Do you really need to use an anti-aging cream when you’re in your 30s?
The short answer is yes. While your skin may still look relatively firm and taut at this point in your life, it’s not going to be long before things start to go downhill. The effects of aging accumulate over time, and they usually make their initial appearance once a person is in their 30s.
So, even if you may not have many fine lines and wrinkles at the moment, using an anti-aging cream is a must if you want to retain your youthful appearance for as long as possible. After all, prevention is always more effective than cure!
That said, many anti-aging products are designed for people who already have deep rigid wrinkles or a face peppered with age spots. While these products won’t do you any harm, you’ll experience better results if you turn to products that focus on preventing, rather than treating, aging. To help you to put together the best anti-aging skincare routine possible, we’ve rounded up 10 products that are absolutely ideal for when a person is in their 30s.
Contents
Best Anti-Wrinkle Cream for 30-Year-Olds With Fine Lines & Dark Spots: LifeCell All-in-One Skin-Tightening Treatment
If you’ve noticed that skin aging is already taking its toll on your complexion, the LifeCell All-in-One Skin-Tightening Treatment will set things straight. Suitable for all skin types, this high-powered formula will not only instantly mask any fine lines, blemishes, and dark spots, but will also give you a smoother, firmer, and more lifted appearance in the long run.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid & Peptides
There are several ingredients worth mentioning in this formula. Two forms of vitamin A, two forms of vitamin C, multiple peptides, botanical extracts – the list goes on!
The main purpose of this blend is to boost collagen production to improve skin texture and tone, and reviews show that it does so very successfully after just a few weeks. That said, this treatment also contains micro-fillers that provide instant anti-aging results – it’s just like wearing a photo filter!
Pros:
- Contains a long list of powerful anti-aging active ingredients
- Targets fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, dull skin, and the loss of firmness
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and dermatologist-tested
Cons:
- Its price may be a little off-putting at first, but it’s worth it for a product that actually works. Plus, a little goes a long way – one tube lasts for quite a while
Best Anti-Ageing Cream for 30-Year-Olds with Combination Skin: CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30 and Hyaluronic Acid
Some people tackle combination skin by applying a rich cream to nourish areas of dry skin and then using a separate lightweight formula to hydrate oily patches. However, if you’d like one cream that’s capable of doing it all, we’d recommend the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30 and Hyaluronic Acid.
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid
In addition to its SPF 30, which protects the skin from sun damage, this formula is loaded with ingredients that moisturize the skin while fortifying the skin barrier. Ceramides and niacinamide are great for this, with the latter also being a superstar at producing a bright and even skin tone.
Hyaluronic acid hydrates skin cells, leaving them looking infinitely plumper. It’s combined with glycerin in this formula, another humectant that has similar effects.
Pros:
- Formulated with SPF 30, making it perfect for daytime use
- Uses patented MVE technology to slowly release moisture to skin cells, ensuring long-term hydration
- Helps to refresh and restore the skin’s protective barrier
Cons:
- Contains parabens
- Chemical sunscreen agents could irritate sensitive skin
Best Cleanser for Clear Pores, According to 5* Reviews: Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Face Wash
Every good anti-aging routine will contain a cleanser, and our top choice would be the Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Face Wash. Although it’s a foaming formula, it’s able to lift dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin without leaving you feeling overly dry or tight, making it suitable for even sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients: Glycerin
The main cleansing agents in this formula are coconut-derived. These are much gentler than the chemical cleansing agents used in other products.
This formula has also been infused with glycerin. A powerful humectant that deeply hydrates the skin, glycerin is responsible for that soft and supple feeling that the skin takes on once this cleanser has been rinsed off.
Pros:
- A gentle cleanser that’s suitable for every skin type
- Effectively cleanses the skin while also hydrating it
Cons:
- Contains fragrance, which could cause irritation for some
- Doesn’t offer many anti-aging properties
Best Cleanser for Preventing Inflammation & Redness: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
If your skin is on the sensitive side, then wash your face with the La-Roche Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser before slathering on your anti-aging creams. Designed specifically for reactive, allergy-prone skin, this ultra-soothing formula is commonly recommended by board-certified dermatologist professionals to people who struggle to tolerate other cleanser formulas.
Key Ingredients: Glycerin & La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
Unlike many other anti-aging skincare products, this one has a very minimal ingredient list, which is what makes it so perfect for dealing with sensitivities. One key ingredient is glycerin, which leaves the skin feeling hydrated and plump.
It has also been formulated with La Roche-Posay’s exclusive thermal spring water. This selenium-rich water, which is also brimming with other skin-loving minerals, has been proven to have therapeutic, skin-soothing properties [1].
Pros:
- Designed for sensitive and reactive skin
- Has a minimal ingredient list, meaning less chance of experiencing an allergic reaction
- Effectively cleanses makeup, dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin
Cons:
- Focuses more on cleansing and hydrating, rather than anti-aging
Best Anti-Aging Night Cream for 30s With Oily Skin: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
If your oily skin can’t cope with thick night creams, give the Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream a try. This lightweight moisturizer instantly hydrates the skin while smoothing wrinkles and firming the complexion in the long run.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Amino Peptides & Sodium Hyaluronate
Niacinamide is a great ingredient for accelerating cell turnover while hydrating the skin, especially when combined with skin-plumping sodium hyaluronate.
This formula also contains amino peptides, which are vital for supporting collagen production. The result is a noticeable improvement in skin elasticity after 28 days of regular use.
Pros:
- A great formula for deeply hydrating the skin without leaving a greasy residue behind
- Provides firming and tightening anti-aging benefits
- Non-comedogenic, meaning that it won’t trigger adult acne
Cons:
- Contains fragrance and alcohols, both of which could irritate sensitive skin
Best Nature-Infused Formula for Tackling the First Signs of Aging in 30s: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum
Premature aging often first shows up around the eyes, but the Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum will stop the aging process in its tracks. This serum offers up a multitude of anti-aging benefits; it will smooth fine lines and wrinkles, firm up the skin, and re-balance an uneven skin tone.
Key Ingredients: Retinoid Complex, Amino Acids & Antioxidants
You’ll find retinol in all of the best anti-aging products, purely because of how well it works. However, it performs even better when combined with retinyl propionate, which is how this serum is able to instigate a noticeable reduction in fine lines after four weeks of regular use.
It also contains amino acids, which your skin will use to create new protein fibers, along with several antioxidant-rich botanicals. These neutralize free radicals in the skin, enhancing the skin’s ability to defend itself against aging.
Pros:
- Designed to be used on the delicate skin around the eyes
- Keeps the skin hydrated while preventing skin aging
Cons:
- Contains fragrance and dyes, which could irritate the skin
Best Fragrance-Free Sunscreen Moisturizer with Soothing & Brightening Benefits: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
If you’re looking for a day cream that will protect your skin from UV rays and skin cancer while hydrating, soothing, and brightening your complexion, then the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 won’t disappoint. Even better, this silky, lightweight formula is available in both tinted and non-tinted versions, saving you from having to apply quite so much makeup over the top.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate & Lactic Acid
Niacinamide is responsible for how this formula gives the face a fresh and even skin tone, while sodium hyaluronate keeps the skin hydrated.
This formula also contains lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid that clears dulling dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This gives the complexion a brighter and more radiant finish.
Pros:
- Both tinted and non-tinted formulas are available
- Provides SPF 46 with the use of mineral sunscreen agents, rather than chemical
- Cruelty-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic
Cons:
- Some reviews show a dislike when it comes to the neutral scent of this product, but its fragrance-free formula is important for reactive skin
Best Formula for Environmental Protection & Collagen-Boosting Results: Skinceuticals C E Ferulic Anti-Aging Serum
From ozone pollution to diesel exhausts to UV rays, the environment around you accelerates skin aging in so many ways. Fortunately, the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Anti-Aging Serum is here to put a stop to that. Clinically proven to reduce oxidative damage by up to 41%, this serum will also smooth and firm skin to leave it looking several years younger.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Vitamin E & Ferulic Acid
The 15% l-ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C) in this formula contributes to its protective and healing properties.
Vitamin C becomes even more effective when combined with other potent antioxidants, hence the inclusion of both 1% vitamin E and 0.5% ferulic acid. Together, these ingredients provide long-term protection – once absorbed, this serum will remain active in your skin for up to 72 hours.
Pros:
- Clinically proven to prevent environmental damage to skin cells
- Helps with wrinkles and discoloration
- Contains high concentrations of powerful ingredients
Cons:
- Not suitable for oilier skin types
Best Night Cream for Wrinkle Prevention on the Face & Neck: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Anti-Aging Retinol Night Cream
Chances are that deep wrinkles aren’t too much of an issue for you just yet. If you’d like to keep things that way, then your 30s is the perfect time to start using the RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Anti-Aging Retinol Night Cream. Apply it regularly and it’ll ensure that you enjoy taut and smooth skin for years to come.
Key Ingredients: RoC Retinol, Vitamin C & Squalane
Retinol is present in many of the best anti-aging serums and creams, but RoC’s version of the ingredient has been clinically proven to be more powerful than other OTC retinol derivatives, making this the one to go for if you’d like to see results ASAP. In this formula, it’s combined with glycolic acid, which magnifies its resurfacing effects.
This cream is also infused with vitamin C for its brightening abilities, along with squalane to moisturize the skin. Squalane also works to strengthen the skin’s barrier, which enhances the skin’s natural ability to protect itself from environmental harm.
Pros:
- Contains a form of retinol that’s more powerful than what you’ll find in other anti-aging products
- An effective formula for both treating and preventing wrinkles
Cons:
- Contains parabens
Best Skincare for Women in Their 30s with Dark Circles & Puffy Eyes: Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Anti-Aging Renewal Therapy, SPF 35
Shadows and puffiness around your eyes can make you look so much older than you really are. To counter this, give the Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Anti-Aging Renewal Therapy SPF 35 a try. Not only will it give you a younger-looking eye area, but it also protects the delicate skin here from UV damage. Even better, it’s available in four shades to suit every skin tone.
Key Ingredients: Patented Anti-Aging Molecules & Peptides
Peptides are great for boosting skin moisture levels and reversing skin aging, and they work particularly well around the eyes.
However, what really sets this formula apart is the selection of patented molecules that it contains. Actineyes addresses under-eye bags and skin laxity, Aldavine 5X targets puffiness and pigmentation, Phytomoist is four times more hydrating than hyaluronic acid, and Beautifeye reduces fine lines and crow’s feet.
Pros:
- Available in four tints
- Corrects, repairs, and protects aging skin around the eyes
- Contains several patented ingredients that you won’t find elsewhere
- Formulated with SPF 35 to protect the skin from the sun
Cons:
- Many find that the darkest tint is still too light for dark skin tones
What to Include in the Best Anti-Aging Regimen for 30s
Want to put together an anti-aging regimen that’ll keep your skin looking youthful for as long as possible? Here’s how to get started:
The Best Anti-Aging Skin Care Routine for 30s
There are a few essential steps that you need to include in an anti-aging routine for 30s, plus a couple of optional extras:
- Always start with a cleanser – a milk or gel cleanser would be especially beneficial
- Apply a vitamin C serum
- If you have very pressing skin concerns, such as dark spots or wrinkles, follow up with a second serum that’s formulated to tackle those issues
- Apply an anti-aging moisturizer (you’ll find the best wrinkle cream formulas listed above!)
- Don’t forget about SPF!
What to Look for When Shopping for the Best Anti-Aging Skin Care Products for 30s
Here are the top ingredients to keep an eye out for when shopping for new anti-aging creams and other products:
- Retinol
- Vitamin C
- Niacinamide
- Peptides
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Green tea
FAQ
Q: Which is the best anti-aging cream for 30s?
Check out our recommendations above to learn more about the best anti-aging cream for 30-year-olds.
Q: How can I stop aging in my 30s?
To stop aging in your 30s, you’ll need to start following an anti-aging skincare routine. It’s important to keep your lifestyle as healthy as possible too – follow a balanced diet, don’t stress too much, get plenty of beauty sleep, and keep bad habits (such as drinking and smoking) to a minimum.
Q: Is it OK to use anti-aging products in your 30s?
Yes, not only is it ok to use anti-aging products in your 30s, but this is actually the ideal time to start using them!
Q: What should my skincare routine be in my 30s?
In your 30s, your skincare routine should consist of a cleanser, one or two serums, a wrinkle cream, and SPF. That’s the minimum – there are plenty of other products to add in too, such as an exfoliant, face masks, eye serums, and more.
Q: Which anti-aging cleansers do dermatologists recommend?
The cleanser featured above from La Roche-Posay is one that dermatologists often recommend.
Conclusion
It’s important to pay attention to how your skin is aging once you’re in your 30s – at this stage, there’s still plenty of time to slow that process down so that you can retain your youthful complexion for as long as possible. The products that we’ve recommended above will help you to do just that. Each one works well in an anti-aging skin care routine, so take your pick, use them regularly, and you should be able to stave off those wrinkles for many more years.
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3549667/
