Fine lines around the eyes, sagging skin, or that one persistent grey hair that just won’t quit–we all get hit by the reality of ageing. The next step for most of us is a quick internet search to find solution. When you look for 'anti-ageing for men,' you’re hit with a flood of buzzwords — collagen, retinol, botox, hyaluronic acid —basically, more confusion than clarity. 

We spoke to Dr Kiran Sethi, MD and founder of Isya Aesthetics Pvt Ltd to know what actually works and what’s just an overpriced hype? Here’s what you need to know 

Collagen Supplements 

Claims: Help with depleting levels of collagen in the skin, boost skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, strengthen hair and nails. 

Fact: Collagen supplements can help temporarily but they are not magic potions. “Topical collagen doesn’t help in producing collagen in the skin. It’s a large protein and can’t be absorbed in the skin with topical consumption. It can make the skin look firmer and hydrated temporarily, but can’t help with more production,” says Dr Sethi. 

Verdict: Go in with realistic expectations and use them alongside good skincare and better lifestyle. 

Retinol (aka Vitamin A powerhouse) 

Claims: Fades fine lines, improves skin texture, boosts collagen production. 

Fact: Retinol is one of the few skincare ingredients with actual science to back it up. It works by increasing cell turnover — which helps with wrinkles, dark spots, and acne. “Retinol works by creating collagen and elastin and increasing the thickness of the epidermis,” explains Dr Sethi. However, here’s a thing. You need to use it consistently for a long time to see results and it won’t give result overnight. 

You have to use for at least six months to see its benefits. In fact, the data to back its advantages supports the use of retinol’s stronger potency like retinoid and tretinoin. “Tretinoin helps in increasing collagen production and not retinol. Also, it’s not for everyone in their 30s; if you have thin, dry, sensitive skin, tretinoin might not be for you. So, don’t assume that you have to be using the active,” says Dr Sethi. 

Verdict: Good for anti-ageing but needs proper routine with dermatologist intervention. 

Botox 

Claims: Instant wrinkle relaxer, fine lines, jaw contouring, skin lifting 

Fact: Botox blocks muscle movement, softening deep lines. When done subtly by a pro, it can keep you looking fresh without freezing your face. “Botox helps with multiple other things like lifting up skin, contouring the jaw, to reduce pore size, thickness on the shoulders and sweating. But for ageing and sagging skin, fillers are used. But that means using a lot of syringes on the skin which I don’t recommend,” says Dr Sethi. “I rather recommend radio frequency-based technology, HIPHU, thread-lift and electric stimulation of muscles for tightening and sagging skin,” she adds.  

Verdict: Effective, but not for everyone. Best if you’re comfortable with in-clinic procedures and want fast results. 

Hyaluronic Acid & Hydration 

Claims: Plumps skin, reduces fine lines, gives that healthy, dewy glow. 

Fact: Hydration is non-negotiable — dry skin ages faster. Hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the skin and makes it look instantly smoother. "However, low molecular hyaluronic acid can create inflammation if you have rosacea or acne so look for high molecular hyaluronic acid,” explains Dr Sethi.  

Verdict: Easy, affordable, but make sure to keep your skin type in check. 

Anti-Ageing Creams & Serums 

Claims: One-stop-shop miracle jars. 

Fact: Most are just moisturisers with fancy marketing. Unless they have clinically backed ingredients (like retinol, peptides, niacinamide, or Vitamin C), they’re just basic hydration in a luxe bottle. 

Verdict: Some are great, most are fluff. Always read the label — not the ads.