This drugstore product is the anti-aging secret dermatologists swear by — and it's on sale for $21 at Amazon

Yahoo Lifestyle is committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. We may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Pricing and availability are subject to change.

YK. (Photo: Getty Images)
We polled a handful of dermatologists who say this treatment is the best drugstore anti-aging product. (Photo: Getty Images)

When we set out to find dermatologists’ favorite drugstore anti-aging products, we didn’t think we’d get a unanimous answer. But in this case, we did.

We polled a handful of dermatologists, who say Differin Adapalene Gel Acne Treatment is the best drugstore anti-aging product.

The acne gel's formula includes a potent retinoid called Adapalene, which targets breakouts, but ultimately delivers anti-aging benefits, too. Differin is the only prescription-strength retinoid available over-the-counter, and its affordable price tag also helps make it a dermatologist favorite.

So, how is an acne gel going to help with fine lines and wrinkles, you ask?

"Whether you use an over-the-counter or prescription strength, retinoids are an essential part of any skin care routine, especially for those interested in anti-aging benefits," dermatologist Shari Marchiben tells Yahoo Life.

Shop it: Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment, $21 (was $32), amazon.com

"Decades of clinical data and research support the efficacy of retinoid as a powerhouse ingredient," says dermatologist Dendy Engelman, who also recommends Differin. "It helps regulate healthy skin turnover, boosts collagen production and has great anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it's as effective at treating acne as it is at treating wrinkles and other signs of aging."

Marchiben adds, "The prescription strength options — like tretinoin, Retin-A micro or Tazorac — will be stronger and more effective, but over-the-counter ones are especially good for beginners or those with sensitive skin since they are a lower strength than prescription versions."

Adding to the Differin fandom is dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology in New York City, Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, who calls retinoid "the gold standard" when it comes to treating acne and signs of aging.

"Retinoids also help improve skin discoloration, texture and tone — therefore, it will restore the skin from prior breakouts," Levin adds.

Retinoids rev up skin turnover, which equals fewer breakouts and improved tone and texture and results in glowy, younger-looking skin.

And who doesn't want all that for just $23?

Shop it: Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment, $21 (was $32), amazon.com

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

Read More from Yahoo Life:

Follow us on InstagramFacebookTwitter and Pinterest for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.

Want daily pop culture news delivered to your inbox? Sign up here for Yahoo Entertainment & Life's newsletter.

This article contains affiliate links; if you click such a link and make a purchase, we may earn a commission.