As we gracefully glide into our 40s, our skin begins to embark on a new journey—one filled with changes that are as natural as they are noticeable. Collagen and elastin, the dynamic duo responsible for our skin’s firmness and elasticity, start to take a bit of a hiatus, leaving behind subtle reminders often in the form of fine lines and wrinkles. And while Botox or filler may seem like the quick fix to turn back the hands of time, it doesn’t have to be the only option on the table.
- Andrea Hui Austin, MD, board-certified dermatologist based in San Francisco
- Anetta Reszko, MD, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon
- Howard Sobel, MD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, founder of Sobel Skin Rx
- Suneel Chilukuri, MD, board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon based in Houston, Texas
Embracing the beauty of our skin’s evolution and focusing on holistic approaches can yield remarkable results. Nourishing skincare routines, enriched with antioxidants and hydrating ingredients, become our trusted allies in maintaining that coveted glow. While Botox may beckon with its promises of a smooth complexion, there are products out there that mimic its potent freeze-y, re-plumping prowess. (Although we stand by the idea that there’s no “wrong” way to go about self-care—you should ultimately do what makes you feel good, Botox included.)
If you do want to forgo injectables, you’re in luck. Below are the best “Botox in a bottle” skincare products dermatologists recommend for firmer, tighter, smoother skin, especially in your 40s and beyond.
Key ingredients: Neuropeptides, polysaccharides, glucose
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
Pros:
- Targets five types of expression lines
- Mimics Botox, without any injecting or freezing
- Targeted applicator for easy application
- Hydrates and nourishes skin
Cons:
- Pricey
Key ingredients: TNS®-MR, Renessensce (RSC) Advanced
Dermatologist Dr. Andrea Hui Austin recommends growth factor-based topicals, such as SkinMedica TNS Advanced Serum, which contains a blend of growth factors that support the skin’s natural rejuvenation process. This promotes healthier and more youthful-looking skin, often leading to a reduced appearance of wrinkles and improved texture.
Size: 1 fl. oz.
Pros:
- Smoothes and plumps, without Botox or freezing
- Supports collagen growth and cell turnover
- Evens skin tone and texture.
Cons:
- Expensive
Key ingredients: Plant-based peptides, collagen
Dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel, founder of Sobel Skin, recommends this anti-aging serum from Maskad because it contains peptides and growth factors. The Maskad Anti-Aging Serum is formulated to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, while the skin-tightening peptides and three forms of growth factors (EGF, FGF, KGF) work synergistically to stimulate collagen production and stem cell rejuvenation. Bonus: it’s completely natural and made from plant-based ingredients only.
Size: 2 fl. oz.
Pros:
- Smooths fine lines and wrinkles without Botox or freezing
- Hydrates and tones
- Plant-based formula
- Large capacity
Cons:
- Expensive
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, barley EGF, vitamin E.
“BioEffect EGF Bio Cream is a great product for those who are looking to achieve a youthful look,” says dermatologic surgeon, Dr. Anetta Reszko. It contains epidermal growth factors that can stimulate the natural production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid—all of which work together to create and maintain bouncy, smooth, and full skin. A burst of vitamin E protects from environmental stressors, too, which can help prevent more lines from forming.
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Pros:
- Smooths fine lines and wrinkles without Botox or freezing
- Hydrates and soothes
- Oil-free
- Vitamin E shields against environmental aggressors
Cons:
- Expensive
Key ingredients: Lactic acid, salicylic acid, and caviar lime
“After the age of 22, collagen and elastin production slows down, and we experience more micro-breaks in the skin barrier. The cumulative effects lead to dry skin and fine lines, which become especially noticeable in our 40s and beyond,” explains board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Suneel Chilukuri. For those who cannot tolerate a topical retinoid, liquid exfoliants are great to incorporate into your routine to help increase cell turnover and dissolve dead skin tissue. “When used daily, the AlumierMD Bright & Clear Solution gently refines skin complexion with lactic acid, salicylic acid, and caviar lime to help improve skin health and clarity over time,” says Dr. Chilukuri.
Size: 6 fl. oz.
Cons:
- Exfoliates and promotes cell turnover
- Supports the skin barrier
- Large capacity
- Affordable
Cons:
- Might not mimic Botox as well as other products on this list
Key ingredients: Defensins, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid
This 8-in-1 BioSerum for Defnage is another favorite of Dr. Reszko because it contains defensins, a molecule that stimulates our own stem cells (LGR6+) to increase collagen production, resulting in reduced wrinkles and firmer skin. “The defensins naturally signal our body to produce new, youthful skin,” she adds. There’s also niacinamide (for brightening), hyaluronic acid (for moisture), and the brands “sea whip”, which soothes and tones skin.
Size: 1.5 fl. oz.
Pros:
- Smoothes and plumps, without Botox or freezing
- Hydrates
- Brightens and tones
- Supports the skin barrier
Cons:
- Expensive
Key ingredients: 4.5% retinol, macadamia seed, cucumber extract
“Retinol is the holy grail ingredient for anti-aging and skin firming, especially for women over 40,” says Dr. Sobel. Retinols play a vital role in overall skin regeneration by increasing cellular turnover and stimulating collagen production. Collagen is essential for keeping the skin plump and firm, thereby reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Size: 1.6 fl. oz.
Pros:
- Smoothes and plumps, without Botox or freezing
- Reduces look of large pores
- Supports skin barrier
Cons:
- Expensive
Key ingredients: Peptides, antioxidants, vitamin E
According to Dr. Reszko, the Vita-Peptide Serum is an excellent product to incorporate into your morning routine. “90 percent of our aging is external, expedited by the usual elements and pollution,” she says. To combat these effects, the serum is formulated with powerful antioxidants that work to create a protective barrier for the skin and peptides, which are proteins known for stimulating collagen and elastin production. These peptides play a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s plumpness and firmness, contributing to a lifted appearance. When used regularly, the combination of active ingredients promotes smoother, brighter, and more supple skin.
Size: 1.2 fl. oz.
Pros:
- Smoothes and plumps, without Botox or freezing
- Tones
- Protects from further damage
Cons:
- Expensive