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Summer is well and truly here, which means we are all striving for the ultimate summer glow. We’ve spoken to dermatologists about what is needed to get that aforementioned coveted glow, and discovered that incorporating an anti-aging serum into our daily routine is one of the best ways to go.
An anti-aging serum goes above and beyond what the humble moisturizer does (although a good moisturizer is also always recommended!) and it deals with a number of different issues such as dryness, wrinkles, discoloration, diminishing fine lines, and so much more. Not all serums are created equal, and we love how they can be customized to fit our skin’s unique needs.
We will never say no to firmer, hydrated, and generally more youthful skin, so we – with the help of the experts – have put together a list of some of the best serums that will give these results. They’ve personally recommended some, and we’ve also added a few of our faves too after finding out the ingredients they look for. Here are 16 great firming serums that can be used every day to give you tighter, hydrated skin and a youthful glow…
1. Senté Bio Complete Serum
Dr. Elaine F. Kung, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Future Bright Dermatology recommends this serum and describes it as a "complete" serum that can be used at nighttime. "I'm a simple skincare person who just wants to use one product after cleanser and before moisturizer to take care of all my skin care concerns - discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles, and skin barrier repair," she shares, while explaining how this serum is effective for those reasons.
This product, while pricier than the others on this list ($118 via the Senté site), is a viable solution for those with sensitive skin, as it can effectively reduce the visibility of fine lines and result in a more refined and balanced complexion. Moreover, Kung says it is gentle enough to be utilized by individuals who have never used retinol before.
2. SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum
Dr. HariKiran Chekuri, a dermatologist and the medical head of ClinicSpots, suggests this vitamin C serum, since this ingredient is a "powerful antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage the skin." A vitamin C serum like this SkinCeuticals classic ($208 via the brand's site) can also "brighten the skin, fade dark spots, and boost collagen synthesis," he says.
Chekuri adds that it's best to use this serum in the "morning, before sunscreen, to enhance sun protection and prevent photoaging." He also recommends "looking for serums that contain at least 10% of vitamin C, preferably in the form of L-ascorbic acid, which is the most potent and stable form."
3. Urban Skin Rx Advanced Even Tone Day & Night Treatment
This serum-like formula is especially helpful for diminishing stubborn dark spots or acne scars while also promoting more supple skin, Kung says. "Some skincare ingredients that have been scientifically and clinically studied to help with discoloration include kojic acid, tranexamic acid, and bakuchiol, which are all found in this product," she explains.
Kung says it has the ability to effectively combat hyperpigmentation. Kung points out that this product's ingredients function to decrease the appearance of persistent dark spots, refine uneven texture, and visibly diminish signs of aging skin. Moreover, it is gentle enough for use twice daily, enabling users to target dark spots and fine lines throughout the day and night.
4. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil
Dr. Anna Chacon, MD, board-certified dermatologist and writer at My Psoriasis Team, deems retinol to be a "dermatologist-recommended type of vitamin A" and a "potent ingredient in this anti-wrinkle serum that fights fine lines, dullness, wrinkles, and dark spots." She recommends keeping an eye out for Neutrogena's Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil when perusing the aisles of your local drugstore for a retinol serum.
This serum also "contains hyaluronic acid," which Chacon says adds "plumping moisture to help hydrate and revitalize the appearance of skin." As for how often to use it, Chacon recommends "applying to a clean face and neck two times per day."
A pearl-sized amount should be "distributed evenly and massaged in until fully absorbed," she advises. When not in use, Chacon says to always "replace and tighten the cap."
5. Paula's Choice Phytoestrogen Elasticity Renewal Serum
Chekuri also recommends experimenting with a powerful serum like Paula's Choice Phystoestrogen Elasticity Renewal Serum, designed to enhance the appearance of elasticity, reduce crepey texture and minimize visible signs of aging associated with estrogen decline when applied to the face and neck.
Retinoids, as found in this serum, are "derivatives of vitamin A that can increase cell turnover, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and even out skin tone," Chekuri notes. He adds that "retinoids are also effective for treating acne and preventing breakouts." A serum like this is "best used at night, as they can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight."
Chekuri also suggests "starting with a low concentration of retinoid, such as 0.25% or 0.5%, and gradually increase the strength as your skin tolerates it."
6. The Ordinary "Buffet" Multi-Technology Peptide Serum
This serum, known as "the buffet", purportedly provides age-supporting benefits to the skin through its multifaceted peptide formula, according to Chekuri.
Peptides "are short chains of amino acids that can act as messengers in the skin, signaling it to produce more collagen and elastin, which are the proteins that give the skin its firmness and elasticity."
Peptides (found in this $61.99 serum via Amazon) can also "help hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and repair damaged tissue." He notes that "peptide serums can be used both in the morning and at night, depending on your preference and routine."
7. Thrive Causemetics Overnight Sensation™ Gentle Retexturizing Solution
This serum solution is perfect for mature beauties over 40 who might struggle with sensitive skin or often find that retinol is too harsh for their complexions. "I personally recommend the Bigger Than Beauty Skincare Overnight Sensation Gentle Retexturizing Solution to my clients with specific anti-aging needs," Dr. Daniel Lévy, MD, board-certified dermatologist, says.
"Not only does it have bakuchiol, an excellent retinol alternative, it also has a blend of 10% AHA + BHA to help with pore minimizing, pore tightening, skin texture, overall gentle but efficient exfoliation," he explains.
Lévy continues: "Bakuchiol is a great retinol alternative, it is plant-based, gentle, and visibly firms skin and diminishes signs of aging while you sleep. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to other skin conditions, bakuchiol is definitely preferred over retinol but can deliver similar results."
8. SkinMedica TNS Advanced + Serum
SkinMedica TNS Advanced + Serum is highly praised by dermatologists due to its innovative formula that contains a mixture of growth factors that are specially crafted to promote the renewal of skin cells, improve the levels of collagen and elastin, and tighten sagging skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Additionally, it features a blend of potent botanicals, peptides, and marine extracts and is free from fragrances, making it a suitable option for individuals with all skin types, including those with sensitive skin.
According to one reviewer, "The SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum is my can't-live-without-it part of my skin care routine! I'm completely addicted to this serum for how smooth it makes my skin feel. Just last night I got 3 compliments about my complexion, which used to be problematic with dry, ruddy creepy skin. Highly recommend this serum to improve appearance of aging skin!"
9. Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
The key to finding a great serum for your particular skin concern is shopping the ingredients. This popular Paula's Choice serum contains a high percentage of azelaic acid, which is a relatively unknown antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient that can soothe redness in the skin (it's excellent for anyone who has rosacea or acne). It's excellent for reducing the growth of bacteria and can help combat mild to moderate acne, and it helps even the skin tone by inhibiting tyrosinase, which causes hyperpigmentation (aka that dark spots you see on your skin).
10. The INKEY List Niacinamide Oil Control Serum
This serum contains niacinamide, a topical form of vitamin B-3 and an ingredient that is also amazing for acne-prone skin and brightening a dull complexion. Niacinamide can fade hyperpigmentation, reduce acne-causing bacteria, strengthen the skin barrier, and give your skin some much-needed hydration. This serum is described as lightweight and best for oily skin.
11. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Face Serum
Retinol is our gold standard ingredient that has been proven to increase cell turnover, which leads to a less dull complexion, and boost collagen production, which helps smoothen skin and keep it plump and healthy looking. There are different forms of retinol in various concentrations, some OTC and some prescription, and because it can be a sensitizing ingredient it is recommended that you start off slowly if you're new to retinol.
This serum by CeraVe combines retinol with licorice root (another goodie for brightening the skin) and hydrating ceramides to help combat any drying effects from the retinol. It's best to use retinol in the evenings and to always wear sunscreen in the morning.
12. Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Instant Firming Serum
If you're looking for an anti-aging serum to add to your skincare routine, there is no shortage of amazing options, as this list has already proven. And this Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Instant Firming Serum is one of our favorites as it visibly lifts, firms, and smooths wrinkles thanks to the brand's patented alternative to retinol.
It has some very glowing reviews from happy customers too. One Sephora reviewer said: "The instant firming serum does have a bit of a light scent to it, but I don't mind that! It did firm up and penetrate my skin right away without drying or cakey flakiness. It will help to reduce the look of wrinkles and firm and smooth facial contours. I've applied morning and evening. It has hyaluronic acid and vegan collagen alternative without parabens, phthalates, or mineral oils. I love this product and highly recommend!"
Another added: "I love this serum! I have acne prone, combination skin and did not have any issues with this serum causing breakouts or clogging my pores. It feels moisturizing on my skin but not greasy and I have noticed the lines around my mouth are less noticeable since using. I also love the scent of this serum, which is a light herbal scent."
13. Ialuset Hyaluronic Acid Cream
This creamy serum cuts to the chase and gives you nothing but hyaluronic acid, which is a top effective ingredient that locks in intense moisture and keeps it trapped so that your skin stays smooth and soft.
It's creamier in consistency than a lot of gel-based serums, but it's lightweight and will absorb into your skin quickly. This French staple is affordable and a little — like a pea-size amount — is enough to cover your face.
14. La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Serum
This lovely serum from a trusted brand combines two stellar ingredients for moisturizing: two types of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. The allergy-tested formula also contains Madecassoside and La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water to help soothe skin. One reviewer says she saw an improvement in her skin after one month and that her complexion has a brighter appearance.
15. The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
Hyaluronic acid isn't the only source of intense hydration. For something different and effective on mature skin, try this 100% plant-derived squalene from The Ordinary. The serum is magic because it absorbs fast, can multitask and be used in your hair as well (it softens strands and can help reduce breakage), and it costs less than $15.
One reviewer gave this serum high praise for dry skin: "This SAVED my skin. I'm from upstate New York, so my skin really took a hit this winter in combo with my Curology treatment which speeds cell turnover causing me a lot of dryness and irritation this dry season. I had no moisture whatsoever, yet I was still breaking out so I couldn't stop the Curology treatment either. This brought back hydration and did not clog pores at all and now I'm back to using my Curology treatment nightly with no irritation."
They added: "Also, I think it's helping reduce my acne by creating a balance in my skin with just the right amount of hydration. Those who need hydration with acne-prone skin due to masks or whatever the case is, this is it!"
16. Paula's Choice Calm Repairing Serum
You don't have to have rosacea to benefit from this beautifully moisturizing serum from Paula's Choice. If you have dry skin, sensitive skin, or skin that is prone to redness, this serum is still great thanks to its hyaluronic acid, ceramides (which help strengthen your skin barrier), and plant extracts that improve redness and calm signs of sensitivity.
As per the official website: "This silky-soft serum soothes sensitive skin and calms redness with a gentle yet powerful blend of antioxidant plant extracts and skin-replenishing ingredients."
