Is it possible to address the complex needs of sensitive skin AND get impressive anti-ageing effects into the bargain? Absolutely it is. The best creams for sensitive skin used to just be about gentle moisturising, reducing redness and not aggravating existing skin conditions. But the new generation of best anti-ageing skincare for sensitive skin takes things to the next level.

These creams combine innovative anti-ageing ingredients such as less harsh alternatives to retinol, with high quality, hypoallergenic moisturisers that calm and nourish sensitive skin. To find the very best products in this category we sent them out to women who were specifically looking for great anti-ageing results, and we only used testers who had sensitive skin, and had experienced adverse reactions to harsh skincare products in the past.

And the results were impressive – not only did people report fewer lines and a more youthful glow, they said that their sensitive skin felt calmer and more resilient too.

Best anti-ageing creams for sensitive skin to buy in 2022

Avon Sensitive+ Dual Collagen Cream, usually £18 here – currently on sale for £14

Avon's new Sensitive+ range contains their famous Protinol technology

Avon has taken its award-winning, collagen-boosting Protinol technology and incorporated it into a range that allows even sensitive skin to get the anti-ageing benefits. In Avon’s tests, Protinol was found to work faster than retinol – the current gold standard ingredient in anti-ageing skincare, while also being kinder to sensitive skin. Nine out of 10 of Avon’s testers also found this cream reduced redness in just 72 hours.

Tester Fee says: “After four weeks my face feels amazing, you can see a real difference in my glow and the skin texture. I honestly feel like there are fewer lines on my face, my eye area and mouth look more hydrated and plumped. This is now my daily product.

“I've been told by a few people that I'm looking 'well'. I'll take that as younger, energised, beautiful and youthful! The results speak for themselves, the product really works and is a real confidence boost. I'm over the moon.” 5/5

Indie Lee Retinol Alternative Cream, £67 here

A brilliant option for when retinol is too harsh for your skin

This brand was created after the founder was diagnosed with a life-threatening brain tumour. She pledged to create clean, ecologically responsible products that work as well (if not better) than traditional skincare ingredients. This retinol alternative uses rambutan, which still stimulates collagen production, but in a gentler way. It’s proven to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Tester Hiromi says: “This is an absolute joy to use! It kept my mature, very dry skin moisturised, plumped and dewy-looking. It caused no irritation. Unscented too! The formula is rich and moisturising which is what retinol creams usually lack, even with the pricey brands. I did not need to add another layer of moisturiser after using this. Loved the sustainable, recyclable pump and packaging too.

“I feel my hyperpigmentation is starting to fade slightly. Not sure if it is making a massive difference at this stage (four weeks) but so far, so good! I wish I had more!” 5/5

Oodee Nova Illuminating Moisturiser, £55 here

This hypoallergenic brand is strict on stripping allergens from its products

This brand is allergen neutral – a trademarked status meaning it bans all known food and fragrance allergens (14 food and 26 fragrance) from its products, as well as other potential irritants like parabens, sulphates and silicones. Instead it uses vitamin C and trendy ancient grains to boost the skin barrier, target fine lines and leave a luminous complexion.

Tester Kylie says: “Absolutely love this cream. I hadn't heard of the brand before so wasn't sure what to expect, but was so pleasantly surprised. I've been using it for over four weeks and I can really see the difference in my skin. It looks so luminous, bright and fresh I'm really happy with the results. I definitely feel glowing after using this product, and it doesn't upset my sometimes sensitive skin, a big thumbs up from me!” 5/5

Beigic Comforting Cream, £34 here

A calming, nourishing cream that harnesses the power of coffee

This brand is inspired by the colour beige: calm, warm, clean, and the colour of a milky coffee. As such, coffee beans are its hero ingredient (sometimes we feel like that too). This cream has collagen-boosting green coffee bean oil and calming ingredients to help strengthen the skin barrier.

Tester Alcina says: “This smells so good – like I've just stepped into a spa. It has kept my skin hydrated without leaving it greasy, and given me a glow. It really lives up to the name ‘comforting cream’. My skin feels smoother, clearer and more radiant. There's nothing I don't like about this product.

“After a week I am totally hooked! I need the glow in my life. Someone asked, ‘What have you been doing? Your skin looks really smooth.’” 5/5

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By Editor