9 Best anti-wrinkle serums for plump, glowy skin in 2024
Revive that supple skin
Cosmetic Health
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Our Top Picks
- Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair
- Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3
- The Inkey List Retinol Serum
- SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum
What is skincare if not a yearning grasp for the bouncy, supple skin of our youth? There's nothing that seeks to be more youth-preserving than a good anti-ageing serum.
As the years go by, it's safe to say our skin has seen some things. Sun, stress, sugary foods and scarring from where you obliterated that blind pimple when you were 14- it all adds up. And while fine lines and wrinkles are only evidence of all the beautiful life that's been lived thus far, sometimes we'd like a little less... evidence.
Age-defence serums can range from retinol to peptide blends and niacinamide serums. They can be hydrating, collagen boosting, firming, smoothing and more. But what the best anti-ageing serums claim to do most, is improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
We've rounded up the top youth-preserving serums for all your skin needs, from the famous Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair that's like "a miracle in a bottle," to Zoe Foster Blake's Very Amazing Retinal, that had one of our 33-year-old writers mistaken for a 25-year-old.
OUR TOP PICKS
Best age defence serum for all skin types
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair, $139 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it:
- Suitable for all skin types
- No powerful actives like retinol that may affect sensitive skin
- Dermatologist-tested
- Fragrance free
- Non-acnegenic (won't clog pores)
Worth noting:
- Pricey
Size: 30ml | Hero ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, squalane, glycerin, Chronolux Power Signal technology | Skin types: All skin types
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer:
"Advanced Night Repair is suitable for all ages and skin types, and this serum will assist in supporting skin’s natural nightly repair mode, so that skin is radiant upon waking.
"It also supports your skin barrier with eight hours of antioxidant protection, helps to promote skin’s natural collagen production, and intensely hydrates dry skin and reduces the look of lines and wrinkles.
"After trialling it for a couple of months, I’m happy (but also somewhat sad) to say it is 100 per cent worth it. This miracle in a bottle is unlike any other hydrating serum I’ve used and seriously lives up to the hype.
"If you’re only going to use one serum, this is the one to use. Key benefits include line reducing, firming, evening skin tone, strengthening, hydrating and radiance boosting. Hydration and extra radiance were the two I noticed the most improvements in. I received so many compliments from friends and family saying that my skin was “glowing” and asking what I was using.
"The lightweight, almost gel-like serum is aimed at revitalising dull or dehydrated skin. Featuring the brand’s Chronolux Power Signal technology, and no powerful acids or vitamin A, B or C, the instantly absorbed formula is suitable for everyone."
Best retinol serums for mature skin
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3, $99 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it:
- Medium strength encapsulated retinol proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines
- Hydrates skin using hyaluronic acid to help it look plump and smooth
- Best for non-sensitive skin new to retinol
Worth noting:
- Not the one to start with for sensitive skin types
- Retinol is not recommended for those under 25-30 years of age
Size: 30ml | Hero ingredients: Encapsulated retinaldehyde, squalane, hyaluronic acid, glycerin | Skin types: Non-sensitive skin new to retinol
What you need to know:
Vitamin A (more commonly known as retinol) is commonly present in a 'best anti ageing serum' roundup, largely due to its ability to help boost collagen production and improve the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles. But one thing you should know about retinol, is that you need to start small, and carefully work your way onto stronger stuff.
This Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 is a lovely way to venture carefully into retinol land, if you do not have sensitive skin. This serum uses medium strength Vitamin A, with crystal encapsulation that releases retinaldehyde slowly to help minimise irritation. This should be used only in the evenings, after cleansing and before moisturiser, and just twice a week to begin with. And of course, don't forget to apply sunscreen during the day.
"Wow, wow, wow!" Comments one reviewer. "I am absolutely blown away with this retinal. I've tried countless expensive cosmeceutical brand retinols/retinals and the only changes I saw were irritation of my skin and bank balance. This is the best of the best. I've experienced zero irritation and huge improvements in my skin. Can't wait to try the higher concentrations of this product."
Very Amazing Retinal, $85 at Go-To Skincare
Why we love it:
- Encapsulated retinal is potent and powerful yet gentle on the skin
- Includes niacinamide for brightening and hydrating effects
- Super hydrating
Worth noting:
- Not to be used on the same day as exfoliating acids.
Size: 30ml | Hero ingredients: Retinal, peptides, niacinamide | Skin types: Most skin types, recommended for over 25 years old
Tried and tested by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout Acting Editor
Made with encapsulated retinal, this Australian-made serum works to target fine lines and wrinkles by supporting collagen and elastin production, and contains niacinamide to contribute to a glowing complexion. Not only that, peptides help to boost and firm the skin, while centella and mushroom extract aim to make the whole process a lot more calming on the skin. Go-To claim this to be a powerful yet gentle serum, but advise Vitamin A newbies to introduce slowly, once or twice per week before gradually increasing use. And of course, this is only to be used if you are over the age of 25.
news.com.au checkout Acting Editor Melody Teh loved this retinol, saying, ""After testing the Very Amazing Retinal, I can say it has honestly transformed my skin. I don’t mean to brag but the other day I was mistaken for a 25-year-old (I am 33) so I was pretty chuffed to say the least.
"The Very Amazing Retinal is a dream to put on; it has a deliciously silky texture that sinks into your skin so well, which feels different to other vit A products I’ve tried. With regular use – I’ve been using it two to four times a week at night, slowly increasing it every week – my fine lines have faded, my skin’s tone and texture has improved, and just generally my complexion is much brighter, smoother and clearer."
In a 12-week consumer study of 33 participants, 100 per cent of Very Amazing Retinal users claimed their their skin looked and felt firmer, appeared more elastic and supple, and that their skin tone and texture had visibly improved.
The classic peachy product also has a 4.8/5 star review from over 400 users, with one claiming, "This product goes on like a silky hydrating dream. IT DOES: improve the texture of your skin. My skin has absolutely no texture! Soft as a cloud... A skincare miracle. Thank you Go-To overlords!! You have outdone yourself with this one."
Best budget anti-wrinkle serums
The Inkey List Retinol Serum, $28 at ASOS
Why we love it:
- A gentle, effective retinol that won't break the bank
- Contains squalane for smoothing and hydrating benefits
Worth noting:
- Use every third night to begin with
Size: 30ml | Hero ingredients: Retinyl Acetate, squalane | Skin types: All skin types over 25 years of age
Tried and Tested by Madison Geros, news.com.au checkout Partnerships Manager
This beginner-friendly retinol is formulated and designed, according to The Inkey List, 'to target the first signs of aging and hyperpigmentation.' As well as the gentle form of retinol that may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, the serum also contains squalane to provide antioxidant protection and hydrate the skin.
Partnerships Manager Madison Geros is a huge fan of The Inkey List's retinol, raving, "I love the fact that for a retinol serum it is cheap, as most retinol serums are around the $120 price point. This serum I was recommended by my dermatologist so if she swears by it so do I! It also cleared up my hormonal acne and I feel like the serum is really light and not heavy – perfect for my skincare routine. Just make sure you limit sun exposure when using it."
The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10% Treatment, $16.10 at Myer
Why we love it:
- Super affordable
- A little bit goes a long way
- Targeted action for eyes and forehead fine lines and wrinkles
Worth noting:
- Oil-free, water-based formula
Size: 30ml | Hero ingredients: Argireline | Skin types: Ageing skin
What you need to know:
If you search 'anti-aging serums' on TikTok, you'll quickly find out that argireline is an ingredient well known for targeting fine lines and wrinkles. Based in water, this is an oil-free serum that contains a 10 per cent Argireline Peptide Complex, an ingredient that has been shown to improve fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes and forehead. This can be used as an eye serum, applied to the problem areas under other heavier products and a little bit goes a long way- you'll only need 2-3 drops. The perfect face serum for those wanting targeted action for their problem areas, this will cost you less than your average moisturiser.
One reviewer raved, "This is truly my favorite of all TO products! I use a lot of products by TO, personally and some on clients as a facialist. Argireline is a product that I use personally. I believe the effects take a bit to notice, maybe a couple months, but once it starts working.... WOW... the difference it makes. I am in my late 50s and started using this a couple of years ago. When I started, I had deep Glabellar lines (between eyebrows) and some noticeable forehead lines and Nasolabial fold lines. With continued use of Argireline and Matrixyl, the lines on my forehead are diminished, and the ones between my eyebrows and nasolabial folds are gone! It took months for them to really go away, but they did. It took 15 years off of how I look! Please don't take these products away!"
Best luxury anti-wrinkle serum
SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum, $242 at Myer
Why we love it:
- Remains effective in the skin for 72 hours
- Hydrates and protects dry skin
- Brightens skin and supports reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
Worth noting:
- On the pricier side
Size: 30ml | Hero ingredients: Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E, ferulic acid | Skin types: Normal to dry skin
Tried and tested by Marina Tatas, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer:
"There’s a bunch of antioxidants packed into this bottle that work to protect your complexion from atmospheric ageing – think things like free radical damage from UV rays, infra-red radiation and ozone pollution.
"This is a gold standard vitamin C serum, harnessing a synergistic antioxidant complex that according to Skinceuticals, offers eight times greater environmental protection and increases skin firmness by 37 per cent.
"It’s ideal for all skin types and has a unique texture – it’s not like your traditional gel-like serum, but rather feels like a super lightweight oil. I do love how quickly it absorbs into the skin and how easy it is to layer other products over the top."
Tried and tested by Edwina Carr Barraclough, Senior eCommerce Content Strategist:
"I’ve been using SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum on and off for around four years now to try to get rid of some stubborn post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from adult acne. A little bit goes a long way so I pop a drop or so on my face in the morning for a protective hit. While I wouldn’t say the effects have been noticeably dramatic, I swear my scarring is perhaps a little less pronounced and regardless - the dermatologist-loved formulation of potent vitamin C is protecting my skin from damage daily."
Best niacinamide serum for dark spots
La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Niacinamide Serum for Dark Spots, $79.95 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it:
- Promotes smoother and more even skin tone
- Soothing and gently exfoliating
- Dermatologically tested
- Good for those who may be prone to hyperpigmentation
Worth noting:
- Contains fragrance
Size: 30ml | Hero ingredients: Melasyl™, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid | Skin types: All skin types
Tried and tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer:
"I’ve been using this serum for a couple of months now and am seriously obsessed. My skin has never looked better.
"It’s incredibly lightweight and melts easily into the skin. I’ve been using it both morning and night and have had no issues with pilling. It works both with my other skincare products and under makeup too.
"Throughout my teens and early 20s I suffered from pretty severe acne and have a few scars to show for it. This serum dramatically reduced my scarring. It’s also generally brightened and evened out my skin tone too. More generally, despite coming into winter when my skin sadly usually looks a bit dull, I’ve noticed it looks way more radiant and glowy. Plus, I also had no issues with irritation so if you sensitive skin this is one you’ll love."
Best hydrating serums for dehydrated skin
Jurlique Herbal Recovery Bi-Phase Serum, $108 at Jurlique
Why we love it:
- Botanical oils provide antioxidant protection
- Vitamin E helps to boost radiance
Worth noting:
- Pricey
Size: 30ml | Hero ingredients: Vitamin E, glycerin, hyaluronic acid | Skin types: All
Tried and Tested by Kara Byers, news.com.au checkout eCommerce Content Lead
"Winter is upon us and so is my annual dose of gross – dry skin that is.
"Enter this light but luxe face oil and serum hybrid that’s made my parched, dull and roughish skin glow again.
"It’s also not caused a break out – a hitherto unknown phenomenon when trying face oils and serums. It smells gorgeous and feels luxe to apply yet it sinks in well with no tackiness, oily residue or transfer."
Best exfoliating serum for dull skin
Alpha-H Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment, $74.95 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it:
- Gentle exfoliant that truly transforms skin, boosting radiance
- Easy to apply
- Supports collagen production
Worth noting:
- Incorporate slowly into skincare routine so as not to irritate the skin
Size: 100ml | Hero ingredients: Glycolic acid, glycerin | Skin types: All
Tried and Tested by Jessica Smith, Body+Soul Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer:
I started using the Alpha-H Liquid Gold chemical exfoliant to try and get rid of some areas of uneven skin on my legs a few months ago, that I had tried just about everything else on. Within a week, my skin was smooth and soft once more. I have since referred to this product as a 'liquid miracle.' Now, on my face, I use the chemical exfoliant to keep my skin bright, clear and even. Super easy to apply, I whack a small few drops on this all over my face after the shower (though you can be a bit more graceful and use a makeup pad to wipe it over your face), and we're done! I love that this means my dead skin cells are constantly being whisked away without wearing my skin down with abrasive exfoliation.
Best natural age-defying serum
Metamorphosis Genesis Pigmentation and Age Spot Serum, $139 at Vanessa Megan Skincare
Why we love it:
- All natural, vegan and cruelty free
Worth noting:
- Not recommended for super sensitive skin
Size: 30ml | Hero ingredients: Lactic acid, niacinamide | Skin types: Non-sensitive, mature skin
Tried and Tested by Susannah Hardy, Partnerships Writer:
"I’ve always been a little sceptical about anti-ageing products - I mean how much can they realistically achieve? But now I'm on the other side of 50, I’m prepared to try anything!
"Apart from the usual signs of ageing, I’ve noticed my skin becoming increasingly blotchy, uneven and a little bit dull. And so when I saw Metamorphosis Genesis Pigmentation and Age Spot Serum by Vanessa Megan, my interest (or desperation I should say) was piqued. I liked that the product is 100 per cent natural as well as vegan and cruelty free. However it’s not suitable for super sensitive skin so I was initially unsure if it was for me.
"I started slowly as the instructions suggest, gradually increasing my usage. But I’ve had no bad reaction - in fact quite the opposite. It has a lovely consistency and is easy to apply. Just a little goes a long way and you can use it on your decolletage as well as face. Being a busy working mum of two teenagers, I like my skincare regime to be quick and easy. Applying this serum each night after cleansing is exactly that.
"The key ingredient is lactic acid, which targets pigmentation and age spots, as well fine lines and wrinkles and so far, I’m impressed. It feels like a good all-over treatment and I’m seeing results. My skin is usually on the dry side, but after using this serum, it looks brighter and feels softer. Someone actually said to me on the weekend that my skin looked ‘all glowy”. Quite frankly, it doesn’t get better than that.
"I will definitely continue to use this serum. As I say, there’s not much you can do about ageing, but this serum makes the process a lot more pleasant."
What to look for when buying an anti-ageing serum
According to Dr Leona Yip, dermatologist and founding partner of Skin Partners Brisbane, it's first "important to identify what your target skin concerns are, (for example) skin hydration, wrinkles, pigmentation etc to be able to select ideal serum active ingredients to address these.
"Secondly, know your skin - if your skin is sensitive or prone to rosacea eczema, then certain active ingredients that commonly irritate the skin eg retinol, AHAs may not be suitable for you.
"Thirdly, remember that it is not just active ingredients that matter. The formulation and packaging of serum products are equally important contributing to efficacy on the skin and product stability in the bottle that determines its shelf life. Choose serum products from reputable brands backed by science and quality."
What are the best face serums for anti-ageing?
Dr Yip says her top age-defence serum picks are:
Hyaluronic acid
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"Hyaluronic acid to boost skin hydration and helps plump the skin to reduce fine lines."
Niacinamide
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"Niacinamide to reinforce skin barrier integrity and for its soothing effects to reduce redness and irritation. It also helps boost collagen."
Vitamin C
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"Vitamin C anti-oxidant to protect the skin from oxidative skin damage caused by UV and pollution.
Retinoids
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"Retinoids (comes in varying strengths depending on skin tolerability) to stimulate collagen production and improve skin pigmentation."
What serum should I use in my 40s?
"By mid-40s, we lose ~25% of skin collagen through natural ageing processes," explains Dr Yip.
"Collagen loss is further accelerated by excessive sun exposure, cigarette smoking and pollution. The skin barrier also starts to weaken so the skin can feel dryer. The focus of skin routine in the 40’s should be on skin repair and regeneration, and continue to protect from sun exposure. For this, Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and retinol serums are ideal for purpose."
Which is better, anti-ageing cream or anti-ageing serum?
According to Dr Yip, an anti-ageing serum is the top pick.
"Serums are more effective as they contain highly concentrated active ingredients to specifically address target concerns. Anti-aging creams usually have lower concentrations of active ingredients mixed in a moisturiser base."
How we chose these products:
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching age-defence serums to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good age-defence serum by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
Want more great skincare recommendations? Check out our favourite anti-wrinkle creams, and the best hyaluronic acid serums for plumper skin.
Originally published as 9 Best anti-wrinkle serums for plump, glowy skin in 2024
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