3 Moisturizers a Dermatologist *Always* Recommends to Women Over 50 for Hydrating and Firming Skin

In need of a new moisturizer? There are so many out there, it can be hard to weed through what’s actually worth it. And this is especially true when you’re trying to find the perfect product for your age group, considering our complexions’ needs change as we get older. By the time you hit 50, your skin becomes thinner, which makes it more fragile; is less likely to retain moisture, which causes dryness and flaking; and produces less collagen and elastin, which is what leads to fine lines and wrinkles.

Finding a moisturizer to help you deal with all of these elements can feel like a tall order, but according to Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, it is possible. Below, she shares her holy grail products for beautiful faces over 50 — ones that keep your skin plump and hydrated, firm and fresh, and most of all, healthy.

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream Moisturizer — $100.00

This celeb (and editor) favorite isn’t just hype—it’s got the derm stamp of approval. “A good moisturizer contains humectants to hydrate, emollients to support the skin barrier, and occlusives to lock in the moisture, and this product contains all three,” says Dr. King. In addition to heavy-hitting hydrators like hyaluronic acid (a humectant) and glycerin (an occlusive), the formula also contains skin-nourishing oils, vitamin E, and lactic acid, which offers gentle exfoliation.

To boot, this blend is rich in antioxidants (including superstar vitamin C) which can help prevent damage from free radicals and sun exposure. “It also contains additional soothing ingredients, aloe, allantoin and rose water, in addition to anti-aging peptides,” says Dr. King. Suddenly ‘magic’ feels like an understatement.

Skinbetter Science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment — $145.00

If dry skin is your biggest nemesis, this will be the formula of your dreams. This moisture treatment from Skinbetter Science works to hydrate, strengthen the skin barrier, lock in moisture, and has even been shown in clinical studies to reduce the appearance of fine lines. Clinical studies? We love to see it. “Hyaluronic acid and glycerin help to hydrate the skin through their humectant properties, and cholesterol, ceramides, linoleic and linolenic acids, and squalane provide barrier support,” explains Dr. King. The perfect antidote to parched peau.

Innbeauty Project 10 + 10 Daily Moisturizer — $34.00

This budget-friendly concoction works for all ages, but Dr. King loves it for faces over fifty because it “Contains ceramides and squalane to support the skin barrier, as well as vitamin C and peptides to brighten and tighten,” she says. The end result? You’ll have a brighter ‘glow,’ that’ll have you feeling (and looking) radiant.

For more intel on making the most out of your moisturizing step, check out the video below. 

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