In each issue of WebMD the Magazine, our experts answer questions about skin care, beauty, makeup,hair care, and more. In our September 2012 issue, we asked Deborah Jaliman, MD (a dermatologist in New York City and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist) and Mary Lupo, MD (a professor of dermatology at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans) for recommendations for products that help fight fine lines.
Here's what they had to say:
Top Picks of Debra Jaliman, MD
SkinCeuticals Phyto+ ($78) "Now that you've entered your 30s, you may start to notice brown spots or discoloration on the skin. This gentle product, which contains natural lightening agents kojic acid and arbutin, is great for those who want to brighten dark areas without using the controversial ingredient hydroquinone, which some countries have banned because of safety concerns."
Relastin Eye Silk ($69) "Products that contain collagen-building ingredients like peptides help keep skin plump and youthful. This one is made with a special zinc complex that increases elastin production and puts the spring back into skin. For an added pick-me-up, I keep mine in the fridge."
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Brightening Eye Perfector SPF 25 ($13.99) "Protect your peepers with this eye cream rich in antioxidants, shea butter, and glycerin. It has a flow-through brush applicator that helps deliver the perfect amount of formula to lighten dark circles and diminish fine lines."
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Night Moisturizer ($21.99) "In your 40s, as estrogen levels start to taper, you may see more skin dryness and fine lines. Be sure to keep skin moisturized 24/7. This is my favorite inexpensive retinol (a must-have for aging skin). In addition to a non-irritating retinol, it's packed with hyaluronic acid to smooth skin, minimize fine lines, and even out color and texture while you sleep."
Top Picks of Mary Lupo, MD
La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid ($29.95) "One of the most stable sunscreens on the market, this is what I use when I am going to be outdoors on a really hot day or for a long time. The lightweight formula helps block the ultraviolet rays responsible for skin cancer and most of the visible signs of skin aging, including brown spots and dull skin."
Night LightPhilosophy Help Me Retinol Night Treatment ($45) "Retinoids are the most important night product to use, and while prescription products are the most effective, I turn to this over-the-counter retinol when my skin gets too flaky from the Rx—it brightens skin and makes pores appear smaller. The active ingredients in retinoids and retinols also help prevent acne relapses while evening skin tone and smoothing fine lines."
C Clearly Avalon Organics Vitamin C Renewal Vitality Facial Serum ($24.95) "I often suggest complementing sunscreen with a serum infused with antioxidants to prevent damage from UV light that gets past the sunscreen. This super-concentrated serum works because it is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, lemon bioflavonoids, and white tea. Smooth on a thin layer under sunscreen each morning."
Brush Up Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System ($119) "Exfoliation improves the penetration of active ingredients in anti-aging products and brightens dull and discolored skin while minimizing the appearance of pores. Chemical exfoliation products with salicylic, glycolic, or lactic acid are great for normal or oily skin, but this gentle electronic brush, which mechanically removes flaky skin, is great for all skin types, especially sensitive complexions."
Bonus Product Pick
Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser ($7) "I keep this next to every sink at home and use it to wash both my face and my hands. The foam dissolves oils, makeup, and sunscreen easily, and because it's soap-free it doesn't dry out my skin. The ingredients include feverfew, a chamomile-like herb whose inflammatory and antioxidant properties reduce redness."-- Jessica Wu, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology, University of Southern California.
The opinions expressed in this section are of the experts and are not the opinions of WebMD. WebMD does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment.
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