning beds.[1][2][3] There are a few things we can do to lessen this damage, but it can’t be entirely avoided. However, the same products we are going to discuss for chronologic aging will also help to counteract photogenic aging!

There are two types of proteins you’ve probably heard of that keep your skin looking young and healthy, elastin and collagen. Let’s take a minute to discuss these two essential proteins.

Have a look:

• Elastin is a protein that is responsible for the elasticity of your skin. This protein stretches and then returns to its original shape, allowing your skin to snap back to its original place instead of sagging. If your skin is sagging, generating more elastin is your goal.
• Collagen is a group of several different proteins that provide strength and structure to our skin. Collagen is produced throughout our lifetime but diminishes as the skin is exposed to environmental factors that reduce our ability to replenish these proteins.[4] If you are dealing with lines and wrinkles, promoting the growth of collagen is your goal.

When these proteins degrade, and your body can’t repair or replace them, you will begin to see sagging and wrinkles appear on your skin. The good news is that there are things you can do to help your body produce healthy collagen and elastin.

Removing waste materials and dead cells promoting cell turnover (the death of old unhealthy cells) and providing the fibroblasts (the skin structures that create collagen and elastin) with the building blocks they need to produce these skin tightening and firming proteins will all aid in the process. We will discuss common anti-aging ingredients and how they support the process below in our Types of Anti-Aging Treatments section.

2. Adopt healthy habits

The look of your skin is dynamic and depends on a lot of factors, including how healthy the rest of your body is.

Eat healthily:

You want to make sure you are eating a healthy diet rich in nutrient-dense foods. Antioxidant-rich foods are a great addition to your diet that can help slow and reverse the aging process. You also want foods rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E as these are all essential to keeping your body, including your skin, healthy.[5]

Exercise:

It doesn’t have to be extreme, as little as 30 minutes a day for two days a week can help slow the aging process in the skin. When you exercise, blood flow increases, and the cells in your body receive more oxygen and nutrients.[6][7]

If you have aging skin concerns that go beyond your face, consider adding in some weight training. Keeping your muscles active, stops your muscles from deteriorating. Having more muscle tissue under mature skin will help to give it structure and prevent it from sagging.

Drink Water:

Your body’s hydration levels inevitably affect the hydration of your skin. If you don’t have enough water in your system, you will have a tough time keeping your skin moisturized. The recommended water intake is 6 to 8 glasses per day, but if you are sweating a lot because of work, exercise, heat, etc. then you will need to drink more water to replace that which is lost these activities.

Adhering to these healthy lifestyle habits will improve the look of your skin. Once you introduce these habits and stick with them for a few weeks, you will be better able to assess the condition of your skin and see what skincare products you need to fix any remaining concerns you have.

3. Consider the moisturizer and sunscreen you are using

If you are looking for an anti-aging cream or serum, you are likely already using a moisturizer. Regular moisturizing is one of the first two steps in fighting the signs of aging. Proper moisture (oil) and hydration (water) levels are critical for maintaining young, healthy-looking skin (so don’t forget to drink that water we mentioned earlier). For added benefit, use a moisturizer that has vitamin E or hyaluronic acid as these help the skin retain hydration and support the production of healthy collagen and elastin.[8]

Because the number one cause of skin aging from environmental factors comes from sun exposure, you also want to ensure that you are using a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect from both UVA and UVB radiation.

SPF 30 means that it will block 97% of the harmful UV rays.[9] Sunscreen protection only lasts for 2 hours; reapplication is necessary if you are outside after that two-hour window. Higher SPF’s block higher percentages of rays but they do not last longer than two hours.[10]

Sunscreens are a bit of a complicated topic, so we will just give you a few more basics to help keep you healthy. There are two main types of sunscreen lotions, chemical filters absorb UV rays and then reemit them as heat.

The problem is that these compounds are readily absorbed by our skin and can disrupt our body’s hormones. The other types of filters are physical. They reflect and scatter rays before they can reach your skin. The two active and safe ingredients in these physical filters are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

When buying a sunscreen:

Find a physical filter sunscreen that is water-resistant and check the label to make sure it’s using one or both of those compounds we mentioned above as the filter. Both of these compounds have been rated safe for use by several governmental agencies around the world.[11]

Don’t fall prey to a false sense of security:

As Dr. Steven Q. Wang, MD, a dermatologist and photobiologist working with the Skin Cancer Foundation notes, we can have a false sense of security when we apply sunscreen. This feeling means we forget to reapply, spend more time in the sun instead of seeking shade, and forget to cover up with UV protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats.

So, put that broad-spectrum sunscreen on 30 minutes before going outside, reapply every two hours and seek shade and wear protective clothing to prevent unnecessary photodamage to your skin.[12]

If using a moisturizer, or more likely, a sunscreen daily is a new part of skincare for you, give them a few weeks to work. You will be surprised as to how much work this can do in reducing the signs of aging. Once you have been using a moisturizer and sunscreen regularly for at least 4 weeks, then reassess your skin’s condition and what concerns you still have that you want to treat.

4. Know your skin type and read labels

Every one of our skincare product reviews contains this advice because it is the number one consideration when choosing products. Using a product that is not formulated for your skin type could end up making things worse rather than better. Make sure you know your skin type and the concerns you have with your skin, as this will help you when reading labels.

Speaking of reading labels, do that. It will help you pick a product that is formulated for your skin type and is targeted at treating the concerns you have for your skin.

Look for labels that indicate the product is for your skin type and can address your concerns. It is also good to be familiar with types of ingredients that treat specific conditions such as wrinkles, firmness, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation. We will discuss these more below.

You should also look for:

• Hypoallergenic (your skin may still react, but the chances are diminished because common allergens are not used in the formula)
• Noncomedogenic or non-acnegenic (does not clog pores/cause acne)
• Consumer hotlines are offered by some companies and can be a great resource if you have questions about use, effects, and side effects.

Armed with this knowledge, you will be better able to interpret the labels on products and choose the ones with the right ingredients for you.

5. Don’t overload on one type of ingredient or add too many treatments at once

Too much of a good thing can end up doing more harm than good. For example, if you buy a bunch of products that contain vitamin A (retinol and other retinoid molecules) and use them all frequently, this can end up drying and irritating your skin to the point of peeling, and cause erythema (patchy redness).

Remember that whatever medications you take orally could stack with whatever you apply to your skin. To extend our example, if you are taking vitamin A orally, adding a topical (on the surface) vitamin A treatment could lead to an excess in your system causing unwanted side effects.[13]

Side effects are also part of the reason you only want to alter one product in your skincare routine at a time, whether it is adding, swapping, or removing. If you make more than one change at a time, you won’t know which change is responsible for the effects or side effects.

So, make one change, then stick with it, use the product regularly (following the directions) for at least 4 weeks until you get an idea of how it affects your skin. Unless, of course, you experience adverse side effects—if that is the case, you want to reverse whatever change you made immediately.

It can also be helpful to keep a log of what products and treatments you’ve tried and how they affected your skin. Keeping a record will help you make more informed skincare decisions in the future.

6. Know your budget

Before you start looking for an anti-aging cream or serum, you need to figure out what you can reasonably afford to spend. The good news is that you don’t have to buy expensive products to get results—cost considerations are why we include options with varying price points. There are effective and safe products at almost any price point, so don’t be afraid to shop around.

Don’t just look at the price tag; consider how long the jar or bottle will last as well. A $30 pot that lasts 3 months and a $60 one that lasts 6 months are both $10/month. Consider the cost versus how long it will last you to figure out the actual value of the product.

On that note:

Do not overapply products as this is wasteful and can lead to the same problem as applying too many products with one type of ingredient. Follow the directions on the label, and you will likely find that the jar or bottle will last longer and give better results.

7. Keep realistic expectations

When you find the right product, it can have some significant impacts on your skin. However, no cream or serum is going to give a facelift level of change. Watch out for claims that set unrealistic expectations. Statements like “vitamin E improves collagen production and reduces wrinkles” are perfectly reasonable and backed by science. But, when the claims drift into the territory of “makes you look 10 years younger” or “get rid of wrinkles overnight,” you know they are too good to be true.

Along those same lines, you want to manage expectations based on others’ experiences. It is fine to use them to guide your choice. Still, you want to remember that every single person is different, even if they have similar skin types and conditions. Thus, your reaction to a product may be different from anyone else. What works for them might not work for you and vice versa.

With these considerations in mind, you will be more empowered to choose the best organic anti-aging skincare products.

Now, we can get into the reviews of the 9 best natural and organic anti-aging skincare products that you can use on your face.

9 Best natural & organic anti-aging skincare creams and serums

1. ZELEN Life Night Cream (Anti-Aging)

Best features:

• Tightens and firm’s skin
• Gentle fruit exfoliation triggers cell renewal
• Naturally sourced vitamin A boosts cell turnover
• Suitable for sensitive skin

Best anti-aging treatment for:

This is a tremendous natural anti-aging cream for all skin types, especially those with oily or sensitive skin.

Overview:

Rosehip and apricot are the two key ingredients in this formula.

Rosehip has several anti-aging properties and is readily absorbed by the skin. It is a lightweight, non-greasy oil that can help control sebum production for those with oily skin while being gentle enough for those with sensitive skin. It is also rich in vitamin A (retinol) and vitamin C. Both vitamin A & C help to boost cell regeneration by clearing away dead and malfunctioning cells, paving the way for new cell generation. This process increases collagen production leading to revitalized skin with reduced dark spots. This powerful moisturizing oil helps to give you tighter firmer skin with a more even tone. It is also a powerful antioxidant that can protect cells from photoaging effects.[14]

Rosehip is also rich in vitamin E, another powerful antioxidant that also has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe skin and protect it from oxidative stress due to free radicals.[15]

Apricot is another fruit rich in vitamins A, C, and E. It exfoliates skin with natural fruit acids, boosting the skin’s ability to remove and replace old cells. It is also rich in flavonoids, antioxidants that scavenge (remove) free radicals once they form in your skin, preventing the damage and premature aging caused by oxidative stress. The flavonoids in apricots also help to reduce inflammation. Chronic inflammation puts stress on the skin that leads to further damage and increases the signs of aging.[16]

Finally, beta-carotene can boost the effectiveness of your sunscreen by helping to protect your skin from sunburns.[17]

The good:

Things to consider:

Bottom line:

This potent, natural anti-aging cream is best used at night to fight the signs of aging and moisturize skin.

Its lightweight moisturizing effects are non-greasy and appropriate for all skin types, including those with oily skin.

This product does contain natural sources of vitamin A and has several soothing compounds which help to alleviate the irritation that vitamin A can illicit on skin. If you are sensitive to topical vitamin A treatments, you may still be able to use this gentle formula but should conduct a spot test first.

2. Meaningful Beauty Crème de Serum, Melon Extract Night Moisturizer

Best features:

• Provides one of the best defenses against oxidative stress from free radicals
• Has the potency of a serum with the moisturizing effects of a cream

Best anti-aging treatment for:

This cream is best suited for dry skin with lines and wrinkles that result from sun exposure and who spend a great deal of time outdoors.

Overview:

Meaningful Beauty has packed the potency of a serum in a cream-based application. While it won’t be quite as effective as a serum because of the higher viscosity, it will deliver improved results over your standard cream.

The key ingredients are hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, microencapsulated antioxidant Melon Complex, and a peptide blend.

Hyaluronic acid increases the hydration of the skin, which provides a plump full appearance and allows cells to function more effectively.

The antioxidant vitamin C prevents future damage from UV radiation while promoting cell turnover, which encourages the generation of new collagen, reduces wrinkles and lines, and evens out skin tone and texture.

The Melon Complex provides superoxide dismutase (SOD), which is the skin’s first defense against oxidative stress caused by free radicals. It is credited as being the best way to prevent further damage from sun exposure and from the free radicals that are released during healthy cell metabolism, helping to prevent cancer and reducing inflammation. They quickly stop the formation of free radicals before, preventing damage before there is a chance that it could interact with DNA and cellular structures. In comparison, other common antioxidants scavenge for free radicals that are already present and have potentially already caused damage.[18][19]

Peptides come in 4 broad categories. But in general, they work to inhibit the breakdown of collagen and elastin as well as other skin structures and support fibroblast health, which stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. They can reverse the signs of aging by smoothing skin tone and texture, giving you more taught and elastic skin through the generation of new collagen and elastin.[20]

The good:

Things to consider:

Bottom line:

It’s an excellent cream for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors and is susceptible to the damage from free radicals and other forms of photodamage. It can help even skin tone and texture while providing a hit of moisture and hydration.

3. L’Occitane Anti-Aging Divine Cream for a Youthful and Radiant Glow

Best features:

• Substantial dose of antioxidants
• Smooth skin texture by increasing cell turnover
• Kills acne-causing bacteria

Best anti-aging treatment for:

This is the best anti-aging cream for mature skin with blemishes.

Overview:

Immortelle is the only key ingredient L’Occitane list, but we also noticed glycerin, evening primrose oil, and myrtle high on the ingredient list. Hyaluronic acid is listed as well as under the alternative name sodium hyaluronate.

Immortelle is also known as helichrysum italicum, a common flowering plant in Europe that has been used to treat various conditions for centuries. New science has revealed that, for skin, helichrysum italicum has favorable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is rich in flavonoids that help to fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria on the skin, including the acne-causing P. acnes. Furthermore, it is a well-tolerated essential oil that does increase the reactivity of skin.[21][22]

Myrtle essential oil is a safe and effective method for treating acne that has antibacterial, pore shrinking effects that can also reduce redness and irritation while helping to control the production of sebum.[23]

Glycerin and hyaluronic acid draw moisture into the skin, keeping it healthy and plump looking.

Studies on evening primrose oil indicate that, as a rich source of the essential fatty acid, linoleic acid, it can further reduce inflammation, moisturize skin, and improve skin barrier function and skin texture, giving you firmer, more youthful-looking skin.[24]

The good:

Things to consider:

Bottom line:

Treating acne on mature skin can be tricky. Still, L’Occitane has managed to formulate a lightweight moisturizer that is a gentle yet effective treatment that can reduce the signs of aging. It can help to prevent stressors that further age skin, control the skin’s natural oils, and kills the bacteria that leads to breakouts, reducing blemishes on the skin. However, that all comes with a pretty hefty price tag.

Because this product contains essential oils, we recommended that you do a spot test first to see if your skin reacts.

4. Oars + Alps Daily Natural Face Moisturizer and Eye Cream

Best features:

• Can be used after shaving
• Gentle enough to be used on under-eye skin

Best anti-aging treatment for:

This is the best anti-aging cream for men, as it can be applied after shaving.

Overview:

The key ingredient in Oars + Alps products is cladonia stellaris (which they refer to as Caribou Alpine Moss). There is little research on this specific lichen that is sourced from northern Finland. However, other lichens are rich sources of antioxidants[25] and essential nutrients that can reduce inflammation and improve skin texture.

Aloe vera, jojoba oil, and glycerin are all included which help to moisturize skin, control sebum production and soothe irritation on the skin.[26][27][28]

Stearic acid (sourced from shea butter) helps other ingredients penetrate the skin, locking them in place.[29] Shea butter ethyl esters are also included to bring the same moisturizing, skin softening properties of shea butter but in a form that is milder on the sensitive skin on our face, especially around the eyes.[30]

The good:

Things to consider:

Bottom line:

A great anti-aging moisturizer that can be used after shaving. This product can be used on the thinner sensitive skin under the eyes and the rest of the face. Oars + Alps recommended applying a thinner layer on under-eye skin.

5. Vichy LiftActiv Supreme Night Cream

Best features:

• Unique anti-aging ingredient to promote collagen growth
• Gentle fruit exfoliation
• Vitamin C provides antioxidants, firmer skin, more even skin tone

Best anti-aging treatment for:

This is a fantastic anti-aging cream for those who have tried other products and saw no results.

Overview:

Using a unique but tested anti-aging ingredient, rhamnose, this product takes a unique approach to fight the signs of aging. Rhamnose is a naturally occurring deoxy sugar, but it has a chemical structure, unlike most naturally occurring sugars[31], giving it unique properties that Vichy has harnessed to fight the signs of aging.

Clinical trials in a lab setting using the same 5% concentration in this formula indicate that it promotes the growth of healthy collagen in both young and mature skin, leading to a noticeable improvement in skin texture and a reduction in lines and wrinkles over an 8-week period.[32]

Shea butter gives this formula a skin softening and moisturizing effect to further improve the texture of aging skin.

Finally, apricot kernel oil rich in vitamins A, C, and E provide gentle exfoliation from natural fruit acids, promoting cell turnover. It is also rich in flavonoids, antioxidants that scavenge free radicals and reduce inflammation.[33]

The good:

Things to consider:

Bottom line:

Using unusual but clinically proven methods for reversing the effects of aging, this is an excellent cream for those who have tried everything else with no impact or those looking to try something new. The use of shea butter may be too heavy for those with oily skin or those prone to breakouts.

6. NuOrganic Face Lifting Serum

Best features:

• Boosts collagen and elastin production
• Uses an oxygen stable vitamin C
• Plant stem cells further stimulate collagen production in skin cells

Best anti-aging treatment for:

This is the best anti-aging cream for those whose primary concern is preventing or reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Overview:

This serum is packed with several different kinds of peptides: Matrixyl 3000, Argireline, and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-3.

Matrixyl 3000 is unique because it not only promotes the formation of new collagen but elastin as well, providing a superior skin tightening and firming effect. It has been shown to reduce wrinkle volume and depth significantly in clinical lab trials.[34]

Argireline is a peptide that has similar effects as Botulinum neurotoxins (Botox). Both inhibit the release of acetylcholine where the neurons connect with muscle tissue. However, extensive research shows argireline is nontoxic in humans (unlike Botox) and produces effects that last longer, leading to a significant reduction in the formation of wrinkles and lines. Moreover, it not only works by affecting the muscles of the face, but it boosts collagen production as well.[35][36]

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-3 both boosts collagen formation and reduce the breakdown of collagen in the skin. It can reduce wrinkles and smooth rough skin texture.[37]

Vitamin C provides all the same antioxidant, collagen boosting, and skin tone benefits as in other products. But, the form of vitamin C used in this formula does not breakdown when it comes into contact with air, making it more shelf-stable.

Plant stem cell extracts promote the production of collagen and reduce oxidative stress within cells due to free radicals.[38] These new treatments in anti-aging are showing promising results in reducing wrinkles and preventing damage that leads to aging.[39]

Finally, hyaluronic acid helps to bring moisture into the skin and increase its plumpness, giving a more youthful look to skin.

The good:

Things to consider:

Bottom line:

As a newer product harnessing the latest advancements in anti-aging, there are very few negative reviews of this product. This product is specifically targeted at treating fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C will help to reduce issues with skin tone.

7. AVYA Skincare Night Moisturizer

Best features:

• Vitamin A in a gentler form
• Soothes inflammation and calms skin
• Exfoliates and shrinks pores

Best anti-aging treatment for:

This is the best anti-aging treatment for those who are sensitive to vitamin A as it provides precursors to vitamin A, which are gentler on the skin combined with calming ingredients to soothe skin.

Overview:

Instead of including retinol, AVYA has opted to add vitamin A precursors, which can be used by the skin to construct vitamin A and thus receive the wrinkle and dark spot, reducing effects with decreased irritation.

AVYA also use their “Qusome” complex, a blend of turmeric, peony, and neem extracts.

Turmeric contains the polyphenol curcumin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective at treating several skin conditions, including photoaging.[40][41]

Neem extract contains flavonoids that help to scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.[42] It is also a source of tannins. Tannins have astringent properties that exfoliate skin, kill bacteria, and shrink pores.[43]

Peony, another plant extract, helps to soothe skin, reduce redness, and reduce wrinkles.[44]

Further wrinkle reduction is provided by the peptide hydroxyproline, which promotes the growth of healthy fibroblasts leading to collagen formation.[45]

The good:

Things to consider:

Bottom line:

A powerful anti-aging cream that provides the benefits of a vitamin A formula with less irritation.

8. Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Firming Serum

Best features:

• Noncomedogenic hydration booster
• Antioxidants that prevent oxidative stress and help protect against the formation of cancer cell

Best anti-aging treatment for:

This is an effective serum for daytime use as it does not contain high concentrations of vitamin A which increases the photosensitivity of the skin. As it is noncomedogenic, it can be paired with a moisturizer to give maximum moisturizing power.

Overview:

Resveratrol is an antioxidant that is derived from grapes. Aside from protecting against the damage of free radicals and reducing inflammation[46], it shows promising effects at protecting the skin from UV damage and helps to prevent the formation of cancer cells.[47] It can also improve the firmness of skin, reducing wrinkles, and giving a younger look to mature skin.[48]

Caudalie uses micro hyaluronic acid molecules to penetrate the skin better, drawing hydration deeper into the skin and increasing the plumpness of skin, giving a fuller look.

The good:

Things to consider:

Bottom line:

A fitting serum to add to your daytime routine to help fight the signs of aging, just don’t forget to follow it up with a moisturizer as this product does not provide moisture for the skin.

9. Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum

Best features:

• Smooths skin texture and tone
• Provides a fuller look to facial skin that reduce the visibility of lines and wrinkles

Best anti-aging treatment for:

A great anti-aging serum for those with oily skin looking to reduce wrinkles and even out skin tone, it is inexpensive for the amount you need per use, making it an affordable option for those on budget.

Overview:

Mario Badescu has kept their formula pretty simple here with three key ingredients: vitamin C, hyaluronic acid in its salt form (listed as Sodium Hyaluronate), and collagen.

Vitamin C helps to promote cell regeneration leading to the formation of new collagen and removing old, discolored skin, leading to a more even skin tone. Part of this action comes from the exfoliation that vitamin C provides as a gentle AHA.

Collagen and sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid) plump the skin and draw in moisture and hydration. The added hydration gives skin a plumper appearance smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles.

When looking at the ingredient list, we also noticed aloe vera and cucumber extract, which can help soothe the skin and stop any irritation caused by exfoliation and photodamage.

The good:

Things to consider:

Bottom line:

Perfect for those with oily skin who are looking to fight the signs of aging without breaking the bank.

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How to use your anti-aging creams & serums effectively

Adding a daily anti-aging cream or serum into your routine is a pretty simple process, it’s all about knowing when in your routine to use it and at what time of day.

Because that last one is so important, especially for counteracting the effects of aging that you see on your skin, we will discuss the time of day first. Then we will talk about at what point in your routine you should apply them.

The most common and most effective anti-aging ingredients are retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), we will talk more about how they work below, but here what you need to know is that they can make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation.

If you apply them in the morning or any time before you go outside, you will be doing more harm than good for your skin because the UV that reaches the surface of your skin will cause more damage than it would had you not applied the retinoid product before going out. Apply retinoid products at night when you will not be exposing your skin to sunlight for several hours.

You also want to be careful not to apply a retinoid cream or serum before or after using hydroxy acids like AHAs or BHAs on your skin. Hydroxy acids deactivate the retinoid and render it ineffective. Applying hydroxy acids and retinoids at the same time will mean you get no benefit from the vitamin A derivatives.

What this means for your routine:

Apply hydroxy acids in the morning, or on days you do not use retinoids. Apply retinoids at night, whether you are using hydroxy acids or not, because you do not want to increase UV damage on your skin.

Whether you have retinoids in your anti-aging cream/serum or not, you need to know when to apply them in your skincare routine. The general rule is that you cleanse your skin, use a toner (because they prep skin to absorb the following products), then you go from thin to thick with the rest of the products.

Less viscous (runnier) substances come first—these are your water-based serums and essences—followed by more viscous products like face oils, then finally the thickest products, creams.

This order will allow your skin to absorb each product best. If you apply a thick cream and then a less viscous serum, the serum will not penetrate the cream effectively. If your serum is oil-based, then it goes on last to seal everything in and keep your skin moisturized. Check the FAQ below for more on the difference between water- and oil-based serums.

This means the end of your routine is a moisturizer of some kind — a cream or an oil-based serum. Unless of course, it is the morning. Then your last application will be sunscreen 30 minutes before you head outside, right?

One last important note about applying anti-aging products or any product, if you have a buildup of dead skin on the surface or in your pores, you need to clear them away as they act as a barrier that prevents product penetration.

To do this, you should exfoliate once to twice per week. Hydroxy acids and fruit enzymes are some of the gentlest ways to exfoliate the skin, manual methods like brushes and textured cloths can tear your skin unless you have very resilient facial skin.

Types of anti-aging treatments you can try

There are different signs of aging that you may see on your skin, and different ingredients will treat certain conditions better than others. Here we will break down the different types of anti-aging products based on the conditions they treat and then discuss which ingredients to look for in such a product.

At the end, we will also review a few non-surgical procedures you can ask your dermatologist about if your concerns go beyond what a serum or cream can provide.

First, let’s look at a few of the common ingredients and what they do:

Retinoids (Retinol, Retinoic Acid, Tretinoin, and others)

These are derivatives of vitamin A. They work by reversing the damage of free radicals and neutralizing their ability to cause further damage. They also promote cell turnover (the removal of old and malfunctioning cells). When you clear out those old cells, it triggers the promotion of new cells.

On the surface of the skin, this helps to reduce dark spots by removing the aged, hyperpigmented cells and replaces them with younger, lighter pigmented cells.

Deeper in the skin, cell turnover helps to replace fibroblasts with new cells that produce healthier collagen and elastin. Healthier collagen and elastin give your skin a tighter, more even texture reducing the aged look of skin.

Benefits for your skin:

Suitable for reversing the effects of more advanced aging, the longer you use these products, the more benefits you will see—we are talking 6 months and beyond here. With regular use, you can expect a reduction in fine wrinkles at first, followed by coarse wrinkles with extended application.

These compounds will also help reduce rough patches on your skin and improve the overall texture by promoting collagen growth. They will even out skin tone by reducing dark spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation.[49][50]

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

This critical vitamin is vital for all kinds of cell functions, including cell signaling, DNA signaling, and converting carbohydrates into fats and proteins. It is less effective than retinoids, but it is also better tolerated by (i.e., less irritating to) skin. Niacinamide prevents oxidation from occurring in skin structures like collagen.

This oxidation is responsible for the yellow discoloration mature skin can have. It can also stop melanin from reaching the surface of the skin; melanin creates dark spots on the skin. Finally, it can improve fibroblast health, enhancing their ability to produce healthy collagen.

Benefits for your skin:

A key component for healthy skin function and repair, vitamin B is great for those with mature skin or those wanting to prevent the onset of aging. It has been shown to decrease dark spots and skin yellowing, as well as lines and wrinkles. It also improves the elasticity and texture of the skin.[51]

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Another essential vitamin in healthy skin, vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that eradicates free radicals and helps to reverse the damage they cause. Antioxidants are an essential tool for preventing aging and reversing its damage. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that damage cells and result in wrinkles.

Benefits for your skin:

Used daily to both prevent and reverse the signs of aging, it can help thwart damage from UV radiation and promote cell turnover, which helps to stimulate the production of collagen, reducing or preventing the appearance of fine lines and dark spots.[52]

Vitamin E

Another mighty antioxidant, vitamin E neutralizes the oxidative stress caused by free radicals. It can also help to reduce inflammation.

Benefits for your skin:

It reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles on your skin while improving the skin’s barrier function and photoprotective abilities. It also has antitumorigenic effects—it can help prevent the formation of tumors.

Inflammation reduction enhances skin texture and tone but also prevents further stress on the skin that prolonged inflammation can cause. As an essential vitamin that our body cannot produce, it is both a therapeutic and preventative measure.

Vitamin C and E have also been suggested to improve the protection sunscreen can provide by increasing photoprotective effects when applied together.[53]

Green Tea & Other Tea Extracts

Again, these are a potent source of antioxidants that help to reverse and prevent damage from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. They also help to reduce inflammation.

Polyphenols are the key compound here; they can reduce sun damage, prevent collagen breakdown, and decrease the chance of cancer formation. They work by influencing biochemical pathways that lead to cell regeneration.

Green tea is the most common, but black and white teas are also used. Korean skincare companies are now using fermented green teas, as these have been shown to have higher concentrations of antioxidants as well as antioxidant types not present in the unfermented varieties.

Fermentation improves their efficacy due to strength but also because the added kinds of antioxidants work via different mechanisms giving you a broader range of protection.[54]

Benefits for your skin:

Just like the other antioxidant ingredients, they can reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, reduce the visibility of dark spots and discoloration, and reduce redness while improving skin texture via the anti-inflammatory and cell regenerative properties. They are effective at both preventing and reversing the signs of aging.[55]

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

This compound is found in every cell in our body, and aside from being another antioxidant, it plays a vital role in cell metabolism affecting the skin’s ability to function and repair itself properly as well as its ability to replenish collagen and elastin. Most people over the age of 30 are deficient if they do not take supplements of CoQ10.[56]

Benefits for your skin:

With healthier functioning skin, you can expect to see firmer-looking skin with an improved texture as well as improved skin tone as older cells are replaced with younger, less sun-damaged cells.

Note:

Several other ingredients provide antioxidants, but as they offer the same benefits we discussed here, we will leave the realm of free radical battles and move onto other components of anti-aging skincare products.

Grape seed extract is one more noteworthy entry that provides the same antioxidant collagen-boosting properties as the other antioxidants on this list.

Peptides

Peptides are like proteins but smaller! They are made up of chains of amino acids, just like proteins, but these chains are smaller. Peptides come in different varieties. In general, they are used in the normal functioning of cells.

They can either inhibit the enzymatic breakdown of skin structures like collagen and elastin or support fibroblast health, which stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. They improve the functioning and appearance of photodamaged and chronologically aged skin.

Benefits for your skin:

As they are necessary for healthy skin functions, their use can both reduce and reverse the onset of aging. You should see improvement in skin sagging and a reduction in lines and wrinkles, giving you tighter, firmer skin with less hyperpigmentation.[57]

Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, & Other Hydrators

We are grouping these together because they all work to draw hydration (water) into your skin, giving a plump appearance and reducing the visibility of lines and wrinkles. They do not get to the source of wrinkles (elastin and collagen), but they do affect appearance and improve skin healthy by helping to retain water.

Ceramides, which are lipids (fats), are a part of the skin’s natural barrier. Hyaluronic acid can absorb more than 1000 times its weight in water, making it an extremely powerful hydrator.

Benefits for your skin:

They do not treat the deeper issues, but they help skin retain water, which improves its function and can boost barrier performance. The added hydration levels make your skin look plumper, reducing the visibility of lines and wrinkles.

Hydroxy Acids (AHAs, BHAs, and Polyhydroxy Acids)

Sometimes called fruit acids, these include lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), and others. They help to exfoliate the skin (remove dead cells), which promotes the generation of new cells. They are some of the most widely used anti-aging tools because they are so effective at treating multiple conditions.

Benefits for your skin:

Hydroxy acids have been shown to promote cellular renewal as dead cells are cleared away, which improves skin texture by making it softer, smoother, tighter, and firmer. They can also lighten dark spots and reduce blemishes on the skin. Perfect for those who are fighting the signs of aging and acne at the same time.[58]

This review does not cover all of the compounds you might find, but we have looked at a few of the most common. If you have tried several anti-aging products and find that your skin is not seeing the benefits you were hoping for, you want to consult a dermatologist.

Dermatological Treatments

There are several methods that dermatologists will use to combat the signs of aging on your skin. Here we will briefly review these procedures, but it is best to talk to your dermatologist about how each of these may affect your skin regarding their potential benefits and side effects.

This information is provided for educational purposes and should not be used to replace the advice of a medical professional.

Here are a few ways dermatologists can help you fight aging skin:

• Prescription treatments: These will contain many of the same compounds we discussed above but in far higher concentrations.
• Laser Resurfacing: Also known as light therapy, laser peel, or laser vaporization. It renews skin by removing dead and malfunctioning skin layer-by-layer.
• Chemical Peel: Using more potent acids or higher concentrations of AHAs and BHAs, these peels work in the same way but are much harsher due to the strength or concentration of acids that are used. There are mild, medium, and deep peel varieties. However, as the strength of the treatment increases, so does the severity of the potential side effects.
• Microdermabrasion or Dermabrasion: This is a fiercer version of mechanical exfoliation that uses a small rotating instrument to remove layers of dead skin. This procedure requires anesthesia.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but they are 4 of the most common non-surgical procedures. Other more extreme treatments include Botox and facelifts.

Botox is temporary and does not address the core issues behind aging skin, much like treatments that hydrate skin. However, unlike hydrating compounds, they do not have any other added benefits and are toxic.

Facelifts are a surgical treatment, and all surgery comes with some pretty extreme risk, especially for the more mature population. It should only be used in the most extreme circumstances.

Now that we have reviewed several different treatments for aging skin, we can take a look at how we chose the skincare products on our list an address a few lingering common questions people have about anti-aging creams and serums.

How we chose these products

To bring you our list of the best organic anti-aging skincare creams and serums, we looked for top-quality nontoxic wrinkle reducers that target the issues specific to aging skin and are formulated with ingredients that can effectively yet gently alleviate those symptoms. They are all free of harmful chemicals that irritate skin and lead to health issues.

We searched for the best natural anti-aging creams and serums and included products suited to all skin types to make sure we covered the breadth of concerns out there. We only include trusted brands that use top-quality ingredients in their formulas.

No matter your skin type, you can find a natural antiwrinkle cream or serum to treat them on our list. Each of these creams and serums employs proven methods for treating the conditions they target.

To determine the efficacy of each product, we surveyed the ingredients to ensure that they all contain plenty of nutrient and vitamin dense compounds to help keep your skin looking young and healthy. We also made sure that each product on our list was free of parabens, sulfates, and petrochemicals.

Each brand on our list is trusted within the skincare community and works to bring the best of nature to your skin, allowing you to feel your best with younger-looking skin. We also aggregate the reviews of experts and the people who have tried these products into one article so that you can use that knowledge when making skincare decisions.

That way, you can find the highest quality organic anti-aging skincare products with less effort and cost, giving you more time to enjoy a younger, healthier look.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

We have covered a lot of information about anti-aging treatments. But, there are still a few lingering common questions people have; we will discuss them here.

Can products produce effects overnight?

Long-lasting benefits that treat issues at the source will not produce effects overnight. They take time to work. Products that encourage cell turnover leading to their replacement by healthier, younger cells or promote the formation of healthy collagen and elastin take time for the effects to buildup to noticeable levels on the surface. This can be as long as 8 weeks. Usually, you want to wait 4 to 8 weeks to see if a product is working for you.

Some ingredients like hyaluronic acid work almost immediately or overnight; this is because they work closer to the surface and provide benefits such as the retention of water, which hydrates skin and makes it look plumper and reduces surface wrinkles.

Don’t get us wrong, those types of benefits are pretty great, but they disappear just as fast as they appear. So, as soon as you stop using the product, the effects will be gone within the next day or two.

The same goes for deeper changes; they will fade within a few weeks if you stop using the product as will the effects of a proper diet and exercise if you stop. As such, you want to keep on top of these healthy habits if you’re going to continue to reap the benefits. Maintenance is key!

Do these ingredients actually work?

Yes, all the ingredients we’ve discussed here have been tested by researchers in lab settings using objective measures and personal assessments to test their efficacy.

Again, you want to manage expectations, they are not going to yield the same results as prescription medications or surgical treatments, but they can produce legitimate results that improve the look and health of your skin.

Of course, how effective they are depends on the concentrations of those beneficial ingredients. When reading labels, you want the active ingredients to be high on the list. The closer they are to the start of the ingredient list, the higher their concentrations relative to the components that appear after them.

What’s the difference between a serum & a cream?

Serums are relatively new in the skincare industry, and they are booming! However, most people are unaware of how they differ from creams and other types of skincare products.

Creams are thicker products and often have larger molecules. The heavier weight usually comes from moisturizing compounds, useful if you have dry skin, but it may be too much if you already have an oily set. Some exceptions to this are oil-control creams, they are usually lighter in weight but still not as light as a serum. They often use ingredients like jojoba oil to control the amount of sebum your skin produces, which can decrease the oiliness of your complexion.

Serums are very lightweight and have smaller molecules. This means they absorb quickly and can often penetrate deeper into the skin. This makes them ideal for delivering high concentrations of active ingredients deep into the skin. They can usually do a better job of delivering those beneficial compounds to cells helping to revitalize and repair the structures of your skin. They generally do not provide any moisturizing properties.

Serums come in two varieties, water-based and oil-based:

Water-based serums are the lightest weight and absorb the quickest. They are almost always the best way to get a healthy dose of active ingredients deep into the skin. Some ingredients are not water-soluble, however, so they will be best delivered in the slightly heavier oil-based serums. Water-based serums are most often applied after cleansing and using a toner but before the rest of your routine.

Oil-based serums (sometimes called face oils) are a bit heavier, but some ingredients need to be delivered with an oil-base to penetrate the skin. Apply these at the end of your routine after your moisturizer as they are generally intended to keep everything on your skin, and to keep your skin moisturized throughout the day.

Creams and serums are both an important part of a balanced skin care regimen.

Why are serums usually more expensive?

Serums are more expensive because they have such high concentrations of active ingredients for treating a specific concern, such as aging.

Moisturizers and creams, on the other hand, have compounds that hydrate and moisturize your skin, which are less expensive and make up the majority of the product in the jar; thus, they are cheaper per milliliter or ounce.

However, they should not be much more expensive per use. That is to say, you use less serum per application, so they shouldn’t be a lot more expensive on a per use or per month basis than other products.

Do serums expire more quickly?

It used to be the case that they expired quickly as the active components often oxidize when they come into contact with air. However, new techniques have led to advances in the ingredients that are now modified to last longer and usually work better when delivered in a water base.

To store them, put them in a dark, cool, dry place. Heat, moisture, and light can all speed up expiration. If stored properly, serums can usually last 6 months to a year.

What about essences – what are they?

Some essences serve the same function and are used at the same point in your routine as a serum. Thus, the main difference is just the name. However, essences do tend to be less viscous while serums are a bit gooier.

Of course, there are examples of branding differences based on region, one product may be marketed as a serum in one area and an essence in another, so there is no hard distinction between the two.

Conclusion

Serums and creams are a great way to deliver a hit of anti-aging compounds to your skin and revitalize dull, lifeless looking skin while smoothing away wrinkles and fine lines. They are add-ons that boost the effects of your skincare routine.

However, they are not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle and diet, exercise, or a good moisturizer and sunscreen, as those are the best things you can do for your skin.

Once those healthy habits are all sorted, you can get a more accurate picture of what your skin needs to look younger and then choose the product that is best suited to you.

Always look for products that are formulated for your skin type, and that target the concerns you are having.

Once you’ve found the right ones, it is so easy to add them to your routine. Remember the general rule of thin-to-thick for product application. Clean your skin and then apply the thinner products first, followed by the thicker, creamier ones.

What experience have you had with serums and creams that are targeted at reducing the effects of aging? Do you still have questions left regarding the plethora of serums and creams on the market or your skin concerns? Let us know in the comments below.

If you know someone who wants to combat the signs of aging on their skin, share this article with them and let them know about the power of anti-aging skincare creams and serums.

Remember, our skin starts aging long before we see the signs on the surface, as early as our twenties, making now the right time to start combating the aging process!

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