The 22 Best Face Serums for All Skin Types in 2024, According to a Dermatologist

• Key ingredients: Aqua, propanediol, butylene glycol, silica, polysorbate 20, hyaluronic acid
• What dermatologists like: Hydrates your skin, balances your complexion, helps with issues such as uneven pores and blemishes
• Cons: Could take a while before you start seeing results
• A promising review: "I have been using this serum for 2 months now. I had originally bought it because I was recommended to it for my unusual acne breakout. I’ve never used a product that has worked so quickly and effectively. I have sensitive skin and it is very compatible with it. I highly recommend this product to anyone looking to rid of blemish, acne etc. There is a face wash that goes with it as well that I have been using a sample of. I recommend using it as well because together they are a miracle." - Elemis Reviewer

Dermatologists and readers agree that ELEMIS is an excellent product to consider using on your skin. Formulated with concentrated ingredients such as water, propanediol, butylene glycol, silica, polysorbate 20, and hyaluronic acid amongst others, the Clarifying Serums works towards creating a balance in your skin tone by evening your pores and correcting issues such as blemishes and blackheads. A lightweight creamy serum, all you need to do is take a pea-sized amount into your hands, and apply all over your face in the morning and the evening. Overtime you will see an improvement in the overall hydration and appearance of your skin, making it a great under $100 investment.

• Key ingredients: Hydrogenated polydecene, squalane, PEG-8 Beeswax, jojoba ester, phytosterols complex, Vitamin C, saccharide isomerate extract, glycolic acid
• What dermatologists like: Eliminates dark spots, reverse aging on the skin, firms and plumps skin
• Cons: May not work for your specific skin type
• A promising review: "I purchased this after a friend raved about it and I'd have to agree on the positive reviews. The consistency is of a thin moisturizer so it won't feel heavy under makeup. This gave no adverse reaction nor did it peel. It has a creamsicle scent similar to Kate Sommerville's +Retinol Vita C Power Serum. There are probably other products that are cheaper than this, but if you want to treat yourself, I'd recommend this!," - Lyn Dermstore Reviewer

Sunday Riley's C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum is very much a product that's worth every penny of its asking price according to derms and reviewers. It's mixture of ingredients help with treating a range of skin concerns including dark spots and visible signs of aging on the skin. A light texturized cream that holds up even on the hottest of days, some of the key ingredients in this serum include Vitamin C, saccharide isomerate extract, and glycolic acid which work together to help with reducing the dark spots from conditions like acne, while also hydrating, soothing, and smoothing the skin. While the Brightening Serum can specifically help with conditions such as acne, all skin types could potentially. benefit from using.

• Key ingredients: Niacinamide, acetyl glucosamine, Vitamin C, green tea
• What dermatologists like: Minimizes pores, reduces bumps, eliminates discoloration, protects skin from stretching, reduces UV damage
• Cons: Bottle is on the smaller side
• A promising review: "I recently added niacinamide to my skincare routine after doing a lot of research on how it pairs with retinol. I wasn't expecting much, but I am genuinely shocked by the improvements I have noticed. I deal with occasional acne flare ups around my jawline and it's left several dark spots. After only a couple of weeks of using this niacinamide in the morning and retinol at night I've noticed my dark spots have drastically reduced and have begun fading. My skin has felt so soft lately and I've just really loved the results I've seen so far. 100% worth giving it a try." - Amanda, Dermstore Reviewer

Paula's Choice CLINICAL Niacinamide 20% Treatment takes a helpful approach by pairing together niacinamide, acetyl glucosamine, Vitamin C, green tea to eliminate enlarged pores, uneven skin tones, and skin damaged by UV light and other environmental triggers. The four ingredients come together for a knockout combination that will instantly help with hydrating and balancing your skin tone. A little goes a long way in the CLINICAL Treatment as you don't need a lot to get the job done. Priced at $52, this a great under $60 option you can try out.

• Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, lactic acid
• What dermatologists like: Silicone-free, improves wrinkles and fine lines, helps with skin firming
• Cons: Product can be sticky according to some
• A promising review: "I am cautious to add new moisturizers and question how different really is this moisturizer, but this hydration serum is wonderful. It's so moisturizing and plumping. It's a game changer for sure. Definitely worth trying." - Tori Dermstore Reviewer

Dermalogica's Circular Hydration Serum is a product that really elevates your skincare to the next level as it combines hyaluronic acid and lactic acid to improve wrinkles, smooth fine lines, and help with skin firming amongst other nagging skin conditions. The formula works by integrating itself deep into your pores and skin cells to hydrate and restore moisture at the highest level. If you want a serum that's really going to do the work in making sure your skin is evenly balanced, healthy, and shiny (in a good way of course), the investment in the Circular Hydration Serum is more than worth it.

• Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin B5
• What dermatologists like: Gives skin a rich texture, makes the skin hydrated, plumps and firms skin
• Cons: Has a strong scent according to some buyers
• A promising review: "I was skeptical at first about using a serum, but it leaves my skin feeling so wonderful. I put it on my hands too. Then add the moisturizer over the serum. They work together. I love the effects of smoother skin. It does something magical to my wrinkly hands. Softer, smoother, younger looking." - Amazon Reviewer

If you are unsure where you should start when it comes to serums, consider giving La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 a shot as it isn't too heavy on the skin and easy to apply. Boosting main ingredients of hyaluronic acid and Vitamin B5 (both of which target replenishing moisture within the skin), this formula is one that gets straight to work as you'll begin seeing subtle differences in as little as four hours. The only major criticism of the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 is the scent of the product—some don't mind the smell while others can't stand it. Otherwise, the price point is decent and the results have been proven with it a lot of its buyers. We'd say it's definitely. worth a shot.

• Key ingredients: Concentrated miracle broth, lime tea concentrate, the stabilizing ferment
• What dermatologists like: Reduces skin irritation, helps with skin appearing stronger, soothes skin
• Cons: Could be too strong for sensitive skin types
• A promising review: "This is a best serums ever I have. My acne has been gone after 2 months used. Thanks the concentrate serums change my life." - La Mer Reviewer

If you struggle with acne or are specifically in need of your skin needing a more energized appearance, The Concentrate from La Mer might end up being your best friend. While it requires a $220+ investment, it's one of the best face serums on the market as it helps with reviving the skin from a state of stress along with assisting the natural renewal process. The Concentrate also reduces the effect of anything that might irritate the skin (pollens for example), and has a simple application process. You'll begin seeing major results in about three weeks, making this a product that works quick and fast.

• Key ingredients: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid
• What dermatologists like: Helps with repairing damage from UV rays, improves fine lines and wrinkles, evens skin tone
• Cons: May not work for all skin types
• A promising review: "I've tried several vitamin C serums in my life, I always come back to this one and haven't left in awhile. There is a reason it's the gold standard for Vitamin C. It's worth every dollar." - Amie, Dermstore Reviewer

We're not kidding when we say SkinCeuticals' C E Ferulic is one of the best serums that you can purchase. Seriously. Renowned for its calming properties and ability to restore the skin back to a hydrated and balanced state, this formula from SkinCeuticals is worth every single penny of its $182 price tag. Over time you'll see an improvement in issues like skin dryness, fine lines, damage from UV rays, with your skin boosting a glowing healthy look. Free of parabens, the ingredients in the serum aren't too harsh, meaning that it can work for sensitive skin types. Just apply a couple of drops onto your fingertips, massage the serum into your skin, and you're all set!

• Key ingredients: Vitamin B5, ceramides
• What dermatologists like: Affordable, hydrates the skin, easy application process
• Cons: May not work for all skin types
• A promising review: "I love this hydrating serum! It leaves my skin feeling instantly rejuvenated, soft, and smooth with a natural non-greasy feel. This is an excellent value and works much better than other more expensive products. I highly recommend this to anyone that takes skin care seriously. - Eddie, Amazon Reviewer

Sometimes it isn't always in the budget to purchase and keep up with a serum that's hundreds of dollars, if you want to keep the spending to a minimum but still want a product that's highly effective, we recommend the Cerave Hyaluronic Acid Serum. It addresses all the problems that other serums do (dryness, fine lines, damage from UV rays etc.), but for a much cheaper price range ($15 - $25). It's not guarantee that it will automatically be a match for your skin type, but should it not work you're only about $15. The Cerave Hyaluronic Acid Serum is another good place to start if you're just beginning your serum testing process.

• Key ingredients: Vitamin C, retinol
• What dermatologists like: Helps with fine lines, improves dark circles, helps with crows feet, improves wrinkles
• Cons: Has a longer absorption time according to some customers
• A promising review: "I have tried a few other forms of retinol and they all irritated my skin. I thought I may be too sensitive for retinol products. I decided to try this one and it is awesome. I use the sandwich method of putting a very thin layer of a light moisturizer first, then a capsule of this, and then a thick layer of my winter night moisturizer. My skin is already smoother and looks brighter and more plump. Highly recommend for my fellow dry sensitive skin folks." - Amazon Reviewer

The RoC Retinol Correxion Anti-Aging Wrinkle Night Serum is another ideal serum for those that deal with sensitive skin, or have previously had bad experiences with retinol products. While the Wrinkle Night Serum does contain retinol, it's not as potent as what can be found in other products, which has led to more success from those that have previously been unable to deal with anything retinol. Aside from that, the serum contains a bio-derived antioxidant with 2X the effectiveness of Vitamin E, which helps lead to an overall silkier smoother appearance. Other issues like dullness, dryness, and discoloration are also targeted, making this a great affordable option that you can test.

• Key ingredients: Extremozymes, hydrolyzed eruca sativa leaf, Vitamin C, kakadu plum extract, superoxide dismutase
• What dermatologists like: Improves environmental damage, brightens and tones skin, has calming properties
• Cons: Bottle is on the smaller side
• A promising review: "I was guided to this product by my esthetician. I have other IS Clinical products in my daily routine so this product is only used in my nighttime routine once a week following Dr. Dennis Gross Extra Strength Peel Pads. I awake to very smooth skin so I would definitely suggest giving it a try!" - Dermstore Reviewer

Hydration, hydration, and hydration. If it seems like something we keep emphasizing it's because it's one of the most important factors in a serum. The iS Clinical GeneXC Serum gives you plenty of that as it has a formula that contains powerful enzymes that both improve your skin's natural defenses against environmental factors, and help with skin restoration and moisturizing. All of the serums key ingredients partner up brighten, tone, and calm the skin, which leaves you a refreshed feel and look. Additionally, the iS Clinical GeneXC Serum is great for anti-aging, and many have commended the product for helping with their wrinkles, fine lines, and crows feet. You'll definitely get the bang for your buck with this one.

• Key ingredients: Tripeptide-32, sodium hyaluronate
• What dermatologists like: Protects and moisturizes skin, brightens and renews skin, reduces signs of aging, helps skin to appear more youthful
• Cons: May not work for all skin types
• A promising review: "I am 56 years old (but people have always said I looker younger) and new to EL. I noticed my skin looking dull with fine lines appearing on my forehead and some loss of elasticity." - Estée Lauder Reviewer

If you’re specifically searching for a night product, you can try out Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Cream, which derms love for its restorative power and the ability to make the skin appear more youthful and relaxed. In addition to the improvement in firmness and elasticity, you’ll also see improvements in dark circles, wrinkles, puffiness and more. Just make sure you apply a few drops at night after you wash your face and before you moisturize. We also have to give this serum bonus points for being free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, sulfites, and mineral oil.

• Key ingredients: TNS®-MR, Renessensce (RSC) advanced
• What dermatologists like: Helps with cell renewal, lifts sagging skin, supports collagen and elastin levels, smooths skin, gives a more youthful complexion
• Cons: Could irritate sensitive skin
• A promising review: "This is THE best product I have used. I have results in my skin texture and fine . My skin has never looked this good!!" - Dermstore Reviewer

The SkinMedica TNS Advanced + Serum is all about hydrating and increasing the overall elasticity and smoothness of your skin. What separates the TNS  from other serums? It’s natural plant ingredients and antioxidants that combine for a smoother plumper result. The brand's TNS®-MR uses peptides to correct the skin, along with the Renessensce (RSC) advanced blending together botanicals, marine extracts, and peptides to help with the rejuvenation process. Make no mistake—the TNS is on the pricier side, but the reviews from dermatologist and buyers for its effectiveness is what drives it home for many regular buyers.

• Key ingredients: Retinol alternative duo, silk protein, hadasei-3
• What dermatologists like: Firms skin, smooths wrinkles, improves texture and redness, helps with irritation, improves lines, wrinkles, and firmness
• Cons: May not work for all skin types
• A promising review: "My only regret is not finding Tatcha sooner- because so many of the products have drastically improved my skin. I love the silk serum! Don't believe my word- try a sample! Amazing!" - Nic, Tatcha Reviewer

Using natural ingredients like sea fennel and cranberry extract, the Silk Treatment from Tatcha gives you the ingredients and tools necessary to help your skin shine in the best way possible. Specifically targeting dehydrated skin, moisture and rejuvenation is the name of the Tatcha Silk Treatment game, which also helps with avoiding and correcting irritation and flare ups. If natural products are of interest to you when it comes to your skin health, this serum is a step in the right decision.

• Key ingredients: Water, glycerin, peptides, ceramides, niacinamide, sodium lactate, Vitamin B5, Vitamin E
• What dermatologists like: Helps with cell renewal, corrects wrinkles, reduces, dark spots, evens complexion
• Cons: May be too lightweight according to some buyers
• A promising review: "I tried this product for free in exchange for my honest opinion. I was very excited that I was able to try the Oil of Olay Serum. I am very aware of the spots and the wrinkles on my face from years of sun bathing. I already use Olay products. I added the serum as part of my daily care of my face. I noticed after two weeks my skin started to look more even tone and silky," - Olay Reviewer

You’ve probably heard a lot about the Olay Super Serum and what you heard is right—this product is one of the best on the market when it comes to skin care. Offering many moisturizing properties through its mixture of ingredients, which includes vitamins C and E along with lactic acid and collagen peptides, what you’ll see over time is an improvement with your skin health in terms of firmness and elasticity. After several weeks your skin will also appear visibly more moisturized, hydrated and healthy. Add in its affordability, and this is another winner. 

• Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
• What dermatologists like: Helps with sensitive skin, is unscented, absorbs fast, moisturizes
• Cons: Isn't as strong as other serums according to some users
• A promising review: "In my profession, where I'm constantly engaged with cutting-edge technologies and complex computing problems, it's crucial to find a skincare product that matches this level of sophistication and effectiveness. That's where the Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum has made a remarkable difference in my daily routine." - Amazon Reviewer

Looking for a serum that’s going to keep your skin hydrated for 24 hours straight? That, our friends, is the Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which is as effective as the name sounds. Containing hyaluronic acid and volcanic water, relief of conditions dry skin and eczema come almost immediately after applying, which contributes to its overall effectiveness and the reason why dermatologists recommend. Instant hydration and an improved silliness in the skin is enough to spend the $20 - $40 on trying this product. Plus, the absorption rate is quick which is an added bonus in our book.

• Key ingredients: Ceramide trio, beta-glucan, magnesium, zinc, copper blend
• What dermatologists like: Hydrates the skin all day, absorbs quickly, reduces, redness and irritation
• Cons: Has a scent according to some users
• A promising review: "I love this stuff. I put it on right after washing my face and it makes my skin very dewy. I've ordered the peptide glazing fluid and the barrier restore cream as well; can't wait to see how they work!" - rhode Reviewer

Ah! The TikTok loved rhode Glazing Milk aka the serum that will have your skin looking like you stepped out of water. If the 2000s are making a comeback, so is dewy skin, and no serum achieves that final finish quite like the rhode's Glazing Milk, which contains a ceramide trio, beta-glucan, magnesium, zinc, copper blend in addition to its peptide properties. Mix and that in with the $30 price tag and we just might have a winner here folks.

• Key ingredients: Niacinamide, zinc
• What dermatologists like: Vegan, silicone-free, moisturizes and hydrates the skin, affordable
• Cons: May be too strong for certain users
• A promising review: "Love it! Cleared my skin right up without any purge period. I saw another review recommending mixing with moisturizer, will have to give that a try as 10% is pretty strong. One downside is that it doesn’t last all that long if used everyday." - Sephora Reviewer

From a pricing standpoint, we’re not sure it gets any better than the The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, which can almost always be found between the price range of $6 - $10, the formula blends together niacinamide and zinc to flush out your pores and cleanse all of the hidden dirt and antibacterials out completely. After some use, you should see improvements in the overall tone and evenness of your skin. Consider this a major steal in terms of the $10 price tag.

• Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
• What dermatologists like: Locks in moisture, hydrates the skin, doesn't clog pores, easy application process
• Cons: May be too strong for certain users
• A promising review: "I didn't expect much from an over-the-counter face cream, but I can see - and feel- a big difference in my skin. This seems to soak into my skin very quickly. It doesn't feel greasy or oily but my skin feels softer and moisturized." - Amazon Reviewer

Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum is another serum that proves you don’t have to shell out hundreds of dollars to get a good quality serum that gets the job done. Not only does the Hyaluronic Acid Serum also contain vitamin B5, glycerin is also incorporated for the hydration element. Just apply it to your fingertips and gently smooth until fully absorbed into the skin. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.

• Key ingredients: plant stem cell technology, rose microbiome, organic aloe vera, berry extracts 
• What dermatologists like: Locks in moisture, hydrates the skin, doesn't clog pores, easy application process
• Cons: May not work for all skin types
• A promising review: "I love this newer product from Andalou. I have been using their products daily for 6-7 years! Usually, I start out my facial routine with the 1000 Roses Absolute Serum, but I switched to this Fresh & Dewy 2-1 Serum and I love the way it evens out my complexion before I put on my moisturizer and CC cream." - Amazon Reviewer

Remember that dewy look we were talking about earlier? Guess what? Andalou Naturals’ 1000 Roses Fresh and Dewy 2 in 1 Serum is another face serum that helps you achieve that so fresh and clean look Outkast was talking about in 2002. Incorporating Vitamins C and E and rose water amongst other ingredients like organic aloe vera, and berry extracts this $10 dermatologist recommended product is hard to walk away from.

• Key ingredients: Licorice, lemongrass, aloe 
• What dermatologists like: Gentle, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, clears skin, produces natural collagen, evens complexion
• Cons: Can be hard to squeeze product out
• A promising review: "Love this new facial product. When I first applied this to my face there was a slight tingling sensation but nothing uncomfortable. Have been using this for a few days and like the results." - Amazon Reviewer

We’re back to Sunday Riley with their Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment because TikTok has told us this is one of the best skin serums in the game at the moment. Dermatologists agree, highlighting its exfoliating properties and lactic acid, lemongrass, and licorice ingredients mixtures. The dry skin will stop, the peeling will be gone along with discoloration, and you’ll look like a new person in no time.

• Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, niacinamide, Vitamin C, Zinc, centella asiatica cxtract, zinc, triluronic acid 
• What dermatologists like: Brightens dark spots, makes skin healthier, soothes and calms skin, hydrates, moisturizes
• Cons: Bottle is on the smaller side
• A promising review: "I have tried countless serums targeted for acne and never had any luck. So when I picked this product up I didn't have the highest of hopes. But boy, was I wrong! This serum has completely transformed my skin! Having suffered from hormonal cystic acne, and tried (almost) every medical and skincare remedy, no product has made my skin as clear as this one. My breakouts have significantly calmed down since using it and I've just purchased a second bottle, that's how much I love it!" - Peace Out Skin Care Reviewer

Chuck the deuces to your acne the Peace Out Acne Serum, which uses a powerful blend of Salicylic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C to exfoliate, cleanse your pores, and remove any excess dirt your skin is holding onto. Once all the gunk gets removed, your skin will experience an instant rejuvenation that will clear your breakouts. Another under $50 bang for your buck that gets the job done in our opinion.

• Key ingredients: Plant peptides, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid
• What dermatologists like: Eliminates wrinkles, produces collagen, hydrates and pumps skin
• Cons: Bottle is on the smaller side
• A promising review: "For the longest I’ve had two spots on my face that would always come back after cleaning them. Ever since I started using this product without even realizing - it was working and both spots have disappeared" - Kamron, Biba Reviewer

The Plant Stem Cell Serum with Peptides from The Biba Los Angeles comes highly recommended thanks to its celebrity and influencer buyers. Containing hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and a mixture of plant peptides, The Plant Stem Cell Serum will hydrate to no end along with smoothing the skin and reducing inflammation. Hey, if the dermatologist and celebrities approve then we give this the thumbs up too. Considering the major clout this serum has, the under $100 asking price isn't too shabby.