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.
Enhancing your skincare regimen with a serum is a smart move that can provide impressive results. These potent formulas contain higher concentrations of active ingredients than typical moisturizers, making them a valuable addition to your daily routine. Furthermore, by selecting a serum tailored to your specific skin type and concerns, such as dryness, wrinkles, or discoloration, you can personalize your skincare routine.
To aid in your search, we consulted with dermatologists who specialize in anti-aging and have pinpointed six crucial serums that are ideal for women aged 40 and above. 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 and Dr. Elaine F. Kung, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Future Bright Dermatology.
3 Anti-Aging Serums That Target Wrinkles, Fine Lines And Dark Spots Over 40, According To Dermatologists
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.
The Bottom Line
Retinols, like in many of these aforementioned products, have been "scientifically and clinically studied to help skin turnover and stimulate collagen," Kung says. Retinols in serum or cream form are "probably in every dermatologists' skincare routine because we know that long-term use helps prevent and treat skin discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles, and skin laxity," she concludes. Good to know!
