50 岁后护肤：先把基础程序做对

October 29, 2026

I’ve interviewed enough dermatologists to know that the sharp drop in estrogen around menopause comes with a corresponding decline in collagen. As a 46-year-old woman—and professional beauty obsessive—I don’t find that biological fact particularly cheering. The good news? The best skin care for women over 50 isn’t necessarily more complicated than a routine for a woman decades younger—it’s just a bit different.

“Collagen falls sharply in the years around menopause, and skin thins, dries, and loosens at the same time,” says Vibha Gambhir, MD, a board-certified physician—herself 52 years old—who practices nonsurgical facial cosmetic medicine in New York. “That is a different problem from the sun damage and texture complaints of the 30s and 40s, and it does not respond to the same routine.”

Vogue’s Favorite Skin Care for Women Over 50

The Face Moisturizer: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer, $30
The Retinal Cream: Medik8 Crystal Retinal, $56
The Vitamin C: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, $185
The Gentle Cleanser: Tatcha The Rice Wash, $40
The Toner Pads: Eighth Day Resurfacing Tonic Pads, $125
The Facial Massager: Joanna Czech Facial Massager, $189
The Exosome Serum: Plated Skin Science Intense Serum, $258
The Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra Light Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 60, $33
The Red-Light Mask: Currentbody LED Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 3, $570

What is the right routine for postmenopausal skin? The foundation— “and it is not glamorous,” Gambhir says—is a solid but basic topical regimen, followed religiously. “Keep the skin moisturized, keep it well cleansed, and keep it out of the sun,” she says.

And while trend pieces and FYPs can generate buzz around promising new ingredients, Gambhir recommends sticking with the classics. “If topicals are your main route, use the ones with collagen-building evidence behind them rather than whatever is newest,” she says, pointing to retinoids as the all-star example. “Consistency beats ingredient chasing.”

Naturally, in-office procedures designed to build collagen also help. Gambhir recommends a rotating sequence of collagen-stimulating lasers, Thermage, Sculptra, PRP, and microneedling. Still, she maintains that a thoughtful, consistent skin-care routine is nonnegotiable for keeping skin healthy and fresh. “Nothing works well on a compromised barrier, and no procedure survives ongoing sun exposure,” she says. Ahead, experts share their best advice for every step of the woman over 50’s skin-care routine, along with the best products for every job.

In This Story

Cleanse & Tone

The best skin care for women over 50 begins with daily face washing. Mature skin should be treated with a mild, non-irritating cleanser that won’t strip the skin of its natural oils or irritate dry and sensitive types. For those on the dryer side, New York dermatologist Patricia Wexler, MD, cautions that because dry skin is usually sensitive, it’s best to use a face wash that provides good barrier protection with ingredients like ceramides. “After an initial oil cleanser to remove my makeup, I use a cream cleanser, then use lukewarm water to rinse, and pat my skin dry with a soft cloth,” Wexler explains.

To help maintain the pH balance of the skin after cleansing, celebrity facialist Joanna Czech recommends using a pH-controlling toner, which can also supply an extra layer of moisture and “act as a carrier” for the skin-care steps that come next. The new class of hydrating toners is also worth considering.

Tatcha The Rice Wash

Tatcha

The Rice Wash

Why We Love It: Tatcha’s creamy cleanser gently washes the day away with an amino acid base, while Okinawa algae and hyaluronic acid deeply nourish the skin and replenish its water reserve. The wash is also enriched with Japanese rice powder, which gently sloughs off daily buildup for more radiant skin. “Creamy cleansers are great for mature skin, but sometimes they don’t lather well. That’s not the case with Tatcha’s Rice Wash,” says Maral Kibarian Skelsey, MD, a double-board-certified dermatologist based in the Washington, D.C., area.“I love how the rice powder granules gently exfoliate and make the skin glow,” she adds.
Editor’s Experience: This is like the cleanser—one of those formulas that remind you that getting an above-average face wash can make all the difference. I love how creamy it is, making it exceptional for fall and winter when skin is prone to dryness. Then the gentle exfoliation doesn’t hurt. —Kiana Murden, beauty editor, shopping

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: pH-neutral amino acid base, hyaluronic acid and red algae, Japanese rice powder
Size: 4.0 fl. oz.

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

Vanicream

Gentle Facial Cleanser

Why We Love It: Drugstore brand Vanicream is a dermatologist favorite for gentle, effective skin care that won’t break the bank. “Vanicream’s hydrating cleanser is excellent for sensitive skin because it’s free of dyes, fragrances, and harsh surfactants, making it very low-risk for irritation,” Gretchen W. Frieling, MD, a triple-board-certified dermatopathologist, previously told Vogue. “Its simple, non-foaming formula cleanses without stripping, which is ideal for barrier support.” The budget-friendly cleanser is ideal for those prone to eczema or rosacea, regular retinol users, and post-procedure skin.
Editor’s Experience: A little more than a month ago, I had a rough bout of perioral dermatitis. Apparently, an acne cream prescribed by a dermatologist to treat closed comedones (I was really going through it) sent my skin into sensitivity overdrive. The closed comedones were gone; however, my whole face stung when I applied any of my usual products, and I was sporting insanely dry skin. I instantly paused my usual routine and swapped it for Vanicream’s cleanser and moisturizer. Within a week, my skin was back to being soft and hydrated. —Conçetta Ciarlo, beauty shopping writer

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Water, glycerin, coco-glucoside (coconut-derived)
Size: 8 fl. oz.

SkinCeuticals Equalizing Toner

SkinCeuticals

Equalizing Toner

Why We Love It: This clarifying toner exfoliates skin to gently remove debris and dead skin cells, while rosemary, aloe, and chamomile extract soften and soothe. Its mix of fruit acids and botanical ingredients balances the skin’s pH levels, which can help it retain moisture and better absorb topical products in later steps of the skin-care regimen. By combining glycolic, salicylic, and lipohydroxy acids, it decongests without stripping moisture.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Exfoliating fruit acids, rosemary, aloe, chamomile
Size: 6.8 fl. oz.

Bioeffect EGF Essence

Bioeffect

EGF Essence

Why We Love It: One of Vogue’s top beauty products of 2026, this multitasking essence harnesses pure Icelandic water, glycerin, and epidermal growth factor—hence the “EGF.” Growth factors, as board-certified physician assistant Paula Brezavscek, PA-C, has explained, can target multiple signs of aging at once, from fine lines to loss of elasticity. But they’re also gentle enough for sensitive or post-procedure skin. Bioeffect’s growth factors in particular are derived from barley. “They perform just like human growth factors because they are biologically identical, and clinical studies show visible improvements in skin texture, elasticity, and hydration, putting them on par with traditional sources,” Brezavscek says.
Editor’s Experience: I just used a whole bottle of Bioeffect EGF Essence, part of its growth-factor line that Vogue editors love, and plan to use another. I splash it directly on my skin in the morning to refresh as a first step, and it’s just the right amount of slip to start the day (and works under makeup without pilling!). —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at large

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Epidermal growth factor, glycerin, Icelandic water
Size: 3.38 fl. oz.

Exfoliate—But Don’t Overdo It

In terms of exfoliation, both physical (scrubs) and chemical (AHAs and BHAs) may be used on mature skin—but proceed with caution. “Yes, exfoliation is necessary, but don’t overdo it,” Czech instructs. “With women over 50, the outer layer of skin becomes thinner and more delicate.” To avoid aggravation, Czech recommends taking a minimal approach to physical exfoliation, which can cause micro-tears on the epidermis if you get carried away.

Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser

Regenerating Cleanser

Why We Love It: To buff away dead skin cells safely, Wexler recommends using a gentle scrub, such as Tata Harper’s Regenerating Exfoliating Cleanser. This is a formula that Harper considers “good for all skin types and a great place to start if you’re new to the brand,” she previously told Vogue. With double exfoliation (combining apricot microspheres with beta hydroxy acids), it’s able to “really show you the power of our formulations while giving you a luxury experience.” Infused with apricot microspheres, the cleanser should be used no more than three times a week and followed up with a calming elixir fortified with soothing ingredients such as ceramide and chamomile.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Apricot microspheres, white willow bark, pomegranate enzymes
Size: 4.1 fl. oz.

Clinique Moisture Surge Exfoliating Glow Cleanser

Clinique

Moisture Surge Exfoliating Glow Cleanser

Why We Love It: Launched in July 2026, Clinique’s new cleanser adds physical and chemical exfoliants to a lightweight gel base. It’s made with bamboo beads, salicylic acid, and a hydrating mix of aloe bioferment and hyaluronic acid. By gently sloughing off dead skin cells, the cleanser brightens the complexion and gives it a smoother, softer feel. The rose-colored formula is also generally safe for sensitive skin, as it’s been allergy- and dermatologist tested. What’s more, it’s fragrance-free and noncomedogenic. Pro tip: Top it off with the Moisture Surge moisturizer, a Vogue editor favorite for a plump, dewy glow.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Aloe bioferment, hyaluronic acid, bamboo beads
Size: 4.2 oz.

Eighth Day The Resurfacing Tonic Pads

Eighth Day

The Resurfacing Tonic Pads

Why We Love It: Formulated by reconstructive skin cancer surgeon Antony Nakhla, MD, Eighth Day’s Resurfacing Tonic blends lactic and glycolic acids (both AHAs) with the PHA gluconolactone. As a result, the best-selling tonic resurfaces the outer layer of the skin while accelerating skin-cell turnover. Conversely, it also has cucumber and aloe extracts to calm, hydrate, and cool the skin. The success of the formula inspired Nakhla to deliver it in an even easier-to-use format: presoaked pads that are textured to provide another mechanism for gentle exfoliation. Designed to clarify pores, brighten dullness, smooth texture, and minimize the look of dark spots, the 2026 launch is like “a chemical peel in a pad,” according to Nakhla.
Editor’s Experience: Every time I get a facial, I get asked: Do you exfoliate? I usually ask if using retinol counts, but point taken: At 46, I should be exfoliating regularly if staying glowy is something I want. (It is.) These pads make it easy to exfoliate regularly. I don’t need any extra cotton pads or tools. Plus you can work up to daily use with these, so I don’t have to keep track of any complicated routine. —J.B.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: AHAs, PHA, witch hazel, cucumber and aloe extracts, textured bamboo pads
Size: 45 pads per jar

La Mer The Micro Peel Treatment

La Mer

The Micro Peel Treatment

Why We Love It: Vogue’s beauty shopping editor, Kiana Murden, was once an at-home-peel skeptic—until she met this gentle, bi-phase serum from a brand that plumbs the ocean floor for miraculous antiaging ingredients. In this treatment, Miracle Broth and Miracle Broth Oil soothe the skin during the peeling process, carried out by a resurfacing mix of AHAs, BHA, and PHAs. The sea green potion also contains the Refining Ferment, a marine-acid complex designed to smooth texture and support skin renewal. For a complexion that becomes softer, smoother, and nearly poreless overnight, follow the exfoliating treatment with your night cream of choice—if you want to stay within the brand family, La Mer’s Night Recovery Concentrate repairs the skin barrier while you sleep.
Editor’s Experience: La Mer’s The Micro Peel is proof that an at-home chemical peel does not need to be a harsh treatment to be effective. A thin, even layer is all you need to allow La Mer’s Miracle Broth plus a blend of AHAs and BHA to go to work on your skin at night. —Kiana Murden, beauty shopping editor

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: AHA, BHA, PHAs, Miracle Broth, Miracle Broth Oil, The Refining Ferment
Size: 1 oz.

Use Face Massagers to Boost Collagen

A daily facial massage does wonders for the skin at any age, but is especially transformative for mature complexions. These beauty tools can work to sculpt the facial muscles (think more defined cheekbones and jawline) and reduce fluid buildup, as well as improve blood flow, cell turnover, and tissue toning and boost collagen production. “Collagen is the support net of our skin—it’s what gives structural integrity to the skin, and as it declines, skin becomes looser and sags and wrinkles form,” explains Rochelle Weitzner, founder and CEO of Pause Skincare, a line developed for women going through menopause. Because women experience a dramatic reduction in collagen synthesis after menopause, Weitzner designed a special tool to stimulate fibroblasts, which are the cells that produce collagen.

Using your fingertips or a tool, knead and contour the facial muscles, moving along the jawline and upward toward the highs of the cheekbones and undereye region and across the forehead. For an extra boost at the end, wrap gauze around ice cubes infused with anti-inflammatory green or chamomile tea, then glide them over the skin, per Czech.

Joanna Czech Facial Massager

Joanna Czech

Facial Massager

Why We Love It: As an aesthetician who treats the likes of Jennifer Aniston and Cate Blanchett, Czech knows a thing or two about keeping skin lifted and taut. She designed this double-head roller for her clients to use at home, underscoring her philosophy that facial massage is a key part of any skin-care regimen. Use it for just a few minutes a day to stimulate collagen; the product also works to push in topical products and assist with lymphatic drainage.
Editor’s Experience: This is a classic, both in general and in my beauty stash. I return to it again and again because it doesn’t require any charging or preplanning—honestly, just my ADHD-friendly kind of thing—and it has a certain heft I really appreciate. It feels like it kneads out some of my jaw tension as it works its skin-care magic. —J.B.

More to Know:

Type: Facial massager
Specs: Made of aluminum and zinc alloys, the manual handheld tool has two roller balls to chisel and sculpt the face.
How to Use It: For a facial massage, run the roller from the jawline to the bottom of the ear five times. Then roll it from the center of the lips to the middle of each ear two times; your next steps are to smooth it along the cheekbones five times before rolling it over the brow bones. To cap it off, run the roller from the center of the forehead up into the hairline five times, then from the clavicle up to the back of the ear five times. Finally, run the roller from the middle of the chest toward the shoulder five times. Czech recommends using the tool for about seven minutes a day; all motions should be completed on either side of the face.

Therabody TheraFace PRO

Therabody

TheraFace Pro

Why We Love It: A longtime favorite of Vogue editors, this handheld device has three massaging attachments to release facial tension, along with a cleansing ring to rid the pores of dirt and debris. It also has a microcurrent ring to firm and plump, plus an LED-light ring that targets wrinkles and acne with red, blue, and infrared light. But wait, there’s more! Hot and cold ring attachments are sold separately. While the latter reduces puffiness, the hot ring increases blood flow and can enhance product absorption, according to triple-board-certified dermatologist Mamina Turegano, MD. “The most important part of your routine is using the right products, but this can enhance your skin-care goals,” Turegano previously told Vogue. She added that the TheraFace Pro is an excellent all-in-one tool to combine cleansing, skin tightening, collagen remodeling, circulation boosting, and acne fighting, while targeting facial tension and improving overall skin health.
Editor’s Experience: This is one of my favorite multipurpose tools. Drawing upon Therabody’s percussive massage prowess, I reach for this to primarily relieve facial tension—often rotating between the massaging attachments and the hot and cold rings for additional comfort. Then, with the microcurrent attachment, I finish my treatment sculpted as ever. —K.M.

More to Know:

Specs: FDA cleared, features three LED colors (red, blue, infrared), microcurrent, massage, cleansing
How to Use It: For massage, snap the percussive attachment into place, power it on, then toggle between speeds as you wish while you conduct the facial massage. Glide gently from the center of the chin toward the ear and temple, and then across the forehead and down the jaw and neckline. The massage routine should be kept to a maximum of eight minutes.

NuFACE TRINITY+ Starter Kit

NuFace

TRINITY+ Starter Kit

Why We Love It: This Vogue-verified device first came on the scene in 2005. For more than two decades, it’s maintained cult status as the home device to use for top-of-the-line sculpting, toning, and contouring. It works on the face, the neck, and around the eyes and lips too. The massaging device leans on microcurrent technology, which Tera Peterson, cofounder of NuFace, describes as the “external battery that jump-starts our cellular energy.” As the device works, “it’s lifting, toning, and contouring, and at the same time, the microcurrent is known to increase collagen and elastin as well,” she says.

More to Know:

Specs: FDA cleared, features three microcurrent frequencies, starter-kit bundles the device with facial trainer attachment, gel and cream activators, and an applicator brush
How to Use It: Simply sweep the device several times upward and outward along the desired treatment areas (the cheek, jawline, forehead, and neck) after applying the activator gel. You can choose from three different modes, including microcurrent frequencies that lift, tone, and tighten. The brand recommends using it five minutes a day, five days a week.

Prioritize Serums for Mature Skin

While skin-care basics like cleansers and moisturizers are important even for tweens, “serums are especially beneficial after age 50 because they deliver potent, targeted ingredients that address common skin concerns associated with aging like wrinkles, dryness, and dark spots,” says Nicole Lee, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Garden City, New York. “With ingredients like peptides, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid, they help boost collagen, hydrate, and even out skin tone.” Plus serums have a lightweight formula designed for better absorption. “This makes them more effective at maintaining skin’s health and radiance as we age,” Lee explains.

SkinCeuticals P-Tiox Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Serum

SkinCeuticals

P-Tiox Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Serum

Vogue’s Kiana Murden uses Skinceuticals P-TIOX 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’s also infused with niacinamide (for evening out skin tone) and laminaria (for hydration). Board-certified dermatologist Geeta Yadav, MD, called this “a great choice for anyone looking for a professional-grade formula that delivers visible results without irritation.”
Editor’s Experience: My skin looked smoother—not necessarily in terms of wrinkles, but in its overall consistency and feel—and my hyperpigmentation appeared less noticeable. If one week has already given my complexion more of a glass-skin glow, imagine what it can do for me after 12. —Deanna Pai, contributor

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Advanced peptide complex, 5% PHA, niacinamide, laminaria
Size: 1 fl. oz.

SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic

SkinCeuticals

CE Ferulic

Why We Love It: This Vogue verified vitamin-C serum counts many leading dermatologists as fans. Powered by a potent blend of 15% L-ascorbic acid, vitamin E, and ferulic acid, C E Ferulic targets wrinkles and fine lines with ease. Board-certified dermatologist Vicki Rapaport, MD, previously told Vogue: “CE Ferulic has become the gold standard antioxidant product that dermatologists and other skin-care professionals recommend be used every morning like a prescription to achieve healthy skin,” she says. “It is substantially more than a vitamin-C serum, containing the three most utilitarian antioxidants available in skin care today.” Earlier this year, the beloved formula got a revamp. “If the original C E Ferulic was your skin’s daily insurance policy against environmental damage, these new ingredients are like adding even more comprehensive coverage,” board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, told Vogue. “Vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid remain the powerhouse foundation, while carnosine and endophytol help address additional pathways of skin aging linked to environmental stress.” It’s ultimately a more well-rounded approach to protecting your skin’s health over time.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: 15% L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), vitamin E, ferulic acid, 0.3% carnosine, 1% endophytol
Size: 1 fl. oz.

Plated Skin Science Intense Serum

Plated Skin Science

Intense Serum

Why We Love It: Exosomes are one of the buzziest ingredients in regenerative skin care. Used in Korean treatments for years, “exosomes are especially notable for their regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties, making them valuable in enhancing the skin’s natural repair processes,” double-board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Eunice Park, MD, previously told Vogue. Want to harness their power? Carol Eisenstat, MD, a board-certified physician specializing in facial aesthetics, recommends starting with Plated’s popular formula: “More and more for patients who want to see an improvement in their skin quality,” she says. “Its technology is designed to harness platelet-derived exosomes, which increase the skin’s natural healing process. This makes it a great option to incorporate after laser treatments or microneedling, but it also helps to create healthier skin overall.”

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Platelet-derived exosomes, hyaluronic acid, antioxidant blend
Size: 15 ml.

Dr. Diamond’s Metacine Instafacial Plasma Bioactive Growth Factor Serum

Dr. Diamond's Metacine

Instafacial Plasma Serum

Why We Love It: “This brings an in-office feel to your at-home routine, helping to firm, smooth, and restore radiance for that post-facial glow without the appointment,” board-certified dermatologist Anetta Reszko, MD, previously told Vogue. Inspired by the“vampire facial,” a treatment powered by platelet-rich plasma (PRP), the formula has a bright-pink hue. It’s made with lab-engineered peptides that mimic human growth factors and stimulate PRP to rejuvenate the skin. This face serum can be used on its own or post-procedure to enhance the benefits of any in-office treatment.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Growth factor peptides, collagen peptides, sodium hyaluronate
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.

Restore Volume Loss With Moisturizers

Starting in your 30s and 40s, hyaluronic acid levels begin to decrease, which is what makes fine lines and deep wrinkles more noticeable. When applied topically, hyaluronic acid can help replenish and retain cell moisture (it holds 1,000 times its weight in water), which is why it’s such a common ingredient in moisturizers—particularly in formulas targeting mature skin. Look for this and other nourishing ingredients like ceramides and peptides in face moisturizers, which help restore the skin barrier with consistent use.

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream

Augustinus Bader

The Rich Cream

Why We Love It: One of our favorite moisturizers for dry skin, Augustinus Bader’s The Rich Cream has developed a cult following. It replenishes skin’s moisture levels and reduces the look of dark spots and fine lines thanks to an innovative blend of peptides, amino acids, and nourishing agents. The patented TFC8 ingredient, known to stimulate skin-cell turnover, has made the cream a staple in the antiaging skin-care regime of celebrities like Eva Longoria; Victoria Beckham loves the ingredient so much that she partnered with Bader to include it in her new concealer.
Editor’s Experience: I’d heard so much about this cream over the years that when I got my first sample of it a few years ago, it was like seeing a celebrity appear on my doorstep. I’m still a bit starry-eyed. Despite its name, the cult classic doesn’t have a heavy feel—it is rich, but it’s silky and relatively fast to absorb. —J.B.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: TFC8, vitamin E, evening primrose oil, hyaluronic acid, argan oil, avocado oil
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

Guerlain Orchidée Impériale The Longevity Cream

Guerlain

Orchidée Impériale The Longevity Cream

Why We Love It: “Orchid roots are extremely specialized organs capable of producing numerous molecules involved in the plant’s defense,” Frédéric Bonté, MD, Guerlain’s director of scientific communication, previously said, noting the ingredient’s potential to support collagen production and provide antioxidant benefits. “We established the Orchidarium, the first research center ever dedicated to studying the biological and cosmetic properties of the ingredient.” This high-tech cream harnesses the flower extract to firm and plump the skin while boosting its radiance. As yet another perk, the formula has a velvety texture that melts luxuriously into the skin.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Orchid Longevity Technology (Vanda Coerulea Extract), squalane, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, meadowfoam seed oil, ectoin, adenosine, acetyl hexapeptide-8, diamond powder
Size: 1.69 oz.

SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator

SkinMedica

HA5 Hydra Collagen Hydrator

Why We Love It: “SkinMedica’s HA5 not only delivers hyaluronic acid to the dermis, its complex chains of different hyaluronic acids stimulate the production of your own hyaluronic acid, increasing the resilience of your skin,” Wexler explains of this creamy serum that’s known to hydrate and plump skin like no other. This is also a favorite of board-certified dermatologist Michelle Henry, MD. “It has many different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to penetrate and hydrate at different depths of the epidermis,” she previously told Vogue.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, peptide complex, vitamin E
Size: 2 oz.

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer

Vogue’s Concetta Ciarlo uses L’Oréal’s Revitalift Triple Power Moisturizer.

L'Oréal Paris

Revitalift Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer

Why We Love It: The highest-achieving face cream doesn’t always have the highest price tag. “Expensive skin-care products may include ingredients that are more difficult or labor-intensive to source, but using accessibly priced products can provide antiaging benefits too,” board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD, explains. With this cushiony formula, L’Oréal Paris offers a budget-friendly option that delivers premium results. With a surprisingly luxurious feel, the formula contains hyaluronic acid for deep hydration, retinol to smooth skin and target signs of aging, and vitamin C to brighten. You can use it in the daytime, but the super-rich texture makes it an excellent night cream too.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, salicylic acid, caffeine, tocopherol, sodium hyaluronate, retinol, vitamin C
Size: 1.7 oz.

Don’t Forget Sunscreen!

“Sunscreen is essential at any age, but it becomes even more crucial after 50,” Lee says. “As we age, the skin becomes thinner and more fragile. Chronic, unprotected UV exposure speeds up the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leaving the skin delicate, dehydrated, inflamed, wrinkled, and prone to age spots. Sunscreen is especially important for optimizing skin health in this age group, as it helps prevent skin cancer, slows the signs of aging, and maintains skin hydration.” Dermatologists recommend using an SPF of at least 30, which ensures that the sunscreen filters out 97% of UVB rays—and not just when the sun is out. Daily year-round use of SPF is key, Lee says, especially since the risk of skin cancer increases with age as UV damage accumulates.

La Mer The Broad Spectrum UV Protecting Fluid SPF 50

The Broad Spectrum UV Protecting Fluid SPF 50

Why We Love It: La Mer’s signature Miracle Broth infuses this SPF 50 formulation, which sinks into the skin with a silky, lightweight finish. It can be worn over moisturizer or under makeup, and it offers skin-care benefits that go even beyond the all-essential UV protection. Made with a blend of sea kelp, vitamins, and minerals, Miracle Broth strengthens the skin barrier, making it less prone to irritation. “This is a great option for mature skin because it has a lightweight, skin-care-forward texture,” Sandra Oska, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, previously told Vogue. “One of the main concerns I hear from patients with mature skin is that sunscreen can emphasize fine lines, and this formula helps avoid that with its hydrating and smoothing finish.” She adds that the inclusion of antioxidant-rich ingredients—including kukui seed oil—helps defend the skin against environmental stressors that contribute to visible aging. Rayva Khanna, MD, a dermatology resident at Georgetown University Medical Center, says, “This is particularly well suited for mature skin types that need both sun protection and lasting hydration. The chemical sunscreen formula pairs broad-spectrum UV protection with humectants like sodium hyaluronate and other nourishing emollients that help counteract the dryness and dullness often associated with aging skin.”
Editor’s Experience: I’d categorize this as a pure sensorial delight. It has a light, fresh scent and a milky, silky texture. And though it comes out of the tube in the palest shade of mint green, it vanishes into my skin in less than a second. It feels velvety and hydrating while it’s on, and forms a smooth base for makeup. Even better, it gives my skin a subtle glow that makes me feel confident going makeup-free. —J.B.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Miracle Broth, avobenzone (to absorb UVA rays), homosalate (a chemical UV filter), octisalate (to absorb UVB rays)
Size: 1.7 oz.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid Face Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60

La Roche-Posay

Anthelios Light Fluid Face Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60

Why We Love It: La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios SPF is a lightweight milky solution that sinks right into the skin—delivering not only a quick moisture boost but broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. The formulation also contains the patented Cell-Ox Shield Technology, which combines sun protection with antioxidants for deeper skin protection. And, like all the products from the beloved French pharmacy brand, the SPF incorporates a burst of thermal spring water to soothe and nourish the skin. “This oil-free formula helps to reduce shine (thanks to copolymers) and won’t incite any further breakouts,” board-certified dermatologist Dara Spearman, MD, tells Vogue.
Editor’s Experience: If La Roche-Posay is going to do anything, it’s make an incredible sunscreen. Year after year, I’m impressed by a new formula. This year, it’s the new Anthelios UV Air. I consider myself a SPF serum connoisseur, and I’d argue this sits more in the “cream” arena. Despite this nuance, it’s still incredibly lightweight—making it one of those formulas you’ll genuinely forget you’re wearing. And because it’s powered by gentle ingredients, it’s an SPF I’d feel comfortable recommending to anyone. —K.M.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Cell-Ox Shield technology, dimethicone, silica, La Roche-Posay thermal spring water
Size: 1.7 oz.

EltaMD Spectrum UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46

EltaMD

UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46

Why We Love It: EltaMD UV Clear is one of the most dermatologist-recommended sunscreens out there. Pairing chemical and physical UV filters, this is designed to be safe on all skin types, prevent acne, and reduce inflammation with consistent use. The oil-free formulation has a lightweight feel, and—thanks to an infusion of complexion-balancing niacinamide—it evens out redness on rosacea-prone skin. “In addition to blending well with all skin tones, this sunscreen is formulated with 5% niacinamide, which helps reduce the appearance of blemishes,” Spearman previously said. “It is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and noncomedogenic, so it’s great for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It contains micronized zinc oxide to protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays.”

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, zinc oxide, octinoxate
Size: 1.7 oz.

Merit The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen

Merit

The Uniform Tinted Sunscreen

Why We Love It: Available in 15 shades, Merit’s mineral sunscreen provides SPF-45, broad-spectrum UV protection while giving skin a blurred, lit-from-within glow. The formula is enhanced with featherlight emollients that bring suppleness back to dry and aging skin and fine, plant-based powders to refine pores. What’s more, its exclusive Pigment Dispersion Technology delivers an even, blendable finish that’s rare in tinted mineral sunscreens.
Editor’s Experience: The finish is natural—not matte, nor dewy—which serves as an excellent salve for all skin types and concerns, from breakouts to wrinkles. And so far, it hasn’t pilled for me either. —K.M.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Non-nano zinc oxide, natural powders, lightweight emollients, Pigment Dispersion Technology
Size: 1.7 oz.

Mask to Optimize It All

The Best Skin Care for Women Over 50 According to Dermatologists

“For mature skin, face masks are wonderful for moisture and delivery of extra therapeutics,” says Wexler, noting that you can extend a mask to the neck and décolletage. If the skin is extra dry, or you want your complexion to be smoother and tighter for a special occasion, she recommends a high-powered tightening mask like Natura Bissé Diamond Mask, which is loaded with hyaluronic acid and peptides. For irritated skin, look for a mask with a cooling effect and soothing ingredients, such as 111Skin’s Rose Gold Brightening Mask Set. The mask has a hydrogel texture that calms and cools the skin while its clinical-grade ingredients sink in to rejuvenate the complexion.

Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

Biodance

Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

Why We Love It: “As an occlusive, sheet masks trap moisture into the skin,” Camp previously told Vogue. “The result is skin that temporarily glows brighter, looks more youthful, and feels softer.” This TikTok-famous K-beauty find—infused with low-molecular-weight collagen peptides—delivers on that and more. Since niacinamide is another key ingredient, the mask can “even skin tone, reduce inflammation, and reduce the appearance of pores,” Camp said.
Editor’s Experience: This mask’s benefits are so plentiful that I’ve managed to keep up with biweekly use since first trying it years ago. I continue to be impressed, no matter how many other glass skin–achieving solutions I try; there’s nothing else on the market that works as fast. —K.M.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Low-molecular-weight collagen peptide, galactomyces, oligo hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
Size: 4 masks

111Skin Rose Gold Brightening 5-Piece Facial Treatment Mask

111Skin

Rose Gold Brightening 5-Piece Facial Treatment Mask

Why We Love It: 111Skin’s brightening mask harnesses clinical-grade ingredients to give the skin a radiant glow. The mask has a unique hydrogel texture that boasts a pleasantly cooling effect, and it’s infused with soothing ingredients that seep right into the skin. While the colloidal gold soothes inflammation and nourishes the skin with antioxidants, hexapeptides smooth out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while damask rose helps strengthen the skin barrier.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Colloidal gold, hexapeptides, damask rose
Size: 5 masks

Sisley Paris Express Flower Gel Mask

Sisley Paris

Express Flower Gel Mask

Why We Love It: A flower-infused fix for dull or sagging skin, Sisley Paris’s celebrity-loved mask moisturizes and tones the skin while evening out the complexion. The creamy gel contributes to a well-rested glow and is a staple in Alycia Debnam-Carey’s “ultimate self-care routine.” Apply it for up to three minutes, two to three times a week, then wipe away any excess—no need to rinse. You’ll be left with refreshed, petal-soft skin.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Lily, iris, sesame, rose
Size: 2 fl. oz.

La Prairie Cellular Hydralift Firming Mask

La Prairie

Cellular Hydralift Firming Mask

Why We Love It: Reduce the look of pores and redness with this ultranourishing mask, fortified with La Prairie’s Cellular Complex. The proprietary complex, a staple of the brand since 1978, is the by-product of a closely guarded secret recipe. What is widely shared are its results, which give the skin a fresher look by boosting its repair process. Apply the mask, then leave it on for five minutes before rinsing off.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Cellular Complex
Size: 1.7 oz.

Consider Retinol at Night

Women in their 50s may want to add a retinol step to their nighttime skin-care regime. According to Erum Ilyas, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with the Schweiger Dermatology Group in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, the ingredient is the most effective for tackling concerns associated with aging skin— including fine lines, pigmentation, breakouts, redness, textural changes, and thinning.

To note, “all retinoids are inherently drying, so while they are great antiaging mainstays, they are not for everyone—and that is okay!” says Christina Chung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with the Schweiger Dermatology Group in Philadelphia. “But if you can tolerate retinol, I recommend using it as often as you can.” Some of Chung’s patients use retinol nightly, while others apply it once or twice a week. “It’s not the frequency of application but rather the long-term consistency of use that produces positive results,” she says. As Natalie Curcio, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Curcio Dermatology in Nashville, puts it: “Retinoids are not for someone looking for a quick fix. I tell patients, you will look better in two months, even better in two years, and even better in two decades.”

RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Max Hydration Cream

RoC

Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Max Hydration Cream

Why We Love It: While some retinol products can be drying—rather un-ideal for mature skin, which is already prone to dehydration—this cream has hydrating properties that can counteract the risk of irritation. Powered by retinol and hyaluronic acid, the smoothing cream visibly firms and plumps the skin while offering a potent dose of hydration designed to last. The cream was formulated to hydrate the skin for 48 hours.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid
Size: 1.7 oz.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 Serum

Medik8

Crystal Retinal 3 Serum

Why We Love It: Medik8’s creamy serum is powered by retinal—a maximum-strength form of vitamin A—encapsulated in crystal. The ingredient releases gradually overnight to restore elasticity, even out the skin tone, and minimize the appearance of wrinkles without irritating the skin. Chemistry expert Bruce Green signs off on this technology. “For a skin-care formulation to be effective, it must have an effective delivery method: onto and into the skin barrier,” he says. “Skin is always a limiting factor in the penetration and absorption of actives.” The formulation is also hydrating, thanks to an infusion of hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Editor’s Experience: A top-two vitamin-A product for me (the other being the beloved A313), this just feels so good on the skin. It feels like velvet, and my skin just feels so soft after using it. After a couple of weeks, I’ve noticed my skin looks smoother and brighter. This is definitely one that I used all the way until the tube was completely empty —Audrey Noble, contributor

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Retinaldehyde, hyaluronic acid, glycerin
Size: 1 fl. oz.

U Beauty Resurfacing Compound

U Beauty

Resurfacing Compound

Why We Love It: Talk about a multitasker. This eight-in-one formula resurfaces, renews, and tightens; as if that’s not enough, it also offers antioxidant protection with vitamins C and E. It’s also easy to work into an existing skin-care routine. It can be used morning and night on clean, dry skin—just top it off with a moisturizer and be sure to seal it all in with SPF during the day. Daniel Belkin, MD, board-certified dermatologist at New York Dermatology Group, calls this one of the best chemical exfoliants. “It uses AHAs like glycolic acid and mandelic acid in an encapsulation system that prevents irritation, which is great,” he says. “But it also packs in encapsulated retinol, vitamin C, and antioxidants for a multifaceted approach and sort of an all-in-one benefit.”
Editor’s Experience: Ugh, this stuff is just so good. Whenever I’m lucky enough to receive a bottle, I hide it away from friends, family, and beauty-closet perusers. I’m normally generous, but this is just for me! I hoard it because it improves my skin’s radiance and texture overnight without any dryness or redness. I’ve found that the combination of retinol and AHA does my skin well. It’s becoming a top contender for desert island must-haves. —K.M.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Stabilized vitamins C and E, stable retinol, multi-hydroxy acids, peptides, and hyaluronic acid
Size: 50 ml.

Dr. Few Clean Retinol

Dr. Few

Clean Retinol

Why We Love It: What is clean retinol, exactly? Developed by board-certified plastic surgeon (and Gwyneth Paltrow pal) Julius Few, MD, this silky formula stabilizes retinol in a nutrient-rich, botanical base instead of a synthetic one. With a liquid base of hibiscus, aloe leaf, and green tea hydrosol infused with nourishing plant oils, it locks in moisture and minimizes the risk of irritation. It also features a smart formulation system that can lessen adverse side effects for those unaccustomed to retinol. By combining the active ingredient with the irritation-reducing peptides argireline and matrixyl, the treatment safely targets the deeper layers of the skin, working with the body’s natural cell-turnover processes instead of creating a forced chemical reaction.
Editor’s Experience: Just writing about this formula showcases how elegant and poetic it is—a nourishing base, a smart delivery system, a stamp of approval from GP. This was my starter retinol, and I never had a bad reaction to it. I distinctly remember seeing my face in the mirror the morning after I’d tried it for the first time and thinking it looked like a light had gone on from within. I love the silky, lightweight texture too. —J.B.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Argireline, retinol, matrixyl, green tea hydrosol
Size: 1 fl. oz.

Keep Your Eyes on the Prize

Highly concentrated solutions for dark circles, fine lines, and more, the best eye creams for women over 50 are worth, ahem, taking a look at. “The skin around the eyes is thinner than the rest of the skin on the face—aside from the lips—and is therefore much more susceptible to signs of aging, including laxity and crow’s-feet,” says Yadav. “It’s also an area commonly neglected when it comes to sun protection.” Therefore, she recommends tending to the eyes with creams infused with antiaging ingredients such as plumping peptides. And if an eye cream contains a dash of SPF, that’s all the better.

Chanel Sublimage La Crème Yeux

Chanel

Sublimage La Crème Yeux

Why We Love It: “This is Chanel’s most hydrating eye cream and comes in a refillable format, which is a nice sustainability detail for a luxury product,” says Shannon Humphrey, MD, FRCPC, FFD, a cosmetic dermatologist in Vancouver. “This would be a good choice for patients who want a deeply hydrating eye cream paired with the sensorial experience of top-tier skin care.” Its star ingredient, polyfractioned vanilla planifolia, is extracted from plants grown at the fashion house’s open-air lab in Madagascar. The exclusive extract is part of the Sublime Eye Complex, which works like a charm to diminish puffiness and dark circles.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Vanilla planifolia
Size: 1 fl. oz.

StriVectin Tighten & Lift Peptite Tightening Eye Serum

StriVectin

Tighten & Lift Peptight Eye Serum

Why We Love It: Designed to target crepey skin, dark circles, and puffiness, StriVectin’s tightening eye serum is made with the brand’s patented NIA-114. The so-called “supercharged molecule” strengthens the skin barrier and boosts the performance of other active ingredients. Speaking of actives, the formula is also fortified with a triple peptide blend to tighten and firm, kakadu plum and caffeine extract to brighten, and marine extracts to target crepiness. What’s more, the cooling metal-tip applicator is like a built-in massager.
Editor’s Experience: All hail the cooling metal applicator on this tightening eye cream. On mornings when my face looks puffy (which is, honestly, most mornings), the cooling tip is just what the doctor ordered. I also like that this is in a tube that dispenses just the right amount of product with every squeeze, rather than a jar I have to dip my finger into. It makes it very easy to apply, and ease is something I go for in a morning routine—or, really, any kind of routine. Finally, it feels ultrahydrating. —J.B.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Triple peptide blend, caffeine, kakdu plum extract, microalgae, marine ferment algae
Size: 1 oz.

Sisley Paris Eye Contour Mask

Sisley Paris

Eye Contour Mask

Why We Love It: Salma Hayek Pinault, who is 58, carries this eye cream around in her purse, and—hack alert—she uses it to smooth both eyes and lips. The express mask works within 10 minutes to give the eyelids a contoured, smoother look. At the same time, it lessens the appearance of fine lines and other signs of fatigue with a blend of botanical ingredients. The formula contains soothing and softening linden blossom and rose, along with hydrating plant-based glycerin and toning arnica and gingko biloba.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Linden blossom, arnica, rose, glycerin, ginkgo biloba, provitamin B5
Size: 1 oz.

Lancôme Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum Eye

Lancôme

Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum Eye

Why We Love It: This silvery tube holds three serums in three separate chambers. There’s a plumping, tightening serum with hyaluronic acid and SNK-peptide; a brightening serum with vitamin C and niacinamide; and a vitamin-E serum to hydrate and soothe. Pump the dispenser—just once, please, per the brand—and the three serums mix freshly for each application. The results? Visibly lifted eyes that look brighter and smoother too.

More to Know:

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, SNK-peptide, vitamin C, niacinamide, vitamin E
Size: 0.7 fl. oz.

Light It Up, LED Style

Women over 50 would do well to consider lighting up their skin-care regimens with one of the market’s top red-light devices. According to Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, “Studies suggest that red-light therapy may help boost collagen, reduce inflammation, and improve overall skin quality.” From a plastic surgeon’s perspective, Peter Koltz, MD, notes that at-home red-light therapy treatments won’t produce the same results as in-office procedures—but they certainly can’t hurt. “Regular use provides meaningful anti-inflammatory benefits and promotes collagen remodeling,” he says. “While it isn’t a substitute for professional treatments like facelifts, consistent use can visibly enhance skin quality and health over time.”

Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

Dr. Dennis Gross

DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

Why We Love It: Like your skin care on the move? This hands-free device has a contouring fit that stays snug on the face, and it delivers clinical-grade light treatments in ultraquick three-minute automatic cycles. Turn over your laundry, make another cup of coffee, and bam! Your around-the-house tasks—and your treatment—are done. “Patients often report more even tone and less redness after a few weeks of use,” board-certified nurse practitioner Vanessa Coppola previously told Vogue. “It’s FDA cleared and offers great cumulative benefits when used regularly (three to five times per week).” Double-board-certified plastic surgeon Angela Sturm, MD, recommends it because it “can treat a wide range of conditions by using blue light for acne, red for wrinkles and brown spots, near-infrared for deep dermal collagen stimulation, and amber to reduce inflammation.”
Editor’s Experience: As an acne-prone girl, this is my LED mask of choice thanks to the featured blue-light therapy benefits. —K.M.

More to Know:

Best For: Treating fine lines and deep wrinkles, smoothing uneven skin texture, fading age/sun spots, and destroying acne-causing bacteria
Device Type: Hard-shell mask
Treatment Modes: 3
Usage: 3 minutes a day on clean, dry skin
FDA-Approved: Yes, FDA cleared for home use

Solawave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand

Solawave

4-in-1 Skincare Wand

Why We Love It: A longtime Vogue editor favorite, Solawave’s multitasking wand is an ideal solution for red-light therapy on the go. The lightweight portable wand can be used for 12 minutes at a time to stimulate collagen production, decrease inflammation, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles—all while boosting skin’s radiance. Its four treatment modes include red-light therapy with a 630-nanometer wavelength, galvanic current, facial massage, and therapeutic warmth. After giving the wand a go for a short time, Murden reported: “Personally, I saw results in a matter of days. Specific skin concerns aside, I felt like my skin just felt better—glowing and firmer. Aesthetically, my dark spots faded, blemishes reduced, and my eye bags appeared less puffy the following morning. Honestly, even mentally, I felt a sense of accomplishment for completing the treatment.”
Editor’s Experience: The lightweight wand is hardly heavier or thicker than a pen, which makes it super easy to grip. It feels comfortable to hold and glides easily over the skin. I tested it with the brand’s Activating Serum, though it moves well even without it. After about a week of testing, I’ve become a glutton for the gentle warmth, which makes the treatment feel soothing and leaves my skin with a healthy-looking glow afterward. The full 12-minute treatment can feel a bit long, but I believe something is better than nothing, and even a truncated treatment during my morning skin-care routine makes me feel de-puffed and smoothed out for the day. —J.B.

More to Know:

Best For: De-puffing, boosting radiance, smoothing fine lines
Device Type: Wand
Treatment Modes: 4
Usage: 12-minute treatments, 3 to 5 times a week, spending 3 minutes on each area of the face
FDA-Approved: Yes, FDA cleared

CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 3

Currentbody

LED Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 3

Why We Love It: Tech-savvy LED enthusiasts, rejoice: CurrentBody just delivered the third iteration of its Vogue-verified red-light-therapy mask. While the Series 2 model had three wavelengths, this one has six—blue, green, yellow, red, near infrared, and deep near infrared—to target everything from fine lines to hyperpigmentation and acne. The latest mask also has 750 LED bulbs—a significant increase from the 250 bulbs in the last model. Its Bluetooth app connection helps you choose the exact wavelengths hitting different zones of your face, while MyDose in-app technology magically determines the exact amount of light energy your skin needs.

More to Know:

Best For: Targeting persistent acne, hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging
Device Type: Flexible silicone mask
Treatment Modes: 4
Usage: Sessions run for 10 minutes, recommended 3 to 5 times per week
FDA-Approved: Yes, FDA cleared for at-home use

Shark CryoGlow Cooling + LED Face Mask

CryoGlow Cooling +LED Face Mask

Why We Love It: “The Shark Beauty CryoGlow + LED Face mask uses FDA-cleared red, blue, and infrared light, giving it the flexibility to treat a wider range of skin concerns including acne, wrinkles or brown spots,” Sturm previously told Vogue. “This infrared technology penetrates deeper in the dermis to improve deeper wrinkles and texture.” The innovative device isn’t just designed for red-light therapy, mind you. It also harnesses the brand’s InstaChill Cold Technology to tighten and soothe the undereye area in a flash.
Editor’s Experience: The CryoGlow completely won me over. For someone with acne-prone skin, the blue-light treatment on the Skin Clearing setting has become my not-so-secret weapon, zapping breakouts and calming inflammation in between trips to my facialist. I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how much of a visible difference it makes—my skin looks clearer, calmer, and somehow more even after just two weeks of consistent use. —C.C.

More to Know:

Best For: Targeting acne, brown spots, and fine lines
Device Type: Hard-shell mask
Treatment Modes: 4
Usage: Daily treatments of 6 to 15 minutes
FDA-Approved: Yes, FDA cleared

Everything You Need to Know

What is the best skin-care routine for a 50-year-old?

“The basics for every skin-care routine, regardless of age, are cleansing, protecting, and repairing skin,” says Ilyas. However, Ilyas notes that women in their 50s typically have “much more sensitive” skin due to hormonal changes brought on by perimenopause and menopause. For these women, “I recommend sticking with mild cleansers to achieve cleanliness without overdrying or irritating the skin,” she says. As a next step, SPF is a must.

At night, the focus should shift to repair. “Our skin is a functioning organ faced with environmental insults such as UV exposure and pollution from the outside while managing hormonal fluctuations, stress, sleep changes, dehydration, inflammation, and a variety of other internal challenges,” Ilyas notes. “Give it the protection and hydration it needs overnight to work at its best.”

Skin-Care Ingredients for Women Over 50

While adhering to these steps is essential to care for mature skin, ensuring your regimen features the right ingredients is equally as important. Based on the advice of these experts and our own research, we’ve compiled a list of the best skin-care ingredients for women over 50.

Ceramides: “Ceramides are very important lipids that are naturally found within our body, [which] help to maintain the integrity of the skin barrier and hold hydration in the skin,” dermatologist Alexis Stephens, MD, previously told Vogue. It works well to restore skin’s moisture levels for a plumper, firmer complexion.
Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is an acclaimed ingredient known to hold 1,000x its weight in water—meaning it delivers ample hydration in a single use. It can be helpful to use it on its own (take your pick of the best hyaluronic acid serums) or as a key ingredient in your chosen face cream.
Retinols: For wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and invisible photo-damage, Wexler recommends looking to retinol, a derivative of vitamin A that, when applied topically, can promote skin renewal, brighten skin tone, clear up hyperpigmentation, and aid in production of collagen. It is available both in prescription strength and over the counter, and it’s best to consult your dermatologist to advise on the potency, frequency, and type of retinoid to use. Wexler also notes that retinol can be especially beneficial in tending to eye-area concerns, working in combination with peptides to stimulate new collagen, and in turn, support the laxity of the tissue, she says.
SPF: All skin experts can agree that prioritizing daily sunscreen wear is essential, but particularly in aging skin. “Hormonal changes in women tend to make us more susceptible to the impact of light exposure,” Ilyas says. Look for a broad-spectrum formula with an SPF 30 or higher.
Vitamin C: Another key ingredient for brightening a dull complexion and erasing sun spots is vitamin C, which helps treat and fight against free radical damage that causes oxidative stress and skin aging. The powerhouse antioxidant can also help to address hyperpigmentation.

Meet the Experts

Shannon Humphrey, MD, FRCPC, FFD, is a cosmetic dermatologist in Vancouver.
Peter Koltz is a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Pēkomd in Ohio.
Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and lifestyle medicine doctor in Miami.
Geeta Yadav, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the medical director and founder of FACET Dermatology in Toronto.
Mina Amin is a Los Angeles–based dermatologist at California Dermatology Specialists.
Vanessa Coppola, APN-C, FNP-BC, is a board-certified nurse practitioner, aesthetic expert, and founder of Bare Aesthetics Medspa & Wellness in New Jersey.
Noah Gratch is a board-certified dermatologist, serving patients from throughout Manhattan, Commack, and Plainview, New York, at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery.
Jennifer MacGregor is a New York–based board-certified dermatologist with fellowship training in cutaneous laser surgery and dermatologic procedures.
Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist seeing patients in New York and Newport Beach; she’s also the founder of Skincare Junkie.
Melanie Palm is a board-certified dermatologist, fellowship-trained dermatologic cosmetic surgeon, and founder of Art of Skin MD.
Pooja Rambhia is a board-certified dermatologist with specialized fellowship training in cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery.
Azadeh Shirazi is a California-based board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.
Divya Shokeen is a California-based board-certified dermatologist at the Ocean Skin and Vein Institute.
Angela Sturm is a Texas-based double-board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facelifts and rhinoplasty.
Vibha Gambhir, MD, is a board-certified physician who practices nonsurgical facial cosmetic medicine in New York.

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Lauren Valenti is Vogue’s former senior beauty editor. Her work has also appeared on ELLE.com, MarieClaire.com, and in In Style. She graduated with a liberal arts degree from Eugene Lang College, The New School for Liberal Arts, with a concentration on Culture and Media Studies and a minor in Journalism. ... Read More

Jenny Berg is a beauty contributor at Vogue with over a decade of industry experience. Ever on a quest for the perfect dewy blush, she has an equal fixation on fragrance, celebrity beauty secrets, and anything French. She holds a bachelor's degree in art history from The University of Chicago and has ... Read More