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When it comes to fighting fine lines and wrinkles, a good skincare routine is key. Along with an anti-aging wrinkle cream and potent wrinkle-filler, adding in one of the best anti-wrinkle serums could make all the difference in achieving smooth, youthful-looking skin. But how do these serums work, exactly?
“[Anti-wrinkle serums] work by delivering concentrated nutrients that target fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging,” says Mona Gohara, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine. “Benefits include boosting collagen production, neutralizing free radicals, increasing hydration, and improving elasticity and skin texture for a youthful, radiant appearance.”
Meet the Experts: Mona Gohara, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine; Azadeh Shirazi, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at La Jolla Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center; and Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
If you think you’re too young to benefit from an anti-wrinkle serum, think again. “It’s ideal to start using anti-wrinkle serums in your mid-to-late 20s or early 30s when collagen production begins to slow. This proactive approach can help delay visible signs of aging,” says Azadeh Shirazi, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at La Jolla Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center.
To find the most effective serum for you, experts recommend looking for products that are formulated with scientifically proven anti-aging ingredients—including retinol, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, peptides, and niacinamide, among many others. Ahead, find dermatologist-approved picks for anti-wrinkle serums that actually reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve skin tone, and more.
Pros
Contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5
Suitable for sensitive skin
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, paraben-free, and allergy-tested
Cons
Not fragrance-free
Some reviewers say it’s sticky
Both Dr. Jaliman and Dr. Gohara recommend this anti-aging serum from La-Roche Posay as their top pick. Suitable for all skin types, it’s packed with two types of pure hyaluronic acid to replenish the skin’s natural moisture barrier, vitamin B5 to soothe and moisturize the skin, and madecassoside—a therapeutic agent in wound healing. “[This serum] deeply hydrates while improving elasticity and reducing wrinkles,” says Dr. Gohara.
What a reviewer says: “Love, love, love...I can’t recommend this stuff enough. It’s completely changed my skin,” one Amazon shopper raved. “I had a couple of wrinkles forming near my eyes, on my forehead, and my smile line that are completely gone now. It’s not greasy and leaves a dewy finish under my makeup. I’ve gotten tons of compliments since I’ve started putting this on.”
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, madecassoside |
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Size | 1.01 fl oz |
Skin Type | All skin types, including sensitive and dry |
Pros
Lightweight and fast-absorbing
Contains hyaluronic acid
Suitable for sensitive skin
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, and allergy-tested
Cons
Some reviewers say the hydration isn’t as long-lasting as expected
This is “a lightweight, hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid and thermal mineral water to plump and fortify the skin,” says Dr. Gohara. It’s an affordable pick at only $20 for a 1.01-oz bottle (it also comes in 1.69-oz and a 2.5-oz sizes). This serum is also suitable for sensitive skin, thanks to a dermatologist-tested formula that’s fragrance-free, paraben-free, and allergy-tested. No wonder it boasts a 4.6 rating from nearly 40,000 Amazon shoppers.
What a reviewer says: “It saved my dry skin! It’s very lightweight but makes my skin feel like well-hydrated,” one satisfied reviewer shared. “It plumps my skin as advertised, making my fine lines less visible/apparent right away. It also minimized my fine lines and wrinkles over time. ”
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, thermal mineral water |
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Size | 1.01 fl oz |
Skin Type | All skin types, including sensitive |
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Pros
Contains retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides
Suitable for sensitive skin
Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
Cons
Some reviewers say the product pills
Looking for an affordable drugstore option? Dr. Jaliman recommends CeraVe’s Skin Renewing Retinol Serum which contains retinol for improving fine lines and wrinkles, hyaluronic acid for hydrating the skin, and niacinamide for helping with redness and irritation. It’s also formulated with three essential ceramides also help to restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
If you’re prone to side effects with retinoids, don’t fear: This serum is great for sensitive skin, thanks to a gentle, non-irritating formula that’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Plus, the retinol comes encapsulated for slow delivery to the skin, ensuring long-lasting hydration over time.
What a reviewer says: “I have sensitive skin and cannot tolerate a strong retinoid. This formula is moisturizing and works very well at keep wrinkles and breakouts away,” one Amazon shopper wrote.
Key Ingredients | Retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides |
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Size | 1 fl oz |
Skin Type | All skin types, including sensitive |
4
Best for Dry Skin
First Aid Beauty Hydrating Serum With Hyaluronic Acid
Pros
Soothing, hydrating formula
Contains hyaluronic acid, squalane, and colloidal oatmeal
Fragrance-free, allergen-free, non-comedogenic
Cons
Some reviewers dislike the new formula of this product
This pick from First Aid Beauty is “a calming, hydrating serum that addresses fine lines,” says Dr. Gohara. The formula is powered by ultra-hydrating and nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and colloidal oatmeal, making it especially great for dry, thirsty skin in need of moisture. In fact, the brand claims that it provides 24 hours of hydration for all skin types to appear plump and dewy. This serum is also great for sensitive skin, adds Dr. Gohara—thanks to a fragrance-free, allergen-free, and non-comedogenic formula.
What a reviewer says: “This is a gel/serum type consistency that absorbs very nicely into the skin! It instantly gives a cooling sensation when rubbed into the face and neck,” an Amazon customer wrote. “My sensitive and dry skin had no issues with the product which is a bonus for me. My face feel very moisturized afterwards...This serum is like a big drink of water for my dry and sensitive skin.”
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, squalane, collodial oatmeal |
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Size | 1.7 oz |
Skin Type | All skin types, including sensitive |
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Pros
Targets both acne and aging concerns
Contains salicylic acid and glycolic acid to help unclog pores
Fragrance-free, oil-free paraben-free, silicone-free
Cons
May be too harsh for sensitive skin
Here’s a great pick if you’re searching for a serum that’s ideal for aging skin prone to acne breakouts. “SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense Serum is a great serum for oily and acne-prone skin because it has salicylic acid as well as glycolic acid which helps unclog pores. It is oil-free and fragrance-free,” says Dr. Jaliman. The serum is specifically formulated to help treat adult acne and clogged pores, while at the same time improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
What a reviewer says: “[I’ve] been using this product for many many years and it is a life saver. I was dealing with adult acne and nothing I was using was helping until I discovered this. It solved my problem,” one reviewer shared. “I use it religiously every day and acne is gone. It also works great for wrinkles. I’m 69 years old and I get compliments that I have no wrinkles. Two difficult issues solved with just one product. Amazing!”
Key Ingredients | Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, |
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Size | 1 fl oz |
Skin Type | Oily, acne-prone, and combination |
Pros
Contains powerful dose of pure retinol
Lightweight and fast-absorbing
Paraben-free and non-comedogenic
Cons
Not ideal for sensitive skin and retinol beginners
Not fragrance-free
This gentle, anti-aging retinol serum from Neutrogena targets fine lines, dullness, wrinkles and dark spots with a powerful dose of 0.5% pure retinol along with nourishing emollients. The formula is also paraben-free and non-comedogenic. Note: Though it’s suitable for daily use on all skin types, it’s recommended for routine retinol users and not beginners. Among its fans are Neutrogena spokesperson, Jennifer Garner, as well as Nicole Kidman—so you know it’s the real deal.
What a reviewer says: “The serum is very lightweight, non-greasy, non-sticky, and absorbs easily. I had no issues with irritation, and love that the formula is gentle on the skin,” one reviewer shared. “In about a week, I could see a significant difference in my skin. My skin was clearer, softer, plump, glowy, and smoother. My dark spots have lightened with prolonged use...the tiny wrinkles around my eyes seem to have shrunk and the skin is tighter. I have tried a lot of serums, but this one is the whole package.”
Key Ingredients | Retinol |
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Size | 1 fl oz |
Skin Type | All skin types |
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Pros
Contains soothing oat
Lightweight and fast-absorbing
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic
Cons
May not be as effective as other serums
If you have sensitive skin, experts suggest serums with gentle, soothing formulas without fragrance or potentially irritating ingredients. Dr. Jaliman’s rec is Aveeno’s Calm + Restore Triple Oat Serum, which is specifically formulated for sensitive skin (it’s also hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and free of fragrances, parabens, dyes, and alcohols). “[It] contains oat kernel extract, so it calms irritated skin,” she says. “It also contains glycerin so it enhances hydration.” Shoppers attest that this serum is great for sensitive skin, thanks to the soothing triple oat complex and skin-calming feverfew.
What a reviewer says: “I’ve tried many serums that claim to be for sensitive skin but I still end up breaking out, itching, and peeling. Finally I’ve found one that’s extra gentle but actually has noticeable effects!” said one Amazon customer. “It does provide a lightweight moisture boost that feels plumping and soothing to my aging skin. Nice texture, no scent, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t feel sticky or oily.”
Key Ingredients | Triple oat complex, feverfew, glycerin |
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Size | 1 fl oz |
Pros
Contains vitamins C and E
Also helps brighten, protect, and improve skin texture and tone
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and silicone-free
Cons
Pricey
For an anti-wrinkle serum that also helps brighten your complexion and improve your overall skin texture and tone, reach for this best-selling serum from SkinCeuticals. “[This] is a gold-standard serum, combining Vitamin C, E, and ferulic acid to brighten, protect, and stimulate collagen production,” notes Dr. Gohara.
The formula “delivers powerful anti-aging and brightening benefits” and helps “protect against free radicals, reduce oxidative damage by up to 41%, and improve fine lines, firmness, and skin tone,” adds Dr. Shirazi. Not only does this serum have rave reviews from tons of shoppers, it’s also a Prevention editor favorite (it’s been named our best overall vitamin C serum and L-ascorbic acid serum!).
What a reviewer says: “This potent concoction works wonders to brighten skin without irritating my sensitive complexion,” our deputy editor Emily Goldman previously shared.
Key Ingredients | Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), ferulic acid, vitamin E |
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Size | 1 fl oz |
Skin Type | Normal, dry, combination, sensitive |
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9
Best With Peptides
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum
Pros
Contains peptides and hyaluronic acid
Lightweight and fast-absorbing
Fragrance-free
Cons
Some reviewers complain it’s not good for sensitive skin
This serum from The Ordinary is packed with a powerful ingredient: Peptides. “Peptides help stimulate collagen and elastin production for firmer, more youthful-looking skin,” says Dr. Gohara. Along with five well-studied peptide technologies, the formula also contains hyaluronic acid, which plumps and hydrates the skin. The result is an advanced serum that targets multiple signs of aging at once, including improving the appearance of fine lines and promoting the skin’s overall elasticity, smoothness, and firmness.
What a reviewer says: “Great serum for aging skin! I love that it sinks into my skin and absorbs leaving my skin plump and smooth,” said one Sephora customer. “It leaves my skin hydrated and my fine lines and wrinkles are minimized. I highly recommend this for aging skin.”
Key Ingredients | Copper peptides, hyaluronic acid |
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Size | 1 fl oz |
Skin Type | Normal, dry, combination, oily |
10
Best for Dull Skin
Tata Harper Brightening Vitamin C + AHA/BHA Serum
Pros
Contains natural botanical ingredients and antixoidants
Contains brightening vitamin C and hydrating squalane
Lightweight and fast-absorbing
Cons
Pricey
Some reviewers dislike the scent
Want to transform your dull, uneven skin? “This natural, non-irritating serum is packed with botanical ingredients, including alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and antioxidants, to help refine skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and promote a radiant complexion,” says Dr. Shirazi. The AHAs and BHAs work to slough off dead skin cells, while antioxidants help fight the damaging effects of free radicals. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula also contains brightening vitamin C and hydrating squalane.
What a reviewer says: “I have been using the Resurfacing Serum for several weeks now, and I have noticed a significant improvement in the overall tone and texture of my skin,” one reviewer shared. “The serum has helped to fade dark spots, minimize pores, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. My skin looks brighter, smoother, and more radiant after incorporating this serum into my skincare routine.”
Key Ingredients | AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C, squalane |
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Size | 1 fl oz |
Skin Type | Dull, uneven skin |
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Pros
Fills in lines and smooths wrinkles in target areas
Contains retinol and hyaluronic acid
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, non-comedogenic
Cons
Results are temporary
This one is a targeted wrinkle-filling serum—meaning it’s a great pick if you’re looking to fill in lines and smooth wrinkles in target areas, such as on the forehead, around the mouth, or even your crow’s feet. Developed with dermatologists and plastic surgeons, the formula contains retinol as well as three forms of hyaluronic acid to plump the skin.
What a reviewer says: “This RoC Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Advanced Retinol Serum is actually working and I see a definite difference in my wrinkles,” one reviewer shared. “The laugh lines, ‘elevens,’ forehead, and vertical mouth lines are vastly improved. I’m in my 70s and can tell you that while it doesn't eliminate lines, it most definitely softens them.”
Key Ingredients | Retinol, hyaluronic acid |
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Size | 0.5 fl oz |
Skin Type | Mature |
Pros
Contains growth factors and peptides
Clinically proven to address sagging skin
Fragrance-free
Cons
Pricey
Some reviewers note issues with the pump
If you’re willing to splurge on a quality anti-wrinkle serum, this SkinMedica pick comes highly recommended by dermatologists and reviewers alike. “[It] features growth factors and peptides to improve skin texture, firmness, and elasticity,” notes Dr. Gohara. The fragrance-free formula is powered by the brand’s TNS-MR ingredient, as well as a growth factor blend to support healthy skin function, a peptide complex to nourish your skin, marine extract to promote the skin’s renewal processes, and green microalgae to support collagen and elastin levels. Reviewers say it’s worth the high price tag.
What a reviewer says: “SkinMedica TNS is an indulgence worth the price. I only buy it a few times a year but whenever I do I really notice a difference in my skin,” said one shopper. “In particular, always use it after any med spa procedure like lasers or microneedling. I find the stem cells really speeds up healing time.”
Key Ingredients | TNS-MR, growth factor blend, peptide complex, marine extract, green microalgae |
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Size | 1 fl oz |
Skin Type | All skin types |
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Pros
Delivers five skincare benefits
Contains niacinamide, vitamin C, peptide, vitamin E, and AHAs
Lightweight and fast-absorbing
Cons
Not fragrance-free
Olay’s Super Serum promises to deliver five benefits in one product: improving skin texture, evenness, firmness, hydration, and smoothness. It’s all thanks to a powerful formula that’s packed with niacinamide, vitamin C, collagen peptide, vitamin E, and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)—and all of it is packaged in a lightweight serum that glides on smoothly onto skin.
What a reviewer says: “This serum truly does what it says!! I am in my late 50s and I have definitely seen improvements in my skin,” said a satisfied Amazon reviewer. “My skin texture has improved, it is visibly firmer (less wrinkles), brighter, and well-hydrated.”
Key Ingredients | Peptides, niacinamide, vitamin C, vitamin E, AHA |
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Size | 1 fl oz |
Skin Type | Normal, oily, dry |
Pros
Gentle, slow-releasing retinol
Contains bakuchiol, glycerin, and soothing antioxidants
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free
Cons
Some reviewers say it can be drying
Created by Dr. Shirazi herself, this serum is a great pick if you’re looking for a gentle retinol formula. “Ideal for sensitive skin, this serum hydrates deeply, supports collagen production, and [promotes] a youthful, radiant complexion without irritation,” she says, adding that the powerful ingredients help “improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and restore firmness.” Along with retinol that’s delivered with slow-release technology to minimize irritation, the formula also contains bakuchiol—a “plant-based retinol alternative that offers similar anti-aging benefits while being gentle on sensitive skin,” says Dr. Shirazi—as well as hydrating glycerin and soothing antioxidants like green tea and licorice root.
Key Ingredients | Retinol, bakuchiol, glycerin, green tea, licorice root |
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Size | 1 fl oz |
Skin Type | All skin types, including sensitive skin |
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How to choose the best anti-wrinkle serums
✔️ Look for key anti-aging ingredients. Our experts recommend:
- Retinol: Promotes skin cell turnover and boosts collagen production for a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles over time
- Hyaluronic acid: Hydrates and plumps the skin, improving elasticity and suppleness
- Vitamin C: Stimulates collagen production, brightens the skin, and protects against free radical damage
- Peptides: Increases collagen and elastin production for firmer, more youthful-looking skin
- Niacinamide: Reduces inflammation and redness, strengthens the skin barrier, and improves elasticity for smoother skin
✔️ Choose a formulation suitable for your skin type. Experts recommend looking for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulations for oily skin; rich and hydrating formulations (with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin) for dry skin; and gentle formulations with peptides and soothing agents for sensitive skin. “Fragrance-free and dermatologically tested options are best for sensitive skin,” adds Dr. Shirazi.
Do anti-wrinkle serums really work?
Our experts says yes. Anti-wrinkle serums are effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines—but only when formulated with scientifically proven, active ingredients and with consistent use. “They can help boost collagen, hyaluronic acid, improve skin texture and tone, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a smoother complexion,” says Dr. Shirazi. “It doesn’t happen in a week or two though—it can take up to 6-12 weeks to start noticing real changes in skin quality.”
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When should you start using anti-wrinkle serums?
“Starting in your mid-to-late 20s is ideal, as this is when collagen production begins to naturally decline, and early signs of aging, like fine lines, can appear,” says Dr. Gohara. “It is when the years of sun damage and intrinsic aging begin to kick in. Using a preventive approach helps maintain skin health and delays visible aging.”
How we chose the best anti-wrinkle serums
We spoke with experts for their recommendations and insights, including Mona Gohara, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine; Azadeh Shirazi, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at La Jolla Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center; and Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Additionally, we combed through hundreds of reviews, ratings, and specs online to find the best L-ascorbic acid serums for all skin types.
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Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
Hannah Jeon
Associate Commerce Editor at Prevention
Hannah Jeon is an Associate Commerce Editor at Prevention, where she covers expert-driven commerce content for all things health, beauty, and wellness. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Good Housekeeping, she earned her bachelor’s degree in creative writing and psychology from Johns Hopkins University. When she’s not on the hunt for all the best products online, you can often find her trying out new food spots in New York City or clicking away behind a camera.