12 Anti-Aging Creams That Actually Work, According to Beauty Scientists

This top dermatologist pick from Neutrogena, made with the gold standard anti-aging ingredient retinol, aced the GH Beauty Lab’s anti-aging day cream test. Lab tests with the Visia Complexion Analyzer found that it reduced UV spots by 13.5%, and it also measurably firmed skin and evened tone over eight weeks of use. The lotion was a tester favorite, earning high scores for improving radiance and minimizing fine lines and wrinkles.

The GH Beauty Award winner also quenches dry skin (although some users wished the formula was richer and more moisturizing) and protects against the sun’s rays with SPF 30. Consumers liked that this face cream absorbed quickly, didn’t irritate and had minimal scent. “Hands down, the best wrinkle cream I’ve tried!” a tester raved. Another reported: “My skin looks younger and firmer and has less visible wrinkles.”

Great for everyday wear, Roc’s moisturizer with SPF was a GH Beauty Lab anti-aging day cream test winner, absorbing quickly and not leaving a greasy feeling on skin. In Lab digital imaging with the Visia Complexion Analyzer, the formula reduced visible dark spots by 4.5% and improved skin’s texture by 11% in four weeks of use. It also didn’t irritate eyes despite containing sunscreen, however a few testers reported breakouts.

Consumer testers gave it top marks for softening, firming and reducing wrinkles. “It made my skin feel plump, smooth and glowing,” one commented. A second user said they “noticed a difference in skin tone and texture and would continue using it.”