We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (2024)

Serums are the powerhouses behind any good skincare routine, as they can be adapted to fit any concern or need. Some promise to brighten dark spots, while others hydrate or exfoliate. However, a new category of serum has emerged that promises to fill lines and wrinkles, not unlike hyaluronic acid injectable fillers.

So, what exactly is a wrinkle-filler serum? "Topical 'wrinkle fillers' are skincare products designed to target skin aging, specifically fine lines and wrinkles," explains board-certified dermatologist Corey L. Hartman. "They can also help blur the appearance of lines for a smoother, firmer appearance."

Shop the Best ″Wrinkle Fillers"

With the help of our team of dermatologists, skin experts, and genuine internet reviews, we found which wrinkle-filler serums are the most effective. Here is a guide to the ten best plumping serums for every skin type and budget.

Best Instant Results

Dior Capture Totale Hyalushot Wrinkle Corrector with Hyaluronic Acid

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (7)

Pros
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (8)A little goes a long way
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (9)Does not contain retinol
Cons
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (10)Needs time to dry before applying makeup
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (11)Contains fragrance

This serum should be applied only where you need it, like between the brows, on smile lines, or on the forehead. The blend of hyaluronic acid and peptides helps to immediately plump lines, with a clinical test showing 45 percent fewer visible wrinkles in just four hours.

One customer review says: "This stuff is a game-changer for anyone looking to tackle fine lines and wrinkles. Packed with hyaluronic acid, it delivers a serious dose of hydration that leaves your skin feeling plump and smooth. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, so it doesn’t feel heavy or greasy, making it a breeze to layer under makeup. After using It regularly, i have notice my skin looks fresher and more radiant. While it’s definitely a splurge, the results make it worth every penny if you’re serious about your skincare." —BC2711

Best Drugstore Deal

RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Facial Filler

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (12)

Pros
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (13)Affordable
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (14)Non-comedogenic
Cons
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (15)To ensure your skin can tolerate the retinol, start with every-other-day application and gradually increase usage

With this affordable drugstore serum, you'll see immediate and long-term results. "The research done behind the product shows results in as little as two weeks, with continued results with ongoing use," says Hartman. Its key ingredients are retinol and hyaluronic acid, which work together to keep the skin smooth and hydrated.

One customer review says: "I saw results after 2 weeks. I used to have two deep vertical wrinkles between my eyebrows, and they’re almost invisible now. It’s very hydrating and smooth. Highly recommend this product!" —Rach

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Pros
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (17)2-in-1 treats wrinkles and dark spots
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (18)Provides 48-hour moisture
Cons
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (19)To ensure your skin can tolerate the retinol, start with every-other-day application and gradually increase usage

Using Shiseido's proprietary 'rapid pure retinol technology,' this treatment helps lessen the appearance of deep wrinkles and boost overall skin firmness and elasticity. "It’s a good product to use as a spot treatment in the most concerning areas of the face," says Hartman.

One customer review says: "Fabulous product. You just need a tiny bit and it goes a long long way. I am very happy with the Shiseido products. My dermatologist is also very happy. She has said to me 'Your skin looks great! Keep doing what you are doing!' And I will." —Betsy

Best for Sensitive Skin

Obagi Medical Obagi ELASTIderm Advanced Filler Concentrate

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (20)

Pros
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (21)Can be applied AM and PM
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (22)Safe for all skin types
Cons
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (23)Let dry for one minute before applying makeup

Obagi's Filler Concentrate has a precision-tip applicator to preventatively target specific areas, including forehead lines, brow lines, crow’s feet, laugh lines, and fine lines around the lips. Instead of retinol, it includes Acetyl Hexapeptide-1, a biomimetic peptide used for its wrinkle-smoothing and re-plumping action.

One customer review says: "As a 30-year-old navigating the world of skincare, I was thrilled to try this out, especially since I don’t do Botox or fillers because of my fear of needles. What I appreciate most is that it’s fragrance-free, which is a win for my sensitive skin. I noticed my skin looked plumper and started glowing almost immediately after using it!" —Vanessa

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Best Lightweight Serum

Kate Somerville Wrinkle Warrior® 2-in-1 Plumping Moisturizer + Serum

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (24)

Pros
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (25)Fast-absorbing formula
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (26)Can be applied AM and PM
Cons
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (27)Those with dry skin may prefer a heavier moisturizer over top

This formula uses three forms of hyaluronic acid to deliver deep, long-lasting hydration and an instant plumping effect. At the same time, ingredients like copper peptides help promote collagen production and support a firmer appearance over time. Arizona-based esthetician Emme Diane Burg recommends it with a caveat: "Despite this being called a moisturizer, it lacks the richer emollients or occlusive ingredients that lock in moisture, so I’d recommend layering a more traditional moisturizer on top," she says.

One customer review says: "The best serum out there - light and buttery soft. I’ve been using it for years- no need for Botox!" —Amy T.

Best for Brightening

Murad Rapid Collagen Infusion

Pros
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (29)Formulated with vitamin C and Omega 3s
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (30)Reduces the look of fine lines & wrinkles in 2 hours
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (31)Can be applied AM and PM
Cons
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (32)Those with dry skin may prefer a heavier moisturizer over top

Along with collagen amino acids that instantly boost the skin’s volume, this serum includes vitamin C to address age spots and Omega 3s to improve hydration levels and skin suppleness.

One customer review says: "I have used this for several years with very good results. My face and chest are wrinkle free." —Jan L.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Best for Prevention

Dr. Brandt Skincare Wrinkle Smoothing Cream

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (33)

Pros
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (34)Can be applied AM and PM
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (35)Safe for all skin types
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (36)Helps defend against future expression lines
Cons
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (37)Let dry for one minute before applying skincare or makeup

This cream uses neuropeptides to help relax facial muscles and visibly smooth fine lines. It is "perfect for a quick, visible softening without needles," says Diane Burg.

One customer review says: "I am all about aging gracefully, but using topical creams is all good. This stuff is incredible. [It] erases wrinkles, especially around the eyes and forehead. It also has a delicious cooling effect when you apply it. Don't walk, run, and buy this." —Benjamin

Best for Lip Area

No7 Line Correcting Booster Serum

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (38)

Pros
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (39)Affordable
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (40)Can be applied AM and PM
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (41)Safe for all skin types
Cons
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (42)Some reviewers with the tube was larger

This serum also has a precision applicator for targeted treatment of lines on the skin, specifically around the eyes and mouth.

One customer review says: "I’ve been using this serum for a few years every morning. I use it sparingly only above my top lip and my old smokers lines have nearly disappeared. I’ll use this serum forever!" —Leyla

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Most Hydrating

Emme Diane Skin Quencher Gel Hydrator

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (43)

Pros
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (44)Affordable
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (45)Contains a cocktail of humectants to hydrate the skin
Cons
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (46)Not a spot treatment for lines but an overall skin hydrator

If you're looking for an all-over hydrator, this lightweight gel is like a drink of water for your skin. "It’s packed with a cocktail of powerful humectants that deeply hydrate, giving the skin an instant plumpness that lasts all day," says Diane Burg.

One customer review says: "It goes on so smoothly, plumps up and hydrates dry skin, and makes such a smooth surface for makeup after my skincare routine. Don't go without this product!" —Michelle

For Botox Fans

Filorga Time-Filler Shot 5XP

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (47)

Pros
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (48)Can prolong the results of Botox injections
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (49)Cooling applicator
Cons
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (50)Apply in small amounts otherwise it can pill
  • We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (51)Contains fragrance

This smart serum combines three technologies to help smooth wrinkles: a neuropeptide complex, polysaccharides to plump and hydrate, and a toning marine ferment to boost firmness. It's effective, too: 87 percent of women saw smoother skin and a de-creasing effect after seven days.

One customer review says: "I was pretty skeptical when I bought this but it actually works. You can feel it immediately ... feels so good and you see the difference. Try it!" —Gripper

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Meet the experts

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (52)

• Corey L. Hartman, M.D., F.A.A.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.

• Emme Diane Burg is a licensed esthetician and CEO of Emme Diane Skincare.

What are topical wrinkle fillers?

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (53)

Topical wrinkle fillers are not filler alternatives. "These are over-the-counter (OTC) skincare products, whereas injectable fillers are professional treatments that can only be performed by trained, licensed professionals," explains Hartman. These topical wrinkle-fillers create what Diane Burg calls a "superficial plumping effect" by hydrating the skin at a surface level, "but they aren’t a lasting solution," she says. "Injectable fillers, on the other hand, are administered below the skin’s surface, adding volume at a structural level for longer-lasting results."

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Do topical wrinkle fillers actually work?

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (54)

Many are effective, but in-office procedures amplify the results. "Deep-set wrinkles are best addressed with a mix of in-office professional treatments, like peels or lasers, with a board-certified dermatologist but can be complemented with an at-home skincare routine," says Hartman. That at-home routine can include one of these wrinkle fillers that contain ingredients for an instant plumping or filling effect alongside retinol or peptides that support collagen production over time.

Why trust Harper's Bazaar?

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (55)

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (56)

Megan Decker

Megan Decker is a beauty and lifestyle writer and editor, and the former beauty editor at Refinery29, where she oversaw the site’s beauty trend coverage. In addition to regularly contributing to Harper's Bazaar, she also writes for Refinery29, Byrdie, PS, various newsletters, and other publications. She lives on the Upper East Side and you can often find her reading, picnicking, or strolling in Central Park.

We Tested Wrinkle-Filler Serums to Find 10 That Really Work (2024)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Pres. Lawanda Wiegand

Last Updated:

Views: 5621

Rating: 4 / 5 (71 voted)

Reviews: 86% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Pres. Lawanda Wiegand

Birthday: 1993-01-10

Address: Suite 391 6963 Ullrich Shore, Bellefort, WI 01350-7893

Phone: +6806610432415

Job: Dynamic Manufacturing Assistant

Hobby: amateur radio, Taekwondo, Wood carving, Parkour, Skateboarding, Running, Rafting

Introduction: My name is Pres. Lawanda Wiegand, I am a inquisitive, helpful, glamorous, cheerful, open, clever, innocent person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.