First, we must be clear. There’s zip, zero, zilch wrong with wrinkles, and your worth is not tied to your youth. Fine lines and creases that practically appear overnight, dark spots that don’t seem to budge and everything in between are, of course, a natural part of the ageing process thanks to factors such as sun exposure, genetics and the fact that once we hit 30, our body’s ability to produce collagen and elastin, which keep skin firm and plump, begins to decline.
However, there’s a bevy of handy helpers on the market designed to diminish these signs of ageing, and nourish and nurture skin. You don’t need them to age fabulously, but if you’re that way inclined, the key wrinkle-fighting ingredients to look out for include retinol, vitamin C, peptides, hyaluronic acid and chemical exfoliants (AHAs and BHAs).
Also keep in mind that what works best for you might not work as well for someone else. If a product isn’t working, give something else a go.
2024’s TOP WRINKLE-BUSTING PRODUCTS
- Emma Lewisham Supernatural Vitale Elixir, $158, Emma Lewisham (here’s why)
- Go-To Very Amazing Retinal, $92, Go-To (here’s why)
- Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 3, $97.75, Adore Beauty (here’s why)
Our Beauty Editor’s top picks for wrinkle-busting skincare
01
Emma Lewisham Supernatural Vitale Elixir
$158 from Emma Lewisham
Four years in the making, New Zealand brand Emma Lewisham’s latest innovation, 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. Yeah, we can’t deny it’s expensive. But it’s worth it if you’re serious about skincare and the reduction and prevention of fine lines and wrinkles, and want a topical, more natural-looking alternative to injectables that gets to work with gusto.
Also available at:
- $158 from The Facialist
02
Go-To Very Amazing Retinal
$92 from Go-To Skincare
Go-To has long had a spot on our skincare shelves thanks to its focus on fuss-free skincare that does what it says on the tin. Its newest launch might just be the most exciting yet. Very Amazing Retinal is a Vitamin A face serum that has been clinically proven to help diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation. While we’re big fans of retinol, its sister retinal is just that little bit gentler while matching it in power. The calming addition of niacinamide, Centella and peptides means this should be the go-to (sorry) pick for those with easily irritated skin.
Also available at:
- $97 from Mecca
03
Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 3
$97.75 from 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!
Also available at:
- $97.75 from The Facialist
04
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler 1.5% HA Anti-Wrinkle Serum
$56.99 from 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.
Also available at:
- $35.09 from Chemist Warehouse
05
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Pro+ Power Serum
$62.99 from 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:
- $43.99 from Chemist Warehouse
06
Glow Lab Filler Effect Facial Serum
$19.49 from Chemist Warehouse
Glow Lab’s affordable new serum may be light on the wallet, but it positively packs a punch! 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 reducing the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.
Also available at:
- $29.99 from Woolworths
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.
Beauty Editor’s tip #1:
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!
Beauty Editor’s tip #2:
There’s a real case for sleeping on silk! Silk pillowcases reduce friction, meaning less pulling and tugging on your skin while you sleep, which causes fewer wrinkles.
Related articles:
- Level up your at-home neck skincare
- The best facial cleansers for your skin type
- The anti-ageing diet: Foods that can prevent wrinkles for younger-looking skin
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