Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream -- Night

Bottom line

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream -- Night contains retinol to help reduce the appearance of fine lines. It's loaded with good-for-skin ingredients in stable packaging, but the formula isn't as strong as prescription-strength creams. Experts say prescription creams, like Retin-A (*Est. $80 to $145 for 20 grams), produce faster and more noticeable results but may also cause more irritation.

Performance

State-of-the-art ingredients: Reviewers say Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream -- Night is an excellent and affordable option that can really make a difference in the overall appearance of skin. It contains retinol, a form of vitamin A that has the ability to increase the production of skin-plumping collagen, fibers which increase the firmness and elasticity of skin. The night cream also contains a substantial amount of antioxidants, namely green tea and two forms of vitamin E.

Paula Begoun, skin care expert and author of "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me," says the Neutrogena wrinkle cream is one of the best retinol treatments available at the drugstore and is comparable to significantly pricier department store brands. Users at MakeupAlley.com and Drugstore.com note that it initially causes some mild irritation, but insist that skin adjusts within a few weeks. Many say consistent use over the course of at least three weeks produces a more even skin tone and a smoother texture. While some maintain that Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream -- Night softens fine lines, making them less noticeable, others say that it does nothing to improve the appearance of wrinkles.

Feel and smell

Lightweight moisture: Users at MakeupAlley.com say Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream -- Night is a lightweight formula with a moisturizing base that sinks into skin quickly. The formula is fragrance-free. Experts strongly recommend wearing sunscreen while using the wrinkle cream, because all retinol products have the potential of causing sun sensitivity, which increases the likelihood of sunburn.