Skin ageing is the global result of the influence of numerous factors. Oxidative stress through the intervention of free radicals is one of the most important biological mechanisms solicited by ageing promotors. Prevention of skin senescence relies on several approaches. The main ones are sun protection, tobacco avoidance and limitation of sustained mechanical stress to the skin. Free radical scavengers in adequate combinations might slow down the ageing process. In cosmetology, retinol fulfills its claims. Vitamins E and C, as well as selenium and some plant extracts also show some interest. In the search for increased efficacy, tretinoin is the single topical drug available. Its biologic activity boosts the epidermal growth and the collagen synthesis while inhibiting some metalloproteinases responsible for dermal degradation. Clinical proofs of its efficacy are beyond doubt.