The Best Anti-Aging Tips for Better Skin

A rare and lucky 10 percent of women are considered "exceptional skin agers": They look at least 10 years younger than they are, according to a new study from Olay. And why do they look so shockingly great? Researchers discovered that some share a small genetic advantage, but the more significant link is that these women have a positive attitude toward themselves (many also ranked high in activity level, sleep, sunscreen use, and overall health). "This proves that most of skin aging is in your control," says Frauke Neuser, the principal scientist for Olay.

Here's your formula for younger-looking skin: Every day apply a broad spectrum SPF 30 and remind yourself that you're beautiful. Also, reach for ingredients that essentially reverse time for your skin, like peptides, niacinamide, or DNA repair enzymes. Find them in the products shown here. (And maybe some other magic in this anti-aging chocolate bar.)

This intensive moisturizing cream is chock full of vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and copper tripeptide growth factor (among other active ingredients) that promise to diminish the appearance of premature aging and keep skin moisturized and bright. ($195, dermstore.com)

Swipe on this serum-style booster—formulated with Amino-Peptide Complex II—to enhance your skin's absorbency and ability to soak up other anti-aging products. ($25, walmart.com)

About 60 percent more anti-aging ingredients are delivered straight from this cream (made with an amino-peptide complex and hyaluronic acid) when paired with the Miracle Boost above, according to Olay. Talk about a perfect pair. ($29, ulta.com)

While you sleep, this balm promises to improve fine lines, wrinkles, elasticity and firmness with the help of micro-proteins, glycerin, and moisturizing lipids. ($117, skinmedix.com)

Botanical ingredients and antioxidants fight free radicals to defend skin from environmental stress that can cause damage to collagen and elastin. (BTW you need to protect your skin with antioxidants at any age.) ($110, cosmedix.com)