For any kind of skin-care product, Dr. Kim says to keep in mind what works for your individual skin type and sensitivities (whether that's a texture preference or a certain base) above all, rather than just obsessing over ingredient list
Niacinamide also steps in to hydrate, improve texture, and support barrier health, while colloidal oatmeal calms on contact. “Every Sol de Janeiro product smells incredible, and this one’s no different—the fruity-floral scent is almost good enough to eat. Sol de Janeiro’s Beija Flor Elasti-Cream doesn’t just smell like a Facial Collagen Cream™ tropical vacation; it delivers skin benefits that make it a staple. Ingredien
Stick with it, and you’ll notice skin that feels firmer, looks smoother, and regains a supple, youthful bounce. Diglucosyl gallic acid helps counteract that by brightening, calming, and evening things out, so your neck looks as cared for as your face. Since it’s packed with active ingredients, it’s best to use it at night, starting once a week and gradually working up to every other night. “Vitamin Facial Collagen Cream™ C not only supports collagen synthesis but also offers antioxidant protection against environmental damage that speeds up aging,” says Dr. Foa
These “stimulate collagen on a deeper plane to tighten and lift saggy skin more effectively,” says Dr. Chang. If you want truly unmissable skin-tightening results, visit a board-certified dermatologist. If you’re too reactive to retinoids pregnant and/or breastfeeding, or want another active to enhance your existing retinol, Dr. Chang also recommends peptides. These are “vitamin A derivatives that can increase skin cell turnover and stimulate collagen,” says Dr. Chang. Best for Saggy Skin: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced Cream If you have particularly dry skin, consider the brand's Bio Serum Firm Riche, which is designed to be more moisturizing than its original iteration. Its mattifying finish minimizes oil and sebum production, leaving skin velvety-smooth without a greasy film. The key retinoid in this formula is adapalene, a prescription-strength retinoid that’s more intensive than your usual retinol. “In addition, it contains hydrating and soothing ingredients, including hyaluronic acid and panthenol,” says Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Elizabeth Arden Retinol + HPR Ceramide Rapid Skin Renewing Water Cream This pick wowed our testers with its rich and luxurious consistency. I also have a surgical scar on my neck that appears slightly softer than it did before, which could be thanks to the formula's exfoliants.” Our tester, who is prone to breakouts, was initially skeptical since this isn’t technically a noncomedogenic formula. In terms of firming, it did not bring immediate results, but it did improve the look of her skin over time. Best for Advanced Retinol Users: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Danusia has over 10 years of experience in the personal care industry including formulation, product development, claim evaluation and efficacy testing. Danusia (she/her) is a senior chemist in the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she evaluates haircare, skincare, cosmetics and beauty tools. She also reviews applications, substantiates claims and evaluates products for the GH Seal and the Beauty Awards and Sustainability Awards programs. GH Beauty Director Facial Collagen Cream™ April Franzino updated this guide with newly tested products and insights from Beauty Lab scientists and dermatologist
Ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid are excellent for providing deep hydration and repairing the skin's barrier. We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet. After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Even the best body-firming cream can’t fully “tighten” loose skin like surgical procedures or in-office treatments, but some can visibly improve its appearance. Body Makeup It’s rich in ultrahydrating ingredients, including urea—an under-rated natural humectant—shea butter, and hyaluronic acid. Elizabeth Arden’s Retinol + HPR Ceramide Water Cream delivers all the firming benefits of retinol in a gentle, hydrating formula that’s suitable for daytime use (with sunscreen). Additional ingredients such as paracress extract, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid also help smooth texture and brighten dark circles. This luxe whipped eye cream hydrates and firms the delicate eye area with a blend of squalane and skin-tightening algae. “Hyaluronic acid acts as a ’water grabber’ and is important at building your skin’s hydration, or water content,” says Mona Foad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Mona Dermatolog