Body Skin Insider

A guide to the skin below your chin.

Crepey Skin

Crepey Skin and the Limits of a Good Cream

Years of sun cause most of the creasing. Retinoids and 12% lactic acid can smooth it a little over months; in-office devices go further.

By Rachel Moreno · 12 sources · 12 min read

At a glance

Broad-spectrum SPF 30+Strong

Retinol / retinoidsGood

12% lactic acidModerate

Radiofrequency (in office)Moderate

Evidence levels from our guide. See the full comparison

Where on your body?

New and updated

Lotion, cream or oil?

Held up to the light, a bigger grease spot means more oil in the formula.

Which one when

LotionNormal skin, humid weather, mornings under clothes

CreamDry skin, winter, after the shower

Ointment or balmVery dry, cracked areas like shins, heels and elbows

Body oilA top layer to seal in a cream; massage; skin that likes a glow

From our guide Body Lotion vs. Cream vs. Oil: Which One When

How we work

We cover body skin the way good magazines cover faces: what causes the change, which ingredients have evidence behind them, and when to see a dermatologist. Every guide lists its sources. Our publisher also makes body care products.