Wrinkle Creams Put to the Test

L'Oreal and Philosophy

L'Oreal Wrinkle De-Crease, $19.99 The promise: This cream's secret weapon is Boswelox, a phyto-complex which claims to reduce the appearances of lines. The product: Brenda, 61, used the product at morning and at night, massaging it into skin as directed. While it didn't feel oily, it did take more time to absorb than other creams she'd used. And it tingled slightly upon application, especially when she'd just washed her face. The result: While smile lines remained the same, Brenda did notice an improvement in fine lines.

Philosophy Lift Kit, $50 (includes When Hope is Not Enough A.M. Facial Firming and Lifting Serum, and Hope and a Prayer Topical Vitamin C Powder) The promise: This cutely packaged product says it will firm and hydrate skin with peptides, as well as counteract the effects of sun damage and pollution. The product: Joan, 48, started with small amounts of the vitamin C powder added to the serum, which went on smoothly and did not irritate her skin. It had a slightly medicinal smell, which was different from other products she was used to. The result: The change was subtle, but Joan did notice that her skin felt smooth, firmer, and seemed to have a soft glow. She also noticed the product slowed facial hair growth.