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Aging isn't just part of life, it's a privilege.

That being said, there's nothing wrong with wanting to maintain smooth, radiant, and overall healthy skin.

Whether you're looking to soften fine lines and wrinkles or firm and tighten your skin, there are skincare products out there designed to help target these common concerns and keep your skin looking its best.

I spoke to board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Brooke Jeffy, to find out exactly which ingredients and products are most effective in treating common signs of aging.

What are the most common signs of aging?

It's natural that your skin changes as you age.

You'll never be able to fully reverse the clock (and who wants that anyway), but using skincare products containing dermatologist-recommended ingredients can help soften and slow these signs of aging.

While everyone's skin is unique, Dr. Jeffy explains these changes usually come in the form of hyperpigmentation, dullness, fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.

You'll want to target these common changes if you want to keep your skin looking radiant, plump, and smooth.

Does anti-aging skincare actually work?

While we aren’t anti or against aging, many brands market skincare targeting signs of aging under that moniker.

But no matter what it’s being called, Dr. Jeffy says it might actually work. "There is great evidence for sunscreen, retinoids and Vitamin C,” she shares.

When should I start using anti-aging skincare?

Dr. Jeffy shares that people should start adding anti-aging skincare products to their routine in their late 20s and early 30s.

How to fight fine lines and firm your skin

No matter your skin type, there are certain products and ingredients everyone should use if they're looking to target signs of aging. 

Our expert stresses the importance of daily sun protection. She calls sunscreen "the most important step to reduce the effects of aging on the skin." Don't know where to start? We have a sunscreen guide for your whole body right here. 

Apart from sunscreen, Dr. Jeffy explains the next most effective ingredients to start incorporating are retinoids and Vitamin C. For the best results, she recommends using Vitamin C in the mornings and retinoids at night.

If your goal is to firm and tighten skin, Dr. Jeffy advises looking for products containing peptides and other growth factors, since these ingredients help stimulate collagen production.

How to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation

To target dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone, she advises looking for products containing ingredients like kojic acid, azelaic acid and niacinamide.

And don't forget to keep your skin hydrated — another tip from Dr. Jeffy.

You may be asking, when will I see results?

Well, according to Dr. Jeffy, “it’s a marathon not a sprint.”

However, she says you may start to see benefits after three months of consistent use. Still, remember that results are ongoing, and keep a close eye on the way your skin reacts to certain products that you use.

Shop Dr. Jeffy's top skincare picks

Wonder what products are derm-approved? Here's what Dr. Jeffy recommends to her patients. 

Shop our favorite anti-aging skincare products

From retinoids to Vitamin C and peptides, these products are designed to help smooth fine lines and wrinkles, plus firm and tighten skin.