Maintaining radiant, youthful skin goes beyond reducing wrinkles: As we age, the skin on our face, neck, and body loses firmness due to a decline in collagen and elastin — proteins that provide structural support and elasticity. “Sagging skin is primarily caused by this loss,” says dermatologist Mamina Turegano, M.D.
And there’s no shortage of potions proclaiming to counteract the appearance of lax skin with firming and lifting effects. Most commonly in serum and moisturizer form, these products contain ingredients like peptides, retinol, vitamin C, growth factors and niacinamide that purport to stimulate collagen product or ones that plump skin, such as hyaluronic acid.
1 Best Overall
Avon Anew Ultimate Multi-Performance Night Cream
Pros
- Increased skin firmness by 39%, one of the highest levels in Lab tests
- Highly moisturizing
- Reduces dark spots
Cons
- The texture and scent were polarizing
Key ingredients:Peptides, glycolic acid
Best for:Dry and mature skin
2 Best Value
Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer
Pros
- Firmed skin by 27% in four weeks
- Excelled in lifting, brightening and softening
- Contains top anti-aging ingredients
Cons
- May leave a residue on skin
Key ingredients:Retinol, niacinamide, peptides
Best for:Dry, aging skin
3 Best Face Serum
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum
Pros
- One of the most measurably firming serums in Lab testing
- Minimizes pores
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
Cons
- Not as effective at smoothing lines
Key ingredients:Retinol, hyaluronic acid
Best for:All skin types
4 Best for Dry Skin
Algenist Genius Sleeping Collagen Cream
Pros
- Raised skin’s firmness by 33%
- Showed results quickly and over time
- Nourishing balm formula
Cons
- May be too rich for those with oily skin
Key ingredients:Ceramides, amino and fatty acids
Best for:Dry, aging skin
5 Best for Body
SkinMedica Firm and Tone Lotion
Pros
- Contains derm-approved ingredients for collagen and elastin support
- Can be used all over the body
- Can help skin look tighter
Cons
- Expensive
Key ingredients:Peptides, plant extracts
Best for:All skin types
