The cost-wise guide to younger skin

There's no one cream that suits everyone, but there is one that's perfect for your skin. Instead of asking which product is the best, the question should be, ‘Which is the right one for me?'

The answer isn't simple, because we all age in different ways. According to Boots No7 scientific adviser Stewart Long, ‘It's important for people to select creams with the right ingredients for their skin. Some may be more concerned about wrinkles, some about pigmentation, while others are just worried about the fine lines around their eyes. If your major concern is age spots, make sure your anti-ageing cream contains ingredients to tackle them.'

Why is it so important to choose carefully?

Because the wrong formulation can actually have a detrimental effect: ‘Using the wrong skincare products can lead to accelerated ageing,' says US dermatologist Doctor Zein Obagi. ‘The skin's surface consists of water, protein and lipids. If you apply too much of what your skin doesn't lack and not enough of what it does, it's less than helpful.'

To make light work of shopping for your anti-ageing cream, the first step is to take a good look in the mirror. What is your major concern? Wrinkles may be the most obvious answer, but ageing can show in other ways, too - such as sagging and pigmentation. A complexion that lacks radiance can be another sign of lost youth - but the good news is it's one of the simplest problems to remedy.‘Before you spend a lot of money on products, get to know your skin type, says Dr Obagi. ‘Ask yourself whether it's dry, thin, oily or sensitive.

Find the perfect cream to:

Smooth out lines

Even out your skin tone

Firm up your skin

Brighten your complexion