These Are the 10 Best Wrinkle Creams of 2024, According to Dermatologists and Our Testers
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The L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Cell Renewal Midnight Cream visibly reduced our forehead lines in just four weeks
People / Kristin Kempa
So many anti-aging products exist that it can be wrinkle-inducing just figuring out where to start. Thankfully, just about anyone can benefit from a wrinkle cream, as they’re daily moisturizers that also target the skin’s signs of aging.
The More You Know
Wrinkle creams have active ingredients (i.e., retinol, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and peptides) that increase cell turnover, collagen production, and hydration — all natural systems that slow down over time, explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lauren Penzi, MD.
With time and consistent use, results can look like minimized fine lines, smoother texture, and firmer, plumper, softer skin. However, not all wrinkle creams are created equal. With this in mind, our PEOPLE Tested team, ages 25 to 64, slathered on 21 formulas over eight weeks, carefully considering their effectiveness, hydration, consistency, and overall results.
While there’s no such thing as a miracle cream, these are the 10 best wrinkle creams we tested in 2024.
Best Overall: L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Cell Renewal Midnight Cream
Star Qualities
Reduced forehead wrinkles after four weeks
Smoothed, firmed, and brightened skin
Instant, long-lasting hydration
Pleasant scent wasn’t overpowering
Red Flags
None we could find!
Of the 21 formulas we tried, the L’Oreal Paris Age Perfect Cell Renewal Midnight Cream came out on top. After four weeks, we noticed a visible reduction in forehead wrinkles. We love that it’s cost-conscious and that it instantly hydrates our skin, revealing a smoother, firmer, glowy complexion.
It’s advertised as a night cream since that’s when our skin works harder to regenerate, but it’s suitable for the morning, too. We found that its thick texture absorbed fairly quickly and combined nicely with our other skincare and makeup products without piling.
It’s one of only a handful of drugstore brands under $40 on our list, and it scored the best — in fact, it outperformed the expensive wrinkle creams our tester previously used. We would recommend this to anyone looking for an effective wrinkle cream on a budget.
Size: 1.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Patented antioxidant, vitamin E | Recommended Use: Twice daily
Best for Immediate Results: The Outset Smoothing Vitamin C Eye + Expression Lines Cream
Star Qualities
Quickly improved the look of expression lines
Hydrated, plumped, and firmed skin
Fragrance-free
Suitable for sensitive skin
Red Flags
Like all wrinkle creams, it required continued daily use to see quick results, but it’s worth it
This clean-ingredient formula from Scarlett Johansson’s skincare brand gave us immediately noticeable results. We were shocked by how effectively it plumped and hydrated our under eyes. It also firmed the lines between the brows and around the eyes, mouth, and along the forehead.
We also appreciated how gentle and non-irritating it was compared to other under eye products. Its slightly oily texture would clump up if layered with too many different products, so consider scaling back your routine with this. Also, results fade within two to three days, so continual use is key.
Size: 0.5 ounces | Key Ingredients: Hyaluroset? Complex, ascorbyl glucoside, Irish moss | Recommended Use: At least once daily
Best with Retinol: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream
Star Qualities
Smoothed, hydrated, and improved skin’s texture
Comes in a jar to customize desired amount
Light, mouse-like consistency absorbed quickly
Pleasant citrus fragrance
Red Flags
No drastic improvements to fine lines in eight weeks
We were excited to try this Dr. Dennis Gross wrinkle cream after deeming its sister serum the best for uneven skin texture. Similarly, it improved our skin’s texture and brightened our complexion with its blend of retinol and “retinol-like” botanical actives. Our skin felt “fed” and hydrated by its citrus-scented, mouse-like texture, which absorbed quickly without any greasy residue.
After eight weeks, we didn’t notice a dramatic change in our fine lines, but we think it may just take more time to work. This is a solid gateway into over-the-counter retinoids and a worthwhile investment for smoothing and waking up dull, uneven skin.
Experts Say
Dr. Penzi says this is a “fantastic” wrinkle cream option with “high-quality retinol,” a powerful form of vitamin A that promotes healthier-looking skin, otherwise called a “hero ingredient” by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jessie Cheung.
Size: 2 ounces | Key Ingredients: Retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan, ferulic acid | Recommended Use: Twice daily
Best Firming: MARA SeaDream Firming Algae Creme Moisturizer with Sea Moss + Peptides
Star Qualities
Firmed, smoothed, and reduced fine lines
Intense, all-day hydration
Rich, velvety texture felt luxurious
Red Flags
None at this time
While not as effective as surgical intervention, skin-tightening creams, like this Mara wrinkle cream, can provide short-term tautness. Within a week, its water-hose hydration and plant-powered wizardry visibly quenched our dry skin and minimized fine lines, creating a more lifted and toned appearance.
The whipped, velvety texture effortlessly applied to the skin without feeling heavy, and made our skin care routine feel more luxurious.
Besides being our top skin-firming pick, it scored the highest out of any wrinkle cream we tested in all four categories. Along with SkinMedica and The Outset, it’s only one of three to receive a perfect score for effectiveness.
Size: 1.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Bio-active plant peptides, sea moss, vegan stem cells | Recommended Use: Apply after serum in the morning or evening
Best for Fine Lines: Peter Thomas Roth Peptide Skinjection Moisture Infusion Refillable Cream
Star Qualities
Noticed immediate results to plump fine lines
Provided lightweight, all-day hydration
Soothing application
Red Flags
Wish it were a little thicker so we could use less of it
This Peter Thomas Roth cream is loaded with firming peptides. It visibly filled in our faint forehead lines, making them undetectable, and the application felt immedietly quenching and refreshing. Our skin appeared healthier, plumper, and more glowy overall.
It delivers skin-smoothing and hydrating benefits similar to the Caudalie formula for $17 less. But, after using it twice daily for two months, we finished the entire jar, making us wish this creamy, lightweight consistency was a little thicker.
Experts Say
Dr. Penzi tells PEOPLE: “Peptides are amino-acid chains that stimulate collagen and elastin production," which are the proteins that give skin structure and firmness.
Size: 1.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Peptides, gamma proteins, cactus flower, squalane, trehalose, hyaluronic acid | Recommended Use: Twice daily
Best Plumping: Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Retinol Alternative Firming Cashmere Moisturizer
Star Qualities
Visibly smoothed, plumped, and firmed skin
Cashmere texture made our skin so soft
Looked and felt hydrated all day
Reduced facial redness
Red Flags
On the expensive end
Imagine wrapping a water balloon in a cashmere sweater. We don’t recommend it, but it’s a helpful visual for what this Caudalie formula does: It plumps, hydrates, and leaves skin touchably soft. Our tester (age 45 to 54) and her mom (age unknown) loved it and noticed their facial redness replaced with more firm, supple skin that lasted all day.
Thankfully, you don’t need much for this thick, creamy goodness to work its magic. It absorbs and layers well under morning products. After eight weeks of use, we noticed a drastic difference in our skin, and our tester dubbed it “the best wrinkle cream I’ve used by far.”
Size: 1.6 ounces | Key Ingredients: Resveratrol, hyaluronic acid, collagen | Recommended Use: Morning
Best Splurge: Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream
Star Qualities
Some fine lines became less noticeable
Creamy, silky texture absorbed quickly
All-day hydration
Includes SPF 30
Red Flags
Not a drastic skin change in firmness
One of the most expensive creams we tested
Consider this Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream if you have mature skin and are desperate for extra hydration. We felt it provided more moisture than others we tried, and that hydration lasted all day and helped make fine lines less noticeable.
Overall, we loved the formula's thick, easy-to-apply texture; our skin quickly drank it up each morning without interfering with makeup. We didn’t see much change in the skin’s firmness or the deeper worry lines between our brows, but it felt like it acted as a great hydrating barrier against new wrinkles.
It’s pricey, but we appreciate that it doubles as a morning moisturizer and daily SPF. It comes in a 0.5-ounce version, so you can try it before committing to the full-priced jar.
Size: 1.7 ounces, 1 ounce, 0.5 ounces | Key Ingredients: Padina pavonica, chlorella, ginkgo biloba | Recommended Use: Morning
Best Serum: SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator
Star Qualities
Plumped and softened skin
Drastically reduced fine lines
Thick texture absorbed quickly and layered well
Lasting hydration
No scent
Red Flags
Most expensive formula we tested
Like collagen, hyaluronic acid naturally exists within our skin but decreases over time. Thankfully, this SkinMedica hyaluronic acid serum helps retain and restore moisture, which effectively quenches our dry skin.
Our skin looked plump, silky smooth, and more hydrated after application — especially first thing in the morning. It drastically reduced fine lines and began minimizing deep-set forehead wrinkles after eight weeks. Unlike other serums, this has a thick, lotion-like texture that goes a long way, absorbs within seconds, and layers well under makeup. The price gave us sticker shock, but it works as claimed and is especially helpful for those with dehydrated skin and wrinkles.
Size: 2 ounces | Key Ingredients: Proprietary mix of hyaluronic acids, time-release sodium hyaluronate | Recommended Use: Twice daily
Best for All Skin Types: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
Star Qualities
Light, creamy consistency absorbed quickly
Moisturized and slightly firmed skin
Pleasant fresh scent
Affordable price
Red Flags
Skin improvements are subtle but better than others we’ve tried
At $25, the Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream is a steal for anyone needing a lightweight, everyday anti-aging cream. Though it didn't give us miracle results, it did help minimize our face and neck wrinkles after just a few uses.
We loved its light, creamy consistency, which compliments oily and combination skin. It quickly absorbed and moisturized our skin without any oiliness, though it may not provide enough hydration for the colder months for those with dry skin. At the end of testing, our skin felt fresh, supple, and firm.
Size: 1.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, amino peptides | Recommended Use: Morning or evening
Best Lightweight: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
Star Qualities
Rich, creamy consistency goes a long way
Slightly reduced fine lines after eight weeks
Spread and absorbed quickly
No scent
Red Flags
Not hydrating enough for mature skin
Slight burning effect when applying, but it quickly went away
Didn't provide as strong of results as some others we tested
Another lightweight, affordable wrinkle cream comes from Neutrogena. We really liked how its rich, weightless texture had no scent and only required a small amount to spread evenly and absorb quickly. After nightly use, we woke up to hydrated, smooth, and supple skin, though it may be a little too lightweight for very dry skin. For those with drier skin types, the Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream Moisturizer gave us better hydration for nearly $10 less.
We saw a noticeable reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, but at times, there was a slight burning effect”when applied, though it faded quickly and left no irritation. Overall, this is a formula better suited for younger individuals who don’t need extra moisture or a heavy-duty anti-aging cream. Since this contains retinol, you should apply SPF after using it in the morning.
Size: 1.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid | Recommended Use: Twice daily
What We Learned
A wrinkle cream can feel nice but may not have the best hydrating abilities. For example, the Olay and Neutrogena creams received perfect scores for their creamy textures but the lowest for hydration. Both contain hyaluronic acid, like the Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Retinol Alternative Firming Cashmere Moisturizer, which received a perfect rating for consistency and hydration.
Add to Cart
After you decide on your next wrinkle cream of choice, check out these other PEOPLE-Tested skincare products. Our team of editors and independent testers have put each of these products to the test to ensure they are truly the best options.
What to Know About Wrinkle Creams
Ingredients
Ingredients can determine the best wrinkle cream for your skin. If your skin is dull, Dr. Cheung suggests formulas with antioxidants like vitamin C, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and retinol. Our best retinol pick is Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream.
If you’re concerned with sagging skin, look for firming products with peptides, like the Mara SeaDream Firming Algae Creme Moisturizer with Sea Moss + Peptides. “Peptides can support collagen and elastin production and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits to slow down further skin aging,” says Dr. Cheung.
Skin Type
All of the wrinkle creams we tested were tolerable for our dry or combination skin, but if you have sensitive skin, consider formulas that are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, like The Outset Smoothing Vitamin C Eye + Expression Lines Cream.
Since wrinkle creams contain powerful active ingredients, we suggest patch testing on your neck, arm, or leg to see how it reacts. If it irritates your skin, stores like Blue Mercury and Ulta will let you return new and gently used products after 90 days, and Sephora will after 30 days from purchase.
Your Routine
Always use your wrinkle cream as directed, typically once or twice daily, depending on its ingredients. Dr. Penzi suggests using vitamin C products and other antioxidants in the morning to “protect the skin from daily environmental damage,” along with face SPF to protect against UV rays and prevent or deepen wrinkles.
Save your retinol for the night, as it can make your skin sensitive to the sun. As a rule of thumb, apply topicals from thinnest to thickest, using wrinkle creams and moisturizers after cleanser and serum. You can also share the wrinkle cream love with your neck and chest.
Price Range
Wrinkle creams are significantly less expensive than professional treatments (e.g., Botox, fillers, microneedling, etc.), but some still run high. Our top-scoring formulas range from $37 to $184, with the most affordable option being our best overall, L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Cell Renewal Midnight Cream. “More expensive is not necessarily better,” says Dr. Penzi.
Behind the Scenes
To find the best wrinkle creams, we researched dozens of products from reputable brands before choosing 21 to try at home for eight weeks. We tested each for its effectiveness, hydration, texture, and overall results.
Effectiveness: Each tester took before, during, and after photos to document skin improvements, like whether we saw a reduction of fine lines. We assessed whether our complexion appeared smoother, firmer, and brighter, and whether there was a difference in texture.
Hydration: Dry skin can accentuate wrinkles, so testing each formula’s hydration powers was essential. After applying, we determined if our face looked more supple and plump or if it felt greasy and oily, and if so, how long it lasted.
Consistency: We also noticed how each formula generally felt, whether thin or heavy, how much we needed to feel sufficient, and if it absorbed and layered well with other products.
Overall Results: At the end of testing, we asked ourselves if we were pleased with the results and if the wrinkle cream ultimately performed as claimed without causing any irritations.
After carefully sifting through and extracting insights from the PEOPLE Tested team’s notes, we narrowed it down to the best 11 wrinkle creams, giving each its most worthy superlative, like our best overall: L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Cell Renewal Midnight Cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to see the effects of wrinkle cream? Are there any legit “quick fix” creams?
“On average, most wrinkle creams take about 12 weeks to see the effects,” says Dr. Penzi, but “there are no quick-fix creams with long-lasting results.” Some formulations offer short-term perks: Hyaluronic acid can immediately plump and smooth skin, caffeinated eye creams can quickly reduce puffiness, and argireline can act as a topical Botox to minimize wrinkle-causing muscle contractions, but these benefits require consistent use. The most effective, lasting results come from using quality wrinkle creams alongside other anti-aging products and treatments.
At what age should we consider using wrinkle creams?
Dr. Penzi says they’re “traditionally best for mature skin, but they can also be used by those in their late 20s or 30s who are starting to notice the earliest onset of fine lines and wrinkles.” Dr. Cheung agrees, saying wrinkle creams are a great way for younger people to jumpstart healthier skin. “Even before a wrinkle starts, your skin may look dull and dry, and a good cream can help slow down the progression of a wrinkle.”
What should we use or avoid pairing with wrinkle creams?
“Moisturizer and sunscreen are the two most important skincare products you should use alongside wrinkle cream to complement its effect,” says Dr. Penzi, as they all work together to hydrate and protect from deepening fine lines. If you’re using a wrinkle cream with retinoids, avoid “certain acne products with benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid” as they can “increase the risk of irritation from retinoids” and deactivate its effect, explains Dr. Cheung.
Are there side effects from using wrinkle creams?
Redness, itchiness, and dryness can result from introducing your skin to strong exfoliants like AHAs and retinol — along with using too much or too often. “More is not always better,” says Dr. Penzi. It’s best to slowly integrate these into your skincare routine and monitor any adverse reactions or unusual sensations. It’s also recommended pregnant women not use retinol.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Kate Watson is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has seven years of experience in beauty writing. For this story, she thoroughly reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s insights and researched each wrinkle cream’s benefits, ingredients, and prices to write informative reviews. She also interviewed board-certified dermatologists about how effective wrinkle creams are and how and when to use them best.
Our Expert Panel
Dr. Lauren Penzi, MD, is a New York-based board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology.
Dr. Jessie Cheung is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in aesthetics and wellness in New York and Illinois.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
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