The 25 Best Face Serums of All Time

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Cleansers and moisturizers might be considered the foundation of any skin routine, but the bare necessities will only get you so far. If you're looking to level up your skin, a few drops of one of the best serums can go a long way. Typically a step between your toner and moisturizer, this lightweight layer is used as a vehicle to deliver powerful active ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to the skin. Since most water- or oil-based serums are thinner than your typical creams and lotions, they can often penetrate the skin far deeper than the rest of your medicine cabinet.

“Serums are lightweight and fast-absorbing, so they tend to go on well under creams, sunscreens, and makeup without interfering with their application,” explains Rebecca Marcus, a broad-certified dermatologist in Dallas, Texas.

There are a lot of serums to choose from—and no, we’re not just referring to the myriad of brands and price points. With formulas specifically built to combat everything from acne to aging, the options are endless—and that’s exactly what makes them so special. That’s why Daniel Butler, director of the Inflammatory and Aging Skin Research Program at the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine, says serums are “the basis of a great skincare regime.”

“Facial serums serve many purposes; they may not be the same for all people,” he adds. “Different facial serums can target specific goals such as wrinkles, hydration, or dark spots.” But with so many options to choose from, where do you go to find the very best face serums? Here, of course. We culled the market for the very best face serums to buy now. From dermatologist recommendations to crowd-pleasers, this comprehensive list is bound to have something for just about everyone.

Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex Serum

This serum is a bonafide beauty icon, and arguably one of the most famous serums of all time. Why? It's essentially seven serums in one bottle. Suitable for normal, dry, and combination skin types, Estée Lauder employed hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and proprietary peptides to offer 72 hours of hydration, even your skin tone, and strengthen your skin barrier in just four hours. (It's also known to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as firm your skin, making it a great option for more mature shoppers.) Simply dab some on before you go to bed and watch your skin transformation overnight.

One satisfied customer writes:

“This has changed my face routine for the best I will repurchase this product forever I love it." —Harris

C E Ferulic

From brightening and evening skin tone to combating free radicals, a Vitamin C serum is the gift that keeps on giving. And while there are some really great options out there, there's likely no vitamin C product more coveted than SkinCeuticals's C E Ferulic. Each bottle contains a powerhouse combination of the star ingredient, Vitamin C, plus ferulic acid, and vitamin E that improve hyperpigmentation, free-radical damage, and dullness. (It also helps boost collagen production.) The serum may be an investment for some, but after continued use, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

One satisfied customer writes:

“OK. I know it's expensive. But wow! My sister turned me on to this serum and just wow. My skin tone was very blotchy and I have extremely sensitive skin. Now my skin tone is so clear and even. I use it on my neck and chest as well. Did not irritate my skin at all. Only been using this for about 3 months and I see a huge difference.” —Danine

Multi Action Hydration Multiplier Serum

Shoppers with moisture-starved skin will find a lot to love about StriVectin's Multi Action Hydration Multiplier Serum. Perfect for dry and dehydrated skin types, this formula features seven types of hyaluronic acid and polyglutamic acid to draw moisture to the skin. Meanwhile, a mix of five ceramides lock in moisture to keep your skin nourished for a long time. (You can also expect this formula to plump up fine lines and wrinkles.) Not only does StriVectin claim that this serum will double your skin's hydration in about 15 minutes, but the formula was also clinically tested under "extreme desert conditions." Translation: It delivers.

Customer Review:

"If have extremely dry and sensitive skin this the hyaluronic serum for you because it works so well even you have damp skin it deeply hydrates the skin nd skin stays hydrated for such a long time I don’t see any irritation with this product I really loved it."—Samaviasalman

Niacinamide Oil Control Serum

Conversely, those with oily skin might be hesitant to add yet another formula into their skincare arsenal. Well, until The INKEY List's serum came on their radar, that is. Here, 10 percent of niacinamide works overtime to control excess oil, soothe blemishes, temper redness. Just because this serum gets a hold on all that superfluous sebum doesn't mean it's a dry formula, either: A hint of multi-molecular hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps the skin.

Customer Review:

"Wow! I've been using this for about 2 weeks and I can already tell such a difference. It has significantly reduced the size and appearance of my pores and balanced out a lot of the redness. I'm also quite oily, and this has helped to mattify my skin a bit; an absolute must if you are trying to ditch foundation. Keep in mind, a little goes a long way! I use it in the morning before moisturizer and SPF."—ButtonBrains

Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Serum

Say buh-bye to blemishes with the help of La Roche-Posay's acne-fighting formula. This concentrated serum packs a punch, thanks to a mix of salicylic, glycolic and lipo-hydroxy acids that work hard to reduce the appearance of pimples and acne. And it works: A clinical study found that nearly half of participants saw a decrease in pimples after four weeks of use.

Meanwhile, ingredients like niacinamide and La Roche-Posay's signature thermal spring water promise to soothe, brighten, and mattify the skin, leaving a radiant complexion. A little goes a long way here, so apply a few drops while avoiding the eye and mouth areas.

Customer Review:

"Yes, yes, yes: I finally found and amazing product that actually works! I’m 42 struggling with acne since an early teenager and this product did not disappoint. Will be buying again!"—Les612

InvisiScar Post-Acne Resurfacing Treatment

Speaking of pimples, those who are blemish-prone may be susceptible to acne scars. Fortunately, Murad's InvisiScar Post-Acne Resurfacing Treatment is here to help. A happy medium between a cream and serum, this formula is packed with a Salicylic Acid exfoliant reduce the appearance of scars, leaving a smoothen complexion behind. According to a clinical study, 100 percent of participants found this pick significantly improved their scar texture.

It also includes hydroxytyrosol and pure Vitamin C to brighten the skin as well as eliminate dark spots. And, thanks. Of course, Murad's formula doesn't just repair the skin: it has preventative perks, too. A mix of asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid are added to support your natural skin barrier.

Customer Review: "This really works. I've been using this product for a year and my complexion looks so much smoother. Wish I had discovered this years ago. I never let myself run out of this!"—TLS

Advanced Génifique Anti-Aging Face Serum

Think of Lancôme's best-selling Advanced Génifique Anti-Aging Face Serum as a glow-up in a bottle, offering oomph you were looking to add to your skincare routine. Trade in dull or mature skin for a fresh, radiant complexion, all compliments of its all-star ingredients. Hyaluronic acid works hard to retain moisture, while Vitamin C brightens and smoothens the skin. Meanwhile, a dose of Bifidus Prebiotic will help strengthen your skin barrier. In fact, Lancôme claims that its best-selling serum will help improve radiance and firmness by up to 27 and 48 percent, respectively, after eight weeks of consistent use.

One satisfied customer writes:

"I have been using this product for a year now. I don't think I have ever found anything even remotely as wonderful. It is worth every penny. I have normal-dry skin and sometimes desk with dry patches depending on the weather and if I introduce new products to my face. My skin is also very acne prone and I get breakouts easily. Many products made for dry skin will break me out immediately. This one has never caused any kind of breakout and it is wonderfully hydrating!" —Tay

Retinol Reform Treatment Serum

Whether you’re dealing with fine lines, wrinkles, or a bout of acne, a little bit of retinol can go a long way. Enter Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform Treatment Serum. Retinol might be the star of this serum—this non-irritating version help smoothen uneven texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and adds some extra elastin—but a handful of other ingredients make this a well-rounded find. Lactic acid exfoliates and brightens, while a dash of niacinamide evens skin texture. Retinol is a notoriously tough ingredient, but the aloe vera incorporate here helps soothe the skin.

Customer Review:

"The only retinol that has not irritated my dry, sensitive skin! I've been able to work up to daily use without issues."—WordNerd80

Phyto-Retinol Sleep Serum

Sometimes, retinol can be so powerful that it leads to redness and dryness. For a gentler alternative, Dr. Butler is impressed by the effect of True Botanicals' Phyto-Retinol Sleep Serum. "I love that, while it carries many benefits of traditional retinols, it offers an alternative to avoid irritation and dryness," he says. "It's fast and great for targeting wrinkles and unwanted pigmentation." The magic lies in Peptilium, a retinol alternative that not only offers the same anti-aging properties without the harsh aftermath, but it also works twice as fast as the real deal.

Customer Review:

"I was truly skeptical about this fairly new product. I’ve been a tried and true fan of some of the original products for more than ten years. But after only a week of use….. I am sold on this Phyto-Retinol Sleep Serum. I am seeing changes in my skin upon waking each morning."—Adora M.

Truly Becoming Multi-Benefit Peptide Serum

Never underestimate the power of peptides: While the series of amino acid chains is known to combat premature aging, it can also firm, plump and boost collagen production, among many other perks. Leading the charge of peptide-rich serums is Truly Becoming Multi-Benefit Peptide Serum from Keys Soulcare.

The company might be founded by Alicia Keys, but don't write it off as yet another celeb-backed beauty brand. Rather, this serum was made in partnership with a dermatologist to be an excellent multipurpose product. A poly-peptide complex firms and improves skin tone, while marine bamboo extra reduces the appearance of fine lines. Plus, a multi-weight hyaluronic acid gives your skin the moisture jolt it needs.

Customer Review:

"I love the smell, texture, how my skin feels wearing these products and the overall value for skin care. My skin feels better since I started using these products! 10/10 recommend!"—Nichole G.

Olay Super Serum 1.0 oz with

Budget-conscious beauty shoppers will find a lot to love about Olay's Super Serum, which can be purchased online or at your local drugstore. Don't let its price tag fool you: This pick features five formidable, fast-absorbing ingredients like Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Collagen Peptide, AHA, and Vitamin E. Apply this lightweight serum daily for smooth, firm skin—not to mention 24-hour hydration.

Customer Review:

"The serum absorbs quickly into my skin. I use it in the AM and PM after washing my face. Light, pleasant scent. Seems to be improving the look and feel of my skin: smoother and brighter."—Tiziana

Even Better Clinical Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter

Built to tackle dark spots from both zits and sun damage, Clinique's Even Better Clinical Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter is the skincare-equivalent to a silver lining. Its secret? UP302, the brand's proprietary brightening complex that helps kick dark spots to the curb. (Vitamin C also helps brighten, while the salicylic acid and glucosamine buffs away surface-level discoloration.)

The results of this serum certainly pays off: Clinique claims that you can expect to see a 39 percent visible reduction in dark spots in 12 weeks.

One satisfied customer writes:

"I have a season pass to a waterpark and I'm constantly putting sunscreen on. Last summer I ended up with my space being so splotchy with all sorts of dark spots on my face even makeup and concealer didn't cover it all. I bought this in hopes of helping my skin and it made a lot of difference. It's pricy but I'm still on the bottle i bought in September." —Mary

Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Serum

Though maintaining a skincare routine while traveling is a non-negotiable, lugging around a leak-prone bottle of serum might be met with some trepidation. While Elizabeth Arden's Advanced Ceramide Daily Youth Restoring Serum is a solid choice at home or abroad, its unique single-dose, biodegradable capsules make it a particularly travel-friendly option.

Best used before bed, these ceramide-rich serum capsules bolsters the skin's natural barrier while adding a serious dose of healing moisture. Tsubaki Oil as well as a special Botanical Complex Technology made with alfalfa extract and olive-derived lipids reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Customer Review

"I have been using these for a few months right before bed and they are amazing! They do make your skin a bit oily which is why I use them at night, but every morning I wake up with the softest skin! I went a couple weeks without these just to test (I used other product instead) and my skin was so dry! I tell everyone I know to try these, they are the best!" —Lyndsey

B3 Nice 10% Niacinamide Serum

When you think of Sunday Riley, its culty Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment may be one of the first things that comes to mind. However, the brand's the B3 Nice 10% Niacinamide Serum, is another skin staple worth adding to your medicine cabinet. It uses niacinamide to even skin's texture and tone while simultaneously reducing redness.

Customer Review:

“This was the secret magic ingredient that was missing in my skincare routine! I’m in my 40s, with large pores and pigmentation on my cheeks and this product helped to calm, boost, soften, and brighten my skin to the next level after 1 week of use!” —Faye6977

Hydrating Serum

If you live in a bustling city, chances are, your skin barrier has been impacted by the harmful effects of pollution, which can lead to increased inflammation, and ultimately damage to your skin cells. In addition to bouncier, more supple skin, this vegan serum from BYOMA contains a mix of with the brand's signature tri-ceramide complex, hydrating squalene, and soothing glycerine to lock in moisture and support skin health. And, at under $20, it offers some great bang for your buck.

Customer Review:

“I have owned and used this product before and loved it then and I still love it now. I am such a huge fan of double cleansing and this is the perfect first step for that. I love how it melts off my makeup and SPF at the end of the day!” —Yvette

The Revitalizing Hydrating Serum

For decades, La Mer has been regarded as one of the top skincare brands around. And, if you're looking for a splurge-worthy serum, its Revitalizing Hydrating formula does not disappointed. Though this pick does come with a sticker shock, mélange of green, brown, and red algae create the brand's Deep Hydration Ferment, which offers a dose of moisture. Additionally, a mix of marine peptides and the brand's signature, sea kelp-rich Miracle Broth reforms fine lines and wrinkles. La Mer's serum is suitable for an array of skin types, making this a "wow" gift for your skincare-obsessed friend or yourself.

Customer Review;

“Definitely worth the money. Absorbs in a second and skin looks glowy and soft straight after. Perfect for winter since it locks moisture really well.” —ScooterQueen

Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum

For a results-driven serum that's gentle enough to use on sensitive skin, reach for L’Oréal Paris's Revitalift Face Serum. A dash of pure hyaluronic acid moisturizes and plumps the skin, keeping fine lines and wrinkles to a minimum. This dermatologist-approved serum delivers without being too harsh: It's fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and made without any synthetic dyes or parabens.

Customer Review:

"I find this serum absolutely amazing. I've tried so many others. I have hyper sensitive, combination-oily skin and night creams don't work for me and make me break out instantly, however with this serum my skin is very happy and looks refreshed come the next day."—Vero1024

Active Botanical Serum

This serum from Vitner's Daughter proves that, with a little help from Mother Nature, your skin can have that natural, lit-from-within glow. Its superpower lies in a careful blend of 22 botanicals to cover your beauty bases. Working with redness? Soothing alfalfa, calendula, grape seed, and dandelion help calm stressed skin. Have fine lines and wrinkles? This serum fights against free radicals, thanks to ingredients like rose, frankincense, tamanu, and turmeric. Meanwhile, a dose of sea buckthorn, hazelnut, jasmine, and neroli offer relief to impurities like blemishes and dry patches.

Customer Review:

"I love this serum, it's the perfect amount of moisture for me and I looked up all the ingredients, so it's no wonder my rosacea and acne are finally under control. I live in Florida, so I was skeptical of an oil based serum, but my skin drinks it up and I can apply sunscreen right over or my CC cream." —beautyboo

Brightening Saffron Serum

Ranavat spared no expense when developing its award-winning serum, which brightens and soothes in equal measure. Leading the pack of impressive ingredients is saffron, Ayurveda's "miracle elixir" that has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, with the help of soothing turmeric and brightening licorice root, you'll have a fresh, radiant glow. In fact, according to a clinical study, 90 percent of participants saw an improvement in their complexion after four weeks.

Customer Review:

"I cannot live without it and I don't know how I ever did. Calms inflammation and helps prevent breakouts, fades acne scarring and pigmentation. Makes my skin more even and gives me a beautiful glow. I also mix it in with my foundation and it goes on gloriously smooth. The best!" —Gala

Futuredew

Why decided between a face oil and serum when you can have the best of both worlds with Glossier's Futuredew? This hybrid formula has the deep-penetrating potential of a typical oil, yet the topical perks that a serum provides. A mix of four nourishing oils—jojoba, grape seed, rosehip, and evening primrose—as well as sugarcane squalane work together to deliver and lock in moisture. (Not to mention light-reflecting minerals and a brightening evodia rutaecarpa extract serve up a glowy—not greasy—finish.)

Customer Review:

"Love Futuredew! Even on older skin it gives off a nice dewy look. A little concealer and blush and I don’t need foundation for every day." —Judi E.

Peptide Glazing Fluid

Want to double down on dewy? Pick up Rhode's Peptide Glazing Fluid. This pick known for offering a glossy finish—bringing the "glazed donut" fad into your beauty bag—but there's more to Rhode's gel serum than its glow. The formula boasts a lineup of all-star ingredients cater to a breadth of skincare needs: peptides for plumping; hyaluronic acid for hydration; niacinamide for nourishing and smoothing; and a little bit of marula oil to soften and support the skin barrier. (Bonus points: you can mix this serum with your favorite foundation for a your-skin-but-better look.)

Customer Review:

"I’ve repurchased this sooo many times now it makes the skin feeling hydrated and gives it a glow!" —Sarah W.

T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum

Wake up to gorgeous skin with the help of Drunk Elephant's T.L.C. Framboos Gycolic Night Serum. Think of this serum as the ultimate recharge for your skin: simply apply this blend before you go to bed, and it'll work its magic while you're sleeping. The eponymous T.L.C. Framboos gently exfoliates flakey patches, while salicylic acid helps unclog pores. Not only does the raspberry fruit extract used here rehydrate the skin, but it also combats free radicals. Come morning, you'll be bright-eyed, bushy-tailed, and glowing.

One satisfied customer writes:

"This product has brightened and evened out my skin tone. I've had several people compliment how great my skin looks and tell me I'm glowing. I am beyond thrilled with the results!" —Linsy R.

Calming Serum

From oscillating between extreme temperatures, like a hot summer day and an air-conditioned office, to slumming it on a long-haul flight, our on-the-go lifestyle can sometimes make our skin feel, well...off. The good news is that you can hit the proverbial reset button with Dr. Barbara Sturm's Calming Serum. This balancing formula features purslane, a powerful antioxidant adds an extra oomph to your overall skin health. Sweet almond oil as well as a cocktail of cardiospermum, echium, and sunflower helps calm irritated skin.

Customer Review:

"This serum is prefect for after the sun, wind or any extreme weather conditions. It really calms and soothes your skin amazingly. After I shave I put this serum on and any redness or irritation is completely gone. No scent and works well with all my other products, it also absorbs so beautifully."—KLuca

Better Screen UV Serum

Baked with broad-spectrum SPF 50, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays, this serum from Kiehl's is suncare and skincare rolled into one. Of course, there's more to this option than it's sun-protecting properties. A hefty dose of collagen peptide helps reduce the appearance of UV damage all while improving the skin's tone and texture. Since this serum is lightweight, you can easily incorporate into your preexisting skincare and makeup routines.

Customer Review:

"I had noticed that my foundation was not sitting well on my sunscreen so you can notice my pores. Problem solved! Perfect for under make up!"—BoyGirlBoy

Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation

With Ilia's Super Serum Skin Tint, makeup and skincare are married into one product. Available in 30 versatile shades, this pick has the coverage of a lightweight liquid foundation. Meanwhile, ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and squalane offer the benefits of a typical serum—hydrating, smoothing, and plumping the skin in the process. (There's even SPF 40 woven into the formula.) Oh, and did we mention the formula is cruelty-free, fragrance-free, and suitable for sensitive skin?

Customer Review:

"I have super dry skin and I have a hard time finding either skin tints or foundations that don’t cake or cling onto my dry spots and this is literally perfect! Super thin coverage, but super glowy. Very lightweight when wearing too!!"—Allycf

What does a face serum do?

Unlike creams, lotions, and oils—which usually focus primarily on hydration, serums puts its active ingredients first. "Serums are lightweight, fast absorbing, highly concentrated formulations of active ingredients that target specific concerns. They are well absorbed into the skin and are therefore an excellent vehicle with which to get active ingredients to the where they need to be to have their intended effect."

That said, different serums serve different purposes: some formulas are brightening, others are calming, and there are plenty of options that combat acne and aging. When in doubt, consult your esthetician or dermatologist on what your skin needs.

At what point in my routine should I apply a face serum?

According to Dr. Marcus, skincare products should generally be applied from lightest to heaviest. Given its lightweight nature, you should slather on your serum right after cleansing your face.
"Serums are designed to be absorbed quickly and completely, so after a few minutes, additional products may be applied," she adds. "Typically serums are used once or twice per day, depending on the formulation, so it’s best to check each product’s specific directions provided on the package."

What should I look for in one of the best face serums?

Though the exact ingredients you should look for will ultimately depend on your skin's needs, Dr. Marcus says there are a few non-negotiables. "It’s important to choose a serum from a reputable brand that you can trust has based its formulation on scientific evidence," she shares. "Serums should be light, quickly and completely absorbed, and ideally fragrance free to avoid irritation."

Additionally, you'll want to be cognizant of the skincare you use alongside your serum. "Be careful not to overdo it with too many products, or products that are too strong layered on top of one another," Dr. Marcus warns.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Rebecca Marcus is a broad-certified dermatologist in Dallas, Texas.

Dr. Daniel Butler is the director of the Inflammatory and Aging Skin Research Program at the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine.

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For more than 150 years, Harper’s BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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