SheFinds emphasizes that this review is not monetized, compensated, or sponsored in any way. This evaluation of the product is strictly based on the expertise of a beauty industry expert.
If anyone has access to as many skincare products as possible, it’s dermatologists. They’ve seen it all — all skin issues, all of the possible procedures that can help remedy those skin issues, and a number of over-the-counter creams, cleansers, and serums — some of which are effective; many of which do absolutely nothing to help.
So when a product like a serum is tested and approved by dermatologists — even recommended by them — we listen. In the case of serums, these products are special because they target specific concerns you have with your skin, often using a one-two punch of a higher concentration of certain ingredients that have been deemed effective. There are serums for discoloration, wrinkles, collagen building, acne, redness, and more. By far, one of the more stubborn issues you may want to address is laxity in the skin and fine lines and wrinkles. Before you splurge on various products that may or may not work, here are three serums that dermatologists love.
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5
No serious skincare talk can happen without mentioning the gold standard of all ingredients: retinol. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that has been proven effective in studies for boosting collagen production and helping reduce signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. It helps thicken the skin while also exfoliating it — which means a faster turnover of skin cells and less acne.
You’ll find retinol in a number of products, and while some over-the-counter choices are great, it can also take longer to see results. Your best bet is to visit a dermatologist and ask about a prescription retin-A. Your doctor will likely start you off on a lower percentage of the ingredient until your skin has time to get used to it. But one OTC pick that dermatologists love is SkinCeuticals retinol, which comes in three strength levels: 0.3, 0.5, and 1.0. The product is non-comedogenic and free of parabens, fragrance, and gluten. According to the manufacturer, it “Improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, pores, and blemishes.” Use it at night and make sure you follow up with a good moisturizer — retinol can be very drying.
SkinMedica TNS Advanced + Serum
It’s pricey, but dermatologists rave about SkinMedica TNS Advanced + Serum because it is made with a blend of growth factors designed to encourage skin cell renewal, support collagen and elastin levels, and help tighten sagging skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also boasts an active blend of botanicals, marine extracts, and peptides, and is fragrance-free, so it’s ideal for all skin types, including 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!”
OLAY Regenerist Regenerating Serum
You don’t have to spend a ton of money to acquire quality skincare — and dermatologists know this, as well. Some of our favorite dermatologist-recommended picks are under $50 and OLAY Regenerist Regenerating Serum is one of them. The fragrance-free, non-greasy serum contains an Amino-Peptide Complex II that hydrated deeply and OLAY claims it can help firm up your skin. The jury is still out on how quickly you’ll see results, but most of its reviews are positive — and it is ideal for all skin types. According to one reviewer: “This product is helping keep the fine lines around my eyes, mouth, and forehead at bay,and works perfectly with Regenerest wash, Olay toner, Regenerest Day/Night creams, and Ultimate Eye Cream. I apply this product at night, replacing my AM Anti-Wrinkle Serum. A little goes far, quickly absorbs into skin, and 1 bottle lasts me 4-5 months!”
Incorporating a serum into your skincare routine is a smart way to help your skin benefit from added active ingredients. Whether you’re open to splurging on one from SkinMedica, prefer something with an in-between price tag like a quality retinol from SkinCeuticals, or prefer a drugstore pick like OLAY, which defies expectations, these three serums are a great choice — and are a favorite of many dermatologists.
