15 Best Lotions for Aging Skin, According to Derms and Testing
<p>Moisturizing is key for mature skin, as we lose moisture and collagen over time. While it might be easy to remember to apply a <a href=” target=”_blank”>facial moisturizer</a> every day, we often neglect other areas that need hydration. So, the best lotion for aging skin deserves a place in your <a href=” target=”_blank”>skincare routine order</a>.</p><p>“As we age, estrogen and <a href=” target=”_blank”>hyaluronic acid</a> levels drop, sun damage accumulates, and our barrier gets weaker,” says <a href=” target=”_blank”>Mona Gohara, M.D.</a>, associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine and member of <a href=” target=”_blank”><em>Prevention’s </em>Medical Review Board</a>. “The effects of these together are less hydrated, less radiant skin. This can be addressed with a good moisturizer or two! The key is to replace what’s being lost, and to support what is being compromised biologically.”</p><p class=”body-tip”>Meet the Experts: <a href=” target=”_blank”>Mona Gohara, M.D.</a>, associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine; <a href=” target=”_blank”>Supriya Rastogi, M.D.</a>, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City; <a href=” target=”_blank”>Debra Jaliman, M.D.</a>, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist; <a href=” target=”_blank”>Joshua Zeichner, M.D.</a>, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. </p><p>Looking for skin-nourishing ingredients is also key to finding the best body lotion for aging skin. “Hydration is crucial, and ingredients such as <a href=” target=”_blank”>hyaluronic acid</a>, glycerin, and <a href=” target=”_blank”>ceramides</a> work to help retain moisture,” <a href=” target=”_blank”>Supriya Rastogi, M.D.</a>, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC explains. </p><p>Ahead, find the best body lotions for aging skin, according to experts, reviews, and our editors.</p>”/>
1
Best Lotion for Aging Skin With Retinol
Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body & Face Lotion
Pros
- Hydrates and exfoliates
- Contains retinol
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Some reviewers with sensitive may find retinol irritating
Dr. Rastogi says this lotion, which can be used on the face or body, is a holy-grail product. The non-greasy formula hydrates and exfoliates at the same time, with ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and glycerin leaving the skin soft and smooth. It also contains retinol which lifts the skin, contributing to a more youthful appearance. Plus, it’s free of parabens, dyes, and fragrances.
What reviewers say: “I have slightly crepey skin on the backs of my hands, but it has disappeared and the skin now looks younger. I also have freckles and discoloration (sun damage) that have lightened dramatically since using this lotion. I apply it to my arms at night and literally wake up to a noticeably more even tone on my skin,” reviewer wrote.
| Key Ingredients | Retinol, shea butter, cocoa butter, niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Contains fragrance | No |
2
Best Lotion for Aging Skin With Eczema
CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
Pros
- Great for sensitive skin
- Can be used on face and body
- National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance
Cons
- Some reviewers noted packaging issues
Dr. Jaliman also recommends CeraVe products for their skin-loving ingredients, as they “contain hyaluronic acid for hydration.” The lightweight formula is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and includes three essential ceramides which help restore the skin barrier. Plus, it’s approved by the National Eczema Association, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
What reviewers say: “With my extremely sensitive skin, I often struggle to find moisturizers that don’t cause irritation, but this lotion works perfectly. It provides long-lasting hydration without feeling greasy, and the hyaluronic acid gives my skin an extra moisture boost. It absorbs quickly and leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth all day. I’m thrilled that it’s gentle enough for both my face and body,” wrote one shopper.
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, ceramides |
|---|---|
| Contains Fragrance | No |
3
Best Lotion for Aging Skin Overall
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Daily Repair Moisturizing Cream
Pros
- Can be used on face and body
- Brightening formula evens skin tone
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Some reviewers noted packaging issues
Both Dr. Gohara and Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, agree that it’s hard to go wrong with this moisturizer. “This product has shea butter, so it’s very hydrating,” says Dr. Jaliman. “It also has niacinamide, so it helps with brown discoloration, evens the skin tone, and brightens the skin.” Plus, this lotion works as an all-in-one product for your face and body, so no need to find space for multiple products.
What reviewers say: “I’m 50 years old, perimenopause, so that should tell you all you need to know about my dry skin,” said one shopper. “My serum and face cream wasn’t enough to keep my skin plump and dewy so my derm told me about this. LOVE IT!”
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, shea butter, glycerin |
|---|---|
| Contains Fragrance | No |
4
Best Lotion for Aging Skin With Ceramides
EltaMD Moisture-Rich Body Crème
Pros
- Ceramides hydrate to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- Pricey
This cream, from a brand recommended by Dr. Gohara, is formulated with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which hydrate the skin while helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and free of fragrances, dyes, and parabens, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
What reviewers say: “I absolutely LOVE this body lotion. The scent is light and pleasant. The lotion is very moisturizing and doesn’t leave a greasy film on your skin after it’s been applied,” wrote one shopper.
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, ceramides |
|---|---|
| Contains Fragrance | No |
6
Best Value Lotion for Aging Skin
Eucerin Advanced Repair Body Cream
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Can be used on face and body
- Fast-absorbing
Cons
- Some reviewers noted packaging issues
Dr. Rastogi recommends this product as an affordable option for those with very dry skin. It’s formulated with ceramides and moisturizing ingredients like glycerin to provide 48 hours of moisture, according to the brand, and protect the skin barrier. It’s also free of fragrance, dyes, and parabens, making it a good choice for those with sensitive skin.
What reviewers say: “My hands are dry and chapped due to frequent hand washing and, let’s face it, being over a certain age. When I settle for the evening, this is the lotion I reach for. It soothes as it goes on and absorbs nicely into my skin. No gooey sticky residue,” wrote one shopper.
| Key Ingredients | Ceramides, glycerin |
|---|---|
| Contains Fragrance | No |
8
Best Affordable for Sensitive Aging Skin
Vaseline Radiant X Deep Nourishment Body Cream
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight formula
- Evens skin tone
Cons
- Some reviewers found the formula sticky
If you struggle with sensitive skin, Dr. Gohara says you can’t go wrong with this nourishing cream. Assistant Editor Shannen Zitz is also a fan. “This has been my daily body lotion for the past few months that I apply every evening after I shower,” she says. “It feels light and silky on the skin, absorbs quickly, and leaves my skin feeling super moisturized well into the next day. I also love that while it isn’t overly fragranced, it leaves a subtly sweet, cocoa butter type scent on the skin.”
What reviewers say: “I’m loving this cream so much, I’m on the second bottle. I’ve never been consistent using body creams but this one I love! It leaves smooth skin that lasts all day, it has a little bit of shine too,” wrote one shopper. “I like that it doesn’t really have a specific scent.”
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, coconut oil, vitamin C, peptides |
|---|---|
| Contains Fragrance | Yes |
9
Best Brightening Lotion for Aging Skin
AmLactin Daily Nourish Moisturizing Lotion for Dry Skin
Pros
- Exfoliating
- Stimulates collagen
- Helps brighten skin
Cons
- Some reviewers disliked its scent
“This lotion contains 12% lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid with exfoliating and anti-aging benefits,” says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “In addition to moisturizing the skin, it brightens, smooths, and actually has strengthening effects. Studies have shown that long term use of lactic acid on the skin actually stimulates collagen.” The lightweight formula also contains no added fragrances or parabens.
What reviewers say: “I’ve had extremely dry skin since I was a child. My dermatologist recommended this lotion and I gave it a try. It works really well,” said one shopper. “After using this for about a week I no longer had flaky peeling skin!”
| Key Ingredients | Lactic acid, glycerin, dimethicone |
|---|---|
| Contains Fragrance | No |
10
Best Firming Lotion for Aging Skin
Nivea Skin Firming Hydrating Body Lotion
Pros
- Firming, smoothing formula
- Ultra-hydrating
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some reviewers dislike the scent
When I briefly lived in Austria a couple years ago, the harsh temperatures and winds during the winter months further irritated my already dry skin. I was able to get this lotion at my local drugstore and it was a complete life saver. It’s formulated with nourishing ingredients like shea butter to provide long-lasting hydration. Coenzyme Q10 and creatine also create a smoothing, firming, effect. After applying it daily after the shower for a couple of weeks, my skin was noticeably softer and smoother.
What reviewers say: “I’m impressed with the results. The lotion absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it feeling smooth and hydrated without any greasy residue. I’ve noticed an improvement in my skin’s firmness and texture since I began using it a month or so ago,” wrote one shopper.
| Key Ingredients | Shea butter, glycerin, coenzyme Q10, creatine |
|---|---|
| Contains Fragrance | Yes |
12
Best Smelling Lotion for Aging Skin
Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Glow Body Lotion
Pros
- Affordable
- Non-greasy
- Long-lasting formula
Cons
- Some reviewers note packaging issues
A favorite of Digital Director Allie Early, this lotion has a lot going for it. “First of all, it smells SO good, and it’s worth buying for that reason alone,” she says. “I also love it because it has long-lasting moisture retention, it’s affordable, and it’s not greasy.”
What reviewers say: “I’m prone to super dry skin and this has been a game changer!! Not only moisturizes like no other but it smells great and leaves a great glow to skin!”
| Key Ingredients | Cocoa butter, petrolatum, glycerin |
|---|---|
| Contains Fragrance | Yes |
14
Best Luxe Lotion for Aging Skin
Kiehl’s Since 1851 Creme de Corps Body Lotion
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Non-greasy formula
- Helps soften skin
Cons
- Pricey
This cream contains nourishing ingredients like squalane and shea butter, which, according to Dr. Jaliman, are super hydrating and help restore the skin barrier. It’s also formulated with soothing cocoa butter to help soften the skin, and contains no added parabens or fragrances.
What reviewers say: “I’ve gone through a plethora of lotions in my life. Finally, I have found a lotion that works and doesn’t take a slathering to work. A small amount goes a long way. It’s not like thick heavy lotions, as it absorbs into the skin leaving you feeling moisturized.”
| Key Ingredients | Cocoa butter, shea butter, squalane |
|---|---|
| Contains Fragrance | No |
How to choose the best lotion for aging skin
- Look for nourishing ingredients. Checking the label for ingredients is the easiest way to know whether a lotion will provide enough hydration. Dr. Jaliman suggests looking for “glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, shea butter, and squalane, which are excellent for moisturization and hydration.” But hydration isn’t the only thing you should be looking for. “Active ingredients such as peptides, retinol, and vitamins boost the skin’s barrier function, protect against environmental damage, and help skin turnover and collagen production,” Dr. Rastogi says.
- Know your skin concerns. The best lotions can do more than just hydrate. If you have other skin concerns, such as hyperpigmentation, or wrinkles and fine lines, you should also be on the lookout for ingredients that can address them. For instance, “peptides, retinol, and vitamin C help stimulate collagen production,” says Dr. Jaliman. “Niacinamide also helps to even out discoloration.”
- Packaging matters. When shopping for a lotion or moisturizer, packaging might not be something you normally pay attention to. But the type of packaging a lotion comes in can actually tell you a lot about the product inside. “Moisturizers in jars and squeeze bottles tend to have thicker, creamier consistencies, which are often more nourishing,” Dr. Rastogi explains. “In contrast, pump bottles require thinner, more fluid formulations, often achieved by adding solvents like alcohol to prevent clogging. This can make them lighter but potentially less moisturizing, especially for very dry or sensitive skin. Rich textures typically provide longer-lasting hydration and smoothness, which can be especially beneficial for aging skin.
When should you be using moisturizing products?
According to Dr. Zeichner, the timing of moisturizer application is more important than you might expect. “The skin undergoes circadian rhythms, where specific activities occur preferentially in the morning, while others occur in the evening,” he explains. “We know that skin hydration starts to decline in the afternoon and continues into the evening, so there’s actually a biological reason to apply a moisturizer before bed.”
How we chose the best lotions for aging skin
Our team consulted Mona Gohara, M.D., associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine; Supriya Rastogi, M.D., board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City; and Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist; and Joshua Zeichner, M.D., associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. We also conducted our own testing and evaluated dozens of customer reviews to narrow down the best lotions for aging skin for various needs and preferences.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
Jenn Gonick was previously Prevention’s editorial intern for e-commerce and gift guides, and she now writes about health and wellness for Prevention. Jenn is also a recent graduate of George Washington University.
Watch Next
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
link
