The best souvenir shops in France are marked with glowing green crosses. If you have any interest in skincare, you know how exciting it is to find French pharmacy shelves packed with clinical-grade, dermatologist-recommended beauty products priced under 20 euros and available to buy without a prescription. 

But you no longer need to book a flight to Europe for miracle French drugstore finds. Today, many are available at Amazon, albeit priced a little higher than they would be in France. One that’s achieved cult status is the A313 cream, an over-the-counter fountain of youth designed to reduce signs of aging with its potent retinol formula. Lucky for us all, the viral skincare product found its way to the virtual shelves of the Amazon Beauty storefront earlier this year. And, the under-2-ounce tube will fit perfectly in your toiletry bag, so you’ll never have to travel without it.

A313 French Pharmacy Face Cream

Anyone who’s on SkinTok has seen influencers rave over this little blue and white tube. A313 is a familiar brand of face cream in France, where it’s been sold over the counter for many years. The star ingredient of the “holy grail product” is retinol, a chemical derivative of vitamin A. The cream has a notably high concentration of retinol (0.06 percent), which makes it a particularly strong, potent formula. In the U.S., retinol products can be sold over the counter at strengths of up to 0.1 percent, but A313 has been compared to more powerful, prescription-strength retinoids like Tretinoin and Differin.

In general, retinol works to increase cell turnover, helping your skin shed the dead stuff more quickly to maintain a soft, smooth texture. For some, this comes with flaking, dryness, and possibly even peeling in the beginning, but your skin typically adjusts to the retinol over time as it gets accustomed to the faster process. The A313 cream also contains certain ingredients—PEG-8, PEG-75, and Polysorbate 80—that help the vitamin A penetrate deeper into the skin, for even better results. 

Other hydrating, nourishing ingredients include peanut oil and tocopherol, a source of vitamin E with antioxidant properties. Reviewers say their wrinkles are less pronounced and they experience fewer acne breakouts after using this cult-favorite French cream. One acne sufferer in their 30s said they saw a 90 percent improvement after one night on A313. Three days in, their skin was “already transformed.”

A313 French Pharmacy Face Cream

Many report that their skin has never been better, even with some being in their 60s and 70s. One wrote, “[It] took years off my face!” and others report a smoother, glowier complexion. A testament to its surging popularity, the product has been purchased on Amazon more than 6,000 times just in the past month. And even celebrities use it: Sienna Miller told Harper’s Bazaar it’s her “French-girl secret to great skin,” recommended to her by none other than Alexa Chung. 

The beauty of it all is that you don’t have to be on a Hollywood budget to afford it. You can buy the A313 cream for $46 right now—no plane ticket to Paris required. Discover more French beauty secrets we found at Amazon, below.

More French Skincare at Amazon:

Embryolisse Lait-crème Retinol-like Moisturizer

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer

Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream

Vichy Mineral 89 Booster

Caudalie Vinopure Natural Salicylic Acid Pore Minimizing Serum

At the time of publishing, the price started at $46.

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The smooth, taut skin on our arms and legs will change with enough time (and not to mention sun damage), but there’s good news: The best body lotions for mature skin can help minimize the look of lax, crepey skin when it appears, or even slow down its arrival if you’re taking early precautions. (Look at you, being proactive!) These nourishing formulas, typically infused with active ingredients like wrinkle-reducing retinol, firming peptides, and exfoliating alpha-hydroxy acids, can be game-changing additions to your body-care routine to target existing fine lines and prevent future sagging. Plus, as with any body lotion, you can expect the conditioning and skin-softening properties of your average cream—just with the extra benefits of ingredients that refine texture and tone.

Below, scroll ahead to find the best body lotions, creams, and balms that board-certified dermatologists say help minimize crepiness, fine lines, and age spots.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream

Why it’s worth it: Skinimalism is in, and La Roche-Posay’s Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Moisturizer is perfect for whittling down your skin-care regimen. Formulated for dry skin types, this hydrating cream smooths your roughest parts while being light and fast-absorbing enough for your face. On top of its lightweight texture, this moisturizing body lotion is fragrance-free, which bodes well for sensitive skin. “Lipikar has both moisturizers that help replenish the natural moisturizers that lessen with age and niacinamide that helps with discoloration and redness,” says Stephanie Saxton-Daniels, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Dallas. A soothing blend of shea butter, prebiotic-rich thermal water, and glycerin plumps skin and minimizes the look of fine lines while niacinamide brightens and evens tone. Since this formula doesn’t contain harsh actives, you can apply it day and night for ’round-the-clock conditioning benefits.

Best with Retinol: Nécessaire The Body Retinol

Why it’s worth it: As its name suggests, Nécessaire’s The Body Retinol contains retinol, but there’s much more to this derm-loved formula. “Formulated with 0.1% retinol along with AHAs, peptides, vitamin C, and glycerin, this comprehensive body cream is one of my favorites,” says Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in La Jolla, CA. “It boosts skin hydration and laxity, minimizes crepiness, and its fast-absorbing formula doesn’t feel sticky.” Since this potent serum contains multiple active ingredients, Dr. Shiraki notes that it’s best used at night, starting with weekly applications and gradually increasing to every other night.

The Body Retinol contains rosewater to offset retinol’s notoriously pungent scent, but if you prefer fragrance-free formulations, Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, recommends trying The Body Lotion. “Formulated with peptides to encourage collagen production, niacinamide to soothe skin, and oils rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, this fragrance-free body lotion moisturizes, firms, and strengthens skin,” he says.

Best for Crepey Skin: Alastin TransForm Body Treatment

Why it’s worth it: If you’re targeting the look of sagging skin, Kellie Reed, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Austin, suggests adding the Alastin TransForm Body Treatment to your routine. “It is a peptide-based moisturizer that helps skin appear more firm and toned,” she says. Its key ingredient, peptides, are amino acid chains that support collagen production and preserve your skin’s elasticity. The brand’s peptides-based TriHex technology clears out old collagen and elastin, making way for brand-new, stronger fibers. Along with peptides, this silky serum-like treatment is enriched with hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidant-rich dill extract to smooth skin texture.

Best for Uneven Texture: Glytone Exfoliating Body Lotion

Why it’s worth it: Glytone Exfoliating Body Lotion is a targeted treatment for anyone dealing with rough texture, bumps, or uneven tone. Packed with 17.5% glycolic acid—well above the typical 10–15% you’ll find in most over-the-counter body lotions—it powerfully exfoliates to sweep away dead skin cells, clear clogged pores, and smooth rough patches, revealing softer, more radiant-looking skin. “It’s perfect for acne-prone skin [due to hormonal changes] or those trying to minimize the look of keratosis pilaris (KP),” James Y. Wang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles, previously told Allure. If you’re new to stronger acids, nourishing vitamin E helps keep things smooth and protected, making it easy to work into your daily routine once your skin has acclimated.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Replenix Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion

Why it’s worth it: Replenix Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion delivers the powerful results of retinol in a formula gentle enough for sensitive or redness-prone skin. It features all-trans-retinol, a highly researched form of vitamin A that’s “encapsulated for gradual release, to minimize irritation while it brightens and firms crepey skin,” Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously told Allure. To balance the potency, the fragrance-free formula is paired with calming edelweiss flower extract and antioxidant-rich green tea for added soothing and protection. Those with crepey skin or uneven texture will notice how it firms, smooths, and restores softness over time.

Best for Firming: Murad Resurgence Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment

Why it’s worth it: Murad’s Resurgence Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment features retinaldehyde (a.k.a. retinal), a stronger form of retinol. “Both retinal and retinol are vitamin A derivatives. However, retinal is one step closer to becoming retinoic acid, which is the active form that binds to receptors in your skin to stimulate collagen production and skin cell turnover,” Asmi Berry, DO, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, California, previously told Allure. That’s why retinal often works faster and more effectively than even the strongest retinol creams. Ideal for areas that tend to lose firmness—such as the arms, knees, and décolletage—it combines potent actives with nourishing moisturizers, including shea butter and squalane.

Best for Itchy Skin: Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Balm

Why it’s worth it: If your skin is dry, sensitive, or easily irritated (or all of the above), Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Balm delivers instant relief. Its fragrance-free, ceramide-based formula calms discomfort, deeply hydrates, and strengthens the skin barrier. “Despite its rich texture, it absorbs very well without leaving behind a greasy layer. I’ve personally used this through several New York winters on my own eczema-prone skin and find it unmatched for severe dryness. Many of my patients with atopic dermatitis report that this is the only product that prevents their seasonal flares when used consistently,” Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously told Allure. For a lighter texture, try Bioderma Atoderm Crème Ultra, which is even gentle enough for babies.

Best for Eczema-Prone Skin: Skinfix Lipid-Boost Body Cream

Why it’s worth it: Skinfix’s Lipid-Boost Body Cream has such a creamy, cushiony formula that provides sweet moisturizing relief to our driest skin without feeling greasy, which is why this dense body cream won an Allure Best of Beauty Award back in 2018. To this day, both our editors and Dr. Camp are still fans of this cream for its intensive approach to moisturizing, which is powered by a blend of shea butter, ceramides, and oils derived from moringa, sweet almond, grapeseed, and jojoba. “These ingredients, along with moisture-retaining colloidal oatmeal, help heal and restore the integrity of the skin barrier,” says Dr. Camp. “A healthy skin barrier is essential for skin that is hydrated, firm, and plump.”

Best Lightweight: Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment

Why it’s worth it: Dr. Camp is also a fan of Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment for its star ingredient, retinol, which is featured in a fast-drying, non-greasy formula. “Retinol is included in this body treatment, along with antioxidants like vitamin C and moisturizing ingredients like evening primrose and grapeseed oils to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone and eliminate dry skin,” he says. Though it’s packed with nourishing skin-care ingredients, its texture is light and absorbs quickly, so it won’t cause your pajamas to stick to your body as you sleep (since this contains retinol, only use it at night, by the way).

Best Balm: Osea Body Balm

Why it’s worth it: Most of Osea’s formulations, including the Body Balm, include a key superstar ingredient: seaweed extract. This particular ingredient contains a slew of amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals essential for plump, supple skin. This body moisturizer is technically a balm, but the conditioning formula has the texture of a dense lotion that is surprisingly quick to absorb into the skin. Though it’s lighter in texture than other balms, its heavy-hitting conditioning benefits are powered by a mix of passion fruit seed, coconut, and safflower seed oils. “I like how this balm utilizes alaria esculenta seaweed to improve the appearance of skin elasticity and firm the look of skin,” says Dr. Reed.

Best Tightening: StriVectin Crepe Control Tightening Body Cream

Why it’s worth it: StriVectin’s Crepe Control Tightening Body Cream provides “tightening to the crepiness and sagging seen on the skin,” according to Purvisha Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Memphis. She says the Crepe Control body cream won’t instantly provide noticeable results, but, with consistent use, its cocktail of antioxidant-rich jojoba seed extract, anti-inflammatory turmeric root extract, and conditioning shea, murumuru, and capuaçu butter blend will significantly improve the look of sagging skin.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which signs of skin aging appear on the body?

As we all know, aging is a wonderfully natural process that affects every part of our bodies, including our largest organ, the skin. But before we get into treatments, it’s important to understand what’s happening inside your body.

As you mature, your skin’s once-supple texture becomes more lax due to the loss of collagen, according to Dr. Shirazi. Collagen is the main protein that acts as the support beam for your body’s connective tissues, including your skin, and as you age, your body’s natural supply depletes. This depletion leads to the formation of wrinkles, crepiness, and skin sagging. “Crepey or loose skin, particularly on the abdomen, upper arms, back of the hands, and thighs, known as skin laxity, becomes more pronounced with age,” explains Dr. Shirazi. She also notes that the loss of collagen around blood vessels, particularly in areas with lots of movement, like the backs of your hands, can increase bruising without noticeable trauma to the skin. “This is common on the hands and back of arms, known as actinic purpura,” she adds.

Ahead, we listed every retinol body lotion, cream, and serum that board-certified dermatologists (and our editors) swear by for skin that needs blemish-, dullness-, and crepe-reducing care.

Best Overall: Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum

Why it’s worth it: If your skin can handle it, Dr. Yadav recommends an exfoliating body lotion like the Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum. It contains a Best of Beauty-winning combination of retinol and glycolic and lactic acids, which are alpha hydroxy acids that help “reduce fine lines and discoloration, as well as remove dead skin cells on the surface,” says Dr. Yadav. This allows the retinol to better penetrate the skin, which is especially helpful if you’re trying to combat rough texture or a skin condition like keratosis pilaris.

Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, Louisiana, also gives this value-friendly formula her stamp of approval. “I appreciate the combo of actives—retinol, lactic acid, and urea to gently exfoliate—for just $30,” she says. “I also love how moisturizing it is, with goodies like glycerin, squalane, green tea leaf extract, and vitamin E.”

Best Prescription-Strength: Musely The Body Cream

Why it’s worth it: While it’s always best to see a dermatologist when you can, Musely makes prescription-strength care far more accessible by connecting you with a licensed provider who tailors the brand’s Body Cream to your specific needs. At the core of the formula is tretinoin, also known as retinoic acid—the fastest-acting form of vitamin A. “Tretinoin is the gold standard for improving skin texture and fine lines,” San Diego-based board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, MD, previously told Allure. This potent ingredient accelerates cell turnover to smooth wrinkles, clear breakouts, and refine tone. Supporting players include vitamin C to brighten sun spots and hyaluronic acid to lock in lasting head-to-toe hydration.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Replenix Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion

Why it’s worth it: You won’t find the exact retinol percentage on the label, but Replenix Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion does pack all-trans-retinol—a well-studied form of vitamin A that your skin converts into retinoic acid to boost collagen production and cell turnover. The brand calls its retinol “medical-grade,” which (FYI) is often industry shorthand for levels you won’t typically see in standard drugstore products, although there’s no regulation around the term. And while it’s potent, sensitive-skin types don’t need to worry: “The formula’s all-trans-retinol is encapsulated for gradual release, to minimize irritation while it brightens and firms crepey skin. Plus, it’s paired with calming edelweiss flower extract and antioxidant-rich green tea,” says Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.

Best Scent: Chantecaille Rose de Mai Body Cream with Retinol

Why it’s worth it: When we think of French-girl glow, we think of Chantecaille—the brand, which began as a French fragrance house, has always made everyday routines feel elegant and indulgent. The Rose de Mai Body Cream with Retinol features a velvety, fast-absorbing formula that melts into skin with a delicate, natural rose fragrance. And while the scent is dreamy, the formula works hard to smooth out dry, rough texture. “This lotion uses encapsulated retinol in botanical microspheres for controlled release, reducing irritation, and includes glycerin, shea butter, and jojoba to hydrate and soften uneven skin,” says Dr. Goldenberg. But it tackles more than dryness: “Retinol also helps clear body breakouts and fade stubborn dark spots, while the antioxidants from rose water and avocado extracts protect against new damage,” he says.

Best Fast-Acting: Murad Resurgence Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment

Why it’s worth it: Nope, it’s not a typo—Murad’s Resurgence Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment really does use retinal (also called retinaldehyde), the more potent cousin of retinol that works faster to deliver noticeable results. Perfect for those tricky spots prone to sagging (think arms, knees, and décolletage), it blends powerful actives with rich, skin-loving moisturizers. “The encapsulated retinal delivers more efficacy with less irritation to help lift, firm, and tighten skin, while shea butter, squalane, and avocado extract keep it deeply moisturized,” says Dr. Spearman. The lush yet quick-absorbing formula leaves skin soft and smooth over time, minus any greasy finish.

Best for Mature Skin: Beauty Pie Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate

Why it’s worth it: Dr. Turegano revealed Beauty Pie’s Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate is her favorite body retinol, so that’s high praise. “It has a powerhouse combo of ingredients, including 2% granactive retinol, 5% niacinamide, and 6.7% glycolic acid, that is very moisturizing and fast-absorbing,” she notes. If you didn’t know, granactive retinoid is a synthetic retinoic acid that’s less irritating and more stable (less likely to break down when exposed to light or air) than traditional retinol. However, like retinol, it stimulates collagen production and curbs the formation of wrinkles.

Best for Dry Skin: Versed Press Restart Advanced Retinol Body Butter

Why it’s worth it: Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut, recommends Versed Press Restart Advanced Retinol Body Butter, which she uses in her nighttime routine. For a cool $20, you get “a cosmetically elegant whipped cream that has collagen-building properties,” says Dr. Gohara. “I put it on all over, but particularly on my arms and thighs.” It’s rich yet fast-absorbing and really ups the skin-conditioning effects, thanks to ample butters, an amino-acid-rich tripeptide, and squalane. As the “Advanced” in the product name suggests, it’s the brand’s stronger retinol offering (see more below), so take heed. P.S. There are no added fragrances, but tucuma and cocoa butters give off a natural, nutty scent.

Best Lightweight: Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment

Why it’s worth it: If you’re looking for a dose of lightweight moisture, Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment won’t disappoint. Dr. Liu is a fan of this silky formula because “it combines retinol with antioxidants and emollients to target both texture and hydration.” Moisturizers like shea butter and grapeseed oil can feel heavy, but Paula’s Choice manages to make this treatment feel virtually weightless. A sticky, greasy finish? Not a chance.

Best Splurge: U Beauty Resurfacing Body Compound

Why it’s worth it: U Beauty Resurfacing Body Compound won a 2024 Best of Beauty Award in the Splurges category for many reasons. For one, and most importantly, it pairs retinol with all of the acids your skin needs to amp up cell turnover: lactic, salicylic, mandelic, phytic, and glycolic, plus papain enzymes (extract from papaya fruit). Though it shouldn’t sting or cause irritation upon application, as with all retinol products, start easy and build up usage. Plus, a boatload of conditioning ingredients, including glycerin, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E will surely soothe and soften your skin.

Best for Body Acne: Soft Services Software Update Performance Retinol Serum

Why it’s worth it: If you want a retinol treatment that’s light enough to layer under your favorite hydrating body lotion, you’ll love the Soft Services Software Update Performance Retinol Serum just as much as we do. This weightless, fast-absorbing formula treats your skin with a max-strength combination of 0.25% pure retinol, 5% niacinamide, and 3% glycerin to help clear clogged pores, smooth bumpy texture, and lighten post-acne marks while also firming and refining skin over time. The retinol boosts cell turnover, helping dead skin cells shed more efficiently so they don’t build up and block pores, while niacinamide calms inflammation and regulates oil to keep future breakouts at bay.

Best for Dark Spots: Nécessaire The Body Retinol

Why it’s worth it: Not only is Nécessaire aesthetically pleasing—its chic, minimalist packaging will upgrade any bathroom situation—but the editor-approved The Body Retinol has the chops to earn a permanent, rightful place in your skin-care routine. The formula has one main mission: to reduce signs of aging on the body, including the appearance of fine lines, crepiness, uneven texture, and hyperpigmentation. Pure encapsulated retinol (0.1%) works alongside other heavy hitters like mandelic and glycolic acid (gentle chemical exfoliators) and vitamin C (a skin-brightening antioxidant) to leave behind undeniably smoother skin.

“Vitamin C not only supports collagen synthesis, but also offers antioxidant protection against environmental damage that speeds up aging,” Mona Foad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati, Ohio, explained in our roundup of the best body-tightening creams. This lotion also features peptides, “which strengthen the skin’s structure by aiding in collagen repair,” she added.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of retinol body lotions?

“Retinol body lotions are gaining popularity for their ability to address skin concerns beyond the face, offering anti-aging, exfoliating, and smoothing benefits,” says Dr. Liu. Quick reminder on retinol: It’s a derivative of vitamin A that most notably accelerates cell turnover, boosts collagen production, and improves texture. “As we age, our collagen production naturally deteriorates, which leads to skin laxity, fine lines, and wrinkles,” says Dr. Yadav. “Retinol stimulates skin’s fibroblasts, the cells that create collagen, to help create firmer skin.” This can aid in tackling neck and chest creases, which Dr. Yadav says can be notoriously challenging to treat, as well as sagging, crepey skin on areas like the thighs and arms.

Retinol can also help prevent body acne and breakouts by balancing sebum production and promoting faster cell turnover, which keeps pores from clogging, explains Dr. Yadav.

Finally, if you’re dealing with discoloration or dark spots, you guessed it—retinol can help. “Retinol is what’s known as a tyrosinase inhibitor, tyrosinase being the enzyme in the body that triggers the production of melanin, the pigment that gives our skin color,” says Dr. Yadav. “Sun exposure, age, and skin injury (such as a blemish or scar) can cause hyperpigmentation.” Retinol can help combat this process by helping to fade existing discoloration, whether it’s sun spots on the shoulders or darker patches of skin on areas like the armpits or elbows.

How and when should I use retinol body lotion?

While most retinol body lotions tend to be milder than face treatments (with lower concentrations of retinol), Dr. Yadav still recommends starting slowly, especially if you have sensitive skin. “Retinol can be a little irritating, so I’d suggest applying once a week for a few weeks to start,” she says. “Then, once you’ve confirmed your skin can tolerate it, increase your application cadence, following the same method until you’ve worked your way up to daily application.”

Like the retinol you use on your face, retinol in a body lotion can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s best to use it at night. (It’s pretty much a given at this point, but it bears repeating that you should also be applying sunscreen on your body during the day to protect your skin against damage—after all, sun damage is what many of us are trying to correct with retinol, says Dr. Yadav.)

Using your retinol-infused facial moisturizer on your body may have crossed your mind—and while we appreciate the desire to be efficient, this may not be the best idea. For one, the product you use on your face is likely more potent than a retinol lotion formulated for your body, so the facial cream is likely more irritating. Also, facial moisturizers are housed in smaller packaging, which means you’d go through them too quickly if you were to use them for your entire body. Finally, retinol body lotions are often formulated alongside other hydrating ingredients, so you’ll still enjoy the smooth, moisturizing benefits of a traditional body lotion (unlike a facial cream, which may not provide enough hydration for the body).

That being said, if you’re looking for retinol creams for the face, we recommend the following:

What other ingredients should I look for in a retinol body lotion?

As much as we sing retinol’s praises, the ingredient doesn’t come without its fair share of side effects, such as disrupting the skin barrier and stripping it of natural lipids like ceramides. “Ceramides act like the ‘grout’ between your skin cells’ ‘bricks’ and help prevent moisture from escaping,” explains Dr. Yadav. “Using a body lotion with ceramides can inhibit transepidermal moisture loss and keep skin comfortable and balanced.” Aside from ceramides, seek out moisturizing plant butters like shea and cocoa, which can help “counteract the dehydrating effects of retinol, helping skin look moisturized, soft, and conditioned,” she says.

Meet the experts

• Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Goldenberg Dermatology, based in New York City
• Jenny Liu, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor in the Twin Cities
• Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto, Canada
• Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates, based in Fort Wayne, Indiana
• Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, Louisiana
• Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut, and associate clinical professor at Yale University
• Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of La Jolla Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center, based in San Diego, CA

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

When fine lines, sun spots, and sagging begin to set in, the best face masks for mature skin can provide the plumping moisture your skin might have lost over time. Sure, there are so many serums, creams, and at-home treatments developed for aging skin, but masks have a major advantage in that their ultra-concentrated formulations have been specifically crafted to address signs of aging at a much more intensive rate than the rest of the products in your routine.

“Generally speaking, masks are used intermittently to help give your skin a boost when it needs it,” David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in New York City, previously told Allure. So, if you find your skin needs a nourishing, sag-reducing pick-me-up, you’ve come to the right place. We asked board-certified dermatologists for their favorite line-defying face masks—check out their picks, below.

Our Top Face Masks for Mature Skin

Best Overall: Sisley Paris Black Rose Cream Mask

Why it’s worth it: Stop and smell the roses—and let them nourish your skin, too. Sisley Paris Black Rose Cream Mask delivers an instant boost of hydration and radiance. “This mask combines black rose extract, vitamin E, and shea butter to deeply hydrate, smooth fine lines, and restore volume to mature skin,” says Deanne Mraz, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Westport, Connecticut. Its dense texture sits for 10 to 15 minutes, creating a barrier that helps the ingredients absorb more effectively. “It’s incredibly calming and an excellent choice for complexions that are parched or irritated. I even use it on early morning flights to the West Coast to counteract the skin-parching airplane air, so I can step off the plane and head straight into meetings looking refreshed,” she says.

Best Eye Mask: SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Masks

Why it’s worth it: SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Masks deliver hydration, brightness, and a cooling refresh to the undereye area in just 15 minutes. “This can be used alone or in combination with the SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Cream or your own eye cream. I like eye masks to help improve penetration of active ingredients,” says Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. In addition to making your eye creams work more effectively, the formula includes antioxidant-rich golden root extract to defend against free radical damage, baker’s yeast to help brighten and even tone, and golden herb extract to soothe and calm delicate skin. “As skin ages, the most common changes around the eyes are fine lines, wrinkles, undereye bags, dark circles, and dry or crepey skin. This undereye mask can help hydrate and plump dry skin, while the cooling effect of the hydrogel can also help reduce puffiness,” she says.

Best for Sensitive Skin: SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Masque

Why it’s worth it: When mature skin is feeling overworked, whether from a cosmetic treatment, environmental stress, or just daily lifestyle habits, SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Masque is a great reset. “It is very soothing, so I find it beneficial for sensitive, post-procedure skin, but also in general to rehydrate and soothe red or irritated skin. I also love that it is fragrance-free because many masks have fragrance and can be overpowering for people who are sensitive to fragrance,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. The bouncy gel formula blends thyme, cucumber, and olive leaf extracts with hyaluronic acid to restore moisture and bring comfort to skin.

Best for Dry Skin: Blue Lagoon Iceland Skincare Mineral Mask

Why it’s worth it: If your skin feels especially dry and flaky, try slathering on Blue Lagoon’s Skincare Mineral Mask, a 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner. Its blend of jojoba oil, glycerin, aloe vera, and thermal water sourced from Iceland delivers an intense surge of hydration while soothing sensitive skin, leaving you with your bounciest, softest complexion yet.

Best Plumping: PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Overnight Mask

Why it’s worth it: The game-changer in this face mask is its hyaluronic acid base, which hydrates the surface layer of skin rather than coating it with a veil of goopy moisture. “PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Overnight Mask contains moisturizing and soothing ingredients—including hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and panthenol—to hydrate and rejuvenate skin overnight,” explains Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, who says applying it as the last step in your nighttime routine will lead to waking up with plumper, glowing skin.

Best Firming: Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask

Why it’s worth it: When your night cream just isn’t cutting it, Fresh’s Black Tea Peptide Firming Overnight Mask can be used every evening in its place. Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, is a fan of its hyaluronic acid- and peptide-powered formula because these ingredients, along with antioxidant-rich black tea extract, can help tighten, firm, and hydrate all at once. “The black tea complex improves skin elasticity, and hyaluronic acid heightens moisture,” he says.

Best Brightening: EltaMD Skin Recovery Night Mask

Why it’s worth it: Snooze your way to calmer, plumper skin with this plush overnight mask. “EltaMD’s Skin Recovery Night Mask is a hydrating mask that can repair a damaged skin barrier,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. The impressive tech behind the mask is due to the brand’s AAComplex and Chronobiology Technology, which work in sync with your skin’s natural nighttime repair cycle to replenish essential amino acids, strengthen the barrier, and reduce visible signs of irritation. A healthier skin barrier means better moisture retention, improved resilience against environmental stressors, and skin that wakes up softer, smoother, and glowing.

Best Sheet Mask: La Mer The Treatment Lotion Hydrating Mask

Why it’s worth it: La Mer The Treatment Lotion Hydrating Mask takes the beloved classic Treatment Lotion formula and transforms it into an ultra-luxurious sheet mask experience. Each silky mask is drenched in the radiance-boosting essence, powered by La Mer’s iconic Miracle Broth (a nutrient-rich blend of sea kelp, minerals, and antioxidants), along with glycerin and algae extracts to deeply replenish moisture and soften the look of fine lines. “The sheet format creates a gentle occlusive barrier, helping these ingredients absorb more effectively, while delivering an immediate plumping and soothing effect,” says Dr. Mraz, who recommends it for people with mature or dry skin who need a quick radiance boost, especially after travel or a day spent in the sun.

Best Overnight Mask: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Face Mask

Why it’s worth it: Although Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Face Mask has “overnight” right in the name, Dr. Camp says this mask can also be used as a targeted 15-minute treatment. However you use this Allure Beauty of Beauty Award winner, expect your skin to feel smooth and supple after applying this squalane-powered mask. “A sugarcane-derived lipid, squalane helps maintain the integrity of the skin barrier to improve hydration,” he says of the star ingredient.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use a face mask?

Skin’s characteristics change over the years in both obvious and not-so-apparent ways, so even if you’ve maintained an elaborate, diligent skin-care routine, you’ll likely experience a decrease in elasticity (the quality and quantity of our collagen plummets) and an increase in discoloration.

More than anything else, mature skin typically looks and feels much drier than it did in younger years—hence the need for moisturizing intervention through a hydrating, skin-plumping mask. “As we age, our capacity to retain water in the skin diminishes, so skin becomes drier,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “Dry skin can appear dull and make fine lines more noticeable.” So while you might have collected oil-absorbing, acne-clearing masks in your twenties, your now-seasoned skin’s needs demand a shift in priorities. And by “priorities,” we mean ingredients.

Which ingredients should my face mask have?

According to Dr. Murphy-Rose, dry skin and fine lines can be immediately improved with humectants like hyaluronic acid, aloe, and glycerin to “bring more water to the surface and help plump the skin.”, She also notes that adding ingredients like shea butter and colloidal oatmeal will also help with rejuvenation by deeply moisturizing and soothing dry skin.

If you’re chasing that youthful glow but cringe at the thought of needles or lasers, your answer might be as easy as adding one of the best growth-factor serums to your routine. But for the uninitiated, what are growth factors? “Growth factors are proteins that play an important role in stimulating cell growth, regeneration, and healing,” says Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, CA. “In skin care, they’re typically used to encourage cell turnover and collagen production, and may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.”

Growth factor serums are also a well-researched and highly effective addition to modern skin care, according to Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York, NY, and Newport Beach, CA. “Clinical trials have demonstrated their ability to improve skin firmness, hydration, and elasticity,” she says. However, as with all serums, not all growth-factor serums are created equal. “Some might have low concentrations of active ingredients or poorly formulated bases that interfere with effective absorption,” says Dr. Amin. And since most growth factor serums don’t come cheap, wasting money on an underperforming product is far from ideal. So, let’s cut to the chase.

Our Top Growth Factor Serums

Best Overall: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum

Why we love it: A routine Best of Beauty award winner, SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum is a growth-factor OG that set the standard long before it became a buzzword. If you’re wondering, TNS stands for tissue nutrient solution, a nod to its star ingredient: human fibroblast conditioned media. This serum supplies the skin with growth factors to improve the appearance of fine lines, coarse wrinkles, skin tone, and texture. “SkinMedica received the patent in 2000 for the first cosmetic product with growth factors. Numerous clinical studies have since backed TNS growth factors,” explains Dr. Amin. “It’s one of the most clinically supported growth-factor serums on the market, offering firmer-looking skin in as little as two weeks,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose.

Best for Mature Skin: PCA Skin Pro-Max Age Renewal

Why we love it: Some days call for a multistep routine in the name of self-care. Other days, you just want results—fast. PCA SKIN Pro-Max Age Renewal is your shortcut to firmer, bouncier skin powered by growth factor-mimicking peptides. Unlike traditional growth factors, which can be unstable and struggle to penetrate the skin, these peptides are smaller, more stable, and shown to stimulate collagen and elastin. “This serum is formulated to penetrate more deeply to trigger collagen production, while micro-algae deliver instant firming and kangaroo paw flower smooths texture,” says Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in New York. In other words, it supports the very cells responsible for firmness and elasticity, so skin looks tighter, plumper, and smoother over time.

Best for Dry Skin: Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum

Why we love it: If firmer, smoother skin is on your vision board, Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum turns goals into results. Infused with a growth factor complex, peptides, and moisturizing lipids, “this non-comedogenic anti-aging serum is designed for those who want to target wrinkles and a loss of skin volume and firmness,” says Dr. Camp. Plus, that means that beyond lifting and firming, it helps improve elasticity, restores hydration, and strengthens the skin barrier, leaving your complexion looking more resilient and refreshed.

Best Splurge: Angela Caglia Cell Forté Serum

Why we love it: You could juggle four different serums, or you could use one that works as hard as vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and peptides combined. Angela Caglia’s Cell Forté Serum uses the brand’s proprietary BIOMSC technology to pack serious multitasking power into a single bottle. This serum is made with human conditioned media from mesenchymal stem cells, so it’s packed with growth factors to boost collagen and cell turnover, exosomes to help skin cells ‘communicate’ with each other, and cytokines to calm inflammation and support repair, according to Dr. Camp. In layman’s terms, it smooths fine lines, brightens tone, and boosts elasticity. Plus, it deeply hydrates thanks also to tremella mushroom, multi-weight hyaluronic acid, and Bacillus ferment that also helps support a healthy skin barrier. In short, it’s a serum that really does the most.

Best Budget: The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum

Why we love it: If you’re looking for the latest clean technology, The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum bottled it up. “In addition to plant-derived peptide EGF to target hyperpigmentation, this serum also brightens the skin with 15% vitamin C,” says Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago. Designed for use in the morning, the salve has a lightweight feel and sinks quickly into the skin—be sure to layer SPF on top. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that can boost the efficacy of your everyday sunscreen, though it can’t stand in for sunscreen on its own. The best part is that “while most epidermal growth factor (EGF) serums are over $100, this one is less than $20,” he says.

Best Sensitive Skin: Replenix Growth Factor Restorative Serum

Why we love it: While some serums just moisturize, Replenix Growth Factor Restorative Serum actually changes the way your skin looks and feels. “This product focuses on plumping the skin and producing a youthful appearance,” says Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, who notes that it works for all skin types, including sensitive skin. With plant- and enzyme-derived growth factors, collagen-boosting peptides, and hyaluronic acid, it helps smooth fine lines and improve elasticity. “The product also helps uneven tone,” Dr. Goldenberg adds. When it comes to targeting aging prevention, it’s an overachiever in every sense.

Best for Uneven Texture: Neocutis Bio Serum Firm

Why we love it: Growth factors work like keys, unlocking receptors on skin cells to activate processes like collagen and elastin production, cell growth, and improved blood flow. “When the key clicks into the lock, it activates the cell to do things, like grow and divide, make more collagen and elastin, or increase blood flow,” Gail Naughton, a regenerative medicine researcher and growth-factor formulator, previously told Allure. That’s exactly what makes the Neocutis Bio Serum Firm so effective. With a formulation that combines human growth factors, peptides, and hyaluronic acid, it targets fine lines, wrinkles, texture, brightness, firmness, and elasticity. “These key ingredients reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, refine texture, brighten skin, and improve firmness and elasticity,” says Dr. Camp.

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

Why we love it: Dr. Jason B. Diamond, a Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeon, created the Metacine collection as a take-home version of his famous Diamond InstaFacial—a treatment beloved by the Kardashian sisters and Alex Cooper of Call Her Daddy. While the in-office facial uses lasers, microneedling, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to tighten skin, the Metacine system delivers similar effects with two products: plasma and emulsion. Plasma features bioidentical human growth factors to boost skin regeneration, while Emulsion, with retinoids, accelerates cell renewal. Designed over five years with rigorous testing, the celebrity-approved formula has even earned Kate Hudson’s stamp of approval as “dreamy and creamy.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do growth-factor serums really work?

“Data suggest that well-formulated, high-quality growth factor serums can deliver measurable benefits,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “With consistent use, these serums can lead to noticeable improvements in overall skin quality, making them a valuable tool in skin care.” Alas, they don’t work overnight. “Like any skin-care product, growth-factor serums should be used for at least two to three months before you can accurately decide if they are effective—or not—for your specific skin concern,” says Dr. Camp. “Consistency is key in treating the skin with a new active ingredient, such as a growth factor.”

According to Dr. Amin, “It is also important to note that not everyone will respond the same way to these serums, and factors like genetics, lifestyle, and diet can influence the outcome.”

Is growth factor better than retinol?

“Growth-factor serums stimulate the skin’s natural cellular repair processes, promoting rejuvenation with minimal irritation, making them a great option for sensitive or reactive skin types,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “However, they tend to be quite expensive. Retinol, derived from vitamin A, accelerates cell turnover, smooths fine lines, and stimulates collagen and elastin production. Unlike growth factors, retinol often causes skin irritation and requires a gradual introduction into your routine. Both can support skin hydration and are powerful tools for addressing signs of aging, but their best use depends on your skin’s needs and tolerance.”

According to Dr. Amin, the decision to use retinol or growth factor depends on what you’re looking for in a skin-care routine. “For improving skin texture, retinol may be more effective in the long term due to its ability to promote cell turnover and collagen production,” she says. “Multiple studies have shown the efficacy of retinol and retinoids in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. For very sensitive skin that cannot tolerate retinol, growth factors may be more suitable, especially if you’re looking for something less likely to cause irritation.”

Meet the experts

• Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles
• Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in the tri-state area
• Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Goldenberg Dermatology, based in New York City
• Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago
• Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and Newport Beach, California

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

For our list of the best growth factor skin-care products, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

Quick: take a glance at the ingredients in your skincare lineup. You’ll probably see products with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and squalane oil, to name a few.

These days skincare relies on a combination of potent ingredients to combat aging, quench dryness, brighten skin, and protect against free radicals.

Ahem, plum oil can do all of that and then some.

But it’s likely that plum oil hasn’t found its way onto your beauty shelf. Let’s fix that.

Scoot those other bottles and jars out of the way to make room for an unsung, fruit-based ingredient with a cornucopia of benefits. It could be everything you need.

Before we get into the benefits of this do-it-all oil, let’s talk about plums. This often forgotten source of fiber is packed with antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and E.

Plum oil is extracted from the pits and kernels of the plum, but this isn’t a recent discovery. Thousands of years ago, plum extracts were used in traditional Chinese, Korean, and Japanese medicine.

The non-comedogenic oil is known for helping to regulate sebum production. Plus, it’s rich in vitamin E to soothe and provide anti-inflammatory relief for reactive skin.

It beats skin hydrators like squalane, because it quenches skin while also imparting antioxidants that promote cellular renewal. Not to shade squalane, but its purely emollient benefit isn’t as multitasking. But wait, there’s more.

Plum oil is packed with omega 6 & 9 fatty acids that quickly penetrate the skin barrier to keep it soft while maintaining youthful plumpness and elasticity. It also contains vitamin C to target discoloration and dark spots for brighter, more glowing skin.

Great for all skin types ranging from sensitive to dry to acne-prone, it’s safe to say that plum oil is pretty powerful. If you’d like to try it in your anti-aging skincare regimen, we recommend giving Good Molecules 1% Retinol Night Oil a go.

Formulated with 1% potent retinol in a base of nourishing plum oil, the formula works to improve fine lines, wrinkles, unevenness, and dryness while you rest. You’ll think it’s a dream, but plum oil’s benefits are ready to make your best skin a reality.

For a pure, minimalist approach, Le Prunier Plum Beauty Oil is another hero worth adding to your regimen. This luxe, multitasking oil can be used on the face, body, and even hair to lock in moisture, soothe irritation, and boost radiance—all without clogging pores.

Together, these two plum-powered products are a great place to start if you’re ready to wet your feet in the world of plum oil skincare.