SheFinds emphasizes that this review is not monetized, compensated, or sponsored in any way. This evaluation of the product is strictly based on the expertise of a beauty industry expert.
If you aim to elevate your skincare regimen and tackle dark under-eye circles or hyperpigmentation, integrating a serum can be a game-changer. These potent elixirs are brimming with concentrated ingredients that far exceed the efficacy of standard moisturizers, making them a formidable ally in your daily skincare arsenal.
Furthermore, serums offer the flexibility to tailor your skincare routine to address your unique needs, whether you’re dealing with discoloration, dryness, or the inevitable march of wrinkles and sagging skin. To streamline your quest, we’ve sought the expertise of board-certified dermatologists who have pinpointed four must-have anti-aging serums, ideal for women over 40.
Read on for tips, suggestions and insight from Dr. Anna Chacon, MD, board-certified dermatologist and writer at My Psoriasis Team, Dr. Daniel Lévy, MD, board-certified dermatologist, master physician injector and educator at Nue Vue Plastic Surgery, Dr. Elaine F. Kung, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Future Bright Dermatology and Madelyn Cusimano, esthetician for The A Method.
1. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil
Chacon deems retinol to be a "dermatologist-recommended type of vitamin A" and a "potent ingredient in this anti-wrinkle serum that fights fine lines, dullness, wrinkles, and dark spots." She recommends keeping an eye out for Neutrogena's Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil when perusing the aisles of your local drugstore for a retinol serum.
This serum, available at Neutrogena's website for $30.99, also "contains hyaluronic acid," which Chacon says adds "plumping moisture to help hydrate and revitalize the appearance of skin." As for how often to use it, Chacon recommends "applying to a clean face and neck two times per day."
A pearl-sized amount should be "distributed evenly and massaged in until fully absorbed," she advises. When not in use, Chacon says to always "replace and tighten the cap."
2. Thrive Causemetics Overnight Sensation™ Gentle Retexturizing Solution
This serum solution is perfect for mature beauties over 40 who might struggle with sensitive skin or often find that retinol is too harsh for their complexions. "I personally recommend the Bigger Than Beauty Skincare Overnight Sensation Gentle Retexturizing Solution to my clients with specific anti-aging needs," Lévy says.
"Not only does it have bakuchiol, an excellent retinol alternative, it also has blend of 10% AHA + BHA to help with pore minimizing, pore tightening, skin texture, overall gentle but efficient exfoliation," he explains. You can pick up this serum solution for $59 via the brand's website.
Lévy continues: "Bakuchiol is a great retinol alternative, it is plant-based, gentle, and visibly firms skin and diminishes signs of aging while you sleep. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to other skin conditions, bakuchiol is definitely preferred over retinol but can deliver similar results."
3. Urban Skin Rx Advanced Even Tone Day & Night Treatment
This serum-like formula is especially helpful for diminishing stubborn dark spots or acne scars over 40 while also promoting more supple skin, Kung says. "Some skincare ingredients that have been scientifically and clinically studied to help with discoloration include kojic acid, tranexamic acid, and bakuchiol, which are all found in this product," she explains.
For $58, you can grab this clean serum product via the Urban Skin Rx site, and Kung says it has the ability to effectively combat hyperpigmentation. Kung points out that this product's ingredients function to decrease the appearance of persistent dark spots, refine uneven texture, and visibly diminish signs of aging skin.
Moreover, it is gentle enough for use twice daily, enabling users to target dark spots throughout the day and night.
4. SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5 Serum
When discussing effective skincare ingredients, one cannot overlook the exceptional properties of retinol. Derived from vitamin A, retinol has been scientifically proven to boost collagen production and diminish fine lines and wrinkles, making it an excellent anti-aging agent. In addition to its ability to thicken the skin, it also helps to exfoliate it, which accelerates skin cell turnover and reduces the occurrence of acne.
While various retinol-based products are available over-the-counter, a visit to a dermatologist for a prescription retin-A is often the best choice for optimal results. Your doctor may begin with a lower percentage of the ingredient until your skin adjusts to it. SkinCeuticals retinol is a popular OTC pick among dermatologists and is available in three different strengths: 0.3, 0.5, and 1.0. This $90 non-comedogenic product (via Dermstore) is free of parabens, fragrance, and gluten.
According to the manufacturer, it “Improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, pores, and blemishes.” Use it at night and make sure you follow up with a good moisturizer — retinol can be very drying.
The Bottom Line
Overall, while these are four and often praised under-eye and skin serums, our experts suggest visiting your dermatologist for more personalized and specific recommendations.
Cusimano concludes that many skin creams and serums work best for anti-aging goals when paired with another retinol product (your dermatologist can help you find one that suits your needs).
Retinol, she says, will help "feed the collagen and encourage cell turnover, while the peptide will help support all the progress the skin is making." Both, she stresses, "work on collagen stimulation and strengthening the skin."
