I’ll admit, I got “baby Botox” before my wedding last year after my dermatologist suggested it to treat the fine lines between my brows. And while my forehead looked the firmest, smoothest, and shiniest it’s ever been, it wore off quickly. Maybe it’s poor genetics, or maybe it was all the pre-wedding hot yoga I was doing, but either way, I haven’t injected anything into my face since because I just couldn’t justify the time or cost of upkeep. (Seriously, in Boston, it can run roughly $280 per area!)
Since I was turning (and embracing!) 30 anyway, it felt like the perfect time to give both my skin and my wallet a little break and experiment with non-invasive, topical anti-aging treatments instead. Even though I’ve always been diligent about my skin and cover all the bases—daily SPF, red light therapy, and regular Clear + Brilliant treatments—I could tell that, with consistent use, they really do make a difference.
This is because typically products that target fine lines are designed to mimic Botox’s results, using ingredients like retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants that work together to fill and soften forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, and frown lines over time. The only catch is that they don’t freeze muscles beneath the surface like actual injectables, but they can temporarily create a line-smoothing effect—no painful needles or pricey doctor’s appointment necessary.
Ahead, I’m sharing 10 of my go-to products for youthful, glowing skin, from serums and retinols to eye creams and wrinkle patches.
Contents
Botox In a Bottle
While there isn’t actual botulinum toxin in these bottles, the serums below serve as an excellent, non-invasive alternative. Beyond delivering a ‘tox-like smoothing effect, many are also formulated with ingredients that boost hydration, something my thirsty skin especially appreciates after a very cold Boston winter and lots of traveling.
ClearStem Skincare
Bounceback Peptide Powerhouse Serum
What makes “BounceBack” live up to its name are its key ingredients: tri-peptides that help stimulate collagen production, plant cells that diminish the appearance of fine lines, and mango fruit extract that helps brighten skin tone. It also smells incredible.
SkinCeuticals
C E Ferulic
If you can get past the price tag, this serum is widely considered the gold-standard vitamin C serum in the beauty world. It contains three important antioxidants—L-ascorbic acid, vitamin E, and ferulic acid—which help protect against environmental stressors while targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration.
Fine Line Fillers
TL;DR: Wrinkle fillers are skincare products that temporarily plump up the skin to decrease the appearance of lines. They’re fast-acting, so you can typically always find me reaching for these fine line fillers before a big event to add major glow.
Dr. Dennis Gross
Derminfusions Fill + Repair Serum
Hyaluronic acid and peptide proteins are the star ingredients in this wrinkle filler, and are what create a 3D-plumped effect and fill the look of wrinkles and lines. I like to pair it with my holy grail red light therapy mask from the brand for even better results.
No7
Instant Illusion Wrinkle Filler
Retinol to the Rescue
Retinol has been a mainstay in the anti-aging world for years. As a vitamin A derivative, it accelerates skin turnover and stimulates collagen production. Because I have super sensitive skin, I have to be careful with retinoids—but these OTC options always deliver.
CeraVe
Resurfacing Retinol Serum
This gentle-yet-effective drugstore pick is great for acne-prone skin like mine. It contains encapsulated retinol that delivers the ingredient gradually to minimize irritation, leaving skin brighter and smoother after every use.
SkinBetter Science
Alpharet Overnight Cream
A favorite among dermatologists, this buzzy overnight cream combines AlphaRet with glycolic acid, antioxidants, peptides, and ceramides. The powerful formula helps smooth fine lines and leaves skin looking more even and refreshed.
Bye-Bye Crow’s Feet
I’ve never really believed in eye creams—until I found ones that actually do what they say they will. The best formulas can smooth fine lines, reduce puffiness, and brighten the under-eye area overall.
iNNBeauty Project
Extreme Cream Eye
I’m a huge fan of iNNBeauty Project’s lip oils, so it’s no wonder I can’t get enough of the brand’s new(ish) eye cream. Not only does it reduce under-eye creases, but it also addresses concerns like puffiness, dark circles, and sagging.
RoC
Retinol Correxxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream
If you want a little more oomph in your eye cream, this is a great option. It’s a lightweight, non-greasy formula that includes retinol, along with other wrinkle-smoothing ingredients.
Patch ‘n Plump
I’m a big squinter, which means my forehead wrinkles are always working overtime. Because my “11s” are admittedly the deepest lines I have now, wrinkle patches have become one of my favorite quick fixes for smoothing them out overnight or before applying makeup.
Wrinkles Schminkles
Forehead & Under Eye Wrinkle Set
These reusable (up to 20 times!) 100 percent medical-grade silicone patches target the “11” forehead lines. They can be worn for one to two hours for a quick boost or while you sleep.
Hero Cosmetics
Mighty Patch for Fine Lines
Hero Cosmetics acne stickers work wonders, and these Mighty Patches are just as good. They feature over 1,000 dissolving “micropoints” and retinol, which work quickly together to renew skin and leave it looking smooth and line-free.
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