The Best Clean Skincare Products to Try If You're Over 40

Clean beauty has been—and continues to be—on the rise. This makes sense, especially if we consider the increased attention we pay to ingredient lists in all areas of our lives, from our housekeeping regimens to our grocery lists. This awareness is a good thing, says cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, since the ingredients in the products we apply to our faces and bodies can seep into our skin and potentially travel through our bloodstream, affecting more than just our outer appearance over time. "Some skincare products can also cause irritation, allergic reactions, breathing problems, reproductive harm, and even cancer," she warns. "So, it is important to be aware of the ingredients before you purchase any item—whether it be lotion, face wash, or a deodorant."

The solution is (relatively) simple: Stock your routine with clean products—but do so carefully. Since there isn't a tried-and-true definition of "clean" skincare (or a regulatory board that distributes the label, for that matter, explains Dr. Sheila Farhang), board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick says that you need to use discretion when you shop. Instead, look for products packed with powerful, but safe natural actives if you're interested in a greener routine. "Many brands that consider themselves 'clean' are often free of ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, sulfates, silicones, formaldehydes, mineral oil, synthetic fragrance, and more," Dr. Garshick explains of this vague beauty category. Dr. Farhang adds not to equate paraben- or preservative-free, however, with good for you ("Without preservatives, our skin care products can grow bacteria, fungi, and other sorts of nasty stuff that cause bad things to happen such as infections and skin reactions," she says). Instead, take a scientific approach and surf the Environmental Working Group's (EWG's) SkinDeep Database for ingredient safety before you buy.

Because of this buzzy label, there are a myriad of clean formulas on the market—but it's arguably the most difficult to parse through those in the anti-aging category (since we so often associate these workhorse products with manufactured chemicals!). To better understand the natural side of the anti-aging beauty sphere, we worked with a number of leading dermatologists, who shared several of their favorite clean products—from cleansers and treatments to moisturizers and serums—for aging skin. You'll find several of their recommendations on the slides ahead.