Wrinkle fillers can be a game-changer for anyone with dry, dull, or mature skin who wants a quick, temporary boost of plumpness and radiance. “You could even start to slowly incorporate wrinkle fillers in your mid-twenties as that’s when collagen production starts to decline by about 1% every year,” says Martha Viera, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Coral Gables, Florida. That said, if fine lines and wrinkles aren’t yet a concern, there’s no need to rush into using wrinkle fillers. Instead, “it’s more beneficial to focus on building a strong skin-care routine with essentials like sunscreen, moisturizers, antioxidants, and retinol to keep skin happy and protected for the long run,” adds Dr. Lolis.
So: Go ahead and own your wrinkles, but if you’re ever in the mood to smooth them out, these expert-approved wrinkle fillers are an easy way to refresh your look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best Overall: Alastin HA Immerse Serum
Why we love it: We’ve waxed poetic about Alastin HA Immerse Serum before, but let’s be extra clear: This isn’t your run-of-the-mill serum. It goes beyond simply plumping your skin with a quick hit of hyaluronic acid. Instead, it’s like a skin-care trainer, teaching your skin to boost its own natural hyaluronic acid production for long-lasting hydration, all thanks to a genius peptide formula. “This is one of my favorite hyaluronic acid products because of its effects due to its high molecular weight. Its technology and mix with other ingredients, such as a proprietary peptide, give the skin an immediate refreshing and plumping effect,” says Dr. Viera. Translation: Instant hydration and glow with long-term benefits.
“To me, the mark of a noteworthy product (especially a serum) is one that your routine feels truly lonely without. That’s how I feel about Alastin’s HA Immerse. It makes any moisturizer I layer over it all the more soothing, hydrating, and effective, but even without any next step, this serum helps me avoid the too-tight feeling I get when I wait too long to moisturize after washing my face. As someone with facial eczema flare-ups and borderline-mature skin, ever since using this serum, I’ve noticed fewer flakes and an all-over more supple look and feel.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director
More to know
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides, silver mushroom extract
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Deeper Wrinkles: SkinCeuticals P-Tiox
SkinCeuticals
P-Tiox
Why we love it: This isn’t the first time you’ve heard us talk about SkinCeuticals P-Tiox—and it definitely won’t be the last. Consider this your refresher: Peptides take the lead here, working hard to soften expression lines and give skin that plump, glassy finish. Your skin will appreciate the power trio of 5% polyhydroxy acid, 5% niacinamide, and 1% laminaria extract, which zeroes in on the spots where fine lines love to show up (think cheek folds and the glabella between your brows). “P-Tiox is my secret weapon to keep wrinkles in their place,” says Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “It glides on very smoothly, so you can easily layer on your other skin-care products afterward.”
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
“I use this in between my neuromodulator appointments and when I just can’t get Botox, like during pregnancy. I’ve found that it helps slow the roll of my forehead lines and can target expression lines where injectables can’t, like around my mouth.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
- Key ingredients: 5% polyhydroxy acid, 5% niacinamide, 1% laminaria extract
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Hydrator
SkinMedica
HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator
Why we love it: Chances are you know by now (or should) that hyaluronic acid is an MVP for softening the look of wrinkles, and SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Hydrator doubles down with multiple forms of HA. Its proprietary HA5 Hydra Collagen Complex is a blend designed to visibly “fill” and cushion lines. You get sodium hyaluronate for deep hydration, hydrolyzed HA in smaller fragments that can slip more easily into surface-level creases, and crosslinked HA, a gel-like form that holds water longer, keeping skin looking plump throughout the day. The formula also includes vegan collagen, which helps attract and retain moisture for an extra bump of smoothness. “I love the silky-smooth texture—it layers so easily that I often mix it with my retinoid at night to tackle wrinkles from all angles, but it also helps if you’re prone to irritation from retinoids,” says Dr. Yoo.
“I have dry skin year-round, so I’m always on the hunt for something that actually hydrates and sticks around. SkinMedica’s HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish and Restore Hydrator has a gel-cream texture that—wait for it—doesn’t instantly absorb, which I actually love. It gives me a chance to really see where I’ve applied it (and where I’ve missed). It takes a minute or two to fully settle in, which feels more intentional than hydrators that disappear as soon as they touch your skin. Once it sinks in, my skin looks noticeably plumper, and it soft-focuses wrinkles around my cheeks, smile lines, and crow’s feet—so much so that I’ve even skipped moisturizer a few times.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
- Key ingredients: sodium hyaluronate, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, vegan collagen
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Early Signs of Aging: Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP Serum
Medik8
Liquid Peptides Advanced Face Serum
Why we love it: Medik8 has no shortage of standout formulas when it comes to blurring the look of wrinkles, but the Liquid Peptides Advanced MP Serum “is truly one-of-a-kind, drawing inspiration from in-office aesthetic treatments,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. What sets it apart is its proprietary Growth Factor MiniProtein and an Expression Line MiniProtein, which, she explains, are “perfectly crafted to fit into cell receptors responsible for producing collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.” Working together, they help slow down subtle expression lines before they settle into deeper wrinkles.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
“I may not be the target target audience for this product (I’m only 32), but I’ll be darned if I don’t stave off fine lines (especially those creeping up on my forehead) as much as possible—without, as a personal preference, turning to in-office procedures such as filler and Botox. Liquid Peptides Advanced has a wonderfully lightweight, watery-gel consistency that fits in perfectly with my extensive nighttime routine. I’ll even pair it with retinol for a one-two, texture-smoothing, skin-plumping punch. What follows (my night cream) sinks in quickly, and my face doesn’t feel like I’ve glooped on seven layers of product (even if I actually have).” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
- Key ingredients: peptide complex (13 types, including matrixyl 3000 and copper peptides), multi-weight hyaluronic acid, carnosine, growth factor miniprotein
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Retinol: Innisfree Retinol Green Tea PDRN Firming Serum
Innisfree
Retinol Green Tea PDRN Firming Serum
Why we love it: Some products leave you guessing as to what makes them work, but Innisfree Retinol Green Tea PDRN Firming Serum says it all in the name. “This vegan formula uses green tea PDRN rather than salmon sperm PDRN, plus green tea peptides, low-molecular hyaluronic acid, and that 1% triple retinol complex to firm skin, smooth fine lines, and refine texture,” says Dr. Yoo. It also fits right into K-beauty’s slow-aging philosophy—the idea that skin does best with steady, supportive care rather than harsh overhauls. This serum plays that long game with ingredients that rebuild and replenish over time, but it still gives you that satisfying glass glow right away.
Tester feedback from Han
“To be totally transparent, I’m still a little on-the-fence about PDRN but when you pair it with a gold-standard, well-researched ingredient like retinol, I’m more convinced that the product is doing something. Plus, PDRN is at the very least a soothing ingredient, so I like the balance it brings with the retinol. I’m no stranger to Innisfree serums and the silky, fast-absorbing textures don’t disappoint. I’ve started to really zone in on my forehead to keep the most prominent (as of now) evidence of lines at bay as best as I can—and the results are promising. No irritation, just good ‘ol plumping hydration.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
- Key ingredients: green tea PDRN, 1% triple retinol complex, green tea peptides
- Fragrance-free: yes
Fastest Acting: Isdin Instant Flash Firming and Lifting Serum Ampoules
Isdin
Isdinceutics Instant Flash Firming and Lifting Serum Ampoules
Why we love it: Don’t let the size of these teeny-tiny ampoules fool you—a little goes a long way in making skin look plumper and bringing back that bounce. Isdin Instant Flash Firming and Lifting Serum Ampoules have peptide Q10, a peptide paired with coenzyme Q10, an antioxidant your skin naturally produces but loses over time. Together, they help support firmness and smooth the look of fine lines while boosting radiance, especially when skin looks tired or dull. Add in hyaluronic acid, which floods skin with hydration for an instant plumping effect. “This serum gives a lifting and radiant effect, promotes hydration, and helps the skin look firmer and smoother,” says Dr. Viera. Plus, the rejuvenating lift lasts up to eight hours—plenty of time to convince everyone you got a full night’s sleep (even if you didn’t). And, if you’ve ever had the heartbreak of shattering your favorite skincare container on the bathroom floor, you’ll love how these little ampoules are practically spill-proof.
Editor’s tip
Apply only half of the ampoule onto your face, neck, and neckline. They’re resealable—and good for up to 48 hours after opening—so they’re perfect for throwing one in your bag for a weekend getaway.
More to know
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptide Q10, lentil seed extract
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Sensitive Skin: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DermInfusions Fill + Repair Serum
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare
DermInfusions Fill + Repair Serum
Why we love it: Hyaluronic acid has long been a star player when it comes to tackling fine lines, sagging, and boosting elasticity—and Dr. Dennis Gross DermInfusions Fill + Repair Serum doesn’t just include one form, but four. But that’s just the beginning of what makes this product a derm-favorite. “This serum has the holy grail of all my favorite ingredients: ectoin, which works synergistically with hyaluronic acid to give your skin nice plumpness and help repair your skin’s moisture barrier,” says Dr. Lolis. “Plus, it includes peptides, antioxidants, and niacinamide, which work together to plump your skin and stimulate protein production.”
Editor’s tip
Don’t forget your neck. Smooth your wrinkle-filling products down your neck and décolleté. The thinner skin of your neck often shows signs of aging faster than your face.
More to know
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides, niacinamide, ectoin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Drugstore: Cetaphil Healthy Renew Purified Peptides Night Cream
Cetaphil
Healthy Renew Purified Peptides Night Cream
Why we love it: While you probably know by now that retinol is the gold standard for smoothing wrinkles, people with sensitive skin types often need a softer approach. “Cetaphil Healthy Renew Purified Peptides Night Cream is a great retinoid alternative that uses purified peptides to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles while hydrating and protecting the skin barrier,” says Dr. Yoo. Those peptides get to work overnight—the ideal time, since skin naturally shifts into repair mode and becomes more receptive to moisture. The formula also features niacinamide (B3) and panthenol (B5) to strengthen your barrier further, helping you wake up looking smoother and more refreshed.
Editor’s tip
Shea butter, coconut oil, and rice lees extract work together to form a soft, cushiony barrier that locks in moisture while helping shield sensitive skin from irritants.
More to know
- Key ingredients: peptides, niacinamide, panthenol
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
Do wrinkle filler creams really work?
Yes, but with some important distinctions compared to their injectable counterparts. “There are many amazing topical wrinkle ‘fillers’ that can really plump your skin. But, these are not as effective as injectable dermal fillers,” says Dr. Viera. The main difference between wrinkle fillers that anyone can buy at a store and injectables lies in the depth of penetration, with “over-the-counter creams working at the surface level and injectables affecting the deeper layers of the skin,” she adds.
How long do wrinkle fillers last?
The effects of wrinkle fillers are temporary: “Usually anywhere from a few hours to a day,” says Dr. Lolis. While they don’t last long, “the benefits over over-the-counter wrinkle fillers are primarily that users see immediate effects. They are needle-free options, and more affordable over injectable fillers,” she adds.
What ingredients can help “fill” wrinkles in a topical product?
When it comes to wrinkle-filling topical products, the key ingredients to look for are all about giving your skin a plumper, smoother appearance. Dr. Viera highlights hyaluronic acid’s “ability to retain and attract moisture—making skin look fuller and reducing fine lines.” Antioxidants like “niacinamide, peptides, and vitamin C help improve skin texture, pigmentation, and fight free radicals while boosting collagen production,” she says. A newer ingredient popping up on ingredient lists is argireline, “sometimes referred to as ‘topical Botox’ for its ability to partially relax muscles and stimulate collagen and elastin production,” she says. Lastly, over-the-counter retinoids “have many important functions in slowing collagen breakdown, increasing cell turnover, and improving skin texture,” she adds.
Meet the experts
- Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic, based in New York City
- Martha Viera, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist in private practice in Coral Gables, FL
- Margarita Lolis, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Hackensack, NJ
- Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best wrinkle fillers, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
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