17 best face serums of all time, according to editors and derms
The best face serums are what you add when your skin needs a bit more than the basics. Cleanser, moisturiser and SPF will always be essential, but serums are designed to zoom in on specific concerns, whether that’s hyperpigmentation, fine lines, breakouts, congestion, sensitivity, or dryness that makes skin feel tight and uncomfortable by midday.
The only rule is don’t treat them like a free-for-all. The wrong formula for your skin type, or going too hard with actives too soon, can leave you with irritation instead of results. Consultant dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto explains: “Signs of ageing start to develop for most people in their 30s, such as fine lines, wrinkles and uneven tone. Adding a vitamin C serum under sunscreen can help brighten while also delivering antioxidant protection.”
If you’re not sure where to start, follow what your skin is asking for right now. If it’s feeling thirsty, hyaluronic acid is the easiest win for hydration. If you want more glow and a brighter look overall, reach for a vitamin C serum. If redness and post-breakout marks are your main issue, azelaic acid is a derm favourite for a reason. And for smoothing texture and softening fine lines, retinol is still the gold standard.
And you don’t have to commit to one serum forever. You can alternate or rotate formulas depending on your skin, the season, and what else you’re using. Ahead, I’ve rounded up the best face serums for every skin type and concern, from brighteners and dark spot corrector to hydration heroes and calming all-rounders
How I tested the best face serums
To help you find the best face serum, the Glamour team has done all the hard work for you. I've worked with my fellow editors to review and test face serum formulations over the past decade. By now, we've trialled over a hundred formulations collectively.
Our beauty editors have scored all the best facial serums based on their efficacy (how well they hydrated/soothed/brightened our complexions), value for money and long-term benefits. Find out more about how we test here. I've also enlisted the help of Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist at Skin 55, to help answer all of your burning FAQs.
Firework content
Why you can trust me:
I've been reviewing beauty and wellness products for the past five years – for the past year at the Glamour Shopping Team and, prior to that, for various other publications. During that time, I've witnessed countless skincare trends come and go – from the rise of retinol serums to the recent buzz around Korean serums like PDRN serums and bakuchiol serums. When each trend picks up, I test products, attend press days, interview derms and doctors, and attend events for new launches. As such, I know more about skincare (and which face serums are worth your money) than your average beauty fan.
Enter: the best face serums for every skin concern in 2026.
- Best for: Visible skin brightening.
- Skin type: All skin types.
- Tested by: Fiona Embleton, Glamour's Associate Beauty Director.
Why we love it: “As a beauty editor, I've probably road-tested upwards of 200 different vit-C serums in my career. They all beat a familiar drum – ‘great for skin-brightening!’, ‘the ultimate protection against environmental damage!’– but only a handful have turned into repeat purchases,” Fiona Embleton, Glamour's Associate Beauty Director, said. "Within seconds of applying the C-Tetra Advanced's milky-thin, gel-serum formula – a rarity among vitamin C serums – a switch was thrown. Now here was a product I could get behind…
It follows in the footsteps of C-Tetra (the OG) and C-Tetra Luxe (the brand's second vitamin C release) – but has a creamy texture instead of an oily one, and contains a next-generation combination of 20% vitamin C and cutting-edge phyto exosomes to brighten and protect the skin against external aggressors.
You can read our full Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced review here, but here's the TLDR. 20% stabilised vitamin C is included for brightening, hyaluronic acid has been added for hydration – and then two superstar ingredients make an experience. Plant exosomes from green tea which encapsulate the vitamin C, carrying it deeper into the skin, while also having a soothing effect and protecting the skin barrier – and acetyl zingerone, which boosts the power of vitamin C. If you've got the money to spend, you need to try this serum."
Pros & ConsPros- Not oily
- Absorbs quickly
- Non-sticky
Cons- Expensive
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Vitamin C Serum
- Best for: Hydration and brightening.
- Suitable for: Sensitive, dry and mature skin types.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor.
Why we love it: There aren't many face serums out there that are endorsed by dermatologists just as much as the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. Formulated to help brighten and hydrate the skin, this unique formula features a 15% concentration of L-ascorbic acid combined with synergistic antioxidants.
“I've been using this formula for just about six months and I can confidently say that this serum proved most effective. It's helped me brighten up my complexion and reduce inflammation unlike any vitamin C formula I've tried before,” says Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor. Read our full SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic review here.
Make sure to bookmark these LookFantastic discount codes to save.
Pros & ConsPros- Formulated to help brighten and hydrate the skin
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Cons- Expensive
Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
- Best for: Brightening.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: Use it on its own or blend it with your go-to moisturiser or a face serum, this niacinamide booster from Paula's Choice works wonders for minimising the look of blemishes and smoothing skin texture. This potent formulation boasts a blend of vitamin B3 as well as panthenol (vitamin B5), and feels incredibly hydrating yet lightweight on the skin. The result? More even skin texture, fewer visible pores and a brighter complexion.
Pros & ConsPros- Contains vitamin B3 and B5
- Oil-controlling
- Ideal for keeping breakouts and blackheads at bay
Cons- Expensive
Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum
- Best for: Dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor.
Why we love it: If your main skin concern has anything to do with hyperpigmentation or dark spots, look no further than this formula from Caudalie. Infused with the brand's patented ingredient Viniferine, this clever face serum does a superb job at brightening and has a milky consistency that feels super hydrating on the skin. “Not only does the Caudalie Vinoperfect make my skin more radiant and healthy-looking, but it's also helped me brighten up my dark spots within a matter of weeks, revealing an even complexion and smoother texture,” says Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor.
Make sure to bookmark these Sephora discount codes to save.
Pros & ConsPros- Doubles as a primer
- Boosts radiance
- Lightweight
Cons- Milky texture may not be for everyone
- Could cause breakouts for acne-prone skin
- Best for: Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and smoothing down your skin's texture.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: A next-gen vitamin A serum that uses retinaldehyde, a stronger, faster-working version of retinol, to visibly smooth skin, boost radiance and improve texture. It’s legit one of the best alternatives to Botox for anyone in their late 20s or 30s looking to stall their trip to the clinic.
“Initially, I made the rookie error of going straight in with Strength 10 (mistake – my skin did not thank me). It stung, flaked, and felt a little bit fiery. After a bit of research, I switched to the beginner Strength 3, which was far more forgiving and helped me build tolerance without compromising on results. Texture-wise, it’s thick with a slight white cast, but it sinks in fast and layers perfectly under moisturiser or makeup. After consistent use, my frown and forehead lines are noticeably softer. If you're thinking of getting Botox, I'd definitely give this a go first as it's the perfect preventative method (and much cheaper too).” - Shani Cohen, Glamour's beauty commerce writer.
Pros & ConsPros- Different strengths - great for retinol newbies
- Boosts radiance and improves texture
Cons- Could irritate if you use the wrong strength
- Best for: Brightening and hydrating.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
- Tested by: Shaunelle Harrydass-Clark, Glamour's Former Beauty Intern.
Why we love it: This versatile product is an absolute dream when it comes to simplifying your skincare routine. It features five hero ingredients – niacinamide, vitamin C, collagen peptides, vitamin E and AHAs – that combine to hydrate and brighten your complexion while evening out your skin tone and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Really, there's not much it can't do.
Make sure to bookmark these Superdrug discount codes to save.
Pros & ConsPros- Hydrating & smoothing
- Combines key ingredients (Vit C, Niacinamide, Peptides, AHA)
Cons- May be too dewy for oily skin types
- Fragranced - could irritate sensitive skin
- Best for: Uneven skin texture.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
- Tested by: Sophie Cockett, Glamour's Senior European Commerce Editor.
Why we love it: Retinol newbies, this one’s got your name all over it. Powered by pure retinol and a slow-release version (so it’s kind to your skin), this serum works hard to smooth fine lines, fade dark spots and bring dull-looking skin back to life. Add in niacinamide (vitamin B3) to calm and brighten, plus hydrating heroes like glycerin – and you’ve got a glow-getter that delivers results without the irritation. Gentle, glowy, and backed by derms? We’re obsessed.
Pros & ConsPros- Contains two forms of vitamin A
- Treats ageing, uneven skin tone, and acne
- Features niacinamide which helps to prevent irritation
Cons- Fragranced - may irritate very sensitive skin types
Anua Niacinamide 10% and TXA 4% Serum
- Best for: To even out the skin tone.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor.
Why we love it: Niacinamide is one of the most popular ingredients in Korean skincare, and with good reason. Not only does this clever serum help even out the skin tone and brighten stubborn dark spots, but it also helps minimise the appearance of pores and improve the look of dull skin over long-term use, all thanks to the included 10% Niacinamide, 4% Tranexamic Acid and 2% Arbutin. “I was initially sceptical about trying out this viral K-beauty serum; however, it actually ended up surprising me in the best way possible and became my favourite niacinamide formula to date. It's helped fade away my acne-related dark spots with ease, delivering a more even-looking complexion,” says Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor.
Make sure to bookmark these SpaceNK discount codes to save.
Pros & ConsPros- Lightweight and fast absorbing
- Brightens dark spots and deeply hydrates
- Gentle ingredients - great for sensitive skin types
Cons- Can feel tacky if too much is applied
Kate Somerville Mega-A Skin Transforming Serum
- Best for: Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor.
Why we love it: Infused with clinical-grade retinal and a number of hydrating skin-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and squalane, the Kate Somerville Mega-A Skin Transforming Serum truly shines when it comes to minimising the look of fine lines without causing any irritation or excessive dryness, making it perfectly suitable for sensitive skin. “As someone who's way too familiar with flare-ups as a result of a potent retinoid formula, I was glad to discover that the Kate Somerville Mega-A Skin Transforming Serum delivered visible results without purging my skin, helping me reduce the appearance of my under-eye fine lines in as little as four weeks," says Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor.
Pros & ConsPros- Fragrance-free
- Hydrating
Cons- Expensive
Kate Somerville HydraKate Power Plumping Primer
- Best for: Prepping the skin before makeup.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: A hydrating serum, light moisturiser, and makeup primer all-in-one bold blue bottle - yes please. TBH, anything that’s going to save me time in the morning gets an instant seal of approval for me - and this 3-in-1 serum does exactly that, and more.
Infused with multi-molecular hyaluronic acid, it instantly hydrates, plumps and firms the skin while centella asiatica soothes and protects the skin barrier. To take things a step further, glycerin’s involved to attract and retain that moisture to the outer layer of the skin – meaning it’s the perfect way to prep your face before makeup. “I love that the lightweight, milky texture melts into my skin super easily, leaving zero stickiness behind. Since introducing this multitasker into my routine each morning, I’ve noticed my makeup glides on and my annoying, clingy dry spots that usually cause patchiness have disappeared.” - Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Pros & ConsPros- 3-in-1 - hydrates, preps and moisturises the skin
- Blends super easily and keeps makeup in place
- Lightweight texture - no stickiness
Cons- Expensive
- Best for: Hydrating dry skin and giving a glassy finish.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
- Tested by: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: “I used three pumps of the Peptide Glazing Fluid and totally get why people call it the secret to that ‘glazed donut’ glow. The serum-gel texture feels cool and light, sinking straight in and leaving my skin looking fresh and dewy without feeling sticky. It really helps smooth out any dryness and gives that healthy, glassy glow that makes your skin look alive. I even tried a bit over my makeup as a highlighter, and it gave me the ultimate Hailey Bieber shine – such a great multitasker.”
Make sure to bookmark these Cult Beauty to save.
Pros & ConsPros- Deeply hydrates and soothes the skin barrier
- Delivers a healthy, radiant, "glazed donut" dewy finish
Cons- Small bottle may not last long
- Some may find texture sticky
- Best for: Firmness and early signs of ageing.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
Why we love it: This is one of Tatcha’s newer launches, and if you’re a J-beauty fan, it’s definitely one to try. It’s an all-in-one serum designed to support skin strength and resilience, while helping to visibly firm and soften the look of wrinkles (with a focus on signs linked to “inflammaging”).
The Okinawa Cellescence Complex - featuring Cladosiphon seaweed, guava leaf and alpinia - helps support bounce, while rice ferment filtrate boosts hydration and green tea extract adds antioxidant protection. It’s silky, fast-absorbing and layers well under moisturiser and SPF, with squalane plus camellia seed and rice bran oils to keep the barrier feeling comfortable.
Pros & ConsPros- Delivers lasting hydration and strengthens the skin's barrier
- Silky, lightweight, and fast-absorbing
Cons- Fragranced
- Expensive
- Best for: Glow, visible pores and blemish-prone skin.
- Suitable for: Most skin types, especially combination and oily (also a good option if your skin leans sensitive).
Why we love it: If you want glowy skin without the breakouts, I’d put this Korean skincare hero straight in your basket. It’s powered by 60% propolis to soothe and take the edge off redness, plus niacinamide to help blur the look of pores and keep blemishes at bay.
You’ve also got hanbang-inspired ingredients in the mix to support uneven tone and those lingering post-spot marks, with turmeric for a bit of antioxidant back-up (handy if your skin throws a strop when it’s cold, windy, polluted… you know the drill). The finish is fresh and dewy rather than shiny, and it layers easily under SPF and makeup.
Pros & ConsPros- Deeply moisturises without being heavy
- Absorbs quickly, leaves a non-sticky, smooth finish, and layers well under makeup
Cons- None to note
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
- Best for: A dewy base.
- Suitable for: Combination skin.
- Tested by: Lian Brooks, Glamour's Senior Audience Development Manager.
Why we love it: It's probably safe to assume that just about every skincare obsessive has come across this viral niacinamide serum at least once on their FYP. No surprises there: this dew-boosting formula is infused with a hydrating blend and is bound to give your skin that coveted glowy finish. In fact, many beauty lovers have applauded this serum's ability to add healthy shine that will even peak through a full face of makeup.
Make sure to bookmark these Sephora discount codes to save.
Pros & ConsPros- Versatile formula
- Hydrating
- Glow-boosting
Cons- Not as effective for reducing inflammation or smoothing skin texture
- May be too glowy for oily skin types
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex 50ml
- Best for: Overnight TLC.
- Suitable for: Dry skin.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor.
Why we love it: A beauty industry mainstay. This night serum from Estee Lauder is a skincare cult classic for a reason. Offering 72 hours worth of hydration with every use, it's formulated with a healthy splash of hyaluronic acid, which is perfect for giving your skin the pick-me-up it deserves while you sleep. “The Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair is easily one of the best serums in my skincare arsenal and is my go-to for whenever I'm after a nourishing boost while I'm sound asleep,” says Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor.
Make sure to bookmark these LookFantastic discount codes to save.
Pros & ConsPros- Provides deep, long-lasting hydration
- Helps skin look brighter and bouncier over time
Cons- Expensive
- Not cruelty-free
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Best for: Smooth skin and even skin tone.
- Suitable for: Oily skin.
Why we love it: Now, if you're someone who experiences regular breakouts and an increased production of sebum, hear us out: your skin needs to meet The Ordinary Niacinamide & Zinc serum. It helps keep blemishes at bay by minimising pores and gently decongesting your skin through regulating sebum production. Just make sure to keep in mind that this formula features a high concentration of niacinamide, so make sure to use it with caution and don't over-apply.
Make sure to bookmark these The Ordinary discount codes to save.
Pros & ConsPros- Can work wonders for uneven skin textures.
- Affordable.
- Feels weightless on the skin.
Cons- May cause redness or irritation, making it less suitable for sensitive skin types.
.png)
The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best for: Hydrating.
- Suitable for: All skin types.
Why we love it: This powerful topical hydrating serum from The INKEY List is an absolute must-have all year round. It helps your skin look smooth and plumped, which helps keep fine lines and wrinkles at bay. The best part? The best hyaluronic acid serums are one of the most universal skincare aids that are perfectly suitable for all skin types, even those of us with sensitive and acne-prone complexions. Apply it straight after your favourite cleanser and before your other go-to toners and serums.
Pros & ConsPros- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Cooling on the skin
Cons- Some prefer a dropper applicator
What is a face serum and why do I need it?
Think about face serums as products that will supercharge your skincare routine and customise it to your exact skin type and skin concerns. Unlike your typical moisturiser, a face serum is lighter in consistency and comes in a higher concentration of active ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin.
Whether you're after a boost of hydration, minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing out skin texture or brightening up your complexion – each formula is infused with a number of powerhouse components such as hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C, and niacinamide.
In which order should I apply a face serum?
You should apply your face serum after cleansing, exfoliating and the best toners and before your moisturiser or facial oil, eye cream and SPF. A facial serum can be used alone, but since they tend to be so lightweight, they're easy to layer. Pro tip: invest in one of the best silk pillowcases to ensure everything soaks into your skin properly.
Can I use face serum daily?
Absolutely. It's recommended that you use your facial serum twice daily, depending on the ingredients. Some serums contain key ingredients like retinol or acids such as lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid (also known as AHAs and BHAs) and ferulic acid. Some have been especially formulated for resurfacing so as to remove dead skin cells, while other formulas also shield from external aggressors such as pollution and further UV damage.
How to choose the best face serum according to your skin type
It's important to keep in mind that everyone's skin is different – if you suffer from dehydrated skin and you’re hoping to get a boost of hydration, look for a serum containing humectants such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera extract or vitamin E. If it’s a youth-boosting serum you’re after, retinol is the gold standard, and to brighten your complexion, anything with vitamin C that can help boost collagen production and help maintain your skin's elasticity is bound to be a sure-fire hit. And if you want to treat sun damage or have more sensitive, acne-prone skin, you might want to go for a gentler fragrance-free option.
Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist at Skin 55, discussed when it's best to introduce or amp up active ingredients such as peptides in our routines: "In your 20s, your skin is still youthful, but after mid-20s collagen levels start to fall so incorporating vitamin A [or retinoid/retinol] serums at night to help with cell turnover can be beneficial in reducing early development of fine lines especially in fair skin."
“Signs of ageing of the skin start to develop for most people in their 30s, such as fine and deeper lines and wrinkles as well as uneven skin tone or pigmentation. Adding in a vitamin C serum under sunscreen can help with skin brightening as well as additional benefits of acting as an antioxidant.”
“As we proceed through our 40s, oestrogen levels start to decline which can result in dryness. Incorporating a hyaluronic acid serum under a moisturiser and layering the products can help prevent dryness and create the appearance of more supple looming skin.”
Feeling inspired to upgrade your skincare routine? Check out our guides for the best moisturisers, night creams, retinol serums and eye serums.
.jpg)
