What I wouldn’t pay to turn back the clock of time…
Scratch that. The truth is, I wouldn’t pay that much. Not when there are effective anti-aging skin products on the market that REALLY do work. Ever notice that the most highly touted anti-aging products cost an arm and a leg? Call that expensive marketing. It turns out that there are plenty of affordable options for anti-aging out there, and they don’t skimp on quality.
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First, know what to look for in an effective anti-aging skin product. Lots of products will say that they’ve got the ingredients you need, but here’s what doctors (that aren’t trying to sell us anything) say you need to be looking for:
Retinol
What is it? It’s a Vitamin A compound.
What does it do? Some studies suggest that topical tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid, the acid form of vitamin A) may improve sun damaged skin.
Hydroxy acids
What is it? Alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, and poly hydroxy acids are a class of compounds that achieve a variety of beneficial effects for the skin.
What does it do? All three forms of hydroxy acids are exfoliants that remove a layer of old, dead skin and stimulate growth of new, smooth, and evenly pigmented skin.
Coenzyme Q10
What is it? It’s an antioxidant which is crucial for cellular energy production in your skin, but you lose it with age.
What does it do? Topical application of this ingredient has been shown to replenish Q10 and provide antioxidant effects. This ingredient may help reduce fine wrinkles around the eyes and protect the skin from sun damage.
Tea extracts
What is it? It’s an herbal derivative from tea leaves.
What does it do? Green, black, and oolong teas contain compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Anti-aging creams will most commonly feature green tea extracts.
Grape seed extract
What is it? It’s an industrial derivative from whole grape seeds.
What does it do? In addition to having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it also promotes the healing of wounds. If you have acne scars, this is an ingredient to look for.
Niacinamide
What is it? It’s a vitamin B3 derivative.
What does it do? Niacinamide protects your skin against pollution and irritants. It has hydrating properties and corrects skin tone, as well as helping to reduce water loss in the skin.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, The National Center for Biotechnology Information
Now that you’re armed with the info you need to choose an effective anti-aging cream or serum, check out our guide to the best anti-aging skin products that all come in under $20 in the slideshow.
For Sensitive Skin
Eucerin Q10 ($9.50) has an almost cult-like following for three simple reasons: 1) it works, 2) it’s cheap, and 3) it’s great for sensitive skin. At under $10 it's worth a try, and you’ll likely be a quick convert too. Comparing the ingredients side by side with more expensive creams, you’ll wonder why you ever spent a cent more on anti-aging creams.
Buy it: Amazon
Photo: Amazon
Leaves Skin Supple & Smoothed
Antioxidant-rich Fresh Seaberry Face Oil ($18.50) is one of the most potent emollients I’ve experienced. Just a bit of this hydrating treatment goes a long way in leaving skin supple and soothed. The addition of cranberry sea oil and vital omegas promote skin’s elasticity, while superstar seabuckthorn oil (for which it’s named) protects skin from harmful free radicals.
Buy it: Sephora
Photo: Sephora
If You Hate the Nightly Beauty Routine
Pop one of these Karuna Age-Defying+ Face Masks ($8 each) when you hop into bed and let it do its magic in ten to twenty minutes. Packed with hyaluronic acid and soothing ingredients, it’s a beauty treatment you don’t even have to be standing up to reap the benefits of—perfect for if you’re too lazy to go through the creams-and-serums motions before bed.
Buy it: Sephora
Photo: Sephora
Incredibly Potent
Makeup removal is a non-negotiable, but it doesn’t have to be a massive chore. Yes to Blueberries Cleansing Facial Wipes ($5.99) contain extracts of brightening apple and lemon peel, and deliver antioxidants via nourishing blueberries. The result is smooth, healthy, glowing skin. These are incredibly potent—and such a great addition to a complete anti-aging regimen.
Buy it: Yes to Carrots
Photo: Yes to Carrots
Instant De-Puffing + Anti-Aging
Most devotees to Tony Moly’s Panda’s Dream So Cool Eye Stick ($12) love it for its ability to instantly soothe tired eyes, but the added benefits minimizing fine lines (via niacinamide) and hydration make this eye stick a must-have in your beauty bag.
Buy it: Ulta
Photo: Ulta
Skin-Illuminating Ingredients
Despite its light consistency, Alpha Hydrox Sheer Silk Moisturiser ($11.51) is one of the most potent anti-aging products available. The airy emulsion is formulated with skin-illuminating ingredients that instantly brighten your complexion, so it’s perfect for those fuss-free, minimal makeup days. Its anti-aging prowess comes courtesy of powerful lactic alpha hydroxy acids, plus nourishing green tea, soy, and vitamins. With regular use, your skin will be visibly improved.
Buy it: Amazon
Photo: Amazon
Penetrating Pro-Retinol
Your moisturizer’s absorption is enhanced when it’s layered over a serum, so imagine the results when you combine the two in one powerful product. Garnier Ultra-Lift 2-in-1 Wrinkle Reducer ($16.99) is enriched with penetrating Pro-Retinol and rich emollients, which work together to firm and smooth even the driest skin.
Buy it: Garnier
Photo: Garnier USA
Get Rid of Dark Circles
Few ingredients are as powerful as vitamin C in the battle against aging skin. Lumene Bright Now Vitamin C Eye Roll-On ($9.97) delivers a cocktail of intensive ingredients, including antioxidant-enriched Arctic cloudberry and vitamins that, over time, negate the appearance of dark circles.
Buy it: Amazon
Photo: Amazon
Gentle and Protective
Sensitive skin demands an extra dose of TLC that many products simply can't provide. Olay Complete Daily Defence All Day Moisturiser ($13.99) is not only formulated with easily irritated skin in mind, but it also contains broad-spectrum SPF 15. Vital to your skin's good health, this gentle lotion leaves skin soft as it protects it from harmful UV rays.
Buy it: Olay
Photo: Olay
Banishes Oil
Harnessing the power of Swiss apple stem cells, Eclos specializes in potent anti-aging skin care. The Skin Renewal Clay Mask ($12.99) is a personal favourite that contains decongestants like green tea and rosemary, plus Moroccan lava clay to soak up oil. Used twice a week, skin feels softer, visible pores are diminished, and fine lines are reduced.
Buy it: Freeman Beauty
Photo: Freeman Beauty
Reduces Visible Signs of Aging
End the day with a rich night cream that hydrates and treats. Formulated with powerful retinol and vitamin A, Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream ($12.99) is an airy moisturiser that softens on contact and, over time, reduces the visible signs of aging skin.
Buy it: Neutrogena
Photo: Neutrogena
More Skin Care Advice:
How to Stay Moisturized in the Sweltering Heat
Which Face Mask Is Best for My Skin?
How to Get a Younger Looking Neck
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