10 Creams to Smooth Wrinkles and Fine Lines

Maybe you can actually turn back time. If you crave smooth, glowing skin – let’s be honest, who doesn’t? – There are many things you can try. 

From microdermabrasion to dermaplaning to specialty serums like hyaluronic acid and retinol, there are options for both the office and home that offer some level of anti-aging benefits. 

But not everyone has the time or budget for a multi-step routine. Luckily, there's an easier option: anti-wrinkle cream. 

It doesn't matter where the wrinkles are - around the eyes, next to the mouth, even on the neck - a simple anti-wrinkle cream can help, says Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. 

Of course, there are some key factors to consider to ensure the product you choose is as effective as possible. Look for retinol, peptides and niacinamide, says Galliman. Also, make sure these ingredients are listed at the beginning of the ingredient list. 

This means they are present in higher concentrations in the product than other ingredients on the list. Don't rush it, either—especially if your wrinkles are deep and dark. "Anti-wrinkle creams can take weeks to months to see results," says Michelle Green, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist in New York City. 

"With retinoids, for example, it usually takes three to six months of regular use to see improvements, with optimal results occurring after six to 12 months," she explains. Other factors that may affect the effectiveness of anti-wrinkle creams include your lifestyle and diet. 

"If you regularly smoke or drink alcohol, you're less likely to see results from anti-wrinkle creams," says Green. Would you like to see these results as soon as possible? Check out this list of effective anti-wrinkle creams, all dermatologist-approved. 

1. Murad Retinol Youth Glow Serum: Green says that because the product combines three retinol technologies with hyaluronic acid, it's particularly effective at treating deeper, deeper wrinkles on the face, especially around the eyes. 

2. Skinceuticals A.G.E. Breaker Extension: It's a treat, says Camp, but this anti-wrinkle cream contains antioxidants and ingredients that help stimulate the formation of glycosaminoglycans, which are key to skin hydration and suppleness. 

3. Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer: Apply this nourishing cream before bed for a variety of beauty benefits, says Camp, which contains ingredients like retinol, peptides and niacinamide (a vitamin B derivative that helps soothe skin). 

4. Neutrogena Rapid Anti-Wrinkle Repair Retinol Cream: It may be cheaper, Kemp says, but it still contains the triple threat of retinol, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. Hyaluronic acid is a natural moisturizer that plumps the skin, while glycerin provides extra hydration, Jaliman says. 

5. Ole Henriksen Goodnight Glow Retin-ALT Sleeping Cream: Retinol is one of the most effective options for fine lines, but it may irritate sensitive skin. If you fall into this camp, try this night cream. It contains bakuchiol, a milder plant-based ingredient that has similar benefits, Camp says. 

6. Miami Beach Butt Facial Cream in a Jar: Dermatologist Martina Granara says this is a lightweight, fast-absorbing cream that's enriched with hyaluronic acid, squalane and vitamin C to restore the skin barrier, hydrate and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

7. Kiehl's Retinol Daily Microdose Renewal Serum: According to New York dermatologist Brendan Camp, this eye serum contains three anti-wrinkle ingredients: vitamin C, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. While wrinkles won't compete with this effective formula, you'll get the added benefits of tighter eyelid skin and fewer dark circles, he says. 

8.Sunday Riley CEO Vitamin C Enriched Facial Moisturizer: "This product relies on an impressive 5% concentration of vitamin C to intensely hydrate, visibly brighten skin and actively fight free radical damage," says Green. 

9. Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream: In addition to a high concentration of retinol, the product contains a tripeptide blend and a variety of rich oils to smooth, firm and strengthen skin, Green says. Use it to smooth out fine lines and deep wrinkles, she adds, but also hopes it will help reduce visible signs of sun damage. 

10. Neocutis Lumiere Bio-Repairing Eye Cream Doctors say that because this cream is so lightweight, it's perfect for use before makeup. Tsippora Shainhouse is a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. While it greatly stimulates collagen growth, it's also non-comedogenic, making it a must-have for anyone with oily or acne-prone skin.