Aging gracefully means something different for everyone. When it comes specifically to skin care, some turn to Botox while others embrace a mature look. Then there are those who fall somewhere in between.
If you’re not interested in something as invasive ― or expensive ― as Botox but want to do something to improve the appearance of your skin, we (and dermatologists) have good news: There are plenty of ways to minimize fine lines and wrinkles without injectables.
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Here’s how injectables work, in case you’re still wondering.
According to Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, Botox works by relaxing “specific muscles in the face to decrease lines that are caused by repeated movements to create “a lifted, relaxed look.”
In a story previously published by HuffPost, cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Peterson Pierre explained that Botox is produced from the same toxin that causes botulism: “The signal from the nerve to the muscle telling it to flex is blocked by Botox, thereby relaxing the muscle and improving lines and wrinkles.”
There are several other injectables that produce a similar effect, including Dysport, Xeomin, Jeveau and Daxxify.Dr. Dustin Portela, a board-certified dermatologist at Treasure Valley Dermatology in Idaho, explained that these injectables “all use the same active agent as Botox, botulinum toxin type A,” but have different carrier proteins that cause them to work a little differently.
None of these injectables remove wrinkles permanently, but if they are used regularly they can continue to soften lines “by decreasing repeated movements, which can cause them to deepen again,” Graf said.
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Are there less-invasive procedures that work just as well as Botox?
If you aren’t opposed to a procedure but don’t want to use neurotoxins (Botox), there are alternatives. But Graf said that “nothing can take the place of a neurotoxin,” so no one should expect the same result as Botox with other treatments.
However, she explained that “rejuvenation procedures such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels and microneedling can be helpful in diminishing the look of lines while improving overall skin aging” without the use of neurotoxins.
Can topical products reduce the appearance of wrinkles?
Those who don’t want to, or can’t, use more invasive procedures can take steps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles at home. Portela advised that “nothing you apply topically will have the same effect as Botox.” Nevertheless, Graf said that “retinol is a good anti-aging ingredient” because it “boosts collagen production and can prevent fine lines and wrinkles after a period of long-term use.”
The Best Retinol Creams, According To A Dermatologist
Portela also recommended using products with vitamin C to help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, hyaluronic acid to help “plump up” the skin, niacinamide to help improve skin texture, and peptides to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture.
","credit":"Maelove","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":32,"imagePositionInSubUnit":51,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414853c2300003700573e36.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Sephora"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485e9e4b01ea5cd8dcd81","caption":"Don't sleep on the power of eye serums! Camp is also fan of this particular antioxidant-rich option from Kiehl's, which is as hydrating as it is effective at improving the look of lines and discoloration.<br><br>\"Eye creams and serums maintain and help prevent the delicate skin around the eyes from showing your true age,\" Camp told us previously. \"Products with vitamin C or retinol are effective for encouraging collagen production and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles.\"<br><br><strong>Promising reviews</strong>: \"Perfect Hydrating and Moisturizing Serum. This is the perfect serum for me because prepares my skin to put on my eye cream. It is so hydrating and moisturizing. Love it and I wish I had found it before. I don't have dark circles, so I don't know about this matter.\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=1237&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2Fkiehls-since-1851-powerful-strength-dark-circle-reducing-vitamin-c-eye-serum%2F5582306\%22 target=\"_blank\" role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-external-link\" data-vars-item-name=\"Zabrina\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=1237&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2Fkiehls-since-1851-powerful-strength-dark-circle-reducing-vitamin-c-eye-serum%2F5582306\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"url\" data-vars-type=\"web_external_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"49\">Zabrina</a>","source":"","title":"Kiehl's vitamin C eye serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$55 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=1237&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2Fkiehls-since-1851-powerful-strength-dark-circle-reducing-vitamin-c-eye-serum%2F5582306","ampPositionInUnit":31,"positionInSubUnit":50}],"meta":null,"credit":"Sephora","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"social":{},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414853c2300003700573e36.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Don't sleep on the power of eye serums! Camp is also fan of this particular antioxidant-rich option from Kiehl's, which is as hydrating as it is effective at improving the look of lines and discoloration.<br /><br />\"Eye creams and serums maintain and help prevent the delicate skin around the eyes from showing your true age,\" Camp told us previously. \"Products with vitamin C or retinol are effective for encouraging collagen production and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles.\"<br /><br /><strong>Promising reviews</strong>: \"Perfect Hydrating and Moisturizing Serum. This is the perfect serum for me because prepares my skin to put on my eye cream. It is so hydrating and moisturizing. Love it and I wish I had found it before. I don't have dark circles, so I don't know about this matter.\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.nordstrom.com/s/kiehls-since-1851-powerful-strength-dark-circle-reducing-vitamin-c-eye-serum/5582306/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Zabrina</a>","credit":"Sephora","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":30,"imagePositionInSubUnit":48,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/641485341f00005b0099a1f0.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"The Inkey List"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485e2e4b0bc5cb6500fee","caption":"Ideal for sensitive skin or those who are only just beginning to dabble in active ingredients, this serum from The Inkey List is as powerful and effective as it is gentle. Vitamin C and plant-derived epidermal growth factors can help smooth, brighten and tighten the appearance of skin.<br><br><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"Wonderful for Brightening. I have very sensitive skin, and have tried countless vitamin c serums. This is the only one that doesn’t burn when I apply, and leave my skin covered in red bumps. My skin looks brighter since I’ve started using this, and more plump. I feel like I can get away with wearing way less makeup on a daily basis since starting this.\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fthe-inkey-list-15-vitamin-c-egf-brightening-serum-P455368\%22 role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-external-link\" data-vars-item-name=\"miaaaa96\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fthe-inkey-list-15-vitamin-c-egf-brightening-serum-P455368\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"url\" data-vars-type=\"web_external_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"46\">miaaaa96</a>","source":"","title":"The Inkey List 15% vitamin C and EGF serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$15.99 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fthe-inkey-list-15-vitamin-c-egf-brightening-serum-P455368","ampPositionInUnit":29,"positionInSubUnit":47}],"meta":null,"credit":"The Inkey List","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"social":{},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"641485341f00005b0099a1f0.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Ideal for sensitive skin or those who are only just beginning to dabble in active ingredients, this serum from The Inkey List is as powerful and effective as it is gentle. Vitamin C and plant-derived epidermal growth factors can help smooth, brighten and tighten the appearance of skin.<br /><br /><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"Wonderful for Brightening. I have very sensitive skin, and have tried countless vitamin c serums. This is the only one that doesn’t burn when I apply, and leave my skin covered in red bumps. My skin looks brighter since I’ve started using this, and more plump. I feel like I can get away with wearing way less makeup on a daily basis since starting this.\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.sephora.com/product/the-inkey-list-15-vitamin-c-egf-brightening-serum-P455368/">miaaaa96","credit":"The Inkey List","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":28,"imagePositionInSubUnit":45,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414859a2300001b00573e3c.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"U Beauty"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"64148602e4b0cfde25c49088","caption":"If you're more interested in a powerful blend as opposed to a serum that is primarily focused on vitamin C, try this compound from U Beauty. It fights free radicals, sun damage, dullness and more with both retinol and vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, mandelic acid and much more to leave skin soft, smooth and vibrant. It's definitely a significant splurge, but reviewers say it's worth it.<br><br><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"I've been using so many products on my skin for years to help with redness, pores, texture, fine lines... You name it and nothing has ever come close to this resurfacing compound!!!! It has everything you need in one bottle. The price is definitely worth it without having to get Botox or pricey fillers!!\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://ubeauty.prf.hn/click/camref:1011lwXM5/pubref:64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a/destination:https://ubeauty.com/products/resurfacing-compound/" target=\"_blank\" role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-external-link\" data-vars-item-name=\"Angel B\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://ubeauty.prf.hn/click/camref:1011lwXM5/pubref:64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a/destination:https://ubeauty.com/products/resurfacing-compound\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"url\" data-vars-type=\"web_external_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"43\">Angel B</a>.","source":"","title":"U Beauty Resurfacing Compound","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$228 at U Beauty","url":"https://prf.hn/click/camref:1011lwXM5/pubref:-6413808ae4b0cfde25c3dada/destination:https://ubeauty.com/products/resurfacing-compound","ampPositionInUnit":27,"positionInSubUnit":44}],"meta":null,"credit":"U Beauty","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"social":{},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414859a2300001b00573e3c.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"If you're more interested in a powerful blend as opposed to a serum that is primarily focused on vitamin C, try this compound from U Beauty. It fights free radicals, sun damage, dullness and more with both retinol and vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, mandelic acid and much more to leave skin soft, smooth and vibrant. It's definitely a significant splurge, but reviewers say it's worth it.<br /><br /><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"I've been using so many products on my skin for years to help with redness, pores, texture, fine lines... You name it and nothing has ever come close to this resurfacing compound!!!! It has everything you need in one bottle. The price is definitely worth it without having to get Botox or pricey fillers!!\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://ubeauty.com/products/resurfacing-compound/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Angel B</a>.","credit":"U Beauty","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":26,"imagePositionInSubUnit":42,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414852c1f00001b0099a1ee.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Glow Recipe"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485dae4b01ea5cd8dcd55","caption":"Looking for a silky, gel-like serum that won't feel heavy or sticky but is still full of all the aforementioned doctor-recommended ingredients? You might want to give this Glow Recipe serum a shot. It's formulated with five kinds of vitamin C, guava, <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-is-tranexamic-acid-txa_l_6215170ee4b0afc668b7290c/" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-item-name=\"tranexamic acid\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-is-tranexamic-acid-txa_l_6215170ee4b0afc668b7290c\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"buzz\" data-vars-type=\"web_internal_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"39\" role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-internal-link\">tranexamic acid</a> and ferulic acid that can leave skin more glowy and even.<br><br><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"I wear this everyday, my face looks brighter, healthier and I can tell its made a big difference on my skin. I have acne prone skin and lots of sun damage. Which helped both. Only thing that needs to improve is the bottle of the serum. By the time I'm done with it I have to take out the pump and hit the bottle on my hand lol. same goes with the eye guava eye serum bottle.\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=999&u=2986930&m=75102&afftrack=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&urllink=www.glowrecipe.com%2Fproducts%2Fguava-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum\%22 target=\"_blank\" role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-external-link\" data-vars-item-name=\"Jaqueline G.\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=999&u=2986930&m=75102&afftrack=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&urllink=www.glowrecipe.com%2Fproducts%2Fguava-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"url\" data-vars-type=\"web_external_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"40\">Jaqueline G.</a>","source":"","title":"Glow Recipe Guava vitamin C dark spot serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$45 at Glow Recipe","url":"https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=999&u=2986930&m=75102&afftrack=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&urllink=www.glowrecipe.com%2Fproducts%2Fguava-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum","ampPositionInUnit":25,"positionInSubUnit":41}],"meta":null,"credit":"Glow Recipe","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"social":{},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414852c1f00001b0099a1ee.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Looking for a silky, gel-like serum that won't feel heavy or sticky but is still full of all the aforementioned doctor-recommended ingredients? You might want to give this Glow Recipe serum a shot. It's formulated with five kinds of vitamin C, guava, <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-is-tranexamic-acid-txa_l_6215170ee4b0afc668b7290c/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-vars-item-name=\"tranexamic acid\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"640f85f7e4b01ea5cd89e4c5\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-is-tranexamic-acid-txa_l_6215170ee4b0afc668b7290c\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"buzz\" data-vars-type=\"web_internal_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"article_body\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"16\">tranexamic acid</a> and ferulic acid that can leave skin more glowy and even.<br /><br /><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"I wear this everyday, my face looks brighter, healthier and I can tell its made a big difference on my skin. I have acne prone skin and lots of sun damage. Which helped both. Only thing that needs to improve is the bottle of the serum. By the time I'm done with it I have to take out the pump and hit the bottle on my hand lol. same goes with the eye guava eye serum bottle.\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.glowrecipe.com/products/guava-vitamin-c-dark-spot-serum/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Jaqueline G.</a>","credit":"Glow Recipe","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":24,"imagePositionInSubUnit":38,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414852f2500001e0062f41e.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Ilia"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485dee4b01ea5cd8dcd5f","caption":"I had to throw this pick into the mix myself, because it's perfect for those just starting to dip their toes into skin care. It's a multitasking serum that is full of delicious active ingredients recommended by dermatologists, like vitamin C and niacinamide, while also functioning as both an SPF and a foundation, adding a touch of color to the skin.<br><br><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"One of my favorite Ilia Products. I love subbing this out for the Super Serum Skin Tint a couple of times a week, especially during the summer or on days when I just want very light coverage. It gives your skin a glowy radiance and an extra dose of vitamin C. A little goes a long way. I find that when I wear Beyond C, I end up wearing less make-up because it provides such a natural, healthy and fresh look. I just combine it with brow gel and lip oil. It also saves me from needing a vitamin C serum those days!\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://iliabeauty.nhuie7.net/c/2706071/679082/10539?subId1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&u=https%3A%2F%2Filiabeauty.com%2Fproducts%2Ftone-3\%22 target=\"_blank\" role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-external-link\" data-vars-item-name=\"Summer\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://iliabeauty.nhuie7.net/c/2706071/679082/10539?subId1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&u=https%3A%2F%2Filiabeauty.com%2Fproducts%2Ftone-3\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"url\" data-vars-type=\"web_external_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"36\">Summer</a>","source":"","title":"Ilia C Beyond Triple serum SPF 40","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$64 at Ilia","url":"https://iliabeauty.nhuie7.net/c/2706071/679082/10539?subId1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&u=https%3A%2F%2Filiabeauty.com%2Fproducts%2Ftone-3","ampPositionInUnit":23,"positionInSubUnit":37}],"meta":null,"credit":"Ilia","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"social":{},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414852f2500001e0062f41e.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"I had to throw this pick into the mix myself, because it's perfect for those just starting to dip their toes into skin care. It's a multitasking serum that is full of delicious active ingredients recommended by dermatologists, like vitamin C and niacinamide, while also functioning as both an SPF and a foundation, adding a touch of color to the skin.<br /><br /><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"One of my favorite Ilia Products. I love subbing this out for the Super Serum Skin Tint a couple of times a week, especially during the summer or on days when I just want very light coverage. It gives your skin a glowy radiance and an extra dose of vitamin C. A little goes a long way. I find that when I wear Beyond C, I end up wearing less make-up because it provides such a natural, healthy and fresh look. I just combine it with brow gel and lip oil. It also saves me from needing a vitamin C serum those days!\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://iliabeauty.com/products/tone-3/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Summer</a>","credit":"Ilia","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":22,"imagePositionInSubUnit":35,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/6414852523000039004479e5.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Sephora"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485d0e4b01ea5cd8dcd3a","caption":"You really can't go wrong with Drunk Elephant. The brand uses high-quality ingredients that users love, regardless of which product it might be. This serum includes vitamin C, ferulic acid, and vitamin E, all of which balance each other out and can improve uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles and brighten the skin while fighting free-radicals.<br><br><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"My absolute favorite. I love this serum so much! My skin feels so much nicer after I use it! If you’re looking for a product that makes your skin feel smooth, firmer, and add a glow then this is amazing! (Great for anyone).\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fc-firma-day-serum-P400259\%22 target=\"_blank\" role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-external-link\" data-vars-item-name=\"smstew\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fc-firma-day-serum-P400259\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"url\" data-vars-type=\"web_external_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"33\">smstew</a>","source":"","title":"Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh day serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$78 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fc-firma-day-serum-P400259","ampPositionInUnit":21,"positionInSubUnit":34}],"meta":null,"credit":"Sephora","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"social":{},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"6414852523000039004479e5.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"You really can't go wrong with Drunk Elephant. The brand uses high-quality ingredients that users love, regardless of which product it might be. This serum includes vitamin C, ferulic acid, and vitamin E, all of which balance each other out and can improve uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles and brighten the skin while fighting free-radicals.<br /><br /><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"My absolute favorite. I love this serum so much! My skin feels so much nicer after I use it! If you’re looking for a product that makes your skin feel smooth, firmer, and add a glow then this is amazing! (Great for anyone).\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.sephora.com/product/c-firma-day-serum-P400259/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">smstew</a>","credit":"Sephora","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":20,"imagePositionInSubUnit":32,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/641485182500003e0062f418.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Dermstore"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485c5e4b01ea5cd8dcd1a","caption":"I'm a huge <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sunday-riley-skin-glow_l_622ba36ae4b02961583b33c4/" target=\"_blank\" role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-internal-link\" data-vars-item-name=\"Sunday Riley\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sunday-riley-skin-glow_l_622ba36ae4b02961583b33c4\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"buzz\" data-vars-type=\"web_internal_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"29\">Sunday Riley</a> lover and it's not surprising to me that this serum is a fan favorite. This powerful and high-quality vitamin C serum was specifically formulated to target dark spots, signs of aging and more, leaving skin smooth and soft. Glycolic acid, a BHA, provides chemical exfoliation while stabilizing the vitamin C, refining and supporting the skin's luminosity.<br><br><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"I purchased the smaller size to try this out, and decided to purchase the regular size. My skin responds really well to this product. It doesn't sting and makes my skin appear refreshed and hydrated. More like a lightweight lotion than a serum, in my opinion, but I really like that about it.\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=29069&awinaffid=837483&campaign=&clickref=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Fsunday-riley-c.e.o.-15-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-30ml%2F11588282.html&platform=pl\%22 target=\"_blank\" role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-external-link\" data-vars-item-name=\"Meena\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=29069&awinaffid=837483&campaign=&clickref=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Fsunday-riley-c.e.o.-15-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-30ml%2F11588282.html&platform=pl\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"url\" data-vars-type=\"web_external_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"30\">Meena</a>","source":"","title":"Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$85 at Dermstore","url":"https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=29069&awinaffid=837483&campaign=&clickref=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Fsunday-riley-c.e.o.-15-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-30ml%2F11588282.html&platform=pl","ampPositionInUnit":19,"positionInSubUnit":31}],"meta":null,"credit":"Dermstore","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"social":{},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"641485182500003e0062f418.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"I'm a huge <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sunday-riley-skin-glow_l_622ba36ae4b02961583b33c4/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Sunday Riley</a> lover and it's not surprising to me that this serum is a fan favorite. This powerful and high-quality vitamin C serum was specifically formulated to target dark spots, signs of aging and more, leaving skin smooth and soft. Glycolic acid, a BHA, provides chemical exfoliation while stabilizing the vitamin C, refining and supporting the skin's luminosity.<br /><br /><strong>Promising review</strong>: \"I purchased the smaller size to try this out, and decided to purchase the regular size. My skin responds really well to this product. It doesn't sting and makes my skin appear refreshed and hydrated. More like a lightweight lotion than a serum, in my opinion, but I really like that about it.\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.dermstore.com/sunday-riley-c.e.o.-15-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-30ml/11588282.html/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Meena</a>","credit":"Dermstore","height":1080,"width":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":18,"imagePositionInSubUnit":28,"authors":[],"isLiveblogSlide":false},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/64148529250000190062f41c.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Sephora"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"641485d5e4b0bc5cb6500fcb","caption":"Perfect for people with sensitive skin or for someone who wants to start with a lower dosage, this 10% vitamin C serum includes vitamin E to soften the skin and squalane to deeply hydrate and soften.<br><br><strong>Promising reviews</strong>: \"I've been using this product for a month now, and OMG hello bright skin! My skin has never looked so bright & glowy! This is a MUST HAVE in your collection! My sensitive skin needs gentle products, and FAB is my joy grail skin, body & haircare brand!\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2F10-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-P500756\%22 target=\"_blank\" role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-external-link\" data-vars-item-name=\"makeupandmomlif\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2F10-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-P500756\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"url\" data-vars-type=\"web_external_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"25\">makeupandmomlif<br><br></a>\"Love this serum. It’s so light and soaks in right away. Lays great under moisturizer and makeup! Skin instantly looks brighter!\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2F10-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-P500756\%22 target=\"_blank\" role=\"link\" class=\" js-entry-link cet-external-link\" data-vars-item-name=\"Bri092918\" data-vars-item-type=\"text\" data-vars-unit-name=\"64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a\" data-vars-unit-type=\"buzz_body\" data-vars-target-content-id=\"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2F10-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-P500756\" data-vars-target-content-type=\"url\" data-vars-type=\"web_external_link\" data-vars-subunit-name=\"before_you_go_slideshow\" data-vars-subunit-type=\"component\" data-vars-position-in-subunit=\"26\">Bri092918</a>","source":"","title":"First Aid Beauty 10% vitamin C brightening serum","type":"image","summary":"","badge":"","cta":[{"text":"$50 at Sephora","url":"https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=Zb4jl9GtVeY&mid=2417&u1=64f9edb3e4b04eabcd0cc44a&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2F10-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-P500756","ampPositionInUnit":17,"positionInSubUnit":27}],"meta":null,"credit":"Sephora","creditUrl":"","authorship":{"author":{"id":"000000000000000000000000","bio":{},"urls":{},"urlName":{"text":"","transliterated":""}}},"social":{},"thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"64148529250000190062f41c.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Perfect for people with sensitive skin or for someone who wants to start with a lower dosage, this 10% vitamin C serum includes vitamin E to soften the skin and squalane to deeply hydrate and soften.<br /><br /><strong>Promising reviews</strong>: \"I've been using this product for a month now, and OMG hello bright skin! My skin has never looked so bright & glowy! This is a MUST HAVE in your collection! My sensitive skin needs gentle products, and FAB is my joy grail skin, body & haircare brand!\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.sephora.com/product/10-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-P500756/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">makeupandmomlif<br /><br /></a>\"Love this serum. It’s so light and soaks in right away. Lays great under moisturizer and makeup! Skin instantly looks brighter!\" — <a href=https://www.huffpost.com/"https://www.sephora.com/product/10-vitamin-c-brightening-serum-P500756/" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener 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The Most Effective Vitamin C Serums, According To Dermatologists And Reviewers
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How can you prevent fine lines and wrinkles?
It’s never too late to start taking steps to reduce the signs of aging.
“Wearing SPF, applying moisturizer and staying hydrated are some daily practices that can improve the look and feel of skin,” Graf said. Adding a hat and sunglasses offers even more protection.
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For a simple at-home routine to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, Graf recommended cleansing the skin in the morning and then using an antioxidant and sun protection. “Bedtime is for skin renewal,” she said. Before going to sleep, Graf recommended cleansing the skin again, followed by “gentle exfoliation and retinol.”
In addition, Graf said that a “healthy lifestyle overall is the best counter to fine lines and wrinkles.” According to Portela, if you “drink plenty of water, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep” it’s possible to improve the look of your skin without the use of any procedures or special products.
Can makeup help reduce the appearance of wrinkles?
Another way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles without any Botox is to use makeup effectively.
Hydrating your skin with lightweight moisturizers before applying makeup will help plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, said makeup artist Lidia Najera. Makeup artist Elaina Badro said that “priming skin before foundation application is very important if you want to minimize the appearance of fine lines via makeup” because it “helps to fill pores, lines, and blur imperfections.
Next, Najera recommended using liquid foundations and concealers instead of creams. “Liquid products are more lightweight and won’t sink into your wrinkles ... these formulas also won’t crease during the day.” Najera also recommended applying all products with a light touch to avoid anything settling into fine lines and wrinkles, which will accentuate their appearance.
After priming, Matthew Waitesmith, a makeup artist and founder of Artis, said to use makeup that will create a “blurring effect” by minimizing the “textures and patterns” on your skin. To test whether a product will create this effect or will instead enhance the look of wrinkles, Waitesmith recommended putting “a little layer of product on the palm of your hand” and assessing whether the creases on your palm appear more or less prominent. “If you see a more defined skin pattern and texture where you put the product, then the pigments used in that formula are probably not great” at minimizing wrinkles, he said. Waitesmith recommended going through a trial-and-error process “until you see a result that looks more smooth and less defined in terms of skin pattern.”
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The Best Blurring Products For Impeccable Skin, According To Makeup Artists
Another trick Waitesmith recommended to minimize the appearance of wrinkles is distraction.
“For example, if you don’t want people to be focused on the area under your eye where you believe you have lines and wrinkles, then distract their attention elsewhere ... with a noticeable and beautiful lip color and really define your lips so they look full and luscious,” he suggested. “Or sculpt and refine your eyebrows.”
Before You Go
The Best Skin Care For Crepey Skin
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