Wrinkle Creams Put to the Test

Almay and Clinique

Almay Kinetin Skincare Advanced Anti-Aging Series, $15.99 for each product The promise: The only over-the-counter Kinetin-based skincare on the market, these products promise to undo the effects of sun damage, like brown spots and, of course, wrinkles. The product: Emily, 45, said the cream went on easily, with no tingling or redness. She applied the daily lotion during the day, and the Repair and Rejuvenate Night Concentrate before bed. She is acne-prone, but this cream did not cause breakouts, although it left her face a bit shiny. The result: Emily loved the way the cream felt when she put it on. Friends commented that her skin looked soft, but it did nothing to diminish wrinkles.

Clinique Repairwear, $45 The promise: Repairwear claims to firm natural collagen -- reducing the look of lines -- and replenishes skin's antioxidants. The product: Denise, 36, used the Repairwear Extra Help Serum, which went on smoothly and without tingling. A few minutes later, her sensitive skin felt a little tight. To sooth the tightness, she applied the Intensive Night Cream over the serum the next evening. Her skin felt moisturized but two days later she broke out on her chin and nose. The result: Although it appeared dewy, Denise's skin became more ruddy from using the cream. Lines did seem a bit smoother, though.