You Can't Stop Aging, but These 20 Products Can at Least Slow It Down

Like fine wines, men have a certain advantage when it comes to aging. People often say that a crinkle of crow’s feet or a sprinkle of lines make men look “distinguished” or “rugged.” The general idea is that men get better with age (double standard? maybe), but that doesn’t mean you’re required to just accept it when you start noticing signs of aging. There are things you can do to help slow their progression, like using the best anti-aging products, from creams to serums.

The reason men seem to age differently, and slower, than women is mens’ thicker and oilier skin, says dermatologist and Men’s Health advisory board member Corey Hartman, M.D., but “men are still subject to the same intrinsic and extrinsic factors that cause volume loss, fine lines, discoloration, and sagging skin.” In that case, an anti-aging skincare regimen is your best bet in both slowing and preventing signs of aging.

“The good news is that an effective skin care regimen doesn’t have to be labor intensive to yield results,” says Dr. Hartman and all boils down to three ingredients that he calls the “Holy Trinity of Skin.” The first, and most important anti-aging product, is sunscreen. “Aside from genetics, exposure to the sun is the single most important determinant of how our skin ages,” he says. “Daily sunscreen protects against ultraviolet, visible, infrared and even blue light that is emitted from our constant use of devices. If you can prevent the damage in the first place, there is less to correct later.” After sunscreen, he recommends antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid, which help to neutralize collagen-damaging free radicals caused by sun exposure and other environmental factors. Third is retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, which aids in cell turnover and exfoliation. “Regular exfoliation keeps the pores from becoming clogged, boosts collagen and elastin production and helps to balance hydration levels.” Speaking of those hydration levels, moisturizing can help as well since “dryness and dehydration which accelerate the development of fine lines, wrinkles and creases,” he advises.

“While it is true that the earlier you start, the better the result, it’s never too late to start caring for your skin,” says Dr. Hartman. The best way to do it is to start simple with your anti-aging skincare routine. After cleansing, apply an antioxidant serum, a moisturizer, and sunscreen (or a combo) in the morning, and a retinol serum at night. Other anti-aging products, like eye creams, are just icing on the cake. It may take some trial and error to find the best anti-aging products for you, but the best place to start is this list.