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If it's smooth, bright, glowing skin you covet—and, let's be honest, who doesn't?—there's a lot you can try. From procedures like microdermabrasion to dermaplaning and specialty serums like hyaluronic acid and retinol, there are both in-office and at-home options that provide some level of anti-aging benefits. But not everyone has the time or the budget for a multistep routine. And, thankfully, there's a simpler option: anti-wrinkle cream.
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It doesn't matter where the lines are—around your eyes, adjacent to your mouth, or even down your neck—a simple wrinkle cream can help, says Debra Jaliman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Of course, there a few key ingredients to look for to ensure the product you're choosing is as effective as possible. Look for retinol, peptides, and niacinamide, says Jaliman. And make sure these ingredients show up in the beginning of the ingredient list, which indicates they appear in the product in a higher concentration than other ingredients lower down on the list.
Don't rush the process, either—particularly if your wrinkles are deep and dark. "The results of wrinkle creams can take weeks to months for results to show," says Michele Green, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist in NYC. "For example, when it comes to retinoids, it typically takes three to six months of regular use before improvements are apparent, with the best results occurring after six to 12 months," she explains. Other factors that can contribute to the effectiveness of wrinkles creams include your lifestyle and diet. "If you regularly smoke or drink alcohol, you are less likely to see results from the wrinkle creams," says Green.
Hoping to see those results sooner rather than later? Peep this list of hardworking wrinkle creams, all dermatologist-approved.
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
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