Top 10 best face serums for 2024 (for different skin types)
Choosing the right facial serum is crucial to your daily skincare routine. We explain how to do it and what to look out for.
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.Whether you're looking for an ultra-hydrating facial serum to soothe your dry skin or you're mainly after a concentrated dose of vitamin C, you'll find a serum to suit your skin's needs in this list.
The most important thing is not to be fooled by ordinary moisturisers that only have "serum" in their name. True serums are distinguished by molecules up to 10 times smaller than those found in creams. This makes facial serums penetrate much deeper. Aesthetic cosmetology specialist Karolina Kwiatkowska helped us to select products that meet the most stringent criteria.
From this article you will learn:
- What facial serums are best according to the experts.
- How to choose the best serum for your face.
- How to choose the best serum for your needs. .
- How serums work and how to use them to get the most out of them.
- How to choose the best serum for you.
- Why facial serums and creams are a harmonious duo. .
See also:
- Vitamin C facial serum .
- Vitamin C for face .
- Daily facial care
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- Rasal acne
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- The best hair conditioners
- Best hair toners
Best facial serums: ranking the 36 best products
.Your face and skin have their own unique needs. In this list, you'll find options that take into account everything you need. We've selected solutions to suit different skin types, ages, goals and the effect you want.
The main product selection criteria we have taken into account are:
.- simplicity of formulation - only the ingredients needed, .
- proven effectiveness of individual substances,
- purpose and intended use
- purpose and intended use, .
- price, .
- user reviews, .
Important note - some sera may be labelled as best for people of a particular age. This should not be a key selection criterion for you. You may be 35 and the ideal product for you will be one advertised as 50+. You may be 60, and the best product will be labelled as a younger option. It's less about labels - the best face sera are those that will effectively help your daily skincare rituals.
Our list is divided into several categories that address your skin's most important needs:
.- anti-wrinkle and anti-ageing serums, .
- moisturising serums, .
- serum for acne-prone and sensitive skin, .
- serum with vitamin C and antioxidants, .
- serum to lighten the skin, .
- normalising serum, .
- facial serum for men, .
Anti-wrinkle and anti-ageing serum
.An anti-ageing serum will have retinol in its formulation (by stimulating collagen production, it reduces fine lines)and or bacuchiol, which positively affects the skin on many levels - from exfoliating the epidermis and regulating sebum secretion to soothing inflammation and improving skin firmness. Although bacuchioland is considered more of an alternative to retinol, in some products the two substances can appear together. In addition to these, look for oils combined with vitamin E and coenzyme Q10.
Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Serum
- Main active ingredients: hyaluronic acid, Centella Asiatica extract, betaine, beta-glucan, smooth licorice extract, vitamin E and panthenol .
- Purpose: for sensitive, dry, irritated and mature skin .
- Packaging: 80 ml .
Product description
Moisturising face serum for sensitive and dry skin. The product gives the skinós elasticity and smoothness, has an anti-inflammatory effect and soothes any irritation. The cosmetic from Klairs is free of harmful substances (e.g. parabenós) and is vegan.
.Pros and cons
Moisturising face serum for sensitive and dry skin. The product gives the skinós elasticity and smoothness, has an anti-inflammatory effect and soothes any irritation. The cosmetic from Klairs is free of harmful substances (e.g. parabenós) and is vegan.
.Additional information
Moisturising face serum for sensitive and dry skin. The product gives the skinós elasticity and smoothness, has an anti-inflammatory effect and soothes any irritation. The cosmetic from Klairs is free of harmful substances (e.g. parabenós) and is vegan.
.
Product description
Lactobacillus Moisturizing Ampoule is a highly effective facial serum based on fermented soya beans and probiotics. It strengthens the skinós natural protective barrier, cares for the balance of the microbiome and provides intensive hydration.
.Preparation perfectly regenerates and soothes irritations, as well as protects the skin against free radicals. The serum is recommended for people with dry, combination, sensitive, irritated and mature skin
.Pros and cons
Lactobacillus Moisturizing Ampoule is a highly effective facial serum based on fermented soya beans and probiotics. It strengthens the skinós natural protective barrier, cares for the balance of the microbiome and provides intensive hydration.
.Preparation perfectly regenerates and soothes irritations, as well as protects the skin against free radicals. The serum is recommended for people with dry, combination, sensitive, irritated and mature skin
.Additional information
Lactobacillus Moisturizing Ampoule is a highly effective facial serum based on fermented soya beans and probiotics. It strengthens the skinós natural protective barrier, cares for the balance of the microbiome and provides intensive hydration.
.Preparation perfectly regenerates and soothes irritations, as well as protects the skin against free radicals. The serum is recommended for people with dry, combination, sensitive, irritated and mature skin
.{ product:1880FOqox46KwjM1TTwQQb }}
Veoli Botanica, hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid
- Major active ingredients: hyaluronic acid, Hydronesis filtrate®, Kombuchka black tea ferment™, rhodella microalgae extract .
- skin typeóry: dry, mature, with signs of ageing.
- Capacity: 30 ml .
- Position:serum .
Product description
The FOCUS HYDRATION GEL Moisturising Serum with 0.6% Hyaluronic Acid is the foolproof wayóto healthy, hydrated and radiant skin
.A formula based on 98.64% natural ingredientsórich in potent hyaluronic acid, Kombuchka™ black tea ferment, Hydronesis® filtrate and Rhodella microalgae extract, intensively moisturises, strengthens the protective barrier and restores radiance.
.Pros and cons
The FOCUS HYDRATION GEL Moisturising Serum with 0.6% Hyaluronic Acid is the foolproof wayóto healthy, hydrated and radiant skin
.A formula based on 98.64% natural ingredientsórich in potent hyaluronic acid, Kombuchka™ black tea ferment, Hydronesis® filtrate and Rhodella microalgae extract, intensively moisturises, strengthens the protective barrier and restores radiance.
.Additional information
The FOCUS HYDRATION GEL Moisturising Serum with 0.6% Hyaluronic Acid is the foolproof wayóto healthy, hydrated and radiant skin
.A formula based on 98.64% natural ingredientsórich in potent hyaluronic acid, Kombuchka™ black tea ferment, Hydronesis® filtrate and Rhodella microalgae extract, intensively moisturises, strengthens the protective barrier and restores radiance.
.Frudia Citrus Brightening Serum
- Purpose: skinóra mature, grey, discoloured .
- Major ingredients: Japanese mandarin extract, niacinamide, panthenol, pomegranate extract, grape seed oil .
- Packaging: 50 g .
Product description
Brightening serum formulated with 71% citrusów extract. Thanks to its vitamin C content, the serum smooths and brightens the skinóhand, giving it a radiant glow. Oils and plant extracts revitalise the skinóhand, providing it with optimum hydration.
Disappear greyness and enjoy a róeven tone all day long. Nutrients extracted using R Vita W technology retain their precious properties.
Discover a wealth of mineralsós, vitamins and antioxidantsós in a serum to brightenós skin and restoreós healthy appearance.
Pros and cons
Brightening serum formulated with 71% citrusów extract. Thanks to its vitamin C content, the serum smooths and brightens the skinóhand, giving it a radiant glow. Oils and plant extracts revitalise the skinóhand, providing it with optimum hydration.
Disappear greyness and enjoy a róeven tone all day long. Nutrients extracted using R Vita W technology retain their precious properties.
Discover a wealth of mineralsós, vitamins and antioxidantsós in a serum to brightenós skin and restoreós healthy appearance.
Additional information
Brightening serum formulated with 71% citrusów extract. Thanks to its vitamin C content, the serum smooths and brightens the skinóhand, giving it a radiant glow. Oils and plant extracts revitalise the skinóhand, providing it with optimum hydration.
Disappear greyness and enjoy a róeven tone all day long. Nutrients extracted using R Vita W technology retain their precious properties.
Discover a wealth of mineralsós, vitamins and antioxidantsós in a serum to brightenós skin and restoreós healthy appearance.
Product description
Missha Vita C Plus Spot Correcting & Firming Ampoule is a comprehensive product thatóry improves skin tone and nourishment. Formulated with vitamins, Vita C liposome formula and moisturising and protective ingredients, the serum reduces hyperpigmentation and firms the skin
.His gentle yet effective formula makes it ideal for daily use.
Pros and cons
Missha Vita C Plus Spot Correcting & Firming Ampoule is a comprehensive product thatóry improves skin tone and nourishment. Formulated with vitamins, Vita C liposome formula and moisturising and protective ingredients, the serum reduces hyperpigmentation and firms the skin
.His gentle yet effective formula makes it ideal for daily use.
Additional information
Missha Vita C Plus Spot Correcting & Firming Ampoule is a comprehensive product thatóry improves skin tone and nourishment. Formulated with vitamins, Vita C liposome formula and moisturising and protective ingredients, the serum reduces hyperpigmentation and firms the skin
.His gentle yet effective formula makes it ideal for daily use.
Frudia Blueberry Hydrating Serum
- Major active ingredients: jagód extract, tomato seed oil, panthenol .
- Purpose: for all skin types .
- Packaging: 50 g .
Product description
Frudia Blueberry Hydrating Serum is a unique formula based on 71% berry extractód, delivering intense hydration and revitalisation.
The formula is rich in antioxidants, sourced from the ultra-pure Jeju Island, which bring revitalisation to tired complexions.
The serum absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky film, and you can see results after the first use.
Ideal for all skin typesóry, including sensitive skin.
.Pros and cons
Frudia Blueberry Hydrating Serum is a unique formula based on 71% berry extractód, delivering intense hydration and revitalisation.
The formula is rich in antioxidants, sourced from the ultra-pure Jeju Island, which bring revitalisation to tired complexions.
The serum absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky film, and you can see results after the first use.
Ideal for all skin typesóry, including sensitive skin.
.Additional information
Frudia Blueberry Hydrating Serum is a unique formula based on 71% berry extractód, delivering intense hydration and revitalisation.
The formula is rich in antioxidants, sourced from the ultra-pure Jeju Island, which bring revitalisation to tired complexions.
The serum absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky film, and you can see results after the first use.
Ideal for all skin typesóry, including sensitive skin.
.Frudia Blueberry Hydrating Serum is a unique formula based on 71% berry extractód, delivering intense hydration and revitalisation.
The formula is rich in antioxidants, sourced from the ultra-pure Jeju Island, which bring revitalisation to tired complexions.
The serum absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky film, and you can see results after the first use.
Ideal for all skin typesóry, including sensitive skin.
.Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop
- Major active ingredients: l-ascorbic acid (5%), orange and lavender oils, extracts of: aniseed, grapefruit, rhubarb, and extracts of: lotus flower, peony, baicalis root, tea and goldenseal.
- Purpose: for all skin types .
- Packaging: 35 ml .
Product description
The Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop serum with vitamin C is based on natural ingredients and intensively moisturises, regenerates and refreshes the skin. It nourishes and visually rejuvenates the skin.
.Will even work well for sensitive skin. Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Serum with Vitamin C will make the skin radiant, healthier, the tone will be even and the appearance of pores will be reduced.
Serum from Klairs will nourish and rejuvenate the skin.
Serum from Klairs is recommended for those new to such cosmetics. The five per cent concentration of vitamin C is safe for most of us.
Pros and cons
The Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop serum with vitamin C is based on natural ingredients and intensively moisturises, regenerates and refreshes the skin. It nourishes and visually rejuvenates the skin.
.Will even work well for sensitive skin. Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Serum with Vitamin C will make the skin radiant, healthier, the tone will be even and the appearance of pores will be reduced.
Serum from Klairs will nourish and rejuvenate the skin.
Serum from Klairs is recommended for those new to such cosmetics. The five per cent concentration of vitamin C is safe for most of us.
Additional information
The Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop serum with vitamin C is based on natural ingredients and intensively moisturises, regenerates and refreshes the skin. It nourishes and visually rejuvenates the skin.
.Will even work well for sensitive skin. Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop Serum with Vitamin C will make the skin radiant, healthier, the tone will be even and the appearance of pores will be reduced.
Serum from Klairs will nourish and rejuvenate the skin.
Serum from Klairs is recommended for those new to such cosmetics. The five per cent concentration of vitamin C is safe for most of us.
How to choose the best serum for your face?
.Serums usually have a highly targeted effect, and the ideal facial serum is one that will be tailored to your skin. Hence, you will encounter anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, moisturising or vitamin serums on the market. It will take some time and testing of products with different formulations before you find the perfect serum for you, but trust - your skin will thank you.
.A good facial serum contains highly concentrated active ingredients and will work long term to strengthen and nourish the skin. After all, more than the WOW effect in your daily skincare routine, you should care about lasting results..
.
Karolina Kwiatkowska specialist in aesthetic cosmetology
What is a facial serum?
.A facial serum is a cosmetic that has a higher concentration of active ingredients and is therefore more potent than a face cream. It has a much lighter, more watery or gel-like consistency, so it can penetrate the deep layers of the skin without weighing it down unnecessarily. Its main purpose is to enhance the effects of skincare.
Facial serums are an essential part of your daily skincare. Treat it as an important part of your skincare rituals, but it should never replace your face cream..
.
Karolina Kwiatkowska specialist in aesthetic cosmetology
We mentioned above about face creams that are marketingly 'disguised' as serums. However, this does not mean that serums and face creams compete with each other like soloists. They are a harmonious duo that complement each other perfectly. They should be applied not only to the face, but also to the neck and décolleté.
"Regular care and attention to these extremely delicate areas will ensure that you enjoy their elasticity and good condition for longer," - advises Karolina Kwiatkowska.
.How does facial serum work?
.Serum is made up of small molecules, so it quickly gets into the deep layers of the skin. This makes it easy to deliver the active ingredients it contains. This is due to the so-called absorption promotersand, which include organic acids (glycolic, salicylic, oleic), fatty acids and their esters, as well as amides, urea, essential oils, alcohols or polyalcohols.
Serum is a small molecule in size.
Why use and what does a facial serum offer?
.Cosmetologists and dermatologists call facial serums a cosmetic for special tasks. Thanks to its concentrated active ingredients, it visibly improves the condition and state of the skin - and in a short period of time.
Cosmetologists and dermatologists call facial serums a special task cosmetic.
Depending on the product you choose, you can count on:
.- .
- strong hydration, .
- strengthening and nourishing the skin, .
- flattening of wrinkles, furrows and irregularities, .
- regeneration, .
- additional narrowing of pores, .
- reduction of hyperpigmentation, .
- soothing of delicate skin, .
- antioxidant effect, .
- feeling of lightness, .
How to apply a facial serum?
.Applying a facial serum properly is not secret knowledge, but many people adhere to the rule: "It doesn't matter how, as long as you apply it". And this is a serious mistake. If you don't apply a face serum correctly, you will not get the most out of its properties. Below, we explain how to apply facial serums correctly in a few simple steps.
How to use a facial serum?
.- Do a make-up remover and cleanse your skin: a serum will take full effect if you apply it to a fully cleansed and toned face.
- Exfoliate the skin: a gentle exfoliation before applying the serum will have a positive effect on its action.
- Apply a toner: after deep cleansing, a toner will help balance the pH of your skin.
- Apply an eye serum: as the skin under the eyes is more delicate and has different needs, cosmetologists advise doing this before applying a serum to the face. Put a small amount of the cosmetic on your little or ring finger and gently pat from the outer corners inwards. .
- Apply the face serum: depending on the consistency, application will vary slightly. For a more watery serum, simply apply one drop of the cosmetic to each part of the face (cheeks, forehead, nose, chin, neck). Apply in circular motions, working from the bottom upwards. For thicker, gel-textured serums, apply first to the palms of your hands and "warm up" by rubbing lightly. Only then gently spread it all over the face - don't forget the neck and décolleté. .
- Apply face cream: wait until the serum is completely absorbed. The cream (preferably a moisturising one) will "hold" the serum in the skin, making it work better.
You can complete this ritual with one more pleasant element. While waiting for the serum to be absorbed, you can perform a gentle facial skin massage. And this can be done in two versions.
- Make gentle circular movements with two fingers (middle and index), touching the skin with them. 30-60 seconds is sufficient. You can repeat this in several places on the face.
- Touch the skin with your fingers.
- Feelingly tap the fingers of your hand on both sides of your face. Do this for 30 seconds or longer and the serum will penetrate even better into the next layers of the skin.
Why should serums be applied together with face cream?
.The reasons are primarily two:
.- Serum has a more intensive effect than cream, and often allows the cream to be absorbed better.
- Serum has a more intensive effect than cream, and often allows the cream to be absorbed better.
- Serum's consistency is usually watery: because of this, it evaporates much more quickly and will not be able to "give" its properties to you.
Although there is no dogmatic rule for this, a 2011 study suggests using both cosmetics as part of your daily skincare routineand.
Important
.For daytime, apply the serum in combination with a face cream with a UV filter, and you can use a more nourishing or regenerating one at night. This will create a film on the surface of the skin, which will reduce the volatilisation of the serum.
You will get the best results if you apply the serum and cream within minutes of cleansing and toning your face.
See also:
Summary
.Choosing the right facial serum is an extremely important step in effective skincare. Before you reach for a particular product from a shop or online shelf, remember that:
- Facial serum has a higher concentration of active ingredients and is more potent than a face cream.
- For the best daily skincare results, use a serum together with a cream. .
- There are many types of face serums on the market, such as moisturising, anti-wrinkle, firming or vitamin serums. .
- Choose those products that really address your skin's needs. .
- Facial serums - depending on their purpose and use - should contain substances such as retinol, vitamin B5, hyaluronic acid or coenzyme Q10. .
FAQ
.How often to use a facial serum?
.Facial serums contain highly concentrated active ingredients. They may cause slight irritation or redness, such as in the case of serums with retinol. Therefore, use them 2-3 times a week and observe how your skin reacts to them each time.
Can facial serums be used daily?"
.Many manufacturers recommend this on the packaging, but it is not necessary. It all depends on the needs of your skin. Some serums can cause mild irritation, so observe your skin regularly and see how it reacts to the cosmetic.
Can facial serums be used under the eyes?
.The skin under the eyes is more delicate and has its own specific needs. A better choice would be an eye serum or a special eye cream.
Can facial serums be used during pregnancy?
.Few cosmetics carry the declaration "Suitable for pregnant women". Pregnant women should avoid cosmetics with vitamin A and its derivatives (retinol and retinoids), salicylates, arbutin and some acids, which can cause irritation.
A safer option would be a moisturising facial serum with vitamin C - preferably a derivative and low concentration. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it's also a good idea to use screen with SPF protection.
What are the types of facial serums?
.Depending on the needs of your skin and the skincare goals you want to achieve, the facial sera available on the market can be divided into several categories. The most popular face serums are anti-wrinkle, moisturising, normalising, illuminating, as well as for acne and sensitive skin.
What is the best facial serum for a 50-year-old woman?
.Women's skin over 50 needs, above all, to be moisturised, properly cared for and firmed, as well as to reduce wrinkles and the appearance of discolouration. Choose a cosmetic that meets your needs and is tailored to your skin type - a serum for dry skin, one for oily skin and one for vascular skin will have a different composition.
How to choose a good facial serum for a 30-something?
Care for skin after 30 should, above all, stimulate the skin to regenerate and minimise the signs of ageing. For this purpose, the best cosmetics will be those that contain, among others, vitamins C and E, retinol and retinoids (derivatives of vitamin A), niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, peptides, coenzyme Q10 and natural extracts of green tea or caffeine.
Sources
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.Bettoli, V., Micali, G., Monfrecola, G., & Veraldi, S. (2020). Effectiveness of a combination of salicylic acid-based products for the treatment of mild comedonal-papular acne: A multicentre prospective observational study. Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia: Organo Ufficiale, Societa Italiana Di Dermatologia E Sifilografia, 155(6), 744-748. https://doi.org/10.23736/S0392-0488.20.06751-6
.Biological importance and applications of squalene and squalane-PubMed. (n.d.). Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22361190/
Bissett, D. L., Oblong, J. E., & Berge, C. A. (2005). Niacinamide: A B Vitamin that Improves Aging Facial Skin Appearance. Dermatologic Surgery, 31(s1), 860-866. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31732
Chaudhuri, R. K., & Bojanowski, K. (2014). Bakuchiol: A retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 36(3), 221-230. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12117
Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging-PMC. (n.d.). Retrieved 13 March 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
Kafi, R., Kwak, H. S. R., Schumacher, W. E., Cho, S., Hanft, V. N., Hamilton, T. A., King, A. L., Neal, J. D., Varani, J., Fisher, G. J., Voorhees, J. J., & Kang, S. (2007). Improvement of Naturally Aged Skin With Vitamin A (Retinol). Archives of Dermatology, 143(5), 606-612. https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.143.5.606
Pullar, J. M., Carr, A. C., & Vissers, M. C. M. (2017). The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients, 9(8), 866. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9080866
Puyana, C., Chandan, N., & Tsoukas, M. (2022). Applications of bacuchiol in dermatology: Systematic review of the literature. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 21(12), 6636-6643. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.15420
Ratz-Łyko, A., & Arct, J. (2019). Resveratrol as an active ingredient for cosmetic and dermatological applications: A review. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy: Official Publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology, 21(2), 84-90. https://doi.org/10.1080/14764172.2018.1469767
Werschler, W. P., Trookman, N. S., Rizer, R. L., Ho, E. T., & Mehta, R. (2011). Enhanced Efficacy of a Facial Hydrating Serum in Subjects with Normal or Self-Perceived Dry Skin. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 4(2), 51-55.
Wolski, T., & Kędzia, B. (2019). Pharmacotherapy of skin. Part 2. Permeability of substances into the skin. Proceedings of Phytotherapy. https://www.czytelniamedyczna.pl/6738,farmakoterapia-skory-cz-2-przenikanie-substancji-przez-skore.html
.Editorials
Meet the teamSpecialist in aesthetic medicine
Owner of SkinCare by Boska in Warsaw and co-owner of GlowMe in Dubai. She gained her professional experience at, among others, the BELWEDERSKA CLINIC cosmetology and aesthetic medicine clinic. She independently creates and offers effective treatments that her clients love.
Editor
Graduate of Journalism and Artes Liberales at the University of Warsaw. Since 2017, he has been working with the biggest portals in Poland and abroad as an editor. Previously worked for 3 years in one of the leading pharmaceutical companies - he knows the health and beauty industry inside out. In his free time, he most enjoys playing tennis or skiing.
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