With youth-boosting picks from Skinceuticals, BeautyStat, Olay, and more.
Noticing that first wrinkle can be a shock to the system, even though aging is a completely natural and beautiful process. Accepting aging doesn’t have to mean loving all of its signs, so if you choose to combat these things, we’re here to help you make an informed choice. While your first impulse might be to book a Botox appointment or start saving for a facelift, things don’t need to get that drastic. Today’s slew of anti-aging products on the market contain clinically proven, effective ingredients to help our skin get firmer, smoother, and plumper. One that you should definitely work into your skincare regime is an anti-aging face serum because it delivers the most concentrated formula you can get over the counter.
“Anti-aging serums are among the most effective, non-invasive ways to address signs of aging,” explains dermatologist Dr. Annie Gonzalez of Riverchase Dermatology. And that means not only combating wrinkles and fine lines but also treating other issues such as hyperpigmentation, inflammation, dryness, and more, she adds.
Yes, you could use an anti-aging cream for all of these things, but serums pack higher concentrations of active ingredients than moisturizers and lotions, says Dr. Gonzalez. Not only does this make them more effective, but also ensures you get more value out of a nightly product. And while an anti-aging serum is a great way to treat existing complexion concerns, they’re also a choice preventative measure, points out dermatologist Dr. Ife J Rodney, founding director of Eternal Dermatology & Aesthetics.
The oxidative stress that comes from UV rays of the sun and the pollutants you come into contact with daily can do a number on your skin, and adding in antioxidant serums can be a step towards reducing skin damage long-term.1 Of course, the anti-aging OG of them all is vitamin A, an example of which is retinol. Not only does it increase cell turnover, but it also stimulates collagen production to boot.2
To find the best for every skin type, skin concern, and budget, we conducted hours of research on the best anti-aging serums, evaluating them on active ingredients, texture and feel, and, of course, how well they improved any tell-tale signs of aging. After consulting with experts and considering dozens of options, we landed on these top-rated choices.
Best Overall: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
If we had a dollar for every time a dermatologist recommended this serum, well, let’s just say we’d be retired and rubbing elbows with Jeff Bezos. It’s a tried-and-true serum staple that’s worth every penny, thanks to a unique combination of powerful antioxidants that reduce the signs of free radical damage, such as fine lines and spots, says Dr. Gonzalez.
Vitamin C boosts skin radiance and protects against oxidative stress, while vitamin E replenishes and protects the skin, she adds.34 Rounding out the formula is ferulic acid, a top antioxidant that helps fight against pollution-induced damage and ups the efficacy of vitamin C.5 FYI, it does have a bit of a funky smell (some have likened it to hot dog water), but you’ll quickly forget about that once you see just how well it works on skin.
What really sold us on this product after testing is how it transformed our skin’s texture. It’s the smoothest and plumpest it’s ever been, and the dryness and dullness we battled all winter long have completely vanished.
Who It’s For
This product is for anyone looking to improve the firmness and texture of their skin as well as neutralize free radicals. It works for all skin types, so even those of us with sensitive skin can reap the benefits.
Best Drugstore: Olay Regenerist Regenerating Serum
While a great serum is worth the splurge, you don’t have to shell out big bucks to find a standout option—and this pick is proof. The classic serum boasts a unique amino-peptide complex to deliver hydrating and firming ingredients deep into the skin, working to leave your complexion smoother and plumper in just four weeks. Bonus: It’s fragrance-free and has a lightweight gel texture that absorbs lightning fast.
Who It’s For
Oily skin people, rejoice. This one’s for you. This lightweight formula is non-greasy and absorbs so fast—you won’t have to stand around waiting for it to dry before putting on your makeup.
Best Drugstore, Runner-Up: Vichy LiftActiv Supreme Serum 10
“What makes this serum unique are its key ingredients: rhamnose, volcanic water, and hyaluronic acid,” says Dr. Gonzalez. “Rhamnose has been shown to boost skin rejuvenation, improving collagen production, elastin production, and cellular turnover. Volcanic water is packed with essential minerals that strengthen the skin barrier and protect it from UV rays and pollution, while hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps skin,” she explains, noting that the formula is choice for smoothing, firming, and increasing radiance. What more could you ask for?
Who It’s For
People with dry skin get the struggle, especially in the winter months. This serum hydrates while smoothing and firming the skin. It’s also free of fragrances and parabens, so those with sensitive skin can also feel comfortable using it.
Best Natural: Tata Harper Skincare Rejuvenating Serum
Clean beauty queens will appreciate that this formula relies on all kinds of natural, plant-based ingredients to turn back the clock. “With repeated use, this powerful, all-natural serum boosts moisture for firmer, plumper skin,” says Dr. Gonzalez, who is a fan. “It also helps temporarily relax the look of fine lines and wrinkles, thanks to peptides sourced from Spanish lavender,” she adds. Other natural youth-boosting ingredients include vitamin A from rosehip seed oil and vitamin C from date palm extract. Even the subtle fragrance is natural, derived from jasmine oil.
Who It’s For
Eco-friendly women with dry or combination skin should give this serum a try. It is 100% natural, non-toxic, and free from all fillers, synthetics, artificial colors, and fragrances.
Best With Retinol: Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Texture Serum
There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it—in the world of anti-aging ingredients, retinol reigns supreme. The vitamin-A derivative touts a long and proven track record of delivering all kinds of youth-boosting benefits.6 The only problem? That potency comes with a high likelihood of side effects… but that’s not the case with this serum. Even our super sensitive skin—which historically does NOT do well with retinol—has absolutely no issue with this formula—which is why it’s one of our favorite retinol serums. Instead, it leaves our complexion smoother and clearer, thanks to a pairing of retinol and ferulic acid, a potent antioxidant.7 Plus, it works quickly; we see changes after just a week of regular use.
Who It’s For
This product works for any skin type, boosting skin proteins for all. It can really help people dealing with breakouts, uneven skin texture, and larger pores.
Best With Vitamin C: BeautyStat Universal C Skin Refiner
We’re big fans of this skincare line—created by a cosmetic chemist, it utilizes only the most effective ingredients and formulations. Case in point: All of the products center around vitamin C, another anti-aging superstar that’s not only an effective antioxidant but also choice for boosting radiance and collagen production.3 This serum contains a whopping 20% of a powerful and stable version of the vitamin, which is infamous for being easily inactivated by things such as sun and air. Per all of those vitamin C benefits, it firms, boosts radiance, and smooths your complexion with every use.
When testing, we loved that Universal C’s gel-cream formula was dispensed through a pump nozzle, allowing for a mess-free application process. The pump disperses all the product you’ll need in just two pumps, so you can be sure none of it goes to waste.
Who It’s For
Women with oily-prone skin often also deal with breakouts—this serum can help with that. While it works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, it will also improve skin tone and skin texture.
Best for Fine Lines: Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate
As we said, vitamin C is a top anti-aging ingredient, and here you get a 10% concentration of the good stuff. It works to boost collagen production and ultimately helps knock out lines and wrinkles, while hyaluronic acid in the formula attracts moisture to and plumps skin, also making it appear smoother.
Who It’s For
If you have balanced skin, consider yourself lucky! But that doesn’t mean aging isn’t a concern, and this serum is perfect for you. Its vitamin C and hyaluronic acid formula works to firm and smooth skin over time, while diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. But its clean formula makes the serum gentle enough for everyday use.
Best Exfoliator: Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum
“This sophisticated blend of glycolic, tartaric, citric, and salicylic acids delivers chemical exfoliation without dryness or sensitization, curbs excess oil, and reveals visible clarity and luminosity,” says Dr. Rodney of one of her picks. The combo of alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids is effective for all skin types and also has the added benefit of helping ensure that any products you use afterward penetrate better.9 It is better to use at night, layered underneath a plain moisturizer or mixed with a few drops of the brand’s Virgin Marula Face Oil for extra hydration.
We were amazed at how the acid combination in this serum delivers outstanding results. During testing, we became less oily around the nose and forehead, which also resulted in less congestion and fewer blackheads. We also noticed a softening of the fine lines between my brows since starting to use this serum. As a bonus, its non-sticky skin feel makes it a winner in our book.
Who It’s For
This exfoliator works for all skin types. It resurfaces skin and gently lifts dead skin cells to give skin a vibrant, youthful glow.
Best Hydrating: SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator
Apply even a small amount of this hydrating serum, and your complexion will instantly look and feel smoother and plumper. It relies on five different ingredients (including, of course, hyaluronic acid) to hydrate skin both immediately and for up to eight hours afterward. Moisturizing enough to use on its own during hot summer days or if your skin skews towards oily, it’s still lightweight enough to layer under moisturizer. It’s also the ideal prep step pre-makeup, thanks to a smooth and silky finish. For the best results, apply a serum when your skin is still slightly damp, post-washing.
Who It’s For
The hydrating formula makes this serum a must for women with dry skin. It will reduces fine lines and wrinkles and boost collagen production–all while moisturizing the skin.
Best Night Serum: Isdin Isdinceutics Melatonik Restorative Night Serum
Load up on this serum come bedtime. “It’s a favorite of mine because it contains bakuchiol, a natural, plant-based alternative to retinol that speeds up cellular rejuvenation—without that irritation that sometimes occurs with retinol,” explains Dr. Rodney. It also contains an antioxidant dynamic duo—melatonin and vitamin C—making it the ideal multi-purpose formula, she adds. Use it overnight to help undo any free radical damage incurred during the day.
Who It’s For
Best for those with dry skin, the nightly formula repairs skin, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, improves firmness, and neutralizes free radicals.
Best Natural, Runner-Up: One Love Organics Botanical A Bio-Retinol Night Serum
Fully committed to clean products? Here’s another hit. We love how this formula offers three different natural acids (lactic, phytic, and salicylic) for gentle exfoliation, a bio-retinol for line-smoothing purposes, and purple clay, rich in magnesium to help promote a smoother skin texture10. FYI, this may be natural, but it is potent, so it’s best to start by using it only every other night and only using it four nights per week, max.
Who It’s For
This serum is for people with balanced skin, so you don’t need to use it every day. Just a few times per week can boost skin cell turnover, gently exfoliate, and smooth skin texture.
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Dermalogica AGE Bright Clearing Serum
For those dealing with the misfortune of battling both breakouts and wrinkles (adult acne is a very real thing, people), this serum is choice. It’s ideal for acne-prone skin because it contains salicylic acid, which penetrates oil glands to help clear up clogged pores. And on the anti-aging side of things, it contains niacinamide and a proprietary radiance-boosting complex.
Who It’s For
Those dealing with frequent breakouts will appreciate this serum, which exfoliates and smooths fine lines while also deep cleaning pores.
Best Soothing: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum
The namesake ingredient in this formula is the colloquial term for an ingredient known as Centella Asiatica (Tiger Grass), well-known for its astounding skin-soothing and wound-healing properties.11 To that point, this is ideal for red, irritated, or generally stressed-out skin. (And while it’s not something the brand calls out, in our experience, the subtle green tint of serums like this one also helps to instantly camouflage redness, too.) There’s also anti-inflammatory niacinamide in the mix, plus a proprietary blend of ingredients that help keep the skin’s microbiome balanced and better able to block out potential irritants.12
Who It’s For
Any skin type will benefit from this serum, which works to soothe skin and promote a healthy microbiome.
Best Splurge: Lancôme Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum
Yes, this pick is pricey, but it’s also packed (and we mean packed) with effective, active ingredients. We’re talking super moisturizing hyaluronic acid, ferulic acid for a powerful punch of antioxidant protection, and a combo of radiance-boosting vitamin C and niacinamide.13 But what’s perhaps most noteworthy is the unique packaging and delivery system; each of those three ingredients is housed in separate chambers and only gets mixed once you dispense the product, maximizing both their potency and stability.
Who It’s For
All skin types can use this hydrating serum, which will also boost radiance and target volume loss. It’s also great for someone who doesn’t want to commit to a daily routine because it only needs to be used a few times each week.
Best Budget: RoC Skincare Retinol Correxion Anti-Aging Deep Wrinkle Serum
RoC is always a reliable option when you’re looking for wallet-friendly products that actually deliver on their claims. This anti-aging serum is formulated with retinol to slowly but surely reduce the appearance of fine lines, smooth the skin, and increase collagen production.6
Who It’s For
All skin types can reap the rewards of this serum. Using it every other night can lead to a decrease in fine lines and smoother skin. Love what you see? You can increase to nightly use (as long as your skin can handle it).
Best Luxury: Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair has been a beauty counter staple since its launch over 40 years ago. This powerhouse serum visibly reduces multiple signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and dullness. The steep price could be hard to justify, but if you can swing it, you’ll definitely be satisfied with the results.
Who It’s For
This is a great choice if you’ve already seen noticeable signs of aging or have dry, oily, or combination skin. Use in the morning and night can lead to smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin.
Best Vegan: Shani Darden Retinol Reform Treatment Serum
This vegan serum is perfect for those of us who want to use retinol but are worried about how harsh it can be on the skin. Thanks to encapsulated retinol, it boasts a time-release formula that slowly releases the retinol throughout the night, which means it’s a lot gentler on skin (read: no tightness, dryness, or scaling). It’s also free of fragrance, parabens, and silicones, making it a great choice for people with sensitive skin. Still, it’s recommended that you start off using it one or two nights a week so your skin has time to adjust to the retinol.
Who It’s For
Women dealing with a variety of skin issues–sensitivity, aging, dryness, oil, or a combination of things–will appreciate this serum. Its gentle formula won’t exacerbate any existing skin condition.
Best Combination Skin: The A Method by Tina Alster M.D. Pearls of Retinol
For people with combination skin, the struggle is real. Meet the serum for you. It’s formulated with encapsulated beads of retinol that work to both hydrate and fight the signs of aging. The serum contains a small percentage of retinol, which makes it safe for sensitive skin. However, that small amount is still pure retinol, so you’ll need to apply some sunscreen before heading out the door in the morning.
Who It’s For
This serum works well for people who are religious about wearing sunscreen daily. Luckily, the serum is lightweight, so you won’t feel like you’ve got layers of product on your face. People with sensitive, dry, or combination skin can see an improvement in firming with daily use.
Best Collagen-Producing Serum: PCA Skin Pro-Max Age Renewal Anti Aging Serum
Boost your skin’s ability to produce collagen with this PCA formula serum. It works to diminish fine lines, dark circles, and those annoying forehead wrinkles by penetrating the skin 10 times deeper than conventional growth factors.
Who It’s For
This works for all skin types, but again, it needs to be worn with sunscreen, so don’t skip a day with the SPF. If you’re ready to commit to a long-term regime, this serum is a solid choice since it takes a few weeks to see results.
Best for Sensitive Skin: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
This budget-friendly hyaluronic acid serum offers instant relief for dry skin thanks to its infusion of vitamin C. Fans say it absorbs fast and feels lightweight, with no tacky feel. It’s also fragrance-free, paraben-free, mineral oil-free, and doesn’t contain synthetic dyes, so it’s a great match for those of us with sensitive skin.
Who It’s For
People with sensitive skin will love this gentle formula that can be used day and night to boost collagen, firm, and lift.
Where We Stand
Overall, our favorite anti-aging serum is the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, as it’s beloved by dermatologists and Byrdie editors alike for its potent combo of protective antioxidants. It’s well worth the price tag, but you can also find great options for less. The RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Retinol Serum, for example, is a great budget option for reducing the appearance of fine lines, smoothing skin, and increasing collagen production.
How We Researched
To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best products on the market in this category, evaluating their key features in addition to reviews from customers and other trusted sources.
Attributes we evaluated each anti-aging serum on:
- Ingredients
- Feel on skin
- Results
- Price
- Customer reviews
What to Look for in an Anti-Aging Serum
- Antioxidants: No matter whether your anti-aging goals are preventative or treatment-focused, choosing a serum that contains antioxidants is one of the best ways to get the most bang for your buck. They’re a universally great choice for all skin types and complexion concerns, offering protection against skin-damaging free radicals. Plus, there are a plethora of great ones to choose from, including (but not limited to) vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, green tea, and more. Our best overall pick, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, contains vitamins C and E, plus ferulic acid. BeautyStat Universal C Skin Refiner is also a great choice if you’re looking for something more affordable.
- Retinol: Retinol is the undisputed anti-aging champ; the vitamin A derivative works both on the surface of the skin, promoting a more even skin tone and texture, and on the deeper layers, stimulating collagen production to help combat lines and wrinkles.2 Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Texture Renewal Serum is our favorite formula containing retinol, but you might consider RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum if you’re on a budget.
- Hyaluronic Acid: This humectant is a great way to add (lightweight) hydration, as it attracts and traps water in the skin. The added benefit? It also makes for an instantaneous plumping effect that makes your complexion appear smoother.8 Go with Vichy LiftActiv Supreme Serum 10 or Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate if you want a hydrating formula containing hyaluronic acid.
FAQ
Do anti-aging serums work?
When it comes to finding an effective anti-aging serum, you’ll want to make sure it has at least one of a few key ingredients proven to work. The ingredients you should look for are vitamin C, vitamin A (retinol), AHAs and BHAs, sunscreen, and epidermal growth factor—though note that that last one’s safety is debated, so consult a dermatologist if you’re interested but uncertain.
When should you use anti-aging serums?
You can start to integrate anti-aging serums into your routine before you even see much damage, while when to use them depends on the active ingredient. Vitamin C serums are good for the daytime because they neutralize free radicals and can counteract uneven skin tone that comes from sun damage. On the other hand, retinol is best used at night to smooth fine lines and increase cellular turnover while you rest. Any serums using AHAs and BHAs are also best for nighttime use, and be sure to use SPF or moisturizers with SPF during the day no matter what your routine looks like, as sun damage is the leading cause of aging and many of these products increase your skin’s sensitivity to it.
How do you apply anti-aging serums?
Apply anti-aging serums after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing. Be sure you’re aware of what active ingredients are in all your products, so you don’t mix any that may cause your skin to react badly when applied together.
What ingredients should you look for in an anti-aging serum?
For the most effective anti-aging face serum, you’ll want to choose one with a few key ingredients proven to work. These are vitamin C, vitamin A (retinol), AHAs and BHAs, sunscreen, and epidermal growth factor—though note that the last one’s safety is debated, so consult a dermatologist if you’re interested in giving it a try.
