There’s no denying that a lot of moisturisers for mature skin come with big claims. Whether it has to do with reducing hyperpigmentation, smoothing out wrinkles or plumping up your complexion, it’s important to keep in mind that not all formulas are made equal.
First things first, we know that reduced collagen production is one of the biggest factors when it comes to skin ageing. It’s the exact reason why our skin loses its elasticity, which also leads to more prominent fine lines and wrinkles. Otherwise, excessive dryness also plays a big role too.
Dr Kristina Collins, MD FAAD, Harvard-trained and double board-certified dermatologist shares that mature skin is known to be “thinner and less resilient due to the decrease in functional collagen and elastin, and bruising becomes more likely as blood vessels also become more fragile.”
Dr Collins also highlights that with each yearly trip around the sun, your body — and your skin — change in a number of ways. Because of hormone fluctuations and cumulative environmental exposure (think UV damage), mature skin is more likely to benefit from a solid skincare regimen.
With this in mind, following a curated skincare routine that meets your skin’s individual needs becomes that much more important. To help you choose the right moisturiser that will strengthen your skin barrier, we’ve sought out the help of several board-certified dermatologists aestheticians so that you’re well informed before making your pick. Here’s everything you need to know.
SKIP TO: What happens to our skin as we age? | Why is mature skin drier? | Which ingredients are best for mature skin? | Shop our best picks.
Best moisturisers for mature skin 2024 at a glance:
- Best overall: Medik8 Advanced Night Restore
- Best affordable: The INKEY List Bio-Active Cermide Moisturiser,
- Best according to dermatologists: SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 Lipid Replenishment Skincare
- Best for lifting: Caudalie Resveratrol-Lift Firming Cashmere Cream
Meet the experts:
What happens to our skin as we age?
“Your skin goes through a lot of changes,” says Cynthia Rivas, an aesthetician and skincare expert based in New York City. “It’s important for your skincare to support the ageing process.” Why, you ask? Well, mature skin tends to sag because it’s losing elasticity and collagen, so laxity and lines can appear more prominent.
“The skin needs support to protect against transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which is water escaping from the skin,” says Dr Yadav. That’s where a moisturiser comes in. Nourishing and hydrating ingredients found in moisturizer formulations can help lock in moisture and prevent the skin from losing hydration.
The GLAMOUR team has collectively trialled over a hundred moisturisers, having tested each formulation over a minimum period of a month, while keeping in mind various skin types and skin concerns. We’ve made sure to assess the formulas based on their ingredients, how well they managed to keep our skin hydrated, if the formula resulted in any irritation due to active ingredients or strong fragrance, and of course, whether they’re genuinely worth their price.