These serums & creams are super effective at tightening skin

Skin-tightening cream isn’t a vital part of any woman’s skincare routine, rather, something we may choose to add to our regime if we’re looking to boost skin elasticity, add bounce, improve skin texture, and leave our complexions firmer and smoother.

While we at GLAMOUR don’t believe in ‘anti-ageing’ – fine lines and wrinkles are part of the privilege of getting older, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that – we also understand that some of us do feel a little self-conscious, and may look to certain youth-boosting products for a confidence boost. And there’s nothing wrong with that, either.

Best skin-tightening creams at a glance:

Olay Regenerist 3 Point Firming Anti-Ageing Cream Moisturiser

The Ordinary 10% Argireline Solution

Estée Lauder Perfectionist Pro Rapid Firm + Lift Treatment

Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream

Meet the experts:

• Erum Ilyas, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group
• Dr Hanson Yu, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Hanson Aesthetic Medicine

As we age, a combo of sun damage, genetics and gravity and can lead to a “crepe-like quality of skin due to loss of elasticity and collagen,” says Erum Ilyas. Since collagen and elastin act as the scaffolding within skin, this can eventually contribute to looser skin. And while you might notice it the most on your face, it can happen anywhere on the body, from your neck and décolleté to your bum and thighs. Again, this is part of the natural ageing process and is nothing to feel embarrassed about. But similarly, if it is knocking your confidence and you want to do something about, that’s cool, too. Enter: the best topical serums and creams.

“When searching for skin tightening and firming creams, several key ingredients can significantly contribute to improving the skin’s elasticity and overall appearance,” says Dr Hanson Yu. “These potent ingredients are often selected for their ability to address specific concerns related to skin firmness…

• Peptides: Peptides are short chains of amino acids that can signal the skin to produce more collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are essential proteins responsible for maintaining the skin’s structure and elasticity.
• Hyaluronic acid: A naturally occurring substance in the skin that is known for its excellent moisture-retaining properties which can help hydrate the skin, plump up fine lines, and improve skin firmness.
• Antioxidants: Such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract, play a crucial role in protecting the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
• Retinoids: Derivatives of vitamin A renowned for their ability to stimulate collagen production and accelerate cell turnover. But retinoids can be potent and may cause irritation, so proper usage and gradual introduction are crucial, especially for individuals with sensitive skin.
• Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): AHAs, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, are exfoliating agents that can help remove dead skin cells, revealing a smoother and more radiant complexion.
• Caffeine: Often included in skin tightening and firming creams due to its vasoconstrictive properties, meaning it can temporarily tighten blood vessels, reducing puffiness and enhancing the appearance of skin firmness.
• Ceramides: Ceramides are lipids naturally found in the epidermis and help maintain the skin’s barrier function, preventing moisture loss, and promoting skin suppleness.”

Also, don’t stop at the face. Some formulas can “address the crepe-like quality to the skin on the arms and legs and improve the look and texture of the chest—all traditionally high-risk areas for chronic UV damage,” says Ilyas. And it’s worth going with a dedicated formula for this, be it a body lotion or serum, since your average face moisturiser or serum “can have more of a drying effect on body skin, given the decreased concentration of sebaceous or oil glands on the body relative to the face,” she says. In other words, you’re more prone to dry skin below the neck, making extra moisture a nonnegotiable.

Keep reading for the best skin-tightening cream for every preference and skincare routine…