No matter how much we (and Cher) would like to turn back time, it’s sadly impossible. With the passing of years comes signs of aging like forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet around the eyes, and dark spots. The good news is advancements in the skincare world mean there are plenty of products out there that have the ability to not only slow the signs of aging on your face but minimize the appearance of existing ones. And as the cold season creeps ever closer, it might be a good time to take stock of your skin care products.

Anti-aging products can slow down the aging process by stimulating collagen production, fighting oxidizing agents — which damage DNA — and promoting skin peptide production that results in optimal protein functioning.

Must-Have

Sunscreen and Moisturizer

Sunscreen and moisturizer plus retinol are the three most effective anti-aging products. Exposure to UV light speeds up the natural aging process of your skin, causing wrinkles and rough, blotchy, uneven pigmentation. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen moisturizer with an SPF of 30 or more on exposed skin year-round is important.

Preventing wrinkle formation can also be achieved by reducing inflammation through antioxidants which should be combined with sunscreens and retinoids to enhance their protective effect. Creams and serums with Vit C and E are great, as well as Vit A, which would be the most important.

Retinol for Skincare

Vit A (retinol) it’s pretty much the gold standard when it comes to anti-aging ingredients. Retinoids or retinol have been studied for anti-aging and have been shown to help promote skin turnover, which brings new skin cells to the surface and promotes collagen production, preventing the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.

Another good ingredient to look for in anti-aging products is hyaluronic acid. This natural sugar molecule occurs in our body and helps to attract water, so it functions as a great moisturizer.

We cannot forget glycolic acid: It exfoliates skin to help with skin texture and pore size.

Also, pay attention to your eyes. The skin around your eyes is thin and vulnerable. Choose an eye-specific product to ensure that you use a formula designed to minimize skin reactions in this area, whether you prefer peptides or retinol. Eye creams also often have caffeine to minimize puffiness.

Here are some suggestions for excellent skin care products we love:

Retinol Treatment for Sensitive Skin

Daily Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

Hydrator Plus Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Sheer Tint Eye Triple Complex Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Après Peel® Hydrating Balm

Après Peel® Hydrating Balm

Après Peel® Hydrating Balm

C&E Advanced with Hexylresorcinol and Silymarin

Intensive Brightening Treatment: 0.5% pure retinol night

Retinol Treatment for Sensitive Skin

Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum