In the ever-evolving beauty industry, it can feel like a new facial serum launches every week. The options are endless, and there’s something for every skin concern - whether you’re looking for an ultra-hydrating formula, a targeted treatment for fine lines and wrinkles, or a brightening elixir to fade hyperpigmentation. When every bottle looks like it belongs on your skincare shelf and every ingredient sounds like you need it on your skin right now, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Keep reading to discover more about facial serums and the ones that are actually worth your time and money.
What is a facial serum?
A facial serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing skincare product designed to deliver a high concentration of active ingredients directly into the skin. Because serums have smaller molecular structures than creams or lotions, they penetrate more deeply, making them especially effective for targeting specific concerns like dehydration, dullness, dark spots, or fine lines and wrinkles. Serums are typically applied after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer, acting as a treatment step in your routine.
What are the different kinds and what are their purposes?
There are several types of facial serums, each targeting specific skin concerns.
- Hydrating serums, often containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin, focus on boosting moisture and plumping the skin, making them ideal for dry or dehydrated skin.
- Brightening serums, typically with vitamin C or niacinamide, help reduce dark spots, even out skin tone, and add radiance.
- Anti-aging serums usually feature retinol, peptides, or growth factors to minimize fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging by stimulating collagen production.
- Exfoliating serums usually contain AHAs (like glycolic acid) or BHAs (like salicylic acid), to remove dead skin cells, smooth texture, and reduce blemishes or congestion.
By selecting the right serum for your specific skin concerns, you can then layer it with sunscreen in the daytime, or a moisturizer and retinol in the evening for an effective skincare routine.
A guide to our facial serums
This high-performance serum is made with a powerful blend of vegan rose PDRN, a 5-peptide complex, 0.1% retinal and adenosine to improve skin elasticity and soften the look of wrinkles.
The vegan PDRN helps support skin regeneration, restoring firmness and boosting radiance, while 0.1% retinal smooths and evens skin tone. Combined with a multi-action 5-peptide complex to repair and reinforce skin cells, and adenosine to target fine lines and wrinkles, this serum is your golden ticket to plumper, brighter and more luminous skin.
Formulated with the patented Phyto-Velvet Network to deliver a velvety finish that feels weightless (and never sticky), simply apply this skin brightening serum after toner, gently massaging from the center of the face outward and tapping to absorb. Always follow with sunscreen the next morning to protect and maintain your results.
Clinically proven results
We tested for skin primary irritation, and found the average skin reaction was 0.00.
We also discovered that:
- After 4 weeks of use, there was a 20.372% improvement in the wrinkles around the eye area
- After 2 weeks of use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore area by 33.768%
- After 2 weeks of use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore volume by 35.970%
- After 2 weeks of use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore count by 20.413%
- After 2 weeks of use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore depth by 13.152%
- After 4 weeks of use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore area by 54.855%
- After 4 weeks of use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore volume by 57.766%
- After 4 weeks of use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore count by 35.634%
- After 4 weeks of use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore depth by 22.679%
- After 4 weeks of use, there was a 23.151% improvement in skin elasticity
This clinically-tested serum is a gentle formula that boosts skin renewal while calming sensitivity and refining texture. Its star ingredient is vegan PDRN, derived from the stem cells of the Damascus rose, which helps encourage skin regeneration while supporting collagen production.
To enhance its renewing and soothing benefits, this face serum for dry skin is paired with azelaic acid, a much loved ingredient that’s known for calming redness, improving uneven tone and smoothing rough texture. There’s also a deeply nourishing hydration trio of sodium PCA, panthenol and squalene, which works to replenish moisture.
The lightweight lotion texture glides effortlessly over the skin, absorbing quickly with zero stickiness or greasiness, making it perfect for both morning and evening routines. After cleansing and toning, apply an even layer to dry skin and gently massage, avoiding the eye and mouth areas, then pat to absorb.
For optimal results, follow with the Black Rice 5 Ceramide Barrier Moisturizing Cream for soothing barrier care, the Centella Phyto & 5Peptide Concentrate Cream for skin rejuvenation and slow-aging, or the Centella 5% Niacinamide Radiance Gel Cream for even skin tone and texture.
Clinically proven results
We tested for skin primary irritation, and found the average skin reaction was 0.00.
We also discovered that:
- After one use, moisture level improved by 88.93%
- After one use, skin texture improved by 11.02%
- After one use, skin redness reduced by 21.84%
Powered by 4% tranexamic acid, this triple-action formula helps address discoloration at the root cause, while 4% niacinamide refines skin tone and improve texture. Vitamin C adds an antioxidant boost to brighten dull skin, while the upcycled, patented n.Pearin 100 (made from baby pears that would go to waste due to not being sweet enough) help to lessen the look of dark spots. A soothing centella complex is also included to reduce irritation and balance the skin barrier.
The highly concentrated, bouncy gel texture absorbs smoothly, delivering a hydrated, non-sticky finish. Packaged in a hygienic airless pump to protect the formula from degradation, it can be applied in a thin layer after toner, used across the entire face to prevent and correct uneven tone, or applied directly onto existing dark spots and areas of hyperpigmentation.
Clinically proven results
We tested for skin primary irritation, and found the average skin reaction was 0.00.
We also discovered that:
- After 2 weeks of use there was a 2.146% improvement in skin tone and brightness, and a 4.295% improvement after 4 weeks of use
- After 2 weeks of use there was a 0.989% improvement in skin outer pigmentation, and a 2.565% improvement after 4 weeks of use
- After 2 weeks of use there was a 13.342% improvement in skin inner pigmentation, and a 29.598% improvement after 4 weeks of use
This best retinol serum combines clinically proven retinol with patented bakuchiol to boost cell turnover, stimulate collagen production and improve skin firmness and elasticity, all without irritation. Powered by fermented Korean black rice that’s rich in antioxidant vitamin E, this retinol serum for the face helps protect against free radical damage while delivering long-lasting moisture.
For best results, apply a pea-sized amount in the evening to cleansed and toned skin, avoiding the eye and mouth area. Begin use once or twice a week and gradually increase frequency as tolerated. Please note that this product is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and SPF should always be worn during daytime use.
Clinically proven results
We tested for skin primary irritation, and found the average skin reaction was 0.00.
We also discovered that:
- After 2 weeks of use there was a 12.109% improvement in wrinkles
- After 2 weeks of use there was a 8.955% improvement in skin elasticity
- After one use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore area by 39.679%
- After one use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore volume by 40.032%
- After one use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore count by 24.001%
- After one use, there was a temporary improvement in the pore depth by 19.094%
Final thoughts
The best facial serums are those that align with your skin’s specific needs rather than following trends or hype. Whether the goal is hydration, brightening, soothing sensitivity or slowing visible signs of aging, an effective serum supports your skin long-term, addresses your concerns and fits seamlessly into your routine.
Breaking Down Facial Serums
In the ever-evolving beauty industry, it can feel like a new facial serum launches every week. The options are endless, and there’s something for every skin concern - whether you’re looking for an ultra-hydrating formula, a targeted treatment for fine lines and wrinkles, or a brightening elixir to fade hyperpigmentation. When every bottle looks like it belongs on your skincare shelf and every ingredient sounds like you need it on your skin right now, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Keep reading to discover more about facial serums and the ones that are actually worth your time and money.
What is a facial serum?
A facial serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing skincare product designed to deliver a high concentration of active ingredients directly into the skin. Because serums have smaller molecular structures than creams or lotions, they penetrate more deeply, making them especially effective for targeting specific concerns like dehydration, dullness, dark spots, or fine lines and wrinkles. Serums are typically applied after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer, acting as a treatment step in your routine.
What are the different kinds and what are their purposes?
There are several types of facial serums, each targeting specific skin concerns.
By selecting the right serum for your specific skin concerns, you can then layer it with sunscreen in the daytime, or a moisturizer and retinol in the evening for an effective skincare routine.
A guide to our facial serums
Rose PDRN Firming Serum (with 0.1% Retinal)
This high-performance serum is made with a powerful blend of vegan rose PDRN, a 5-peptide complex, 0.1% retinal and adenosine to improve skin elasticity and soften the look of wrinkles.
The vegan PDRN helps support skin regeneration, restoring firmness and boosting radiance, while 0.1% retinal smooths and evens skin tone. Combined with a multi-action 5-peptide complex to repair and reinforce skin cells, and adenosine to target fine lines and wrinkles, this serum is your golden ticket to plumper, brighter and more luminous skin.
Formulated with the patented Phyto-Velvet Network to deliver a velvety finish that feels weightless (and never sticky), simply apply this skin brightening serum after toner, gently massaging from the center of the face outward and tapping to absorb. Always follow with sunscreen the next morning to protect and maintain your results.
Clinically proven results
We tested for skin primary irritation, and found the average skin reaction was 0.00.
We also discovered that:
Rose PDRN Soothing Serum (with Azelaic Acid)
This clinically-tested serum is a gentle formula that boosts skin renewal while calming sensitivity and refining texture. Its star ingredient is vegan PDRN, derived from the stem cells of the Damascus rose, which helps encourage skin regeneration while supporting collagen production.
To enhance its renewing and soothing benefits, this face serum for dry skin is paired with azelaic acid, a much loved ingredient that’s known for calming redness, improving uneven tone and smoothing rough texture. There’s also a deeply nourishing hydration trio of sodium PCA, panthenol and squalene, which works to replenish moisture.
The lightweight lotion texture glides effortlessly over the skin, absorbing quickly with zero stickiness or greasiness, making it perfect for both morning and evening routines. After cleansing and toning, apply an even layer to dry skin and gently massage, avoiding the eye and mouth areas, then pat to absorb.
For optimal results, follow with the Black Rice 5 Ceramide Barrier Moisturizing Cream for soothing barrier care, the Centella Phyto & 5Peptide Concentrate Cream for skin rejuvenation and slow-aging, or the Centella 5% Niacinamide Radiance Gel Cream for even skin tone and texture.
Clinically proven results
We tested for skin primary irritation, and found the average skin reaction was 0.00.
We also discovered that:
Centella 4% TXA Gel Serum
Powered by 4% tranexamic acid, this triple-action formula helps address discoloration at the root cause, while 4% niacinamide refines skin tone and improve texture. Vitamin C adds an antioxidant boost to brighten dull skin, while the upcycled, patented n.Pearin 100 (made from baby pears that would go to waste due to not being sweet enough) help to lessen the look of dark spots. A soothing centella complex is also included to reduce irritation and balance the skin barrier.
The highly concentrated, bouncy gel texture absorbs smoothly, delivering a hydrated, non-sticky finish. Packaged in a hygienic airless pump to protect the formula from degradation, it can be applied in a thin layer after toner, used across the entire face to prevent and correct uneven tone, or applied directly onto existing dark spots and areas of hyperpigmentation.
Clinically proven results
We tested for skin primary irritation, and found the average skin reaction was 0.00.
We also discovered that:
Black Rice Night Knight Retinol Serum
This best retinol serum combines clinically proven retinol with patented bakuchiol to boost cell turnover, stimulate collagen production and improve skin firmness and elasticity, all without irritation. Powered by fermented Korean black rice that’s rich in antioxidant vitamin E, this retinol serum for the face helps protect against free radical damage while delivering long-lasting moisture.
For best results, apply a pea-sized amount in the evening to cleansed and toned skin, avoiding the eye and mouth area. Begin use once or twice a week and gradually increase frequency as tolerated. Please note that this product is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and SPF should always be worn during daytime use.
Clinically proven results
We tested for skin primary irritation, and found the average skin reaction was 0.00.
We also discovered that:
Final thoughts
The best facial serums are those that align with your skin’s specific needs rather than following trends or hype. Whether the goal is hydration, brightening, soothing sensitivity or slowing visible signs of aging, an effective serum supports your skin long-term, addresses your concerns and fits seamlessly into your routine.