If you’re ever in need of a skincare boost, you can’t do much better than adding a skincare serum to your routine. Serums deliver a one-two punch of effective ingredients in higher concentrations than you’d typically get in a moisturizer. Plus, you can tailor your serum routine to meet the needs of your skin type and whatever skincare concern you’ve having at the moment. For some, that can mean a serum to address extreme dryness; while others may want something that can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles or banish discoloration.
Whatever your skin needs and desires are, there are serums out there that can help. When it comes to anti-aging serums, the best ingredients that you can look for include retinol, vitamin C, glycolic acid for gentle exfoliation, and peptides to boost collagen products. Here are five dermatologist-recommended serums with amazing reviews and reputations.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
One of the most celebrated vitamin C serums on the market, this one is a stand-out among a sea of vitamin C serums because it contains ferulic acid that helps stabilize the formula and ensures that it retains its potency (this is a problem with many vitamin C serums). It contains a high amount of vitamin C, as well — 15 percent — along with vitamin E. This serum is said to increase skin firmness, reduce the appearance of fine lines, enhance your skin’s radiance, and protect against damaging free radicals.
One reviewer had this to say: “I have been using this since i was 37. I am now 64 and everyone asks me what i use. It's the best thing i've ever used. I know it smells weird, and it's expensive, but the results are staggering over time.”
You can view this serum here.
Alastin HA IMMERSE Serum
Hyaluronic acid is a must-have for anyone with dry skin or, honestly, any skin type because it nourishes and feeds skin like nothing else. And this pick by dermatologist favorite Alastin has something called its proprietary Octapeptide-45 that is said to help your skin increase its own hyaluronic acid levels over time — so you’re getting in-the-moment benefits AND benefits that increase over time.
According to one reviewer: “I can’t say enough about this product. Climates with cold and harsh winters this definitely solved my dry irritated skin. My skin has never felt better. Love it.”
You can purchase this HA serum here.
RoC RETINOL CORREXION® DEEP WRINKLE SERUM
Let’s be honest: some retinol serums can cost a pretty penny, but the reason is because this effective ingredient is one of the most researched and is proven to work in helping boost collagen levels over time. But you don’t have to break the bank to add a quality retinol serum to your collection. RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkles Serum is a top seller that costs just $30 and can help visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles and make skin look smoother and more radiant.
You can buy this retinol here.
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant
Glycolic acid is a mostly gentle exfoliant that sloughs away dead and dry skin cells, which helps make your skin look smoother and healthier. As we age, our skin can appear duller — regular exfoliation is key to keeping your skin look youthful. No need to overdo it — using this exfoliant by Paula’s Choice twice weekly can do the trick. It has a lightweight gel consistency and costs just $37.
According to one reviewer: “I apply in AM and this product has helped my complexion become super smooth. My acne scars have vanished.”
Buy this serum here.
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum
Combining the benefits of hyaluronic acid and peptides, this affordable serum by The Ordinary targets everything: wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, firmness, and elasticity. It’s also ideal for all skin types, from dry to combination to oily. You can apply it in the morning and night to keep your skin look super radiant.
One reviewer said: “This is great for layering and is a good hydrator (not moisturizer) and full of good nutrients for skin. I use this with the ordinary retinol. I am on my third bottle.”
You can purchase this serum here.
