Although prescription ointments and creams, such as topical tretinoin treatments, are the most effective way to reduce wrinkles and similar problematic skin maladies, they're not the only game in town. Several over-the-counter face creams can also effectively moisturize and rejuvenate your skin, often at a much lower price point. But be wary, as many products are only backed by their manufacturer's exaggerated claims. For the best results, select a face cream that's been reviewed by skincare experts.
Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Deep Anti-Wrinkle Moisture SPF 20
Retinol, a form of vitamin A, effectively combats fine lines and wrinkles, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Neutrogena adds this effective ingredient, as well as water-binding agents and sunscreen ingredients, to what skincare expert Paula Begoun calls an "elegant" moisturizer. This combination helps prevent new skin damage, while the antioxidants and retinol slowly undo past damage.
Eucerin Everyday Protection Face Lotion SPF 30
"Real Simple" magazine's beauty editors recommend Eucerin's face lotion as an alternative to more expensive face creams, saying it's just as effective as many of its pricier counterparts. It's made with proven emollients and microfine zinc oxide to help hydrate your skin while blocking UV rays. The magazine notes that it's made without fragrances and oils, making it prime for sensitive and blemish-prone skin.
Olay Pro-X Eye Restoration Complex
The skin around your eyes needs care just like the rest of your face, and Olay's Pro-X cream acts as an "outstanding" option, writes Begoun. She likes its "substantial" ingredients, including moisturizers, antioxidants and caffeine that's purported to help reduce dark circles. It's formulated sans synthetic fragrances, so you don't have to worry about eye irritations.
Olay Regenerist Advanced Anti-Aging DNA Superstructure UV Cream SPF 25
Despite its clinical sounding name, don't expect miracles from this anti-wrinkle cream. That being said, it received Begoun's "Paula's Pick" award, a designation she rarely doles out, reserving it only for treatments that are exceptionally efficacious. She writes that it's "well-formulated" and "sophisticated," made with "intriguing" ingredients that may help to protect your skin's collagen and thereby reduce the risk of wrinkles.
References
- "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me"; Paula Begoun; 2009
- Real Simple Magazine: Splurge or Save?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Skin Wrinkles
