We'll be real with you: the absolute best anti-ageing cream for men is an SPF moisturiser in the streets and a night cream in the sheets. But there is a world of science that goes far beyond these simple grooming pillars. If you were wondering, yes: anti-ageing creams do actually work. The good ones, anyway… and only if you really commit to using them. As with building muscle in the gym or finally learning the guitar solo to “Master of Puppets”, consistency with your skincare routine is absolutely key.
Your new anti-ageing cream will work wonders over time and with regular use, but it'll be most effective applied in conjunction with a largely healthy lifestyle, one in which you prioritise a healthy diet, regular exercise, a minimal amount of stress and — we'll say it again — access to an SPF that you use daily.
If you manage to do all of that, the best anti-ageing cream for men should reduce fine lines, revitalise tired skin, reintroduce plumpness into your cheeks and potentially keep you looking younger than you actually are for as long as you and your skin both shall live. But which of the scores of oils, tinctures, creams and serums to opt for? We spoke to Harley Street face expert Yannis Alexandrides MD to find out.
Kiehl's Super Multi-Corrective Cream
Four weeks is no a lot of time to fix the ageing process of your skin, but that's how long Kiehl's reckons it takes for it's super Multi-Corrective Cream. Which is truly staggering in its capabilities and ingredients.
Kiehl's Vital Skin-Strengthening Super Serum
A key factor to de-ageing your skin is to revitalise it and bring it's glow back to tip-top shape, and we don't think many do it better than Kiehl's Vital Skin-strengthening serum. A Hyaluronic Acid serum that hulks out your skin's strength for healthy-looking younger, supple skin.
Horace Face Firming Gel
Eliminate sagging skin and push out those sunken fine lines with Horace's firming gel, which also hydrates your skin in a safe, vegan-friendly way.
What are GQ's best anti-ageing creams?
- Best Vegan Anti-Ageing Cream: Eve Lom Radiance Repair Retinol Serum, £145 at harveynichols.com
- Best Anti-Ageing Serum: Kiehl's Skin Strengthening Super Serum, £69 at kiehls.co.uk
- Best Budget-Friendly Anti-Ageing Cream: Q+A Collagen Face Cream £10.80 at amazon.co.uk
- Best Anti-Ageing Cream For Dull & Lacklustre Complexions: ROC Multi Correxion Revie + Glow Gel Cream, £29.99 at amazon.co.uk
- Best Anti-Ageing Cream For Sagging Skin: Horace Face Firming Gel, £24 at horace.co
- Best Anti-Ageing Cream For Deep Set Stubborn Wrinkles: Murad Targeted Wrinkle Corrector, £79 at spacenk.com
SKIP TO: What are the best anti-ageing ingredients? | What about retinol? | How we test anti-ageing creams | GQ's pick of the best grooming guides
What are the best anti-ageing ingredients?
As far as key ingredients go, you're going to want to look out for a certain top three. Moisturisers with ceramides, squalane and/or hyaluronic acid-based formulas have all been designed to keep skin looking plump and hydrated. A second string includes antioxidants such as Vitamin C, which helps to protect against environmental damage, which is a main skin concern. Many of the creams to be found below will contain some combination of the above.
Resurfacing ingredients are a little different, and are the solution for fading age spots and fine lines while stimulating cell renewal. Ingredients with these properties include AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) like glycolic and lactic acid. They also include that perennial grooming buzzword retinol.
Ultimately, the best defence against premature ageing is to look after your skin, utilising a proper moisturiser routine, using sunscreen when you head out into the scorching summer heat, and thoroughly taking advantage of our pick of the best age-reversing creams to make your skin look and feel younger and stronger.
What about retinol?
A potent de-ager that encourages cell production, retinol is a craze in grooming circles right now, but it has been around since the 1970s. Dr Alexandrides explains: “Part of the Vitamin A family, retinol works by increasing cell turnover speed to diminish the appearance of fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone."
“Topical retinol leads to a decrease in the appearance of wrinkles and increased production of glycosaminoglycans and collagen. It's also invaluable when it comes to minimising the appearance of pores and improving your skin’s overall texture as you age.”
How we test anti-ageing creams
Here at GQ, we're all for staving off the ravages of Father Time, not with hopes, prayers and weird tricks we learned off TikTok, but with cold hard science. So out of pure self-interest as much as anything else, we've tested a hell of a lot of anti-ageing creams and eye creams over the years in order that we might remain our most handsome selves for as long as humanely possible. Who did we rope in to complete this task of rolling back the years? One of the best men's grooming writers around. Adrian Clark has been covering all the best skin-care products for British GQ for many years, honing his craft as an expert authority on staying young and keeping healthy. And before you ask, that doesn't mean he is just good a Google searching, he has tested every product below in rigorous testing to ensure they live up to their lofty claims. Although anti-ageing creams tend to be a more expensive genre of grooming product, we've been sure to test offerings across a range of pricing to make sure there's something for you here no matter what your budget.
So what did Adrian look for? Well aside from scanning the ingredients list to make sure nothing unsavoury is tucked away in there, he tested them on his own skin to monitor hydration, effectiveness of reducing lines and wrinkles, and assessing the quality of the serum based on it's price.
GQ's pick of the best grooming guides
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Moisturisers | Men's fragrances | SPF moisturisers | Eye serums | Shampoos | Face washes | Night creams | Deodorants | Exfoliators | Body washes | LED face masks | Beard washes | Hair products
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Kiehl’s Vital Skin-Strengthening Super Serum
- Skin Type: All skin types
- Benefits: Firming, reducing fine lines (preemptively) and supporting skin cell renewal
- Powered By: 11kDa Hyaluronic acid, Schisandra berries, holy basil, red ginseng root
- Texture: Serum
Not strictly a cream per se, but worthy of inclusion on our list nonetheless (since it does the same job), Kiehl’s new skin-fortifying serum has been formulated to protect against the inevitable daily stressors that lead to the signs of premature ageing. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, it’s a great shout if you are specifically looking for something to tackle fine lines as a preventative rather than a cure. It works on the premise of strengthening the skin barrier, which can be weakened when exposed to city pollution resulting in a loss of elasticity and radiance. Ultra-lightweight, fast-absorbing and biocompatible, it is powered by 11kDa hyaluronic acid (an anti-ageing super ingredient) and an adaptogenic herbal complex made up of Schisandra berries to help improve resilience and elasticity, holy basil and red ginseng root, which promotes the renewal of skin cells and is esteemed in ancient medicine for fighting fatigue. The active ingredients are supported in a glycerin-based texture, to be used in conjunction with (and as a primer too) your favoured moisturiser. Noticeable changes (in a good way) to the surface texture of your skin are promised after four weeks of regular use.
Horace Face Firming Gel
- Skin type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: Fortifies the skin and reduces sagging
- Powered By: Kakadu plum and 2 forms of hyaluronic acid
- Texture: Gel
Formulated with 95.2 per cent ingredients of natural origin, Horace’s cooling and firming face gel helps to strengthen the skin and reduce the appearance of sagging. A vegan formula with a distinctive woody/amber scent, it uses two forms of hyaluronic acid (extracted from wheat and corn) one in a low molecular weight, which acts on skin tone and wrinkles with a moisturising effect and the other in a high molecular weight which acts like a sponge in preventing hydration from evaporating and protect your complexion from external aggressors, like pollution, UV and cigarette smoke. Kakadu plum, rich in vitamin C (100x more potent than orange), improves skin tone and elasticity, promotes collagen production and reduces fine lines and redness. Antioxidant-rich wild ginger extract, protects against pollution, whilst peptides help to fill in fine lines and wrinkles and smooth the skin.
Indeed Labs Retinol Reface Skin Resurfacer and Intensive Wrinkle Repair Serum
- Skin Type: Ageing, textured and sensitive
- Benefits: Gently resurfaces the skin, improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots and brightens uneven skin tone
- Powered By: Retinol microspheres, retinol-like peptide and bakuchiol
- Texture: Gel/cream
A specialist in skincare solutions founded on real science, real claims and real results, Indeed Labs offers budget-friendly and high-performance, targeted grooming solutions. Its 3-in-1, skin-resurfacing retinol blend targets the signs of ageing while you sleep; encouraging the shedding of dead skin to smooth the look of wrinkles and fine lines, fade pigmentation and help rebuild lost collagen. A more effective, faster and gentler formulation, it uses a unique combination of two different types of retinol: slow-release retinol microspheres which gently resurface the complexion, targeting fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, dark spots and uneven skin tone, and a multi-faceted and anti-ageing ‘retinol-like’ peptide, which speeds up cell-turnover and provides the same benefits as traditional retinol but with less skin irritation or discomfort. The addition of bakuchiol, a plant-based retinol alternative, helps alleviate rough texture and dryness. Only use at night, and follow up with SPF the next morning.
Eve Lom Radiance Repair Retinol Serum
- Skin Type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: Improves luminosity and firmness, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Powered By: Lipsome encapsulated retinol, prebiotic Oat Kernel ferment, AHAs, biomimetic mesh
- Texture: Serum
Boasting an all-in-one anti-ageing formula, Eve Lom’s Radiance repair illuminates, hydrates, firms and smoothes the skin. A vegan solution to be used both morning and night, it hydrates skin for up to 72-hrs after use. Dermatologically-tested, this serum is infused with a cocktail of potent and advanced actives. The first of these is liposome-encapsulated retinol: a more stable, gentler form of the active which stimulates collagen production with a sustained release to avoid irritation. The addition of microbiome-balancing fermented oat improves skin firmness and hydration, whilst lime-derived AHAs gently exfoliate skin, stimulating cell turnover and leading to a brighter and more radiant complexion. Made from a patented film-coating active of red algae and spiny holdback tree, its unique biomimetic mesh forms a protective barrier as it tenses to lift the skin.
ESPA Men Age-Rebel Moisturiser
- Skin Type: Suitable for all, especially dehydrated or dry skin
- Benefits: Energises, hydrates and prevents visible signs of premature ageing
- Powered By: Acai, velvet horn, black oat, golden seaweed, sea fennel, beta glucan and chitin
- Texture: Cream
Naturally elevated with skin health and vitality at its core, ESPA’s reimagined men’s grooming line features revised and refreshed formulations in streamlined, eco-friendly packaging; a comprehensive men's skincare regimen. Age-Rebel, its moisturiser, is your first line of defence for the early stages of the ageing process; designed to help you hold back time. An age-defying hydrator that leaves skin feeling deeply nourished, energised, and revitalised; the product is particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated men's skin types. It’s formulated with a blend of acai, velvet horn and black oat, for a superior moisture boost; golden seaweed and sea fennel, which wakes tired skin up; and beta glucan and chitin, to calm any discomfort or irritation. An effective safeguard to help prevent visible signs of premature ageing.
Nivea Men Anti-Age Power Moisturiser SPF 30
- Skin Type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: Targets hyperpigmentation and protects from UV damage
- Powered By: Hyaluron and Luminous630 technology
- Texture: Lightweight cream
One of the first brands to introduce male-grooming products specifically formulated to tackle hyperpigmentation, this gem from Nivea Men’s new anti-ageing line helps prevent against the appearance and development of dark spots, uneven skin tone, and sun-induced skin-ageing. Ultra-light, fast-absorbing and non-sticky, it uses a combination of powerful and exclusive ingredients that provide the complexion with an instantly refreshed look and a visibly youthful and smoother appearance. A patented breakthrough technology, Luminous630, lies at the heart of this hydrator: it’s a game-changing ingredient that effectively blocks the overproduction of melanin (our skin’s natural pigment), visibly reducing dark spots and preventing their reappearance. Hyaluron, a powerful, cell-activating ingredient, penetrates through the innermost layers of skin promoting cell turnover and intense 24-hour sustained hydration. It also features an SPF 30 to help protect from any further dark spot-triggering UV damage.
RéVive Intensité Volumizing Serum
- Skin Type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: A painless alternative to injectable facial fillers, to restore the appearance of facial volume
- Powered By: Bio-renewal peptide, bio volumizing peptide, painless plumping actives and conditioning ceramide blend
- Texture: Serum
Some bad news to start: as early as your mid-20s, collagen production begins to slow down, enhancing the appearance of fine lines and folds. Now some good news: this powerful targeted skin filler plumps and firms from within, providing a no-needles-necessary alternative to injectable facial fillers. Powered by RéVive’s signature bio-renewal peptide, bio volumizing peptide and painless plumping actives (to help restore the appearance of facial volume), it supports the skin’s own production of natural collagen and elastin. Promoting healthier-looking, smoother and softer skin in just four weeks, the high intensity formula is particularly good at shifting furrow lines, crow’s feet, nasal-labial folds and is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t block or inhibit the pores. Apply morning and night and follow with your regular moisturiser to contour, uplift and restore volume with rapid and transformative results.
Murad Resurgence Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Treatment
- Skin Type: Mature with advanced signs of ageing
- Benefits: Targets deep-set wrinkles, uneven skin tone and sagging
- Powered By: Encapsulated retinal, kangaroo paw flower extract, olive, oat and alpha glucan
- Texture: Serum
This next-gen serum has been designed to combat more advanced and intense signs of ageing, so is better suited to mature skin. An overnight treatment which has been formulated with retinal (one of the most efficacious forms of vitamin A) encapsulated in an exclusive delivery system, adapted from technology used in pharmaceutical applications, it offers enhanced stability without causing any irritation or harm. Clinically proven to tackle advanced signs of ageing with 2.5x better efficacy than free retinal, it improves skin elasticity and helps to lift sagging jawlines with continued use, yet smoothes deep-set wrinkles out in just 2 weeks. Enriched with kangaroo paw flower extract, to improve elasticity and encourage a more sculpted and lifted look, the nourishing and non-irritating formula also features olive, oat and alpha glucan, which join forces to support resilience, restore the skin barrier and top-up moisture levels. Only use in the evening and always follow with SPF the morning after.
Kiehl's Age Defender Cream Moisturiser
- Skin type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: Minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles | Strengthens and firms the skin
- Powered by: Linseed extract, caffeine, soy protein and caprolyl salicylic acid (LHA)
- Texture: Cream
Since 1851, Kiehl’s has been a pioneer in skincare specifically tailored for men. Its Age Defender Moisturiser protects from the rapid onset of multiple signs of ageing: minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles whilst promoting visibly firmer and strengthened skin. Utilising a dual-action technology, it exfoliates while delivering the potency of vitamin-rich linseed extract to significantly improve elasticity. Clinically proven to visibly lift, it sloughs-away dead skin cells, helping the formula to effectively penetrate the surface layers to smooth out rough texture and encourage a more resilient, energised and youthful-looking complexion. The linseed extract, expressed from the oil-rich seeds of the flax flower — which is extremely high in omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, potassium, lecithin, magnesium, fibre, protein and zinc — is combined with caffeine, soy protein and caprolyl salicylic acid which helps smooth imperfections, tightens and cleans the pores and improves dull, lacklustre tone. Used as part of the Age Defender grooming regimen it also reinforces the actives in the Age Defender Power Serum.
Origins Plantscription Active Wrinkle Correction Serum
- Skin Type: Suitable for all, including sensitive
- Benefits: Gentle enough to be used twice-daily and perfect for first-time retinoid users, improves the appearance of three types of stubborn lines and wrinkles on both the face and around the eyes
- Powered By: Retinoid, anogeissus bark extract, acetyl hexapeptide-8 and laminaria digitata
- Texture: Serum
New to Origins’ iconic anti-ageing Plantscription franchise, this powerful (yet kind enough for everyday use) serum helps visibly lift, contour and diminish the appearance of wrinkles and lines on the face and around the eyes. A potent age-defence treatment to instantly refresh skin’s natural bounce and improve firmness over time, it has been formulated with a retinoid to help boost natural cell turnover and potent botanical ingredients to soften, soothe and smooth. Specifically targeting and helping minimise the appearance of three types of stubborn wrinkles — forehead, smile lines and around the eyes — it's suitable for all skin-types including sensitive as well as first time retinoid users, and is 94 per cent naturally-derived. Gentle enough for both daily and nightly use (and with no adjustment period required), it's still recommended you use with SPF, and don’t use in conjunction with any other retinol products.
Calecim Professional Multi-Action Cream
- Skin Type: Significant signs of ageing
- Benefits: Corrects deep wrinkles and folds and improves skin elasticity and density
- Powered By: Cord Lining Conditioned Media, tocopherol, potassium lactate, fatty acids and glyceryl stearate
- Texture: Cream
The Calecim Multi-Action cream utilises stem cell bio-chemical messengers that communicate directly with skin cells, promoting younger-looking skin. Actively targeting the visible signs of ageing, it tightens and sculpts the jawline whilst enhancing facial contours; you could call it a face lift in a tube. It also visibly smooths deep wrinkles and facial creases, corrects discolouration, and enhances skin health and resilience. Made with a patented blend of high-performance active ingredients (including glycoproteins, collagens and hyaluronic acid), derived from neonatal stem cells, it has been clinically proven to create firmer and more lifted skin. The corrective treatment boasts a 56 per cent increase in elastin expression, 600 per cent increase in skin density and an 83 per cent increase in hyaluronic acid expression.
Kate Somerville KateCeuticals SuperCell Rejuvenation Serum
- Skin Type: Dull, dry and thinning
- Benefits: Corrects uneven texture, age spots, uneven skin tone, sagging, loss of firmness, fine lines and wrinkles and speeds recovery from treatments + lasers
- Powered By: Vegan stem cell complex, squalane, active peptide supercell booster
- Texture: Serum
This highly effective, clinical-grade, vegan stem cell serum has been specifically designed to boost collagen, cell turnover and skin elasticity whilst reversing skin damage. Harnessing a groundbreaking technology, it uses plant-generated growth factors derived from the nicotiana benthamiana plant to actively restore, repair and rejuvenate your complexion. Formulated with a vegan stem cell complex with squalane to moisturise, it restores the skin barrier and supports a healthy microbiome. Its unique delivery system, a XL metal roller, controls distribution of the formula, helps improve blood circulation and brightens the overall appearance of skin as well as decreasing inflammation and puffiness. A multitasker that is good for uneven texture/tone, age spots, sagging, loss of firmness, fine lines and wrinkles, it's also proven to help speed up the healing process post treatments and lasers.
Allies Of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment
- Skin Type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: Stimulates collagen and elastin production and fades dark spots
- Powered By: Palmitoyl tripeptide-8, marrubium vulgare extract, glutathione, thiotaine, vitamin C, teprenone and palmitoyl tripeptide-5
- Texture: Lightweight cream
Supercharged with 7 brighteners, 9 antioxidants and a 16.5 per cent Repair Complex (which does exactly what its name suggests), this multi-functional, all-day hydrator has been designed to tackle multiple factors that lead to skin damage and premature ageing. The formula combines the concentration and potency of a treatment mask with the ease of a moisturiser, using unique time-release technology to keep you covered throughout the day. It stimulates the production of essential collagen and elastin, fades dark spots, erases signs of fatigue, and protects the skin, employing an anti-pollution shield supercharged with antioxidants, glutathione, thiotaine and more. Elsewhere, vitamin C, teprenone and palmitoyl tripeptide-5 join forces to reduce the appearance of age spots and prevent the formation of wrinkles. If that wasn’t already enough, medical-grade manuka honey offers antibacterial benefits, naicinamide brightens, caffeine energises, and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid provides round-the-clock hydration.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 Stable Retinal Night Serum
- Skin Type: Suitable for all, but should be gradually built up in strength
- Benefits: Resurfaces and brightens the skin, reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Powered By: Retinaldehyde, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and vitamin E
- Texture: Serum
Uniquely stabilised for optimum potency, Crystal Retinal is clinically proven to provide transformative age-defying results. Advocating the use of vitamin C in the day and vitamin A at night, for that all-important reparative cycle, Medik8 developed this overnight formula with retinaldehyde, a next-generation form of vitamin A proven to deliver results up to 11x faster than retinol. Encapsulated in a patented crystal structure and housed in an innovative airless tube for enhanced stability, the one-of-a-kind face serum increases skin firmness and reduces visible hyperpigmentation. A plumping dose of moisture-retaining hyaluronic acid and glycerin, alongside antioxidant vitamin E, promotes a smoother-looking complexion. Available in a series of progressive strengths (1, 3, 6, 10, 20), level 6 contains 0.6 per cent of the encapsulated retinaldehyde. If you are new to using vitamin A, the best idea is to start low, go slow, and only use it at night.
Opalore The Brilliance Cream No.2 Radiance
- Skin Type: 30-39 years of age
- Benefits: Advanced anti-ageing effects achieved by protecting the microbiome; five variants tailored to your age
- Powered By: Prebiotics, postbiotics, polyglumatic acid, Swiss mineral water, squalane, niacinamide and bio-fermented black tea kombucha
- Texture: Lightweight cream
It's becoming clear that the skin microbiome is a key factor in the ageing process. Working with leading authorities and award-winning scientists in the field of genetics, epigenetics and microbiome research, Opalore is spearheading this microbial, healthy-skin revolution. Recognising the biological process of skin ageing is different for everyone and that microbial diversity shifts as we age, so Opalore has launched with five proprietary hybrid Brilliance Creams, suitable for men of all skin-types or tones, but tailored specifically to their age. No1. Is to nurture for ages 18-29, No.2 tackles radiance for ages 30-39, No.3 restores (40-49), No.4 fortifies (50-59) whilst No.5 is to nourish for ages 60-75. More than a moisturiser, the vegan-friendly creams actively treat the root cause of ageing, promoting good bacteria and training cells for the long term.
bareMinerals Ageless 10% Procollagen Firming Anti-Age Cream
- Skin Type: Normal to dry
- Benefits: Lifts, firms and supports skin’s collagen production
- Powered By: Phyto ProCollagen and ceramides
- Texture: Luxe cream
This rich and luxurious anti-ageing treatment actively firms and lifts whilst supporting the skin’s natural collagen production. Powered with 10 per cent Phyto ProCollagen — a potent collagen alternative derived from the hibiscus flower — this silky-textured hydrator effectively enhances skin density and elasticity as well as helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Enriched with ceramides, which encourage the renewal of skin’s natural protective barrier against moisture loss, it supercharges dull and lacklustre complexions, leaving skin feeling softer to the touch and with a visibly plumper and more sculpted finish. Vegan-friendly and dermatologist-tested, it is testament to bareMinerals’ mandate to make skincare that is clean without compromising on performance.
OleHenriksenDouble Rewind Retinol Serum
- Skin Type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: Visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in just 2 weeks
- Powered By: Vegan encapsulated retinol, Pro-vitamin A retinoid, aloe juice, birch sap and Scandinavian rowanberry
- Texture: Serum
Clinically-proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and help retexture the surface of the skin, this new results-driven anti-aging serum takes retinol to the next level. A powerful yet gentle formula designed to renew and replenish, it's powered with two pro-grade retinoids. An additional soothing complex of aloe juice, Scandinavian rowanberry and birch sap help to calm and refresh the complexion while mitigating any drawbacks or irritation associated with using retinoid ingredients. Ole’s first ever retinoid to market, it delivers transformative results in just two weeks of continual use and is infused with a naturally-derived lemon sugar scent to help awaken the senses. The powerful yet balanced treatment should be used 1-2 times per week, at night (always use SPF the next morning), building up to every other day when tolerated; but never use on the same day as using other exfoliants.
Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream
- Skin Type: Dry and dehydrated
- Benefits: Diminishes the appearance of deep-set wrinkles, improves the skin barrier
- Powered By: Phyto retinol blend, bakuchiol, rambutan, ferulic acid, arnica, Centella Asiatica
- Texture: Cream-balm
This intensely hydrating wrinkle treatment, designed for dry and dull complexions, visibly transforms lacklustre skin and helps repair the moisture barrier. A vegan, balmy-textured cream to be used morning and night, it's powered by an exclusive blend of retinol and botanical ingredients. Its potent formulation includes bakuchiol (a natural retinol alternative), rambutan for improved elasticity and diminished lines and wrinkles, and ferulic acid to protect against UV-induced free-radical damage. For their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, antioxidants arnica and Centella Asiatica have been added. An SOS for sagging skin, rough texture, fine lines and wrinkles, it effectively lifts and smoothes, leading to a more youthful and hydrated complexion.
L’Oreal Paris Men Expert Power Age Revitalising 24H Moisturiser
- Skin type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: Combats fine lines and boosts hydration
- Powered by: Two forms of hyaluronic acid
- Texture: Lightweight cream
L’Oreal Paris Men Expert’s new Power Age three-step anti-ageing grooming regimen targets visible signs of maturity, like sagging, fine lines and dryness. A premium, science-backed, hyaluronic acid-powered range for all skin tones, it strengthens and encourages a more youthful-looking appearance. The non-sticky, cream-textured day cream within the range, delivers 24 hours of lasting hydration. Made with two forms of hyaluronic acid (micro and macro), to act on both the surface and deeper into the skin, it can also be used after shaving to help soothe razor burn. Hyaluronic acid is a powerful derma active obtained through biotech and made up of innovative ingredients extracted from natural raw materials. The triple action cream revitalises with a boost of hydration, smoothes and firms, and protects with a refreshing feeling; it doesn’t claim to hold back time but simply help your skin to age better.
Patricks AM1 Anti-Ageing Moisturiser
- Skin Type: Normal to dry
- Benefits: Enhances radiance, improves elasticity and boosts skin’s collagen levels
- Powered By: Creatine, hyaluronic acid and squalane
- Texture: Lightweight cream
With science and innovation at its core, Patricks’ skincare embraces first-to-industry technologies and ingredients. A high-performance grooming line designed specifically for men, it’s hi-tech in both its approach and appearance. This highly-concentrated yet lightweight moisturiser has been formulated to boost collagen levels, promote elasticity and help brighten tired and dull-looking complexions. Quickly absorbed and leaving a silky but matte finish, it is infused with an exclusive leather accord and Australian sandalwood cologne and is vegan-friendly. Made with a cocktail of next-gen ingredients, it is powered with the highest quality and purity creatine available on the market, identical to the natural collagen that occurs in the skin, which is vital for the energy supply and function of cells.
Curél Rejuvenating Day Cream
- Skin Type: Dry and/or sensitive
- Benefits: Reduces inflammation, restores the moisture barrier and minimises fine lines caused by dehydration
- Powered By: Ceramides, ginger root extract and allantoin
- Texture: Lightweight cream
As skin ages, ceramides naturally reduce. An essential part of the skin’s natural moisture barrier, their decrease leads to moisture loss, fine lines and a lack of plumpness: a dilemma which is especially challenging for those who suffer with sensitivity or dryness. Fortifying the barrier is therefore essential to replenish and protect. Curél, the premier Japanese brand for sensitive skin-types, has mercifully come to the rescue with a new line dedicated to restorative ageing skin health. Infused with high concentrations of ceramides, ginger root extract and allantoin, the daily face cream within the range combats ageing by addressing inflammation and by helping restore skin barrier function: your complexion should look visibly firmer and more lifted in just one week.
Q+A Collagen Face Cream
- Skin Type: Not recommended for oily skin
- Benefits: Plumping, rejuvenating, smoothing, firming and minimising pores
- Powered By: Collagen peptide, shea butter, beeswax
- Texture: Cream
Vital, simple and effective skincare at a fair price is Q+A’s mission statement. The Norfolk brand is making waves with its eco-conscious, ingredient-led range of fuss-free grooming essentials. Cruelty-free and made from 98.4 per cent naturally derived ingredients, Collagen Face Cream is the most expensive item in the range, which, at £12 for an anti-ageing cream that really performs, speaks volumes about the brand’s commitment to making the line accessible. Currently only vegetarian-friendly (it includes beeswax), although the brand is looking into alternatives so it can be vegan, it has been formulated using collagen peptide (which is naturally derived from seaweed and has a plumping and rejuvenating effect), magnesium PCA (a super ingredient with anti-fatigue, skin-energising properties that is used in many of the Q+A products) and shea butter (with its high concentration of skin-smoothing and deeply hydrating natural fatty acids). Suitable for most skin types but not recommended for over-oily skin, it also minimises pores, improves skin firmness and strength, is easily absorbed and is both comforting and calming.
Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0,05%
- Skin Type: Dry, sensitive and combination
- Benefits: Helps even out texture and tone and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Powered By: Retinaldehyde and biofermented oligopeptide
- Texture: Serum
Designed to visibly improve the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture and tone, Naturium’s results-driven, cream/serum hybrid delivers optimum defence from the inevitable skin ageing process. It employs a natural microsphere encapsulation delivery system to maintain stability and deliver retinaldehyde with a sustained release, maximising the benefits of the powerful ingredient without causing any harm or irritation. An active niosome complex boosts radiance and revitalises, whilst a bio-fermented oligopeptide delivers gentle, non-acidic exfoliation. Vegan and pH-balanced to support skin health it also features extract of peridot stone, which has high trace elements and magnesium and has been shown to help revitalise dull, lacklustre and tired-looking complexions. Available in two strengths of retinalaldehyde; 0.5% for beginners and 0.10% once the ingredient is properly tolerated. Only use at night up to three times per week and always use an SPF the morning after.
Kiehl's Retinol Fast Release Wrinkle-Reducing Night Serum
- Skin Type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: Reduces fine lines and wrinkles, firms skin, encourages cell-turnover
- Powered By: Pure retinol (0.3 per cent)
- Texture: Serum
Kiehl’s new retinol fast-release, wrinkle-reducing night serum, penetrates up to 15 surface layers deep to accelerate skin surface turnover. The clinically-tested formula, suited to all skin types, is unlike many over-the-counter retinol formulations that can take several weeks or even months to start seeing improvements: it visibly improves skin appearance in as little as five days from first use. Regarded by dermatologists as one of the most highly efficacious and researched anti-ageing ingredients, retinol has the ability to dramatically diminish wrinkles and firm skin’s overall appearance. Fast-absorbing and only to be used overnight, it is particularly good for tackling deep-set and stubborn wrinkles. The fast-release system that features 0.3 per cent retinol is uniquely packaged in a dual-sided component which allows fresh activation of the formula each time it is used: releasing a pure retinol powder capsule into an ultra-lightweight serum base to ensure a solution that is preserved and protected from degradation.
ROC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Cream
- Skin Type: Dry and dehydrated skin
- Benefits: Brightening, firming, reducing fine lines, evening skin tone and protecting against free radicals
- Powered By: Vitamin C, shea butter, ascorbic acid, nonapeptide-1, kakadu plum, watermelon, lentil and apple extracts
- Texture: Gel-cream
The first brand to formulate hypoallergenic products, an SPF to specifically target the signs of ageing and the first-ever over-the-counter retinol, ROC is an iconic French brand with more than 60 years of expertise under its belt, freshly relaunched (after a hiatus) in the UK market. Its scientifically crafted and cult, vitamin C-based skincare regimen has been designed to awaken the skin and illuminate. Multi Correxion Revive & Glow Gel Cream is the lighter of two moisturisers within this specific line, delivering a light and non-greasy blend of antioxidant-rich vitamin C, shea butter and fruit extracts. Formulated for dry and dehydrated skin, it helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles, promotes brighter, firmer-looking skin and shields with 24-hour hydration and protection. Oil-, paraben- and sulphate-free, it uses a proprietary ten per cent vitamin C blend, ascorbic acid (with complementary antioxidants), nonapeptide-1 and complimentary moisturisers that work together for results that cannot be achieved with vitamin C alone. Kakadu plum, the richest source of vitamin C, protects against free-radical damage, brightens and evens skin tone, supported by watermelon, lentil and apple extracts.
Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream
- Skin Type: Suitable for all, including sensitive
- Benefits: Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improves moisture barrier function
- Powered By: Squalane, omega fatty acids, ceramides and plant sterols
- Texture: Cream
Biossance’s most decadent anti-ageing face cream is loaded with all the good fats (lipids) that mimic and support the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Dermatologist-tested and vegan, it helps to smooth rough texture, boost radiance and plump the look of fine lines. Since it’s been ophthalmologist-tested, it can even be used around the eyes. Infused with squalane, which deeply hydrates while locking in essential moisture, the replenishing treatment is packed with nourishing ceramides and omega fatty acids that calm and replenish dull, dehydrated complexions. Plant sterols — derived from acai berry, shea butter and hyaluronic acid — seal the deal on delivering maximum hydration. This unique formula also features a liquid crystal emulsifying system that mimics skin structure and therefore doesn’t disrupt the natural moisture barrier like traditional emulsifiers.
Fresh Black Tea Advanced Age Renewal Cream
- Skin Type: Suitable for all, including sensitive
- Benefits: Visibly reduces wrinkles, firms and improves radiance
- Powered By: BT Matrix (black tea and rambutan leaf extracts), squalane, ceramide NP, pink porcelain lily
- Texture: Lightweight velvety cream
Fresh has introduced its first naturally-derived ingredient blend with a scientifically proven retinol-like performance in its Black Tea Advanced Age Renewal Cream. Formulated with a exclusive BT Matrix made from antioxidant-rich black tea and rambutan leaf extracts — which work synergistically to support lost skin structure due to a natural decline in collagen — this velvety-textured cream has been engineered to take on and help correct multiple signs of skin ageing. Gentle enough to be used twice a day, without the known discomfort typical of many retinol alternatives, the dermatologist-tested, lightweight treatment is packed with advanced active ingredients. Ceramide NP, a skin-mimicking lipid produced using biotechnology prevents dehydration and strengthens the skin barrier, plant-derived squalane helps maintain moisture levels, whilst pink porcelain lily improves radiance and skin texture. Suitable for most skin types, including sensitive, it is a very effective moisturiser that visibly reduces wrinkles and helps regain elasticity and firmness.
Chanel Le Lift Pro Concentre Contour
- Skin type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: Tightens and redefines facial contours
- Powered by: Melipona enzymatic ingredient, two forms of hyaluronic acid
- Texture: Silky emulsion
For more than 20-years, Chanel Research has conducted studies enabling its experts to unearth the secret to more supple-looking skin. This research has led to the development of Le Lift Pro, a new range of skincare products designed as a naturally innovative and high-performance anti-ageing regimen. A Melipona enzymatic technology lies at the heart of this re-sculpting formula: a naturally-derived ingredient with a unique sensorial feel. Produced in very small quantities by minuscule Melipona bees, this precious elixir reinforces skin support to correct the most advanced signs of ageing and offers an unprecedented youth-boosting effect. Suitable for all skin types and fragrance free, it is enriched with two forms of hyaluronic acid for longer-lasting, intense hydration and immediately tightens and redefines the facial contours. A high-performance, standout product aimed at anyone suffering with sagging skin.
Malin + Goetz Advanced Renewal Moisturiser
- Skin type: Suitable for all, especially sensitive
- Benefits: Firms, smoothes and intensely hydrates
- Powered by: Apple stem cells, meadowfoam seed oil, squalane and Moisture Complex
- Texture: Lightweight lotion
This expertly designed formula goes beyond the basics and is clinically-proven to improve firmness, hydration and elasticity in one simple step. A multi-benefit moisturiser that supports your skin and targets its concerns, wherever you find yourself on the age spectrum, it is light-as-air, leaving no film or residue and penetrates deep into the skin. Malin + Goetz’s most advanced technology to date, it is made with the highest-quality, small molecular-sized ingredients and has been dermatologically-tested for suitability to even the most sensitive skin-types. Powered by apple stem cells, rich in phytonutrients that mimic skin cells to energise, protect and combat fine lines and wrinkles, meadowfoam seed oil, rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, to balance skin’s natural oils and squalane that provides superior hydration and is a more stable form of the body’s natural moisturiser squalene. A unique Moisture Complex of sugar molecules, sodium hyaluronate and beta gluten draws in moisture to maintain hydration and plump the skin. Targeting ageing concerns instantly and over time while keeping the skin protected from environmental damage, it is also vegan and gluten-free.
3LAB WW Cream Anti-Wrinkle And Brightening Complex
- Skin Type: Suitable for all
- Benefits: Reduces the appearance of fine lines and brightens the complexion
- Powered By: Bio-engineered Renewal Complex, golden collagenine and apple stem technology
- Texture: Cream
A global leader in hi-tech innovation, 3Lab has found great success in the results-driven, high-performance skincare arena. This age-fortifying moisturiser from its gold standard WW range helps to combat the onslaught of environmental damage and swiftly takes action on fine lines and wrinkles. Formulated with a luxurious and nourishing texture that absorbs without trace, it restores plumpness, radiance and volume whilst reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots, leading to a complexion that looks more even-toned and healthy. Enriched with an in-lab developed growth hormone (Bio-Engineered Renewal Complex) which has been engineered to promote the appearance of rejuvenated skin, it also benefits from a plant-based stem cell ingredient derived from a rare Swiss apple, which is proven to slow down the visible signs of ageing. Golden collagenine, a peptide that is nano-conjugated to gold particles, improves firmness and increases skin elasticity.
Murad Targeted Wrinkle Corrector
- Skin Type: Balanced, oily, combination and dry
- Benefits: Reduces facial expression lines and deep-set wrinkles
- Powered By: Hyaluronic acid, Acetyl hexapeptide-8 and squalane
- Texture: Cream
Dr Howard Murad’s clinically-proven wrinkle fix effectively erases the appearance of deep-set and fine lines by instantly smoothing and reducing their intensity. A powerful peptide-meets-hyaluronic treatment (use sparingly as a little goes a very long way), it targets problem areas as and where needed, like forehead creases, fine lines around the mouth and crow’s feet. A triple-action formula, it fills lines on contact (even deep-set stubborn wrinkles), helps skin bounce back from lines triggered by repeated facial expressions and boosts skin’s hydration levels to discourage future wrinkles from forming. Powered with acetyl hexapeptide-8, which stimulates skin elasticity, it is infused with plant-derived squalane, to prevent moisture loss and future-proof you from the onset of further wrinkles, as well as skin-smoothing bioavailable hyaluronic acid for intense hydration.
Q+A Snow Algae Intensive Face Cream
- Skin Type: Dry, stressed and sensitive
- Benefits: Boosting collagen and protecting skin from environmental damage
- Powered By: Snow algae, shea butter, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera
- Texture: Rich cream
Q+A’s new daily age-defence ally reinforces the skin barrier, stimulates and increases collagen production and protects the skin from environmental damage at a cellular level. Vegan and 98 per cent natural, it offers soothing and firming benefits, rejuvenates and repairs the skin cells and is both rich and nourishing. Targeting dry, stressed, sensitive, mature and combination skin-types, it is powered by a unique youth-boosting ingredient called snow algae (nicknamed watermelon snow). It's an organism that can survive in very harsh conditions (0º), which grows on mountain tops and ice caps and helps slow down the ageing process. Rich in vitamins, A, C, E and K, it stimulates an anti-ageing gene in the skin called Klotho that improves the longevity of skin cells, and is combined here with shea butter, hyaluronic acid and aloe vera.ur
Kiehl's Super-Multi-Corrective Soft Cream
- Skin Type: Oily, combination and sensitive
- Benefits: Firms, lifts, improves elasticity, texture and tone, reduces wrinkles and boosts radiance
- Powered By: ProxylaneGX, adenosine and capryloyl glycine
- Texture: Lightweight Gel/cream
Collagen degradation can begin as early as 20 years of age, with oily skin enhancing the visible signs of collagen loss, including visible pores, fine lines and uneven overall texture. Kiehl’s new oil-free super multi-corrective soft cream has been specifically designed with oily and combination skin-types in mind; the perfect option for younger skin, as an early introduction to an anti-ageing regimen. Soothing and refreshing, the supercharged, gel/cream moisturiser, which can be used both day and night, repairs, replenishes and helps rebuild the skin’s foundation. Made with a trio of collagen-boosting ingredients, the pro-ageing treatment features ProxylaneGX, a multi-patented ingredient that is clinically-tested to improve the feeling of firmness, elasticity and visibly refine facial contours, adenosine, derived from yeast fermentation, reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles and new super-ingredient, capryloyl glycine, an amino-acid based active which controls oil for a shine-free finish.
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