There are so many creams now on the market it is confusing to pick the best one. If you are lucky, you might get one that actually does what it claims.
Most products on the market are not tested for results. What does that mean? They put the ingredients in, but do not test them on humans. So will it work? Maybe.
Dr. Bader’s recommendations:
First and foremost, only buy creams that have been tested and do what is promised. If it says that it reduces fine lines, you want a study showing that it reduces fine lines. All of RSBSkincare’s products have been tested on humans and do what is stated.
Second, higher price does not mean higher quality in all cases. Cheap price often means worthless.
Thirdly, try to get the most bank for your buck!. Use products that will give you the best results at the best price point. For example, using one cream for $250 that will result in 23% improvement may not be the best choice. It might be better to use one cream for $100 that will have 20% improvement or two for $200 that will have a combined 25% improvement.
What would be the best in terms for bang for buck per Dr. Bader? 1. Mineral-based sunscreen (adding niacninamide is a plus); 2. Retinoid; 3. Peptide; 4. Topical Vitamin C
Let’s take a look at some important ANTI-WRINKLE INGREDIENTS that are proven to combat wrinkles:
✅ Top Anti-Wrinkle Cream Ingredients
1. Retinoids (Retinol, Retinaldehyde, Tretinoin)
- What they do: Boost collagen production, accelerate cell turnover, reduce fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
- Best for: Most skin types (may require gradual introduction), although those with sensitive skin must be careful.
- Note: Can cause irritation or dryness at first; use at night and follow with moisturizer.
- RSBSkincare: Has stable retinol-based products that come in various strengths to accommodate all skin types. Our latest products combine Retinol and Peptides (#2 below) in one product. https://drbader.com/product-tag/retinol/
2. Peptides
- What they do: Support skin structure by stimulating collagen and elastin production.
- Best for: Firming sagging skin and softening wrinkles.
- Examples: Matrixyl (palmitoyl pentapeptide), Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide).
- RSBSkincare: Has products with peptides alone or in combination with other great ingredients: https://drbader.com/product-tag/peptide/
3. Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)
- What it does: Powerful antioxidant; brightens skin, evens tone, and protects against free radicals.
- Best for: Daytime use under sunscreen.
- Note: Needs stable formulation (look for air-tight, dark packaging). Many products are not stable and will not be helpful.
- RSBSkincare: Our Vitamin C products are stablized and effective. Our cream is lower strength and recommended for those with more sensitive skin. Our serum is more potent and a best-seller. https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/brilliant_c_vitamin_c_cream/ or https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/cerum_vitamin_c-serum_with_vitamin_e_and_ferulic-acic/
4. Hyaluronic Acid
- What it does: Draws water into the skin, plumping it and reducing the appearance of lines.
- Best for: All skin types, especially dry or dehydrated skin.
- Note: Best used with a moisturizer to seal it in, especially in areas with dry climates.
- RSB Skincare: https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/ultra_hydrating_serum_hyaluronic_acid/ and one that has several wrinkle fighting ingredients: https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/needle_free_anti-aging_serum/ as do our sunscreens: https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/sheer_defense_tinted_spf46_sunscreen_zinc_oxide/
5. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
- What it does: Improves skin barrier, reduces fine lines, smooths texture, and fades hyperpigmentation.
- Best for: Sensitive, acne-prone, or rosacea-prone skin.
- RSB Skincare: Many of our sunscreens contain niacinamide (https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/sheer_defense_tinted_spf46_sunscreen_zinc_oxide/) or https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/clear_defense_spf45_mineral_sunscreen/ as does our needle free serum: https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/needle_free_anti-aging_serum/
6. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) & Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA)
- Examples: Glycolic acid, lactic acid (AHAs); salicylic acid (BHA).
- What they do: Exfoliate surface skin to reveal smoother skin and reduce wrinkles.
- Best for: Textural irregularities, dullness, and sun damage.
- Note: Can increase sun sensitivity; use sunscreen daily. Use with caution in regimens that utilize retinoids (#1 above) as skin irritation and sun sensitivity can be worsened.
7. Ceramides
- What they do: Restore and protect the skin barrier, improving hydration and resilience.
- Best for: Dry or mature skin, especially when using actives like retinol.
- RSBSkincare: Our Peptide creams contain FOUR ceramides: https://drbader.com/product-tag/peptide/
8. Sunscreen (Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 or higher)
- What it does: Prevents UV damage—the #1 cause of premature aging.
- Best for: Daily use regardless of weather or skin tone. UVA goes through the clouds, so daily use is recommended.
- Note: Look for added antioxidants for enhanced protection. Mineral-based sunscreens are superior to chemical based sunscreens.
- https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/sheer_defense_tinted_spf46_sunscreen_zinc_oxide/ and https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/clear_defense_spf45_mineral_sunscreen/
9. Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone)
- What it does: Antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress and boosts skin repair.
- Best for: Supporting anti-aging routines and reducing oxidative damage.
10. Bakuchiol
- What it does: Natural alternative to retinol with similar anti-aging benefits but gentler on skin.
- Best for: Sensitive skin or during pregnancy (retinoids should be avoided).
- RSBSkincare: Our needle free serum is a favorite and the results will impress you. https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/needle_free_anti-aging_serum/ and our Peptide plus Retinol line as well: https://drbader.com/rsbskincare/peptide-ret-2-5x-non-irritating-retinol/