Anti-aging products are among the biggest category of skincare, and it seems like every brand has its own standout ingredient that’s touted as a fountain of youth in a bottle. Peptides, growth factors, AHAs, BHAs, the list goes on and on… But when you look at the science as opposed the marketing, here are the anti-aging essentials that have been proven to work.

Retinoids: The brainchild of dermatologist Albert Kligman, MD, Retin-A was first introduced as an acne treatment in the early 1970s before it became known for its anti-aging effects. Perhaps the most studied anti-wrinkle ingredient available today, tretinoin has been shown to reverse the effects of sun damage, which include wrinkles, rough texture and discoloration. Tretinoin (and its relatives in the retinoid family) improves the appearance of wrinkles by increasing the rate at which the skin cells turnover, and by boosting the skin’s own collagen production.

Antioxidants: Free radical damage is partially to blame for your wrinkled skin, but antioxidants can shield your skin from these scavengers. It’s important to know that antioxidants don’t actually treat wrinkles—they just protect your skin from cellular damage. Among the most effective antioxidants are green tea, idebenone and CoffeeBerry—but vitamins such as A, E and C have protective properties as well. Vitamin C serves a dual purpose, both deflecting free radicals and triggering cells to produce collagen as well. When it comes to antioxidants, think “the more the merrier,” and aim to get a variety.

In your quest for smoother, younger-looking skin, don’t be swayed by unproven wrinkle remedies. Peptides, oxygen and growth factors may sound great on the bottle, but there’s no scientific evidence that shows they actually work. If you want real results, stick to the science.