Face serums are a very important step in any skincare routine. Whether you have oily, dry, combination, sensitive, acne-prone or “normal” skin, a serum has the power to completely transform your complexion. There are many different options at several different price points, so we’ve broken them down for you!
Here are the best serums for your skin type.
Oily Skin
Neutrogena’s Matte Primer + Serum is a multi-use product that controls shine, reduces oil and leaves a matte finish on the skin. Formulated with rice protein, the serum can be used under makeup or by itself to blur the skin and keep excess oil at bay.
Promising review from Target: Abby says, “I LOVE this. I am always shiny and oily, and it gets worse as the day goes on. This product keeps me looking fresh. I will definitely be buying again.”
The Vitamin C Serum from Mario Badescu is another game-changing product for oily skin. Made to brighten and smooth skin’s texture, the lightweight serum will leave skin looking and feeling its best. Not to mention, it’s paraben, sulfate and gluten-free.
Promising review from Ulta: Kim says, “What I love about this serum is that it doesn’t leave your face greasy at all. Other oils like these leave my face super greasy. I use it at night, and my face feels great the next morning.”
Dry Skin
For those with dry skin, The INKEY List’s Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum is everything. Formulated with 2% hyaluronic acid, it will leave your skin plumper and smoother than ever. Not only does the serum hydrate the skin, but it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well. Plus, it’s cruelty-free!
Promising review from Sephora: Shannon says, “I have EXTREMELY dry skin, so I’ve been in the market for a good hyaluronic serum for years. This one is by far the best. It cured my dry patches. Plus, it’s super affordable.”
Caudalie’s Vinosource SOS Deep Hydration Serum also targets dry skin to reveal a smoother, more moisturized complexion. The oil-free serum has the power to treat and heal excessive dryness and will truly transform your skin.
Promising review from Sephora: Samantha says, “I’ve tried so many hydrating serums to combat my dryness and this is the ONLY one that’s worked this well! I feel like I barely have to wear moisturizer and it’s not greasy at all.”
Sensitive Skin
Great for those with sensitive skin, the Rosaliac Anti-Redness Intense Face Serum from La Roche-Posay is a skin savior. Its light formula and gel texture help to soothe skin while reducing redness. Not to mention, it’s unscented and dermatologist tested.
Promising review from Target: Betty says, “I have mild rosacea that gets worse throughout the day. I have been using this serum for over a year now and absolutely love it. I’m able to go makeup free every day without having to worry about the redness.”
Another serum formulated for sensitive skin is Versed’s Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum. The creamy texture penetrates skin without causing irritation to reform and soften texture. This product is also great for anti-aging, renewing and hydrating skin.
Promising review from Versed: Becca says, “My skin is very sensitive and reacts to a lot of products very drastically. So far, I’ve seen an overall smoother skin texture and even skin tone.”
Acne-Prone Skin
Derma E’s Acne Control Treatment Serum is great for those who struggle with breakouts. Formulated with salicylic acid, tea tree oil and lavender, the serum unclogs pores, clears skin and produces a healthy glow. It also prevents breakouts from forming and keeps them under control. Plus, it’s 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
Promising review from Ulta: Jamie says, “I use this serum to help keep breakouts at bay and notice a huge difference whenever I skip a day. It’s not super tingly, and it sinks into the skin very quickly.”
The Acne Solutions Acne + Line Correcting Serum from Clinique is another product working to keep breakouts and blemishes at bay. Developed to fight adult acne, the serum hydrates the skin, smooths complexions and reduces fine lines all while fighting off breakouts and keeping skin clear.
Promising review from Sephora: Max says, “This serum has been so good to me. Ever since I’ve started using it, I haven’t had any acne. It’s super light and has no burning sensation. It really does work. Highly highly recommend!”
Combination Skin
For those with combination skin, go with the B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum from Drunk Elephant. The hydrating serum revitalizes the skin, improving texture and tone while protecting the barrier and locking in moisture. Not to mention, it’s vegan and cruelty-free.
Promising review from Sephora: Victoria says, “I absolutely LOVE this serum. It’s super hydrating, lightweight, and a little goes a long way. Your skin looks healthy immediately after use. It’s a product I’ll use in my routine forever.”
The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid 10% + HA is the product of our dreams! Formulated to even out skin tone, reduce fine lines and prevent dullness, the serum truly does it all. It even offers mild exfoliation to really smoothen the skin. Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free and made without parabens, sulfates or phthalates.
Promising review from Sephora: Nelly says, “This has become an essential in my skincare routine. I have combination skin and it helps keep my acne away and does not cause me to get awful dry patches. My skin is glowing and looks so much healthier thanks to this.”
Normal Skin
For those with more “normal” skin, the Rose Deep Hydration Oil-Infused Serum from Fresh Beauty is everything. Its hydrating formula plumps, nourishes and softens the skin to reveal a brighter, smoother complexion. Not to mention, it’s grease-free and lightweight.
Promising review from Sephora: Rey says, “I absolutely love this serum! I don’t even need to use a moisturizer over it. It’s not overpowering, and it glides smoothly on my face. Definitely recommend.”
Another product those with normal skin need to get their hands on is the Glow & Hydrate Day Serum from Bliss. Made to improve dullness and diminish pores, the serum is packed with skin loving ingredients like vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. The lightweight formula is cruelty-free and vegan.
Promising review from Ulta: Tiana says, “I love this serum! It makes my skin feel super hydrated without feeling greasy. I swear after one use, my skin looked more luminous and felt softer.”
Reviews have been edited for length and clarity.
Which serums do you swear by? Share with us in the comments!
