Best night cream for mature skin in men

Why it works

Retinol and retinaldehyde (cosmetic retinoids)

Retinol and retinaldehyde are vitamin A ingredients that skin converts into retinoic acid, the active form found in prescription creams. Retinoids speed up skin cell turnover and boost collagen, which can improve fine lines, texture and uneven tone over months. Retinol is roughly ten times weaker than prescription tretinoin. Several trials show benefit, but many were small, lacked a placebo cream, or used products whose retinol content and stability were uncertain. Irritation is the main side effect, and in darker skin it can leave dark marks, so start with a low strength every other night. Use at night with daily sunscreen, and do not use during pregnancy.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3)

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that skin cells use to make molecules involved in energy and repair. In skin care it is used for dark spots, redness, oiliness and fine lines. Several controlled studies, mostly small and some industry-sponsored, found 4% to 5% creams reduced dark spots and improved fine lines over 8 to 12 weeks; in one trial 2% was not enough to lighten spots, and benefits faded after stopping. In one acne trial a 4% gel worked about as well as a topical antibiotic gel. It is well tolerated, though some people find it drying. It is not a sunscreen.

Hyaluronic acid and glycerin (humectants)

Humectants are moisturizer ingredients that draw water into the outer layer of skin and hold it there. Glycerin is regarded as the most effective humectant for hydrating the skin surface. Hyaluronic acid, a molecule the skin also makes naturally, is another humectant that dermatologists list for dry skin. Used on their own, humectants can pull water out of the skin into dry air and may even increase water loss, which is why well-made moisturizers pair them with occlusive ingredients that seal water in. They work best applied to damp skin after bathing.