Trust Us—These Are the 12 Best Anti-Ageing Creams in the Business

While there is obviously no real way to turn back time when it comes to our skin, keeping our complexions looking plump, glowy and healthy doesn't necessarily have to mean cosmetic procedures and in-depth dermatologist appointments. No matter how old you are, using the right anti-ageing creams regularly can make a visible difference to our skin elasticity, plumpness and reducing the appearance of fine lines.

And if you don’t think creams are for you just yet? You might want to think again—the earlier you start taking care of your skin, the better. This can mean anything from drinking enough water and eating the right foods to (most importantly) staying out of the sun, but luckily for us in this day and age, we also have a plethora of products to choose from to help us out along the way.

Whether you’re an anti-ageing skincare pro or considering starting to use products for the first time, it can be a totally overwhelming experience trying to find the best cream for you. That’s why we’ve done the hard work and rounded up the 10 best ever anti-ageing creams that we’ve not only tried and tested but heard the experts raving about countless times. And the best thing? You won’t have to spend a month’s wages on them.

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(Image credit: @greceghanem)

Before we start, however, let’s simplify things with a few key tips and important things to know. When shopping around for legit anti-ageing creams there are some essential ingredients to look out for. Retinol (or vitamin A) speeds up cell turnover, boosts collagen production and is the ultimate anti-ageing ingredient. It can be harsh on the skin to start with, though, so only use every few days to begin with and always use SPF with it, as it can make your skin more sensitive to rays.

Antioxidants like vitamins C and E help fight free radicals—molecules that can do damage to your skin cells. Peptides help repair skin damage. Glycolic acid is an AHA that increases cell turnover to reveal smoother skin. Ceramides and other hydrators like hyaluronic acid and shea butter all lock in moisture and form a protective layer for your skin. And of course, SPF, which is the number one preventative anti-ageing ingredient.

Any one of these ingredients will aid anti-ageing, but the more you can find in one product, the better. It’s also important to know your skin. If you know it has an oily nature, don’t overdo it with rich creams, stick to lighter lotions, but if you struggle with drier skin, it’s the moisture-rich products to pick.

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(Image credit: @hannahcrosskey)

Shop the Best Anti-Aging Creams

Best all-rounder:

Best budget cream:

Best firming cream:

Best investment buy:

Best with retinol:

Best with vitamin C:

Best for sensitive skin:

Best cream with SPF:

Best night cream:

Best preventative cream:

Best retinol cream:

Celebrity favourite:

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated. 

Up next: my friend looks 10 years younger than she is, so I did her skincare for 5 months.

Emily Dawes
Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.

Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.