f you’ve been shopping for skincare products within the last few years you’re all too familiar with the serum situation — meaning: shelves upon shelves of serums. It has gotten to the point where it is difficult to distinguish between different serums, never mind trying to find one that can take your skin to the next level.
The thing about serums is that they’re a more personal product than moisturizer or cleanser. Since serums deliver high concentrations of just one or very few ingredients, the goal is to purchase a serum that can address an issue or a desired outcome that you have for your skin, whether that is banishing acne or fading discoloration.
If you have mature skin, you probably already know you benefit from lots of hydration. A great serum can help in this department. Here are four hydrating serums that are worth it for blurring wrinkles and two that are better left on the shelf.
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 you skin stays smooth and soft. It’s more creamy 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.
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.
Buy this serum at Lovely Skin.
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. 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!”
Buy it at The Ordinary.
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 hyaluronic acid, ceramides (which help strengthen your skin barrier), and plant extracts that improve redness and calm signs of sensitivity. Reviewers agree that it’s amazing for reactive skin and can also help if you apply retinol at night and suffer from dryness or peeling as a result.
Buy this serum at Paula’s Choice.
Avoid: Serums That Contain Fragrance and Alcohol
If you have dry skin that you are searching for ways to moisturize and plump up, it’s very important to read the labels on your serums. Avoid anything that contains synthetic fragrances and alcohols. Both of these ingredients can be extremely drying and wreak more havoc on your skin. The increased dryness can also highlight wrinkles and fine lines and make them look more prominent. If you have sensitive skin, it’s especially important to not use products with fragrances, as these may cause your skin to react.
The key ingredients for moisture that will help blur wrinkles and texture include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and squalene for a touch of something more novel. Incorporate a hydrating serum into your regimen and you’ll soon see significant gains in the softness and smoothness of your skin.
