Think the only way to address deep wrinkles is with a needle? Turns out, some of the best wrinkle fillers require neither an appointment nor a syringe—not to mention, they won’t cause swelling or bruising. “Topical wrinkle fillers are skin care products designed to temporarily plump and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” says Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, Mohs surgeon, and cofounder of sunscreen brand Spooge. Despite the name, these creams, gels, or serums are “very different from injectable dermal fillers,” she says. Instead of adding volume beneath the skin, as the likes of Botox and Radiesse would do, these topical creams and serums hydrate the surface of the skin to create a fuller, more supple appearance. With so many options to choose from, how do you know if topical fillers are right for your wrinkles?
“Topical wrinkle fillers are best for someone who is noticing early signs of aging or wants a noninvasive way to make fine lines look softer,” Dr. Hovenic says. “They tend to work particularly well on superficial lines that become more noticeable when the skin is dry or dehydrated, including fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.” As a bonus, they come in clutch as makeup primers, hydrating and smoothing the skin before foundation is even applied. We tested a handful of options below, including our top pick, the Dr. Dennis Gross DRx BioRejuvenation Serum to soften creases and plump skin. We also found a supreme drugstore option, L’Oréal Revitalift Volume Filler Daily Volumizing Moisturizer to help decrease the appearance of volume loss. Ahead, find more topical wrinkle fillers dermatologists recommend for deep wrinkles, instant results, and more.
Our top wrinkle fillers
- Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross DRx BioRejuvenation Serum, $89
- Best for Deep Wrinkles: Strivectin Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Plump Line Filling Bounce Serum $78
- Best for Instant Results: L’Oréal Revitalift Volume Filler Daily Volumizing Moisturizer, $15
- Best for Eyes: No. 7 Future Renew Damage Reversal Eye Serum, $18
- Best for Lips: Alastin HA Immerse Serum, $134
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Andalou Naturals Deep Wrinkle Dermal Filler, $21
Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross DRx BioRejuvenation Serum
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx BioRejuvenation Serum
Original video from Jenny Berg testing Dr. Dennis Gross DRx BioRejuvenation Serum
Dr. Dennis Gross’s Fill + Repair Serum has been a Glamour editor favorite since its 2023 launch. But when the brand debuted its DRx BioRejuvenation Serum in 2026, we (and our wrinkles) had to take notice. While most topical wrinkle fillers temporarily plump the skin for a firmer, smoother appearance (not a bad thing!), this formula works somewhat differently. Its star ingredient, collagen amino acids, can actually absorb into the skin, which isn’t true of topical collagen. The idea: to supply the skin with the building blocks it needs to produce more collagen on its own, becoming firmer, more elastic, and more resilient over time. The amino acids are paired with a trio of bioavailable actives—glutathione, niacinamide, and adenosine—that bolster the skin’s reparative processes. Overall, the formula was designed to soften fine lines and wrinkles while also smoothing specific areas that tend to sag with age—think nasolabial folds, jowls, neck, and jawline.
“The brand says to expect visible changes, i.e. that tighter, lifted look, after about 10 weeks of consistent use, morning and night. Confession: I’m not that far into my trial yet, but I’m already a fan. Right away I got hooked on the serum’s milky texture and hydrating feel; it’s more like a light, luxurious lotion than a typical serum. Plus, my skin feels smoother and looks more luminous with each application. It gives my skin a glassy glow that works well on its own or under makeup: My Victoria Beckham Foundation Drops smoothed over it like silk this morning. Immediate results aside, I’m genuinely curious (and excited!) to see how this firms up saggy spots over the next few weeks, particularly since it takes a rather novel approach to doing just that. It’s late September now, so if I end the year looking visibly refreshed, no one can accuse me of gatekeeping.” —Jenny Berg, Glamour contributor
- Key ingredients: Collagen amino acids, glutathione, niacinamide, adenosine
- Size: 1 fl. oz.
Best for Deep Wrinkles: Strivectin Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Plump Line Filling Bounce Serum
StriVectin Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Plump Line Filling Bounce Serum
Original video from Jenny Berg testing Strivectin Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Plump Line Filling Bounce Serum
According to Alexandra Haskin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, “This is a nicely formulated topical wrinkle filler because it contains ingredients that stimulate immediate plumping while also promoting long-term collagen production.” Those ingredients include humectants for immediate hydration and deep-wrinkle softening, plus a peptide complex said to stimulate collagen and elastin production over time. “Its silicone and silica-containing ingredients are also great for improving surface texture and reducing the appearance of crepey skin,” Dr. Haskin says.
Glamour contributor Charlotte Twine says:
“This product passes the line-filling test with flying colors. I used it for a week, and whether it ironed out my wrinkles or not, my skin feels bouncy and looks bright. I love the way it looks, and yes, the forehead lines, which the brand says the serum specifically helps, appear more faint. I would dab the product on in a targeted way, on the problem areas, let it absorb, then put on a layer of moisturizer. The wrinkles around my mouth look about the same, but I’m pleased with the results overall. I plans to make the serum a part of my regular routine.” —Charlotte Twine, Glamour contributor
- Key ingredients: Alpha-3 peptide, red algae extract, turmeric root extract
- Size: 1 fl. oz.
Best for Instant Results: L’Oréal Revitalift Volume Filler Moisturizer
L’Oréal Revitalift Volume Filler Moisturizer
Original video from Jenny Berg testing L’Oréal Revitalift Volume Filler Moisturizer
“What makes the L’Oréal Revitalift Volume Filler Moisturizer appealing for more immediate results is its combination of hydration and surface-smoothing ingredients,” says Dr. Hovenic. “It contains glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, a form of hyaluronic acid, which help attract and retain water in the skin. That boost in hydration can temporarily make fine lines appear less noticeable and give the skin a plumper look.” The formula also contains dimethicone, she says, which helps smooth the skin’s surface and can create a softer, more even finish. “I would think of the ‘instant’ benefit as primarily a hydrating and smoothing effect rather than an actual change to the underlying wrinkle,” she says—but that hydration adds up. “With continued use, keeping the skin consistently hydrated can also improve its overall texture and appearance,” Dr. Hovenic says.
“Don’t let the SPF-thick scoop fool you—this moisturizer surprises with how refreshing and lightweight it feels once it’s actually on skin. The plumping claim is the real deal here: My face looked visibly bouncier almost instantly, like I was halfway to chipmunk cheeks, in the best possible way. It sits slightly tacky and takes a beat to fully sink in, landing on a dewy (not greasy) finish. The scent is noticeable—fresh, but a bit stronger than I’d personally prefer. Layered over L’Oréal’s Tri-Peptides Serum, though, the whole routine felt easy and balanced, not overloaded.” —J.B.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, adenosine, Alpinia galanga leaf extract
- Size: 1.7 oz.
Best for Eyes: No.7 Future Renew Damage Reversal Eye Serum
Dr. Haskin is quick to recommend this budget-friendly brand to patients. And though she notes that the eye cream doesn’t have as fast of a plumping effect as some other topical wrinkle fillers, its ingredients pay off in the long run to minimize fine lines around the eyes. “This is a great adjunct to an eye antiaging routine because it uses the brand’s specific peptide blend to boost collagen and cellular repair,” she says. “It also has many hydrating ingredients, including glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter.” According to Dr. Hovenic, “In an eye serum, hydration is particularly valuable because simply improving the skin’s water content can make small lines look softer and the area appear smoother and more refreshed. I also like seeing niacinamide in this type of formula because it has evidence supporting improvements in fine lines, pigmentation, and overall skin texture.” Plus, it’s user-friendly: Dr. Haskin has tried the product herself and was impressed with its “smooth, lightweight application.”
- Key ingredients: Peptides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamins C and E, mulberry extract
- Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
Best for Lips: Alastin HA Immerse Serum
A dermatologist favorite, this product penetrates deep into the skin, increasing its hyaluronic acid levels to support long-term hydration and plumping. And while facial serums are most commonly used, well, on the face, don’t forget that the skin on the lips needs some TLC too. “I’m a big supporter of using facial hyaluronic acid serums on the lips, especially at bedtime for added moisture retention,” Dr. Haskin says. “This Alastin HA serum is perfect for this purpose. I use it on my lips and entire face, especially during the dry winter months.” With multiple forms of hyaluronic acid, the product may encourage even higher moisture-binding capacity in the skin, which is especially valuable for lips. “The lips are particularly susceptible to water loss, which can exacerbate the appearance of aging in mature skin,” she says. “For the lips, this product can provide an immediate hydrated appearance and soften any visible lip lines.”
Glamour contributor Taryn Brooke says:
“It gave my skin an instant boost of hydration, smoothing out my fine forehead lines that remind me that it’s time for my next Botox appointment. Having just gone for an ablative laser treatment, I love that the serum is suitable for post-procedure skin, especially because I was unable to use any of my other actives, so I’m able to see the plumping effects of the serum even more.” —Taryn Brooke, Glamour contributor
- Key ingredients: Octapeptide-45, silver mushroom extract, hexapeptide-11
- Size: 1 fl. oz.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Andalou Naturals Deep Wrinkle Dermal Filler
“One ingredient that stands out to me in the Andalou Naturals Deep Wrinkle Dermal Filler is bakuchiol,” Dr. Hovenic says. “Bakuchiol has become a popular alternative for people who want some of the visible antiaging benefits associated with retinoids but may have difficulty tolerating retinol. In one randomized study, bakuchiol and retinol both improved wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, while the bakuchiol group reported less scaling and stinging.” The formula also includes hydrating and soothing ingredients such as aloe, allantoin, and sodium hyaluronate, which she says can plump and soften the look of fine lines. “That said, I would add an important caveat for truly sensitive skin: This particular product is not fragrance-free,” she says. “I would recommend patch-testing first and discontinuing use if you notice burning, persistent redness, or irritation.”
- Key ingredients: Bakuchiol, hyaluronic acid, resveratrol, CoQ10, allantoin, fruit stem cell extracts
- Size: 0.6 fl. oz.
Wrinkle fillers we tried but did not include
- Peter Thomas Roth Peptide Skinjection Fill + Fix Under-Eye Cream was another contender for its impressive instant-smoothing effects. The silicone-based formula can visibly tighten and smooth fine lines in minutes, and Glamour contributor Taryn Brooke loved using it as a makeup primer when she wanted an especially flawless finish. We ultimately cut it from the list because the application requires a little more patience and precision than some of our other picks.
- RoC Retinol Correction Deep Wrinkle Filler has been a favorite of Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle, who says the retinol-infused cream significantly reduced the appearance of forehead lines with use just once or twice a week. We ultimately cut it from the list because retinol can irritate some skin types, making it a less universally approachable option for those looking for a wrinkle filler.
- Lawless Forget the Filler Skin-Plumping Line-Smoothing Perfecting Cream was another standout for its ability to plump and smooth fine lines while creating an ideal canvas for makeup. Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary especially loved its peptide-packed formula and noticed a visible difference in her forehead lines after several weeks of use. We ultimately cut it from the list because it’s not as widely accessible as some of our other picks.
Frequently asked questions
Do topical wrinkle fillers actually work?
Yes and no, says Daniel Belkin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon based in NYC. “With anything in skin care, you have to be so careful of marketing terms. If you hydrate the epidermis [the outermost layer of the skin] really well, you will get a plumping effect. If you moisturize the skin with a really good humectant to prevent transepidermal water loss on top of it, the result is a reduction in the look of wrinkles and plumper-looking skin.” Essentially, this means that you will get a wrinkle-filling effect with any great hydrating product.
Though some topical wrinkle fillers also contain ingredients, such as retinol, that help to stimulate collagen over time, most are effective for surface-level improvement and overall skin quality. “These products complement injectables like Botox and dermal fillers like Juvéderm and Restylane Lyft,” says Dr. Rambhia. “Injectable treatments deliver structural changes and volume that topicals simply cannot achieve.”
What ingredients do dermatologists recommend to fill in wrinkles?
Dermatologists recommend hyaluronic acid for instant plumping and hydration, peptides to stimulate collagen production, silicones for immediate optical blurring effects, niacinamide to improve elasticity, retinoids for long-term structural improvements, vitamin C to boost collagen synthesis, and growth factors to support skin repair. “The most effective products combine multiple ingredients rather than relying on a single component and should always be paired with daily sun protection for best results,” says Dr. Rambhia.
How long do wrinkle fillers last?
Dr. Yang says that though you will see almost immediate improvement within minutes of application, especially with those that are silicone-based, “the results are temporary, lasting anywhere from six to eight hours.” However, if you are applying wrinkle fillers that contain peptides, growth factors, and retinoids, says Dr. Rambhia, “they may deliver cumulative improvements over 10 to 12 weeks with consistent daily use. Results disappear once application stops, and effectiveness varies based on skin type, environmental conditions, and proper application technique. For sustained benefits, these products must become a regular part of your skin care routine.”
How long does it take to see results with a wrinkle filler?
The amount of time to see results depends heavily on the specific ingredients in the product, Dr. Haskin says. “Immediately plumping effects, within a few minutes to hours, could be seen in products that primarily hydrate the superficial layers of the skin with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Silicones can also provide an immediate smoothening effect on the skin’s surface.” However, she says that products with ingredients designed for more long-term antiaging benefits—such as retinoids, peptides, and antioxidants—would take several months of consistent use to see the effects.
Can wrinkle fillers be used with Botox?
“Wrinkle fillers can absolutely be used with Botox and would be highly recommended,” Dr. Haskin says. “Wrinkle filler would help smooth the surface changes in the skin, while Botox works much deeper on the muscles to soften movement and the associated skin folding and wrinkling.”
How we tested
We tested different categories of wrinkle fillers, including serums, wrinkle creams, and makeup primers by evaluating their ease of application, longevity of application, and how our skin’s texture looked and felt after several weeks of use. The best ones tightened and plumped our skin immediately, had long-term benefits with consistent daily use, and served as a great base for makeup. We selected multitaskers that had ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamin C, retinol, and silicone to help hydrate, produce collagen, and tighten our skin. The wrinkle fillers that rose to the top of the list were not only loved by dermatologists, but also improved the overall look and quality of our skin.
Meet the experts
- Daniel Belkin, MD, board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon based in NYC
- Alexandra Haskin, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Weiser Skin MD in NYC
- Whitney Hovenic, MD, board-certified dermatologist, Mohs surgeon, and cofounder of sunscreen brand Spooge
- Pooja Rambhia, MD, board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in NYC
- Connie Yang, MD, board-certified dermatologist based in NYC

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