The 15 Best Moisturizers For Mature Skin, According To Dermatologists

When it comes to signs of aging, you can't just rely on genes. "If you [have] an anti-inflammatory diet, get moderate exercise, and use the right topical [products], you can look 20 years younger by 55," dermatologist Nicholas Perricone told Cosmopolitan. But what are the right products? 

In the world of skincare, some of the most popular products are anti-aging moisturizers that promise to turn back the hands of time. And while these products can't stop the aging process, moisturizing skin with key active ingredients can reduce the visible signs of aging considerably. "A well-moisturized face may mask fine lines and wrinkles by plumping up the skin, [b]ut moisturizers do not reverse or prevent aging in any way," Dr. Arash Akhavan, founder of New York-based Dermatology & Laser Group, told The Healthy.

Mindfully investing in products that help us look our best as we get older is the first step in accepting that aging is a privilege rather than a punishment. With that in mind, we have selected the best moisturizers for mature skin, as recommended by dermatologists.

These moisturizers are hand-picked by the best dermatologists in the country because they know that our skin changes with age, so how we care for it must change, too. "The skin becomes drier and thinner with more laxity," dermatologist Marla Diakow told The Strategist. She added that mature skin needs moisturizers that "strengthen and thicken the dermis, provide moisture retention and barrier renewal, and are not too harsh or abrasive."

To compile this list, we looked at the popularity of these products among dermatologists, read reviews from real people like you, and considered the various concerns of mature skin. These products feature key added ingredients to help firm sagging skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and add an extra dose of hydration. Some of them even have added sun protection. Healthy skin is beautiful skin, and we guarantee you'll find your ideal moisturizer right here.

If you're a minimalist and want one product to address multiple concerns of mature skin in one step, you can't go wrong with Estēe Lauder Revitalizing Supreme+ Moisturizer Global Anti-Aging Cell Power Crème. According to Health, it is a favorite of New York City-based dermatologist Orit Markowitz, M.D., and for a good reason. Featuring moringa extract, this miracle cream kickstarts the cell renewal process to boost collagen and elastin production, giving you smoother and more hydrated-looking skin while diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

The crème averages 4.2 out of 5 stars on Ulta with more than 1,000 reviews. One reviewer said, "Beyond worth it. Three generations in my family have used this (I am the third). At almost 50 years old, my skin is soft and youthful. Well worth it, and the cream lasts a very long time. A small amount goes a long way!"

Purchase the Estēe Lauder Revitalizing Supreme+ Moisturizer Global Anti-Aging Cell Power Crème at Ulta for $115.

If you're looking for a moisturizer that can work equally well for the face and the body and is wallet-friendly, you'll love Vanicream Moisturizing Cream as much as board-certified dermatologist Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip. She told Who What Wear, "This is great for anyone with mature, sensitive skin. It's free of all dyes, fragrances, and preservatives." In fact, it even has the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association.

Ridiculously popular on Amazon with over 31,000 likes and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, one reviewer said, "I'm in my 60's fighting, dry, irritated, rosacea ridden, wrinkled, pimple prone, sensitive skin. I have tried little pots of cream that range in price from $10 to $250. Vanicream is the first cream that doesn't irritate, cause breakouts or give me blackheads. Vanicream keeps my face soothed and very moisturized. I use it from head to toe!!!!"

Purchase the Vanicream Moisturizing Cream on Amazon for $13.

Martha Stewart has amazing skin, and this next moisturizer comes recommended by the dermatologist who customizes her face creams, New York City-based Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali. According to Bhanusali, the SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter is a "great thicker cream that provides improvement for age-related changes, as well as for hydration" (via Allure).

Infused with a high concentration of proxylane — to increase skin elasticity and firmness — and blueberry extract, this cream targets all signs of aging, such as wrinkles and sagging caused by glycation, which is when "digested sugar permanently attaches to the collagen in your skin" (via Allure). With 4.4 out of 5 stars on SkinCeuticals, one reviewer is super impressed and said, "makes my face so smooth. I am 70 and everyone says I look 55."

Purchase the SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter on SkinCeuticals for $168.

Peptides are slowly making their name in the world of anti-aging products. For mature skin, dermatologist Dr. Daniel Belkin recommends Alastin Restorative Skin Complex. "As we age, there's a breakdown in both collagen and elastic fibers in the skin, causing thinning, wrinkling, and laxity," he told Byrdie. "Alastin products contain peptides, small protein chains, that stimulate both."

This magical moisturizer encourages new and healthy elastin and collagen production and is infused with peptides to improve skin elasticity and restore facial volume. With an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars on Alastin, one reviewer said, "I use Alastin Restorative Skin Complex as part of my daily Alastin skincare regimen. I've been told I look years younger than my actual age. The highest compliment came from my daughter who told me she hoped her skin looked as good as mine does when she's my age."

Purchase the Alastin Restorative Skin Complex at Alastin for $199.

One of the best antiaging skincare ingredients is retinol, which can prevent and treat fine lines and discoloration caused by sun damage and age. The RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Anti-Aging Retinol Night Cream is a drugstore find that is almost as good as luxury skincare products and at a fraction of the price. Los Angeles-based dermatologist Tsippora Shainhouse told NBC Select, "This budget-friendly night treatment contains both alpha hydroxy acids, which help to unstick and exfoliate dulling, dead skin cells immediately, as well as retinol, which stimulates cell turnover and new collagen production over time."

With almost 19,000 likes on Amazon, one reviewer said, "This product really helps mature skin. I have tried a helluva LOT of stuff in my time but I do notice lately the clarity of my skin. And the compliments I get. Give it a go — you won't be sorry."

Purchase the RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Anti-Aging Retinol Night Cream on Amazon for $20.

Retinol and peptides are both miracle workers in the skincare world. And the Olay Regenerist Retinol24 + Peptide Night Face Moisturizer gives you both power players in one jar. Dr. Adrienne O'Connell, medical director and president of Laguna Beach Aesthetics, told NewBeauty, "This fragrance-free nighttime moisturizer contains both retinol and retinyl propionate for a more potent treatment. It firms, smooths, brightens, and hydrates your skin."According to Olay, their propriety blend of Vitamin B3 with retinol works together to provide 24-hour hydration and protection, and you'll notice a difference in a month. 

This cult-favorite brand's moisturizer has 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon and over 3,000 reviews. One reviewer said, "I've been using this night cream since its inception with perfect results. It smooths on and absorbs just as expected, and when I get up in the morning, my face looks great! I'm 72 yrs old with normal-to-dry skin, and people always guess my age around 60. I love this stuff."

Purchase the Olay Regenerist Retinol24 + Peptide Night Face Moisturizer on Amazon for $27.

Retinol prides itself on being the gold standard among antiaging ingredients, but some people's skin can't tolerate it. Dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick highly recommends La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer if you have sensitive skin as it doesn't have any irritants. It is also packed with ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide that work together to give your skin vitality while supporting your skin barrier (via The Strategist). Additionally, it has SPF 30, so it protects you from harsh UV rays.

A reviewer posted on Amazon saying, "This is just fabulous and I'm 70! Love the feel and look of my skin."

Purchase the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer at Amazon for $20.

As we age, our skin's natural hyaluronic acid decreases, which makes the skin drier and more irritated, according to dermatologist Dr. Noelani Gonzalez (via The Strategist). She loves CeraVe Moisturizing Cream because it provides ultimate hydration with the goodness of ceramides. It also has the National Eczema Association (N.E.A.) Seal of Acceptance, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.

You know a moisturizer is excellent when it has over 103,000 likes on Amazon and an impressive 4.8 out of 5-star rating. One reviewer said, "I'm a 53 yr old woman going through menopause. ... This lotion is not heavy, my hot flashes appreciate that. There's no smell, love that. My skin feels like skin again and the appearance is improving daily."

Purchase the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream at Amazon for $17.

An increasing amount of beauty brands are including niacinamide in their products. Dr. Annie Gonzalez of Riverchase Dermatology told Byrdie, "Niacinamide is a versatile skincare ingredient that's beneficial for a wide range of skin conditions." 

Dr. Caroline Robinson, dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology in Chicago, loves niacinamide-rich moisturizers like First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Firming Collagen Cream. She told Forbes, "This blend supports collagen production and protects existing collagen from deteriorating. It also increases skin hydration." In addition to niacinamide, it has collagen to strengthen the skin structure and peptides to minimize fine lines. It's cruelty-free and comes in recyclable packaging.

50,000 likes on Sephora to prove it's a fan favorite. A satisfied reviewer called it a must-have and said, "I already notice major differences in the wrinkles on my forehead and around my eyes. The cream is not sticky or tacky and it does not cause breakouts on my very sensitive skin."

Purchase the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Firming Collagen Cream on Sephora for $42.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that brightens your skin, boosts collagen production, and can help lighten dark sun spots for a more even complexion. Dr. Samantha Ellis, a California-based medical and cosmetic dermatologist recommends Revision Skincare Vitamin C Lotion 30% for a 2-in-1 punch. She told Forbes, "This lotion has a potent combination of brightening antioxidants and hydrating ingredients."

A satisfied reviewer on Amazon said, "I am a 63-year-old male who had a facelift about a year ago. My plastic surgeon's office recommended this product for the maintenance of my face and for use around the eyes. I have been using this product for months and it has most certainly not only slowed the development of wrinkles around my eye, but has helped with maintaining a youthful appearance of the skin on my face."

Purchase the Revision Skincare Vitamin C Lotion 30% on Amazon for $128.

Ferulic acid is quickly becoming a favorite skincare ingredient because of how it protects the skin from oxidative stress that can speed up aging. Dermatologist Rachel Nazarian told Byrdie, "When something tries to damage your skin, it creates a certain molecule that in its active state will continue to damage and traumatize the skin around it. This [ferulic acid] will come in and shut it off. It neutralizes the molecules that are formed that if left alone will continue to damage tissue."

If you want that turbo-charged protection, NYC-based dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp recommends Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream (via The New York Post). "This smooth, hydrating moisturizer contains retinol as well as bakuchiol, a plant-based product that offers similar benefits to retinol with less irritation," he said.

This luxurious cream has over 11,000 likes on Sephora. One reviewer said, "I really like this face cream. I have acne rosacea and this cream is safe for my very sensitive skin. I have seen a visible reduction in forehead wrinkles and some wrinkles starting around my chin/lower lip."

Purchase the Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream on Sephora for $75.

Using a moisturizer with sunscreen is the best thing to do for your skin. Aveeno's Absolutely Ageless Daily Moisturizer SPF 30 is an affordable pick that is packed with powerful antioxidants like vitamins C and E to protect you from free radicals and keep your skin firm. It's also gentle enough to use daily without fear of irritation. Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, highly recommends it because it is fortified with "blackberry and dill [extracts] to stimulate elastin and improve skin's bounce," (via Allure).

With over 7,000 reviews on Amazon, one reviewer said, "I am 62, with combination skin, and still have issues with a thicker, oilier moisturizer. This is light, it works into my skin nicely without being greasy at all, and it offers protection from the sun. My skin always feels refreshed when I put it on."

Purchase the Aveeno Absolutely Ageless Daily Moisturizer SPF 30 on Amazon for $19.

Avène RetrinAL Day Cream is one of New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Michele Green's favorite moisturizers for mature skin because it's "great for renewing, plumping, and defending the skin" (via Allure). Dr. Green added that its brown algae has the trifecta effect on diminishing wrinkles, protecting against free radicals, and firming the skin all at once.

The moisturizer is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars on LovelySkin. One reviewer said, "I have been using several Avène products for a couple of years now. I am thrilled with all of them. My skin is sensitive and older and I have no problem whatsoever using the day and evening products. As long as I keep getting told I look younger than I actually am, these products are at the top of my list!"

Purchase the Avène RetrinAL Day Cream on LovelySkin for $50.

As we age, our skin loses collagen, which can result in loss of volume. If you want an instant plumping effect, SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator is a must-have. Tracy Evans, M.P.H., board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology, is a fan of the antioxidant-rich moisturizer, telling Health, "It has five forms of hyaluronic acid with five different molecular weights to absorb at different levels of the epidermis. This helps to add plumpness to the cells by mimicking our natural hyaluronic acid of the skin."

This quick-acting moisturizer has 4.38 out of 5 stars on SkinStore. One reviewer raved about it, saying, "Started using this product about a month ago and I'm super happy. It hydrates without leaving skin greasy, and love the texture. Has for sure helped keep my face glowing."

Purchase the SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator at SkinStore for $165.

Most people think of fine lines and wrinkles when it comes to mature skin, but other signs are sagging and laxity, and for that, you need a moisturizer to help tighten the skin. Packed with copper peptides, Reserveage Beauty Firming Face Cream should be your go-to as it's clinically proven to improve firmness by increasing collagen production. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tiffany Libby told The New York Post, "Copper-encapsulated peptides help support healthy collagen production which minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles."

According to Reserveage, clinical studies show that this moisturizer can give you a lifted appearance by 28% in two months. It's dermatologically tested and cruelty-free. A satisfied reviewer on Amazon said, "Really makes a huge difference in my skincare routine. It truly helps moisturize my face and reduce wrinkles. I notice a big difference on the days that I forget to use it! Very happy I gave this brand a try!"

Purchase the Reserveage Beauty Firming Face Cream on Amazon for $42.