The 10 Best Body Serums to Treat Wrinkles, Discoloration, and More

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Body Serums are The Solution for Do-Nothing Skin/Why Your Body Routine Needs A Serum/Everything to Expect from a Body Serum

Body care and hydration go hand in hand. But for many people, applying a layer of body lotion and calling it a day isn't enough in the skincare department. When more than just hydration is needed and the skin bears noticeable signs of extreme moisture loss, pigmentation, bumps, or rough patches, a body serum may be what the skin needs. "Think of body serums as products that deliver a high concentration of an active ingredient to the skin for noticeable improvement," says board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp.

These days, body care is becoming a big business. With more non-invasive in-office procedures that address skin changes on the body, it's only fitting that an at-home component exists. Board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick says that some body serums (and products) are marketed to help support the results of in-office procedures, while others maintain the overall look and integrity of the skin. "As far as what body serums can do, the options are endless."

Unsurprisingly, the skin on the body changes just like the skin on the face, and body serums can address those concerns. Camp believes that the rise in body serums, which he calls a unique type of product, is becoming more popular as skincare companies take note of consumers wanting to take better care of all of their skin, not just the skin on their faces.

Where face and body serums differ is partially in their formulation and partially in their ingredient decks. The skin on the body is thicker than the face, so it can handle a more potent concentration of active ingredients with little concern for irritation or sensitivity (although some skin types may experience them) while refining, restoring, renewing, and rejuvenating the skin below the neck. Camp adds that because body serums are formulated in a specific way, they facilitate the absorption of a product's active ingredients, which tend to be higher, helping address particular skin concerns such as skin laxity, discoloration, bumpy skin that needs exfoliation and even free radical and environmental protection.

Active ingredients in body serums run the gamut from tried-and-true collagen stimulators such as retinol for skin firming and smoothing benefits to acne-clearing salicylic acid, mega moisturizers like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, exfoliators such as hydroxy acids, and skin-brightening antioxidants like vitamin C. Garshick recommends body serums over lotions when significant exfoliating or brightening benefits are in serious need.

Since body serums contain fewer occlusives than thick butters, balms and lotions, Garshick says that active ingredients in those products are usually at a lower concentration than a lightweight serum. "Moisturizing lotions and creams can contain certain active ingredients, but they tend to be thicker and may not absorb as quickly or as deeply as a serum," she explains.

That doesn’t mean that body serums, lotions and creams don’t play well together. They do. “All of these products work well together to deliver hydrating and moisturizing benefits to the skin,” Garshick says.

1.Best for Brightening Stubborn Discoloration

Paula's Choice 5% Niacinamide Body Serum, $29

Regular body lotion doesn't necessarily do the trick regarding evening out discoloration on the skin. That's more like a job for a serum, like this one. Packing five percent niacinamide and panthenol in an ultra-lightweight formulation, this hyperpigmentation-reducing serum also smooths out dry, flaky patches. It even reverses skin damage caused by shaving and hair removal techniques.

PRO: Also soothes redness

“This has made a major impact after about two weeks use. I played tennis for years in the SoCal sunshine without sunscreen—yikes! This serum has smoothed and is alleviating the sun damage on my arms. This serum has already outperformed another ridiculously expensive brand, which smelled nice, but lacked efficacy.” – Skin Care Junkie

2. Best for Alleviating Dryness

Nécessaire The Body Serum, $45

This fast-absorbing, non-comedogenic serum features five different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid for multi-level hydration, plus ceramides to hydrate super dry skin. Dr. Garshick gives it bonus points because you can mix it with moisturizer or follow it with a moisturizing cream.

PRO: Awarded the Seal of Acceptance by The National Eczema Association

“Daily use has improved my dry skin to the point of feeling like normal. This has eliminated the itchy skin on my shins. The formula is thin and spreads evenly and quickly.” – Chaundra D.

3. Best Does-It-All Body Serum

Oui The People Hydrating Body Gloss, $65

With its super glossy finish—think glowy yet healthy-looking skin—this body serum sends powerhouse hydrators like squalene deep within the skin for mega moisture while enhancing collagen production via rosehip seed oil. Although the serum has a super light texture, it absorbs instantly, but its skin benefits, including intense hydration and a skin-brightening effect, stick around.

PRO: No greasy mess

"The gloss is unreal. I am addicted to it, and the smell is so delicate. It disappears into the skin and leaves me hydrated for so long. It is such a luxurious experience without the heavy smell of lotion. The packaging is also clean, modern and artful, so it's nice to have on the counter. It is already in my top 5 products of ALL TIME!!!!" – Lakshmi S.

4. Best for Eliminating Bumps and Ingrown Hairs

EWC Treat Ingrown Hair Serum, $40

If ingrown hairs mar the appearance of your skin, then you'll want to stockpile this vitamin C-, glycolic acid- and azelaic-acid-rich body serum. "Glycolic acid is beneficial to gently exfoliate skin over follicles to limit the formation of ingrown hairs," Camp says. While the serum's main benefit is to treat and prevent ingrown hairs and bumps, it also features vitamin E and lavender to calm and soothe irritated skin. No matter where ingrown hairs surface—the legs, swimsuit line, armpits, or elsewhere—skin is smoother, softer and brighter with regular use.

PRO: Fragrance-free

5. Best for Firming Slack Skin

Clarins Renew Plus Body Serum, $71

Fine lines, wrinkles and laxity can develop on the body, so an anti-aging, hydrating body serum is a must. This power-packed blend of natural plant extracts firms the skin and smooths wrinkles, making the skin appear more youthful. It also gently exfoliates rough skin to improve its texture and tone.

PRO: Formulated with plant extracts

“It’s really helping aging skin. Goodbye body wrinkles!” – Somorange

6. Best for Resurfacing the Skin

Renee Rouleau Smoothing Body Serum, $47.50

Swap your regular body scrubs and exfoliators for this powerful serum that combines lactic, glycolic and mandelic acids to lift away dead, flaky skin cells and improve rough skin conditions like keratosis pilaris. It even works double duty to improve back acne and dark elbows. However, Dr. Garshick cautions that those with sensitive skin should start slowly to minimize potential irritation.

PRO: Vegan and gluten-free

“I have tried so many different products for KP (keratosis pilaris), and this is by far the best! I use it a few times per week, and it makes my skin so much smoother and softer, especially in the winter. Highly recommend!” – Stephanie H.

7. Best for A Tighter Butt

Bawdy Super Tight Serum, $55

Apply this skin-boosting serum to the butt—and elsewhere—to help firm and tighten the skin. Icewine, the hero ingredient, provides an immediate lifting effect, giving the skin a 'pulled in’ look, almost like you’re wearing a corset (but without one!) Camp adds that Icewine also doubles as an antioxidant to fight the effects of free oxygen radicals on skin aging.

PRO: Free of hormone-disrupting ingredients

“The "IT" body serum for everybody. What I love: how light it is and how firming it is. Delicate smell.” – Olya

8. Best for Creating More Evenly-Toned Skin

Josh Rosebrook Body Acid Serum, $50

This award-winning body serum combines a silky hydrating base with a blend of effective yet gentle acids to remove a build-up of dead skin for a more even skin tone and smoother skin thanks to alpha hydroxy acids.

PRO: Certified organic and not tested on animals

"Honestly, I can't believe this product does what it does. Josh's products continuously wow me, and I tell all my friends, and they say the same, so it must be something! I tried this body exfoliating serum and noticed after only one time it made my skin way softer, less crepey and had a color tone improvement that made me so happy!! I'm on my second bottle and addicted. I could go on and on, but I just wanted to say thank you, Josh, and to everyone, get this stuff. It's amazing!!" – Gloria B.

9. Best for Serious Skin Nourishment

Moroccanoil Night Body Serum, $62

Put your skin to work while you get some shut-eye with this nighttime serum loaded with high-performance ingredients for healthier, firmer, smoother skin. Antioxidants like argan and Tsubaki oils target moisture loss and firmness, while Holy Basil extract works to undo the damage of environmental stressors. "Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps neutralize the damaging effects of free oxygen radicals on cells," Camp adds.

PRO: Works on all body parts from the decollete down

“Love the night body serum. It helps so much with dry skin and I am beginning to see some firming of my skin due to recent weight loss. Can’t get enough of this.” – Jennifer G.

10. Best for Hydration While Protecting the Skin Microbiome

Iota Superplant Body Serum+, $39

More than just a moisturizing serum, this plant-based one features 15 vitamins, minerals and antioxidants alongside a blend of pre and probiotics to balance the skin's microbiome. In addition, niacinamide brightens, and peptides provide collagen support.

PRO: Fragrance-free

“This product is a miracle. My legs were extremely dry and patchy due to a reaction, and this completely cleared it up. I can't recommend this product enough!” – Natalie C

11. Best for Maintaining the Results of In-Office Body Treatments

SkinCeuticals Body Tightening Concentrate, $90

Dr. Garshick calls this cooling serum good “especially good for post-procedure skin because it uses 2% hydrolyzed rice protein and peptides to tighten, firm and lift the skin on the abdomen, buttocks, thighs and knees.”

PRO: Good for all skin types

“I’m 49 and noticed that the skin on my arms and around my knees was losing elasticity. I have been using it on these areas and I definitely notice a difference. Skin appears tighter. I feel better in my tank tops and shorts!” – Pocket

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best body serum for the body?

The best body serum is the one that treats a specific issue or concern that’s affecting your skin. Your skin may need different serums at different times of the year, depending on what it’s dealing with.

Are body serums better than lotion?

Body serums aren't necessarily better than lotion, but they are different, and each serves a unique purpose. Body lotions help hydrate and soften the skin and prevent moisture loss, whereas body serums target a specific skin-related concern, such as bumpy skin, discoloration or even crepiness. Think of it like this: a serum delivers active ingredients that are likely more concentrated, and the lotion seals them into the skin while moisturizing it. However, if serious hydration, exfoliation, brightening, or other skin benefits are what you expect, Dr. Garshick says to choose a body serum over a lotion.

Most body serums work with moisturizer rather than replacing it. Dr. Garshick says together, the two product types work well. However, serums may get preferential treatment in warmer weather since they are lighter and absorb quickly.

Are body serums worth it?

Absolutely! While body serums may be pricier than traditional body lotions, what they offer is incomparable. “While a body serum may not be necessary, it can be helpful for those dealing with particular skin concerns on the body that they want to address,” Dr. Garshick adds.

If you have a good body care routine, and use moisturizer regularly yet are looking to amp it up, then Dr. Garshick says a body serum can be a great way to enhance the skin's health on the body. "Additionally, if there is a particular concern, such as discoloration or excessive dryness, a body serum can help target those concerns. But, if you have trouble remembering to moisturize and wear sunscreen, commit to the basics first and then consider incorporating a body serum."

What is the purpose of body serums?

These lightweight formulations, which are simple to integrate into your existing body care routine, are power-packed players in the body care arena. "They're lightweight products that effectively deliver important ingredients to the skin to provide benefits such as hydration, brightening and exfoliation," Camp says. Most body serums contain active ingredients that you may not find in typical body lotions and creams, such as retinol and exfoliating acids.

Another plus to body serums is they are quick to absorb. Garshick adds that serums are a good option if you don't like a greasy feeling on the skin. "Plus, they typically contain more concentrated ingredients and penetrate the skin more easily." Their lighter texture, ideal for wearing in warm, humid weather, allows water-soluble ingredients such as vitamins and antioxidants, for example, to be delivered more efficiently.

For many of us, applying a layer of body lotion and calling it a day just isn’t enough. When you skin shows noticeable signs of extreme moisture loss, pigmentation, bumps, or rough patches, hydration alone will not be enough—one of the best body serums of 2023 may be exactly what you need. “Body serums are products that deliver a high concentration of an active ingredient to the skin for noticeable improvement,” board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp tells Harper’s Bazaar.

As more noninvasive in-office procedures become available to address skin issues, it makes that at-home solutions exist as well. Board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick says some body serums (and other products) are marketed to help preserve the results of in-office treatments, while others are meant to simply maintain the overall look and integrity of the skin. “As far as what body serums can do, the options are endless,” she says.

Ahead, our 10 favorite body serums for treating discoloration, skin texture, wrinkles, and more—plus expert tips on how to choose the right body serum for you.

5% Niacinamide Body Serum

Regular body lotion doesn’t usually help with evening out skin tone—that’s where this body serum comes into play. Packing 5 percent niacinamide and panthenol in an ultra-lightweight formulation, this hyperpigmentation-reducing serum also smooths out dry, flaky patches. It even reverses skin damage caused by shaving and hair removal techniques.

One satisfied customer writes: “This has made a major impact after about two weeks use. I played tennis for years in the SoCal sunshine without sunscreen—yikes! This serum has smoothed and is alleviating the sun damage on my arms. This serum has already outperformed another ridiculously expensive brand, which smelled nice, but lacked efficacy.” —Skin Care Junkie

The Body Serum

This fast-absorbing, non-comedogenic serum features five different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid for multilevel hydration, plus ceramides to hydrate super-dry skin. Garshick gives it bonus points because you can mix it with moisturizer or follow it with a moisturizing cream.

One satisfied customer writes: “Daily use has improved my dry skin to the point of feeling like normal. This has eliminated the itchy skin on my shins. The formula is thin and spreads evenly and quickly.” —Chaundra D.

Hydrating Body Gloss

With its super glossy finish—think glowy yet healthy-looking skin—this body serum sends powerhouse hydrators like squalane deep within the skin for mega moisture.

It also enhances collagen production via rose-hip seed oil. Although the serum has a super light texture that absorbs instantly, its skin benefits—including intense hydration and a skin-brightening effect—stick around.

One satisfied customer writes: “The gloss is unreal. I am addicted to it, and the smell is so delicate. It disappears into the skin and leaves me hydrated for so long. It is such a luxurious experience without the heavy smell of lotion. The packaging is also clean, modern and artful, so it's nice to have on the counter. It is already in my top five products of all time!!!!” —Lakshmi S.

Ingrown Hair Serum

If ingrown hairs mar the appearance of your skin, you’ll want to stockpile this vitamin C-, glycolic acid- and azelaic-acid-rich body serum. “Glycolic acid is beneficial to gently exfoliate the skin over follicles to limit the formation of ingrown hairs,” Camp says.

While the serum’s main benefit is to treat and prevent ingrown hairs and bumps, it also features vitamin E and lavender to calm and soothe irritated skin. No matter where ingrown hairs surface—legs, bikini line, armpits, or elsewhere—skin is smoother, softer, and brighter with regular use.

One satisfied customer writes: "Ever since I started using this serum, I promise I get minimal to no ingrown hairs! Worth the $30. A little goes a long way." —Shayla W.

Renew-Plus Body Serum

Fine lines, wrinkles, and laxity can develop on the body, so an anti-aging, hydrating body serum is a must. This power-packed blend of natural plant extracts firms the skin and smooths wrinkles, making skin appear more youthful. It also gently exfoliates rough skin to improve its texture and tone.

One satisfied customer writes: “It’s really helping aging skin. Goodbye body wrinkles!” —Somorange

Smoothing Body Serum

Swap your regular body scrubs and exfoliators for this powerful serum that combines lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acids to lift away dead, flaky skin cells and improve rough skin conditions like keratosis pilaris. It even works double duty to improve back acne and dark elbows. However, Garshick cautions that those with sensitive skin should start slowly to minimize potential irritation.

One satisfied customer writes: “I have tried so many different products for KP (keratosis pilaris), and this is by far the best! I use it a few times per week, and it makes my skin so much smoother and softer, especially in the winter. Highly recommend!” —Stephanie H.

Body Acid Serum

This award-winning body serum combines a silky hydrating base with a blend of gentle acids to remove dead skin. Skin will look and feel smoother after just a few uses.

One satisfied customer writes: “Honestly, I can’t believe this product does what it does. Josh’s products continuously wow me, and I tell all my friends, and they say the same, so it must be something! I tried this body exfoliating serum and noticed after only one time it made my skin way softer, less crepey and had a color tone improvement that made me so happy!!” —Gloria B.

Night Body Serum Body Oil

Put your skin to work while you get some shut-eye with this nighttime serum loaded with high-performance ingredients for healthier, firmer, smoother skin. Antioxidants like argan and tsubaki oils target moisture loss and firmness, while holy basil extract works to undo the damage of environmental stressors. “Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps neutralize the damaging effects of free oxygen radicals on cells,” Camp says.

One satisfied customer writes: “I’ve used this product constantly the past two years. The smell, feel, application and results are excellent. I’ve used the body line for 11 years consistently. I preferred the former body soufflé and body butter as I felt it had a richer and more long lasting moisturizing effects. The newer line -body soufflé is what I use with the argon oil drops. The serum works well on pinpointed body areas, I get about six to seven weeks.” —Maria Estenes

Superplant Body Serum+ With 2% Niacinamide

More than just a moisturizing serum, this plant-based formula features 15 vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants alongside a blend of pre- and probiotics to balance the skin’s microbiome. In addition, niacinamide brightens, and peptides provide collagen support.

One satisfied customer writes: “This product is a miracle. My legs were extremely dry and patchy due to a reaction, and this completely cleared it up. I can’t recommend this product enough!” —Natalie C

Body Tightening Concentrate

Garshick calls this cooling serum especially good for post-procedure skin, "because it uses two percent hydrolyzed rice protein and peptides to tighten, firm, and lift the skin on the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, and knees.”

One satisfied customer writes: “I’m 49 and noticed that the skin on my arms and around my knees was losing elasticity. I have been using it on these areas and I definitely notice a difference. Skin appears tighter. I feel better in my tank tops and shorts!” —Pocket

What is the purpose of body serums?

“Body serums are lightweight products that effectively deliver important ingredients to the skin to provide benefits such as hydration, brightening, and exfoliation,” Camp says. Most body serums contain active ingredients that you may not find in typical body lotions and creams, such as retinol and exfoliating acids.

Another plus to body serums is they are quick to absorb. Garshick adds that serums are a good option if you don’t like a greasy feeling on the skin: “Plus, they typically contain more concentrated ingredients and penetrate the skin more easily.” Their lighter texture, ideal for wearing in warm, humid weather, allows water-soluble ingredients (vitamins and antioxidants, for example) to be delivered more efficiently.

Are body serums worth it?

Absolutely! While body serums may be pricier than traditional body lotions, what they offer is incomparable. “While a body serum may not be necessary, it can be helpful for those dealing with particular skin concerns they want to address,” Garshick says.

If you have a good body care routine, and use moisturizer regularly yet are looking to amp it up, then Garshick says a body serum can be a great way to enhance your skin’s health. “A body serum can help target excessive dryness or discoloration,” she says. “But if you have trouble remembering to moisturize and wear sunscreen, commit to the basics first and then consider incorporating a body serum.”

Are body serums better than lotion?

Body serums aren’t necessarily better than lotion, but they are different, and both serve a unique purpose. Body lotions help hydrate and soften the skin and prevent moisture loss, whereas body serums target a specific skin-related concern, such as bumpy skin, discoloration, or even crepiness. Think of it like this: A serum delivers active ingredients that are likely more concentrated, and lotion seals them into the skin while moisturizing it. “Moisturizing lotions and creams can contain certain active ingredients, but they tend to be thicker and may not absorb as quickly or as deeply as a serum,” Garshick explains.

However, if serious hydration, exfoliation, brightening, or other skin benefits are what you expect, Garshick says to choose a body serum over a lotion. Most body serums work with moisturizer rather than replacing it. Serums may also get preferential treatment in warmer weather, since they are lighter and absorb quickly.

What is the best body serum for the body?

The best body serum is the one that treats a specific issue or concern that’s affecting your skin. Your skin may need different serums at different times of the year, depending on what it’s dealing with.

What ingredients should you look for in a body serum?

Active ingredients in body serums run the gamut from tried-and-true collagen stimulators such as retinol for skin firming and smoothing benefits to acne-clearing salicylic acid, mega moisturizers like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, exfoliators such as hydroxy acids, and skin-brightening antioxidants like vitamin C.

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