Fine lines, dark spots, and a loss of firmness are all natural parts of the skin’s ageing process. While no magic elixir can stop the clock, there’s something to be said for reaching for a potent serum or cream in search of a more radiant, healthy-looking complexion. After all, looking after your skin is an act of self-care.
When shopping for anti-ageing skincare that really works, look for ingredients backed by science. Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, is regarded as the gold standard for stimulating collagen production, accelerating cell renewal, and softening the appearance of fine lines over time. However, some users find that their sensitive skin cannot tolerate retinol, in which case bakuchiol is a commonly used plant-derived alternative safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
For brightening pigmentation, Vitamin C is a popular skincare ingredient, while peptides help reinforce the skin barrier and encourage collagen and elastin production, improving firmness. Hyaluronic acid acts as a humectant, drawing water into the skin to attract and retain moisture, helping plump the appearance of fine lines. There are also skincare acids, like AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids), which gently exfoliate the skin to improve texture and fade sun damage.
Ultimately, the most effective anti-ageing routine is the one that works best for your skin. There’s no universal formula, so a little experimentation is often part of the journey. Ensure your skin is clean and dry before applying anti-wrinkle products to allow the active ingredients to penetrate more effectively. Consistent application is key to seeing results over time!
Ahead, shop our edit of serums and creams, selected to help address visible signs of ageing.
Noteworthy anti-ageing serums and creams for firmer, smoother skin
Bee Venom Pure Perfection Moisturiser
$79.90 (usually $96) at abeeco
abeeco’s best-selling skincare product for a reason, this luxurious, bee venom–infused moisturiser is formulated for anyone looking to achieve firmer, more hydrated skin or is concerned about fine lines and elasticity.
Hero ingredients include bee venom to gently stimulate the skin and improve elasticity, and EPS Seafill, a marine-derived ingredient that smooths and tightens the skin while helping to fill in wrinkles for quick, noticeable results in as little as 15 minutes.
Tip: Use this hydrating moisturiser as a primer for a smooth makeup application that won’t settle into fine lines, or apply it overnight as a deeply nourishing night cream for soft, supple skin.
L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Collagen Day Cream
$35.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Formulated to intensely hydrate mature skin, the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Day Cream is infused with micro-collagen peptide to boost skin firmness, while niacinamide helps reduce the appearance of age spots. Use alongside the Age Perfect Eye Cream and Night Cream for a deeply replenishing routine.
Avocado Pear Collagen-Boosting Night Cream
$72 at Antipodes
Studies have shown this richly textured night cream is scientifically proven to stimulate collagen production in human skin cells by up to 92% and clinically shown to reduce skin dryness by 85%.
In addition to softening and reducing the visibility of fine lines, the Avocado Pear Collagen-Boosting Night Cream includes avocado oil, manuka honey, and grape seed extract for deep nourishment while you sleep.
Use it as the final step in your evening skincare routine, massaging upwards into your face, neck, and décolletage for a soothing moment before bed.
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Pro+ Power Serum
$49.50 (usually $65.99) at Life Pharmacy
Formulated for experienced retinol users, this high-strength serum uses the power of vitamin A to target signs of ageing, including fine lines, dullness, wrinkles and stubborn dark spots.
Also available at:
- $32.49 at Chemist Warehouse
Supernatural Vitale Elixir
$166 from Emma Lewisham
Four years in the making, New Zealand brand Emma Lewisham’s Supernatural Vitale Elixir, has been scientifically proven to reduce muscle contractions responsible for wrinkles by 91% in 24 hours. Described as a “revolutionary” facial muscle relaxant, the brand promises visible skin-filling results within five to seven days. It’s worth it if you’re serious about skincare and the reduction and prevention of fine lines and wrinkles, or desire a topical alternative to injectables that gets to work with gusto.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum
$205 at Life Pharmacy
This gentle but effective retinol serum is a tiny powerhouse when it comes to tackling the signs of ageing: think texture, fine lines and appearance of pores. Gentle enough for nightly use, it delivers a powerful 3.5% Retinoid complex, without stripping your skin barrier.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 3
$78.20 (usually $97.75) at Adore Beauty
Another retinal product firmly on our list, this Medik8 product is clinically proven to tackle major signs of eye area ageing, yet gentle enough for nightly use. It promises to reduce the appearance of deep-set lines and wrinkles and help to lift and firm droopy or sagging lids. Simply pat around the eye area, without getting too close to the lash line, before you hit the hay!
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler 1.5% HA Anti-Wrinkle Serum
$45.60 (usually $56.99) at Adore Beauty
This super-serum harnesses the power of hyaluronic acid to help rehydrate, smooth the skin surface and plump out wrinkles. With rapid absorption and a non-greasy finish, it can be used day or night before moisturising.
Also available at:
- $53.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Glow Lab Filler Effect Facial Serum
$24.99 at Bargain Chemist
Glow Lab’s Filler Effect serum boosted with hyaluronic acid and pro-vitamin B5. The multi-peptide powerhouse works to deliver a lifted appearance to cheeks, eyelids, eyebrows and crow’s feet, while softening fine lines.
Do anti-wrinkle creams actually work?
Anti-wrinkle creams can be effective to varying degrees, depending on their ingredients and your skin type. Ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants have shown promise in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and improving skin texture. But the effectiveness can vary from person to person, and consistency in use is often necessary to see results. And remember, lifestyle factors such as sun exposure, smoking, and diet can also impact the effectiveness of anti-wrinkle creams.
Editor’s tip: There’s also a real case for sleeping on silk. Silk pillowcases reduce friction, meaning less pulling and tugging on your skin while you sleep.
Related articles:
- 13 beauty-boosting collagen supplements, snacks and drinks
- 10 of the best night creams for hydrated, glowing skin by morning
- The anti-ageing diet: Foods for younger-looking skin
