Trendy new ingredients may come and go, but retinol remains a tried-and-true dermatologist favorite for its proven anti-aging benefits. What makes it so good? It works on the surface of your skin, speeding up cell turnover to even out tone and texture, but also works on the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen to minimize fine lines and wrinkles. In this drugstore staple, it's in a lusciously thick cream, which helps counteract some of the potent ingredient's side-effects (namely, dryness and flaking). It's a perfect pick to start using as the seasons change and temps start to drop.
The bad news: The skin around your eyes is the thinnest on your body, which makes it the area where signs of aging first crop up. The good news: A multi-tasking eye cream can give this delicate skin the TLC it deserves, and help treat everything from crow's feet to dark circles to puffiness in one easy step. This formula contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and olive oil, caffeine to reduce puffiness and the look of dark circles, and protective antioxidants, too. Multi-tasking for the win.
It may be the simplest step in your skin care routine, but don't underestimate the importance of correctly cleansing. Not only does it foam away dirt, oil, makeup and other assorted environmental pollutants, it also helps ensures your skin is properly prepped for any products that you use afterwards. This wash strikes the perfect balance between having a pleasantly foamy texture, without leaving your skin feel stripped or tight. (Contrary to popular belief, a squeaky clean feel is not what you should be going for.) Bromelain and apple amino acids help remove makeup, oil and other impurities, plus, it's pH-balanced so you never have to stress about skin irritation.
All dermatologists will tell you that exfoliation is the secret to a smooth, glowing complexion. Consider swapping scrubs for chemical exfoliants, like daily peel pads, (the former can be too aggressive, especially if you have sensitive skin). These contain an effective combo of glycolic, lactic, malic and salicylic acids to dissolve dead skin cells, unclog pores and leave skin overall brighter, all while being gentle enough for everyday use.
Retinol is great, but here's the thing: Its strength and efficacy comes with the potential for some unsightly side effects, namely redness and flaking. Plus, it's a no-no if you're pregnant. That's why dermatologists often recommend peptides as a good anti-aging alternative; the amino acids help make up the proteins essential for firm, youthful skin. This cream features the same cult-classic formula, but in a lighter-than-air texture, making it a foolproof pick for oily skin types or those who just doesn't like super heavy creams.
