The best skin care treatments for women over 50 can’t stop the effects of time and gravity, but they can help anyone reevaluate their approach to dealing with the signs of aging—think deep wrinkles, sun spots, creases. Loss of texture and volume occurs most commonly after middle age. Ahead, we asked skin care experts to share their best tips, tools, and strategies for building an arsenal of timeless complexion.
Askum, the most popular skin care product for women over 50
Face Moisturizer: Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream, $185
Vitamin C: SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Acid, $182
Gentle cleanser: Tacha the Rice Wash, $40
pH Balancing Toner: SkinCeuticals Balancing Toner, $38
Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid Face Sunscreen SPF 60, $33
Gentle Exfoliation: Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser, $88
Facial Massager: Joanna Czech Facial Massager, $189
The Mask: La Prairie Cellular Hydro-Lifting Firming Mask, $215
in this article:
Cleansing and Toning
Exfoliate—but don’t overdo it
Use a facial massager to boost collagen production
Prefer a serum suitable for mature skin
Use a moisturizer to restore volume loss
Don’t forget the sunscreen!
Masks to customize everything
Consider retinol at night
What is the best skin care routine for a 50 year old?
Skin care ingredients for women over 50
Meet the experts
For women over 50, the best skin care starts with washing your face every day. Mature skin should be cared for with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser that won’t strip the skin’s natural oil or irritate dry and sensitive types. For those who suffer from dryness, New York dermatologist Dr. Patricia Wexler warns that because it’s often so sensitive, it’s best to use a facial cleanser that contains ingredients like ceramides, which provide good barrier protection. “After initially removing my makeup with a cleansing oil, I use a cream cleanser, then rinse with warm water and pat my skin dry with a soft cloth,” explains Wexler.
To help maintain your skin’s pH balance after cleansing, celebrity aesthetician Joanna Czech recommends using a pH-controlled toner, which also provides an extra layer of moisture and “acts as a carrier” for the rest of your skin care. New hydrating toners are also worth considering.
SkinCeuticals Balancing Toner
Why we love it: This purifying toner exfoliates and gently removes debris and dead skin cells, while rosemary, aloe vera, and chamomile extracts soften and soothe skin. Its blend of AHAs and botanicals balances skin’s pH, helping skin retain moisture and better absorb topical products during the next steps in your skincare routine. Combining glycolic, salicylic, and lipohydroxy acids, it relieves congestion without stripping moisture.
Key Ingredients: Exfoliating Fruit Acids, Rosemary, Aloe Vera, Chamomile
Size: 6.8 fl oz
Joanna Czech Toner
Why we love it: Hyaluronic acid, plant sugars and fruit extracts work together to form Joanna Czech’s signature Triple Hydration Complex to keep the skin barrier in optimal condition. While skin barrier protection is key to any skincare regime, it’s especially important for aging skin. Over time, the skin’s ability to repair itself weakens and a compromised skin barrier can lead to dryness, itching and flaking in mature skin, which can be alleviated with continued use of this incredible toner.
Main Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Plant sugar, Fruit extracts
Size: 1 fl oz
Tacha Rice Washing Water
Why we love it: Tatcha’s creamy cleanser is based on amino acids to gently remove the day’s stress, while Okinawa algae and hyaluronic acid deeply nourish the skin and replenish moisture reserves. This lotion is also enriched with Japanese rice flour, which gently removes daily build-up, leaving skin more radiant.
Key Ingredients: pH neutral amino acids, hyaluronic acid and red algae, Japanese rice flour
Size: 4.0 fl oz
Dior La Mousse Off/On Foaming Cleanser
Why we love it: Dior’s Foaming Cleanser has a lightweight texture that belies its powerful cleansing power. This face wash is equally good at removing makeup residue, sunscreen and other impurities while retaining moisture and is infused with soothing botanicals with designer pedigree. Water lily sourced from Dior’s gardens helps cleanse the skin of impurities, including heavy metals.
Main Ingredients: Hokuni Water Lily, Cornflower Chrysanthemum Water
Size: 5 ounces.
When it comes to exfoliation, both physical (scrubs) and chemical (AHAs and BHAs) can be used on mature skin, but do so with caution. “Yes, exfoliation is important, but don’t overdo it,” advises Chek. “In women over the age of 50, the outer layer of skin will become thinner and more fragile.” To avoid worsening the condition, Chek recommends sticking to the simplest physical exfoliation method possible. Tears in the epidermis.
Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser
Why we love it To safely remove dead skin cells, Wexler recommends using a gentle scrub like Tata Harper’s Regenerating Exfoliating Cleanser. This cleanser contains apricot microspheres and should be used no more than three times a week, followed by a calming elixir containing soothing ingredients like ceramides and chamomile.
Key Ingredients: Apricot microspheres, white willow bark, pomegranate enzymes
Size: 4.1 fl oz
Evolvethogether + Joanna Czech Rosemary Enzyme Cleanser
Why we love it: A collaboration between Cheek and Evolvetogether, a California-based brand known for its sustainable products, this new enzymatic cleanser uses a multitasking blend of botanical ingredients. Ideal for oily or combination skin, it’s formulated with oil-controlling magnesium carbonate, kaolin clay and tapioca starch to remove impurities from the skin, papain derived from papaya to soften and smooth the skin, and rosemary leaf oil to combat inflammation. While some exfoliating cleansers can irritate your skin, this one is so gentle it can be used up to twice a day.
Key Ingredients: Kaolin, Tapioca Starch, Lactic Acid Bacteria Fermentation, Papain, Magnesium Carbonate, Rosemary Leaf Oil
Size: 1.4 ounces
M-61 Energy Rejuvenation Mask
Why we love it: For a gentle chemical exfoliation, try M-61’s Power Glow Peel Squares, which are pre-infused with glycolic and salicylic acids to gently unclog pores and refine skin texture. They’re also rich in vitamin K (which helps heal acne scars) and bilberry extract to brighten skin tone.
Key Ingredients: Each box contains 10 remedies
Specifications: Glycolic Acid & Salicylic Acid, Vitamin K, Bilberry Extract
Drunk Elephant TLC Sukari Baby Facial
Why we love it: Drunk Elephant’s Classic Babyfacial is everything you need for an at-home facial that gives tired skin a visibly radiant glow. Leave this creamy treatment on for 20 minutes before rinsing, and it’s formulated with 25% AHA tartaric, lactic, and citric acids blended with chickpea flour to instantly brighten your complexion.
Key Ingredients: 25% AHA Blend, 2% BHA, Chickpea Flour
Size: 1.69 fl oz
Daily facial massage works wonders for skin of any age, but can be especially transformative for those with mature skin. These beauty tools can shape facial muscles (think: more defined cheekbones and jawline), reduce fluid buildup, as well as improve blood flow, cell turnover, tissue toning, and boost collagen production. “Collagen is our skin’s support network, it gives skin its structural integrity, and as collagen decreases, skin becomes loose, sagging, and wrinkled,” says Rochelle, founder and CEO of Pause Skincare, a line of products developed specifically for women. Weitzner explains. Because collagen synthesis dramatically decreases in women after menopause, Weitzner designed a special tool to stimulate fibroblasts, the cells that produce collagen.
Use your fingers or the tool to knead and shape the facial muscles, moving from the jaw line up to the cheekbones, under-eye area and forehead. For an extra kick at the end, wrap gauze around ice cubes infused with anti-inflammatory green tea or chamomile tea and glide them over your skin, according to the Czech saying.
Joanna Czech Facial Massage
Why we love it: As a beauty expert to the likes of Jennifer Aniston and Cate Blanchett, Czech knows a thing or two about keeping skin lifted and firm. She designed this dual-ended roller for clients to use at home, citing her belief that facial massage is an important part of any skincare regimen. It only takes a few minutes of daily use to stimulate collagen production, however, the product can also boost topical products or aid lymphatic drainage;
Type: Facial Massager
Specifications: Made of aluminum and zinc alloy, this manual handheld tool has two roller balls for chiselling and carving.
How to use: While massaging your face, roll the roller five times from the jaw to the base of your ears. Then roll it twice from the center of the lips to the center of the ear; the next step is to smooth it five times along the cheekbones, then roll it over the brow bone. To top it off, roll the roller five times from the center of your forehead to the hairline, then five times from your collarbones to behind your ears. Finally, roll the roller five times from the middle of your chest towards your shoulders. Czech recommends using the device for about seven minutes a day, all movements should be done on both sides of the face;
Jillian Dempsey Gold Engraving Stick
Why we like it: Jillian Dempsey’s 24-karat gold bar tightens skin by mimicking the vibrations of a facial massage. Use it for just five minutes to relax facial muscles and achieve almost miraculous sculpting and contouring abilities. Editor’s note: It’s the most effective tool I’ve found for smoothing out the lines associated with “tech neck”—and the fact that I’m constantly looking at my phone.
Type: Gold Carving Stick
Specifications: Made of 24-karat gold, the T-shaped vibrator is activated by twisting the base of the handle. It runs on a single AA battery, which usually needs to be replaced every three months. It comes with a velvet bag for storage.
How to use: Start with clean, makeup-free skin. Apply a pea-sized amount of moisturizer and run the tool along your jawline for five minutes (on both sides) to shape your cheeks. For the next five minutes, push the bar from under your chin toward your jawline. Finally, slide the tool up and down the neck to fade technical lines.
Pause Facial Stimulation Tool
Why we like it: Weitzner’s useful device is designed to stimulate fibroblasts, the cells that produce collagen. This FDA-approved device can be used on the face, neck, and chest to promote healthy skin by improving blood flow, aiding in cell renewal, and removing waste products.
Type: Fascia Stimulation Device
Specifications: Made from medical-grade stainless steel, this device is FDA-approved, manually operated, and does not require batteries. It comes with a vegan leather storage box.
How to use: Apply moisturizer first, then apply to forehead, cheeks, lips, neck and chest. Use once daily.
Laishan Anti-Puffing Jade Roller
Why we love it: A mainstay of Chinese beauty rituals, Laishan’s jade roller helps boost circulation and support lymphatic drainage, all in one use. This candy-colored tool is available in pink or lime green and comes in two roller sizes. Use the smaller roller to accentuate hard-to-reach eye contours and the larger roller to beautify cheeks and forehead.
Type: Jade Roller
Specifications: The handheld device has two ends. There’s a small roller on one end for hard-to-reach areas like the eye contour, and a larger roller on the other end for cheeks and forehead.
How to use: First, slide the roller from the middle of the face outward over the cheeks, then apply it to the forehead, moving from the eyebrows to the hairline; slide the smaller roller horizontally under your eyes, then complete the massage by moving the smaller end from under your lips to your chin. As with all facial massagers, a slight pink color on the skin indicates increased blood circulation and is evidence that the device is working as intended.
While basic skin care products like cleansers and moisturizers are important even for teens, “serums are especially beneficial after age 50 because they provide effective, targeted ingredients that address common skin issues associated with aging, such as wrinkles, dryness, and dark spots,” says Dr. Nicole Lee, a board-certified dermatologist in Garden City, New York. “They contain ingredients like peptides, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid, which help strengthen collagen, hydrate, and even skin tone. Plus, serums have a lightweight formula that’s designed for better absorption.” This makes them more effective at keeping skin healthy and glowing as we age, Lee explains.
SkinCeuticals P-Tyox Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Serum
Why we love it: Designed to mimic the effects of neuromodulators like Botox, SkinCeuticals’ new serum is formulated with an advanced peptide complex designed to prevent the formation of dynamic lines. It also has added niacinamide (for even skin tone) and kelp (for hydration). “My skin looks smoother — not necessarily in terms of wrinkles, but in terms of overall consistency and feel — and my hyperpigmentation seems less noticeable,” she wrote after a week of trying the SkinCeuticals innovation. “If my complexion becomes more radiant after a week, imagine what it will do for me after 12 hours.”
Key Ingredients: Advanced Peptide Complex, 5% PHA, Nicotinamide, and Kelp
Size: 1 fl oz
Isdin Melatonic Night Serum
Why we love it: Designed for nighttime use, Isdin’s 3-in-1 serum tightens skin for hours of rejuvenating repair. This antioxidant-rich treatment formula contains melatonin, bakuchiol, and vitamin C, which work in triple-action to smooth, brighten, and firm skin. Meanwhile, its silky oil formula instantly replenishes moisture. While vitamin C serums aren’t typically known for their pleasant smell, this one has a fresh, bright scent that reminds me of a high-quality aquatic cologne.
Key Ingredients: Melatonin, Bakuchiol, Vitamin C
Size: 1 fl oz
SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Acid
Why we love it: This Esqueme-proven vitamin C serum has major dermatologist fans. CE Ferulic Acid contains a powerful blend of 15% L-ascorbic acid, vitamin E, and ferulic acid to effortlessly fade wrinkles and fine lines. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Vicki Rappaport previously told Esqueme: “CE Ferulic Acid has become the gold standard antioxidant product, recommended by dermatologists and other skincare professionals to use every morning for healthy skin,” she said. “This isn’t just a vitamin C serum, it contains three of the most useful antioxidants in skincare today.”
Key Ingredients: 15% L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid
Size: 1 fl oz
Beautystat Universal C Skin Refiner
Why we love it: Beautystat’s brightening serum has gone viral more times than we can count — and we’re sure it will again. The secret formula is a 20% vitamin C formula blended with patented ingredients for stability. Plus, this serum combines the antioxidant with green tea derivative EGCG. When these two ingredients are combined, they work synergistically for anti-aging benefits, making skin smoother, firmer, and making pores appear smaller. It’s no wonder TikTok users immediately jumped on their screens after trying the serum. After all, Blur products have had a long-standing presence on the platform.
Key Ingredients: EGCG (a green tea derivative that has anti-aging effects along with vitamin C), Vitamin C, Squalane, Tartaric Acid
Size: 1 ounce
Starting in your 30s and 40s, hyaluronic acid levels begin to decline, making fine lines and deep wrinkles more visible. When applied topically, hyaluronic acid can help replenish and retain cellular moisture (it holds 1,000 times its weight in water), which is why it’s a common ingredient in moisturizers, especially formulas for mature skin. Look for this ingredient in facial moisturizers, alongside other nourishing ingredients like ceramides and peptides, to help restore the skin barrier with continued use.
Augustinus Bader Rich Cream
Why we love it: Augustinus Bader’s Plumping Cream is one of our favorite moisturizers for dry skin, and it’s already developed a popular cult following. It uses an innovative blend of peptides, amino acids, and nourishing agents to replenish skin’s moisture and reduce the appearance of dark spots and fine lines. The patented TFC8 ingredient is known to stimulate skin cell turnover, making this cream a staple in the anti-aging skin care regimen of celebrities like Eva Longoria. Victoria Beckham loves this ingredient so much that she teamed up with Bader to include it in her new concealer.
Key Ingredients: TFC8, Vitamin E, Evening Primrose Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Argan Oil, Avocado Oil
Size: 1.7 fl oz
iS Clinical Repair Moisturizing Lotion
Why we love it: Not too heavy, not too light, this just-right moisturizer uses pharmaceutical-grade botanicals, peptides, and antioxidants to reduce deep wrinkles and hydrate as well as repair irritated skin. IS Clinical’s smoothing properties are suitable for all skin types, making it a perfect makeup base.
Key Ingredients: Extremozymes (a proprietary enzyme combination that protects skin from free radicals), Hyaluronic Acid, Tripeptide-1
Size: 1.7 fl oz
SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Moisturizer
Why we love it: “SkinMedica’s HA5 not only delivers hyaluronic acid to the skin, but its complex range of different hyaluronic acids stimulates your own hyaluronic acid production, increasing your skin’s elasticity,” explains Wexler. This serum is known to moisturize and plump skin like no other.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Peptide Complex, Vitamin E
Size: 2 ounces.
Kate Somerville KateCeuticals Total Repair Cream
Why we like it: Kate Somerville’s anti-aging KateCeuticals Total Repair Cream combines ceramides with a special peptide complex to soothe irritation and reduce redness. It is expected to smooth and strengthen skin texture, as well as leave skin feeling extremely soft to the touch.
Key Ingredients: Peptide and Ceramide Complex, Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane, Hemp, Macadamia, Babassu and Jojoba Seed Oil
Size: 1 fl oz
“Sunscreen is a must at any age, but it’s even more important after age 50,” says Lee. “As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more fragile. Prolonged, unprotected UV exposure accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leaving skin fragile, dehydrated, inflamed, wrinkled, and prone to age spots. It’s especially important to use sunscreen to optimize skin health in this age group, as it helps prevent skin cancer, slow signs of aging, and keep skin hydrated,” says Lee. She recommends using an SPF of at least 30, which ensures that the sunscreen not only filters out 97% of UVB rays, but also prevents skin damage when the sun is out. It’s important to use SPF every day throughout the year, especially because increased UV damage as we age increases the risk of skin cancer.
La Mer Broad Spectrum UV Protection Fluid SPF 50
Why we love it: La Mer’s signature Miracle Broth is infused with an SPF 50 formula that absorbs into skin for a silky, lightweight finish. It can be used after moisturizer or under makeup, and it offers skincare benefits that go beyond all-you-need UV protection. Miracle Broth is made with a blend of kelp, vitamins, and minerals to strengthen the skin’s barrier, making it less susceptible to irritation.
Key Ingredients: Miracle Broth, Avobenzone (absorbs UVA rays), Homosalate (chemical UV filter), Otilsalate (absorbs UVB rays)
Size: 1.7 ounces
Sisley Sunlea SPF 50+
Why we love it: Sisley’s sunscreen is scented with spa-like marjoram and sage essential oils, making it perfect for dry skin. It’s enriched with shea butter and cucumber extract to replenish moisture; it’s also rich in skin-protecting antioxidants like vitamin C acetate, and has SPF 50+ sun protection.
Key Ingredients: Alkekengi calyx extract, Shea butter, Cucumber extract
Size: 1.8 ounces
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Gentle Facial Sunscreen SPF 60
Why we love it: La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios SPF is a lightweight, creamy solution that absorbs directly into skin and not only delivers a rapid moisture boost but also broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. The formula also features patented Cell-Ox Shield technology, which combines sun protection with antioxidants to provide deep skin protection. And, like all products from the beloved French apothecary brand, the SPF is infused with thermal water to soothe and nourish skin.
Key Ingredients: Cell-Ox Shield Technology, Polydimethylsiloxane, Silica, La Roche-Posay Thermal Water
Size: 1.7 ounces
Elta MD Spectrum UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46
Why we like it: EltaMD UV Clear is one of the most recommended sunscreens by dermatologists. A combination of chemical and physical UV filters that are safe for all skin types and prevent acne and reduce inflammation with continued use. The oil-free formula has a lightweight feel, and it eliminates redness on rosacea-prone skin thanks to a blend of skin-balancing niacinamide.
Key Ingredients: Nicotinamide, Zinc Oxide, Caprylic Acid
Size: 1.7 ounces
“For mature skin, masks are very effective for moisturizing and providing additional therapeutic benefits,” says Wexler, noting that you can extend the mask to your neck and décolletage. If your skin is particularly dry, or you want a smoother, firmer complexion for a special occasion, she recommends a high-performance firming mask like the Natura Bisse Diamond Mask, which is enriched with hyaluronic acid and peptides. For irritated skin, look for a mask with a cooling effect and soothing ingredients, like 111Skin’s Rose Gold Brightening Mask Set. The mask has a hydrogel texture that calms and cools the skin, while its clinical-grade ingredients penetrate to rejuvenate the complexion.
La Prairie Cellular Hydra Lifting Firming Mask
Why we love it: Enriched with La Prairie Cell Complex, this ultra-nourishing mask minimizes pores and redness. This proprietary complex has been a staple of the brand since 1978 and is a by-product of a closely guarded secret formula. The results are widely recognized, making skin look younger by boosting the repair process. Apply the mask and leave it on for five minutes before rinsing off.
Key Ingredients: Cell Complex
Size: 1.7 ounces
Natura Bisse Diamond Ultimate Mask
Why we love it: Designed for overnight use, this leave-in mask should be used as the final step after a serum. You can expect buttery soft skin thanks to a blend of hyaluronic acid, retinol, niacinamide, and copper peptides. Plus, its unique marine DNA concentrate helps strengthen skin while you sleep.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Retinol, Copper Peptide
Size: 2.5 ounces
Sisley Paris Flower Gel Mask
Why we love it: Enriched with floral ingredients, this celeb-favorite mask from Sisley Paris repairs dull or loose skin, hydrating and toning while brightening skin tone. This creamy gel helps give skin a radiant glow and is a staple in Alycia Debnam-Carey’s “ultimate self-care routine.” Apply two to three times a week for three minutes each time, then wipe off excess without rinsing. You’ll have fresh, petal-soft skin.
Main Ingredients: Lily, Iris, Sesame, Rose
Size: 2 fl oz
111skin Rose Gold Brightening Mask 5 Pieces
Why we love it: 111Skin’s Brightening Mask uses clinical-grade ingredients for brighter skin. The mask has a unique hydrogel texture that has a pleasant cooling effect and contains soothing ingredients that are absorbed directly into the skin. Colloidal gold calms inflammation and nourishes skin with antioxidants, hexapeptides smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and damask rose helps strengthen the skin barrier.
Key Ingredients: Colloidal Gold, Hexapeptide, Damascus Rose
Size: 5 masks
Women over the age of 50 may want to add a step of retinol to their nightly skin care regimen. According to Elias, this ingredient is most effective at addressing issues related to aging skin, including fine lines, hyperpigmentation, breakouts, redness, changes in texture, and thinning of the skin.
It’s important to note that “all retinoids are drying in nature, so although they are an anti-aging mainstay, they’re not for everyone — and that’s okay!” says Dr. Christina Chung, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Philadelphia. “But if you can tolerate retinol, I recommend using it as often as possible.” Some of Chung’s patients use retinol every night, while others use it once or twice a week. “It’s not the frequency of use that yields positive results, but the long-term consistency of use,” she said. As Dr. Natalie Curcio, board-certified dermatologist at Curcio Dermatology in Nashville, says, “Retinoids are not for people who want a quick fix. I tell patients, you’ll look better in two months and you’ll look better in two years.” Better, you’ll be better twenty years from now.
RoC Retinol Correxion Fine Line Smoothing Moisturizer
Why we like it: While some retinol products can cause drying, which is very undesirable for mature skin that is already prone to dehydration, this cream has hydrating properties that reduce the risk of irritation. Powered by retinol and hyaluronic acid, this smoothing cream visibly firms and plumps skin while providing intense, long-lasting hydration. This cream is formulated to hydrate skin for up to 48 hours.
Key Ingredients: Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid
Size: 1.7 ounces
Lancer Skincare Advanced Retinol Treatment
Why we love it: Dr. Harold Lancer, a dermatologist who treats celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Victoria Beckham, has incorporated patented anti-aging technologies into his products that might otherwise be confined to his Beverly Hills clinic. In this retinol treatment, Cortinol Technology combines retinol with its plant-based alternative, bakuchiol. This high-tech serum works overnight to plump, moisturize, and soften aging skin.
Key Ingredients: Cortinol Technology (a proprietary ingredient that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles), Collagen, Prickly Pear Extract
Size: 1 ounce
SkinMedica Retinol 1.0 Complex
Why we love it: SkinMedica’s Retinol 1.0 Complex exfoliates for a brighter, firmer complexion. While the brand doesn’t recommend anyone new to using retinol, those with a tolerance to the ingredient will experience little to no irritation. Though highly concentrated, the retinol treatment is formulated with the patented PhytoShield Complex to infuse skin with antioxidants and protect it from serious side effects like dryness or flaking.
Key Ingredients: Retinol, Phytoshield Complex (an antioxidant complex that soothes irritation and improves skin texture)
Size: 1 fl oz
Medik8 Crystal Retina 3 Serum
Why we love it: Medik8’s cream serum is powered by retinal, the strongest form of vitamin A, encapsulated in crystals. This ingredient is slowly released overnight to restore skin elasticity, even out skin tone, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles without irritating skin. The formula is also hydrating thanks to a blend of hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Key Ingredients: Retinaldehyde, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin
Size: 1 fl oz
“Regardless of age, the basis of every skincare routine is to cleanse, protect, and repair the skin,” says Dr. Eram Elias, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. However, Elias points out that women over 50 often have “more sensitive” skin due to the hormonal changes that come with perimenopause and menopause. “For these women, I recommend using gentle cleansers that provide cleansing without overly drying or irritating the skin,” she says. Next, SPF is a must.
At night, the focus should be on repair. “Our skin is a functional organ that faces environmental insults like UV exposure and external pollution, as well as hormonal fluctuations, stress, sleep changes, dehydration, inflammation, and many other internal challenges,” explains Ilyas. “Give it the protection and moisture it needs overnight to function at its best.”
While it’s essential to follow these steps to care for mature skin, it’s equally important to make sure your regimen includes the right ingredients. Based on these expert recommendations and our own research, we’ve compiled a list of the best skin care ingredients for women over 50.
Ceramide: “Ceramide is a very important lipid that naturally occurs in our bodies and helps maintain the integrity of the skin barrier and retain moisture in the skin,” dermatologist Dr. Alexis Stephens previously told Eskume. It does a great job of restoring the skin’s moisture levels, resulting in brighter skin.
Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a critically acclaimed ingredient known to hold 1,000 times its weight in water, meaning it provides ample hydration in a single application. It’s helpful to use it alone (choose the best hyaluronic acid serum) or as the main ingredient in your cream of choice.
Retinol: For wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and invisible photodamage, Wexler recommends retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, which, when used topically, promotes skin renewal, brightens skin, eliminates hyperpigmentation and helps with collagen production. It’s available in both prescription-strength and over-the-counter forms, and it’s best to consult your dermatologist for advice on the strength, frequency and type of retinoid to use. Wexler also notes that retinol is particularly beneficial for eye problems because it works in conjunction with peptides to stimulate new collagen, which in turn supports tissue relaxation, she says.
SPF: All dermatologists agree that making daily sunscreen a priority is a must, especially for aging skin. “Hormonal changes in women make us more sensitive to the effects of light,” Elias said. Look for broad-spectrum formulas with SPF 30 or higher.
Vitamin C: Another key ingredient in brightening dull skin and eliminating sun spots, vitamin C helps treat and fight free radical damage that causes oxidative stress and skin aging. The powerful antioxidant can also help with pigmentation issues.
Dr. Nicole Lee, MD, MPH FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Epoch Dermatology in Garden City, New York.
Vicki Rappaport, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles.
Dr. Christina Chung is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Philadelphia.
Dr. Natalie Curcio is a board-certified dermatologist at Curcio Dermatology in Nashville.
Joanna Czech is a dermatologist and celebrity facialist to stars like Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Aniston.
Dr. Eram Ilyas is a board-certified dermatologist with Schweiger Dermatology Group in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.
Rochelle Weitzner is the founder and former CEO of Pause Skincare.
Dr. Patricia Wexler is a board-certified dermatologist in New York specializing in dermatology and skin surgery.
