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If your skincare goals include reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, you already know how tricky that can be. You enter a Sephora, Ulta, or Walmart, cruise the serum aisles, and encounter no fewer than 50 products that all claim they’ll “blur” away wrinkles. Which product and brand can you even trust? The answer lies in the serum’s ingredients — and involves a bit of patience and long-term thinking (unfortunately, for those of us who love a quick fix). You may not see results in 24 hours, but with repeated use and by incorporating these two skin serums into your daily routine, you have the best chance at reaching those skin goals over time, according to skin experts. Dr. Alberto de la Fuente Garcia, a board-certified Dermatologist at VIDA Wellness and Beauty with over 15 years of experience, confirms that these are the two serums you’ll want to stock up on and consider your must-have products.
Vitamin C
One of the best serums for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is a Vitamin C serum, Dr. de la Fuente Garcia says. “Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for skin health, and it is also one of the most powerful collagen-boosting ingredients available. It helps protect the skin from free radical damage, restore elasticity, and stimulate collagen production. All of these benefits can help smooth out wrinkles and fine lines and give skin a much more youthful appearance.”
If your skin is looking a little dull these days, good news: Vitamin C serum is also highly effective in brightening the complexion, which can help make the signs of aging less noticeable. “It helps reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production and lightening dark spots, resulting in an even complexion with fewer blemishes,” Dr. de la Fuente Garcia said. “Vitamin C is also known to reduce inflammation and protect the skin from environmental stressors, making it a great option for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.”
There are a number of vitamin C serum options that you can opt for, depending on your budget. One of the gold standards in the skincare industry is SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. If this pick isn’t in your budget, no worries: a drugstore pick like Versed Stroke of Brilliance Brightening Serum is rich in vitamin C and brightening licorice root extract.
“To incorporate a Vitamin C serum into your skincare routine, apply a few drops to the face after cleansing and toning,” Dr. de la Fuente Garcia said. “Allow it to absorb for a few minutes before applying sunscreen or other moisturizers. You can use it in the morning and evening for the best results. Vitamin C serums are generally safe for most skin types, but if you have sensitive skin, it’s best to patch test before applying it to your face. With regular use, you should start to notice a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles within a few weeks.”
Retinol
Another serum to consider for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is a Retinol serum. “Retinol is a form of vitamin A that stimulates cell turnover and boosts collagen production, which helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines,” Dr. de la Fuente Garcia said. “It also increases skin elasticity and stimulates blood circulation, resulting in a more youthful complexion with fewer signs of aging.”
To use a retinol serum, apply it to clean skin before bedtime and allow it to absorb. But go slowly if this is your first time using retinol. “You should start by using it every other night and gradually work your way up to using it every night,” Dr. de la Fuente Garcia said. “Make sure to follow it up with a moisturizer to help counteract any dryness or irritation that may occur. During the day, use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect the skin from sun damage. Retinol serums can be too harsh for those with sensitive skin, so make sure to patch test before applying it to the face. You can also consult a dermatologist for advice on safely incorporating this serum into your skincare routine.”
One great retinol pick also comes from SkinCeuticals — you can choose among three formulas: 0.3 percent, 0.5 percent, or 1.0 percent retinol, allowing your skin to gradually become accustomed to the golden ingredient.
