Top 3 Ingredients You Should Be Using for Anti-Aging Skincare

When it comes to keeping your skin youthful, radiant, and smooth, choosing the right skincare ingredients is just as important as using them consistently. But with countless serums and creams promising to reverse the clock, how do you know which ingredients are worth your time—and your money?

At the Beverly Hills Center for Plastic & Laser Surgery, world-renowned facial plastic surgeon Dr. Ben Talei helps patients look and feel their best through personalized treatments and expert guidance. Whether you’re in your 30s or your 60s, certain skincare ingredients stand out as the gold standard in anti-aging.

Here are the top three ingredients Dr. Talei recommends for maintaining youthful skin, along with the science that backs them.

1. Retinoids: The Cell Turnover Powerhouse

Retinoids (which include retinol, retinaldehyde, and prescription-strength tretinoin) are among the most studied and effective anti-aging ingredients available today. Derived from vitamin A, retinoids work by increasing skin cell turnover, which helps fade fine lines, smooth texture, and even out skin tone.

“Retinoids are the backbone of any serious anti-aging skincare regimen. They boost collagen, unclog pores, and accelerate skin renewal,” says Dr. Ben Talei.

• How it works: Retinoids stimulate the production of collagen—a key structural protein that naturally declines with age. They also reduce the buildup of dead skin cells, preventing dullness and promoting a more even complexion.
• Clinical backing: A landmark study in the Archives of Dermatology found that tretinoin significantly reduced fine wrinkles and improved overall skin quality in just 24 weeks.
• Pro Tip from Dr. Talei: Start slow. Begin with a low-strength retinol 2–3 times per week to avoid dryness or irritation, and always pair it with sunscreen, as retinoids can make your skin more sensitive to UV damage.

2. Vitamin C: The Brightening Antioxidant

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is one of the most powerful antioxidants used in skincare—and for good reason. It protects the skin from environmental damage, brightens dull complexions, and supports collagen production.

“Vitamin C serums are excellent for reducing oxidative stress on the skin caused by sun exposure and pollution—two major drivers of premature aging, especially in sunny areas like Los Angeles,” explains Dr. Talei.

• How it works: Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals, which are unstable molecules that break down collagen and speed up skin aging. It also inhibits melanin production, helping to fade dark spots and prevent new pigmentation issues.
• Clinical backing: A study published in Dermatologic Surgery showed that topical vitamin C improves fine wrinkles, roughness, and skin tone after 12 weeks of use.
• Pro Tip from Dr. Talei: Look for L-ascorbic acid at concentrations of 10%–20% in a dark or opaque bottle to prevent oxidation. Apply it in the morning under sunscreen for maximum protection.

3. Hyaluronic Acid: The Ultimate Hydrator

As we age, our skin naturally loses moisture and volume, which can lead to sagging, dryness, and the appearance of wrinkles. That’s where hyaluronic acid (HA) comes in. This molecule can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it essential for restoring and maintaining skin plumpness.

“Hyaluronic acid is like a drink of water for your skin. It smooths fine lines and enhances glow almost instantly—especially when used alongside professional treatments,” says Dr. Talei.

• How it works: Hyaluronic acid draws water into the skin and binds it, which temporarily fills out fine lines and improves elasticity. It’s especially beneficial in climates like Southern California, where sun exposure and dry air can exacerbate dehydration.
• Clinical backing: Research in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology confirms that HA significantly improves skin hydration, elasticity, and smoothness within 4–6 weeks.
• Pro Tip from Dr. Talei: Use a hyaluronic acid serum on damp skin, then seal it with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. Look for products with multiple molecular weights for deeper absorption.

Why a Targeted Skincare Routine Matters

While the market is full of trendy products, not all ingredients deliver visible, lasting results. These three—retinoids, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid—are not only scientifically validated but are also part of Dr. Talei’s approach to healthy aging, whether you’re using them at home or incorporating them alongside in-office procedures.

A well-balanced skincare routine with these actives can:

• Minimize the need for invasive procedures
• Prolong the results of facial rejuvenation treatments like lasers or microneedling
• Protect your skin against daily damage from sun and pollution
• Boost self-confidence by keeping your skin vibrant and firm

“Skincare should be preventive, not reactive. Start using the right ingredients now, and you’ll thank yourself in 5, 10, or 20 years,” says Dr. Talei.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anti-Aging Ingredients

• Can I use all three ingredients at the same time? Yes, but introduce them slowly and at different times of the day. Use vitamin C in the morning, hyaluronic acid anytime, and retinoids at night.
• Are these ingredients safe for sensitive skin? Yes, with proper guidance. Sensitive skin types can benefit from gentler formulations like retinol esters, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (a form of vitamin C), and low molecular weight HA.
• Do I still need professional treatments if I use good skincare? Great skincare can slow signs of aging, but professional treatments at Beverly Hills Center can further improve skin tone, texture, and firmness when needed.
• What’s the best age to start using these ingredients? Prevention is key. Most dermatologists and plastic surgeons recommend starting in your late 20s to early 30s, but it’s never too late to benefit.

Experience Elite Skin Rejuvenation at Beverly Hills Center

If you’re ready to elevate your skincare routine with dermatologist-approved ingredients and guidance from a facial aesthetics expert, Dr. Ben Talei and the team at Beverly Hills Center are here to help.

We offer advanced in-office treatments like laser skin resurfacing, PRP microneedling, and injectables, as well as customized skincare protocols tailored to your skin’s unique needs and your long-term goals.

Book a consultation with Dr. Ben Talei today and discover a modern, holistic approach to timeless beauty—starting with your skin.