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Face serums are specialized formulations that deliver powerful active ingredients deep into the skin . Their ingredient lists are usually short and straight to the point, often combining ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, and retinol. 

If you're battling issues like hyperpigmentation, dehydration, fine lines, aging, or dull skin, then you should consider incorporating a face serum into your routine. With all the benefits a face serum offers, adding it to your skincare regimen can make a huge difference—especially if glowing skin is your goal. 

In this article, we compiled a list of the best face serums to help you achieve radiant skin, regardless of your skin type—including the recently popular Korean skincare brand, Anua.

Round up of our top 7 best face serums for glowing skin

Here’s a roundup of our top picks for different skin types and concerns:

  • Best overall: Medik8 C-Tetra Vitamin C Serum
  • Best for hyperpigmentation: Cerave Skin Renewing Retinol Serum 
  • Best for sensitive skin (Korean brand): Anua Niacinamide 10 + TXA 4 Serum
  • Best for dry skin: Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
  • Best serum with Vit C: TruSkin Vitamin C Serum
  • Best for people with dark skin: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum
  • Best for oily skin: VT Cosmetics Cica Reedle shot 100

We recommend products after careful research and evaluation. We may earn a small commission if you make qualifying purchases through some links on this page.

Best overall

Medik8 C-Tetra Vitamin C Serum

4.8

About

  • This product is manufactured by Medik8, a company known for producing high-quality skincare products with potent ingredients at optimal strengths.

  • According to Medik8, the C-Tetra Vitamin C Serum is a cult favorite and a gentle introduction for those new to vitamin C.

  • This lightweight serum brightens the skin, evens out skin tone, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is also gentle on sensitive skin, with over 96% of users confirming its mildness and over 90% stating that their skin felt softer after use.

Features

  • Contains Vitamin C to brighten uneven skin tone.

  • Infused with Vitamin E to protect against aging and promote youthful, healthy-looking skin.

Properties

Overview

Key Ingredients

3% Stabilized Vitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), Vitamin E

For skin type

All skin types, sensitive

Texture

Silky

Fragrance?

Yes

Skin concerns

Targets dull skin and hyperpigmentation

Consistency

Drop

Packaging

Dropper bottle

Non-comedogenic?

Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin.

  • A little goes a long way.

  • It is Affordable.

  • 100% vegan.

Cons

  • Has an oily consistency.

  • The bottle is prone to breaking if not handled carefully.

Best for hyperpigmentation

CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum

4.7

About

  • CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum is formulated with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and three essential ceramides to boost skin moisture and plumpness.

  • It contains encapsulated retinol, which is a great introduction for first-time retinol users. The encapsulation ensures a gradual and efficient delivery of retinol into the skin, minimizing irritation.

  • This serum targets skin dehydration, wrinkles, uneven skin texture, and fine lines. Additionally, it gently exfoliates, removing dead skin cells to smooth and brighten the skin.

  • Because of its retinol content, CeraVe recommends using this product at night.

Features

  • Encapsulated retinol for gradual and effective delivery

  • Contains three ceramides to support the skin barrier

  • Dermatologist-formulated

Properties

Overview

Key Ingredients

Encapsulated retinol, Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and three essential ceramides(1,3,6-II)

For skin type

All skin types, aging skin

Texture

Lightweight, gel

Fragrance?

No

Skin concerns

Targets dull skin and is great for anti-aging

Consistency

Creamy

Packaging

Plastic airless pump container

Non-comedogenic?

Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Gentle formula that doesn’t irritate the skin

  • Fragrance-free

  • Lightweight

Cons

  • If applied in thick layers, it may pill when layered with other products.

  • May be too drying for individuals with very dry skin.

Best for sensitive skin

Anua Niacinamide 10 + TXA 4 Serum

4.5

About

  • Anua has been making waves with its range of skincare products, and its Niacinamide and Tranexamic Acid serum is no exception.

  • This "magic in a bottle" is often referred to as the secret to Korean glass skin because of its powerful ingredients. It contains 10% Niacinamide, 4% Tranexamic Acid, and 2% Arbutin.

  • This product is designed for individuals with dull skin who desire a glowing, glass-like complexion.

  • It is very gentle on the skin, and apart from the main active ingredients, it also contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to soothe the skin, lock in moisture, and protect the skin barrier.

  • The Anua Niacinamide serum is lightweight and absorbs almost immediately. According to Anua, its pink color is derived from natural sources.

Features

  • Pink color derived from natural ingredients.

  • Contains a powerful trio of active ingredients: niacinamide, tranexamic acid, and alpha-arbutin.

Properties

Overview

Key Ingredients

Niacinamide, Tranexamic acid, Alpha-arbutin, ceramide and hyaluronic acid

For skin type

Great for treating all skin types, sensitive and acne-prone skin

Texture

Watery

Fragrance?

No

Skin concerns

Targets dull skin, hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and enlarged pores

Consistency

Drop

Packaging

Dropper bottle

Non-comedogenic?

No

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight and non-sticky

  • Unscented

  • Layers well with other products without pilling

Cons

  • May cause acne if you have oily skin

Best for dry skin

Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum

4.4

About

  • Medicube PDRN serum is a glow-boosting serum formulated to correct dark spots, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation while enhancing skin radiance.

  • It contains Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a DNA compound extracted from salmon, which, according to 2023 research, promotes collagen and elastin production (2). It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, supports wound healing, and aids in skin rejuvenation.

  • According to Medicube, this serum provides deep hydration and strengthens the skin barrier. It is lightweight, mild, and suitable for all skin types.

Features

  • Contains Salmon’s DNA PDRN and five types of peptide complex.

  • Has healing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Properties

Overview

Key Ingredients

Salmon PDRN, five types of peptide complex, niacinamide, adenosine, and Ocimum Sanctum (Holy Basil) leaf extract

For skin type

Good for all skin types

Texture

Light

Fragrance?

No

Skin concerns

Targets dull skin, hyperpigmentation, dark spots and enlarged pores

Consistency

drop

Packaging

Dropper bottle

Non-comedogenic?

Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight formula

  • Mild and gentle for all skin types

  • Dermatologist-tested

  • Gluten-free and free of artificial colors

Cons

  • The bottle can break if not handled properly

  • Applying too much product may leave a sticky feel

Best serum with Vit C

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum

4.2

About

  • This powerhouse serum by TruSkin is packed with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, and Jojoba Oil.

  • It doesn’t just brighten the skin—it also supports collagen production and improves the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles. 

  • A unique ingredient, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), enhances the serum's efficacy by increasing absorption and reducing visible signs of aging, such as facial wrinkles and fine lines, through collagen stimulation.(3)

  • TruSkin uses Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, a highly stable form of Vitamin C that maintains its potency longer and has a lower risk of irritation compared to other forms.

  • TruSkin advises performing a patch test 24 hours before the first use, as the serum contains plant-based ingredients that may cause irritation or breakouts in sensitive individuals.

Features

  • Contains MSM to reduce signs of aging.

  • Uses a highly stable form of Vitamin C with minimal irritation.

Properties

Overview

Key Ingredients

Vitamin c, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, aloe vera, jojoba oil, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane).

For skin type

Oily, combination, sensitive, dry and normal skin types.

Texture

Lightweight

Fragrance?

No

Skin concerns

Aging skin, dull skin, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots.

Consistency

liquid

Packaging

Dropper bottle

Non-comedogenic?

Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight and fast-absorbing.

  • Free from added fragrances and additives.

  • Cruelty-free and dermatologist-tested.

  • Cost-effective.

Cons

  • May cause irritation or breakouts, especially for those allergic to plant-based ingredients.

Best for people with dark skin

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum

4.2

About

  • If there’s one thing to note about Black skin, it’s the importance of maintaining a radiant glow. This serum from La Roche-Posay has proven to be the best fit for the job.

  • According to La Roche-Posay, this ultra-hydrating, anti-aging serum contains pure hyaluronic acid to keep the skin glowy, supple, and plump while strengthening the skin barrier.

  • The Hyalu B5 serum is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and does not cause allergies or alter darker skin tones.

Features

  • Contains La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water, a unique combination of minerals, trace elements, and a high concentration of selenium.

  • Contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5.

Properties

Overview

Key Ingredients

Hyaluronic acid, madecassoside, glycerin, vitamin B5, dimethicone, La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water.

For skin type

All types, sensitive skin. 

Texture

Lightweight

Fragrance?

Yes

Skin concerns

Fine lines, dehydrated skin, sensitive skin, loss of volume and elasticity

Consistency

liquid

Packaging

Dropper bottle

Non-comedogenic?

Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Oil-free and non-comedogenic.

  • Paraben-free.

  • Allergy-tested and suitable for sensitive eyes

Cons

  • Pricey

  • May cause irritation.

  • Strong fragrance.

Best for oily skin

VT Cosmetics Cica Reedle shot 100

4.0

About

  • VT Cica Reedle Shot is one of the easiest ways to achieve glass skin.

  • This serum, manufactured by VT Cosmetics, a Korean brand specializing in skin glow, is often described as "micro needling in a bottle." It exfoliates, softens, improves texture, and clears skin blemishes.

  • This face serum has different strengths: Reedle Shot 50, 100, 300, and 700. The brand advises beginners to start with lower strengths and gradually build tolerance.

Features

  • Works like microneedling in a bottle.

  • Contains asiatica and hyaluronic acid.

Properties

Overview

Key Ingredients

Centella Asiatica and Hyaluronic acid.

For skin type

All skin types

Texture

Lightweight

Fragrance?

No

Skin concerns

Blackheads, whiteheads, skin texture, blemishes, dull skin, dehydrated skin

Consistency

drop

Packaging

Airless pump container

Non-comedogenic?

Yes

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight and fast-absorbing.

  • Suitable for all skin types.

Cons

  • May cause tingling, redness, or mild discomfort.

Comparison of the best face serums for glowing skin

The table below compares our top picks for the best face serums for glowing skin. Scroll horizontally or click the drop-down symbol on each product name to compare products of choice.

4.8
4.7
4.5
4.4
4.2
4.2
4.0

Overview

Key Ingredients

3% Stabilized Vitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), Vitamin E

Encapsulated retinol, Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and three essential ceramides(1,3,6-II)

Niacinamide, Tranexamic acid, Alpha-arbutin, ceramide and hyaluronic acid

Salmon PDRN, five types of peptide complex, niacinamide, adenosine, and Ocimum Sanctum (Holy Basil) leaf extract

Vitamin c, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, aloe vera, jojoba oil, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane).

Hyaluronic acid, madecassoside, glycerin, vitamin B5, dimethicone, La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water.

Centella Asiatica and Hyaluronic acid.

For skin type

All skin types, sensitive

All skin types, aging skin

Great for treating all skin types, sensitive and acne-prone skin

Good for all skin types

Oily, combination, sensitive, dry and normal skin types.

All types, sensitive skin. 

All skin types

Texture

Silky

Lightweight, gel

Watery

Light

Lightweight

Lightweight

Lightweight

Fragrance?

Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes
No

Skin concerns

Targets dull skin and hyperpigmentation

Targets dull skin and is great for anti-aging

Targets dull skin, hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and enlarged pores

Targets dull skin, hyperpigmentation, dark spots and enlarged pores

Aging skin, dull skin, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots.

Fine lines, dehydrated skin, sensitive skin, loss of volume and elasticity

Blackheads, whiteheads, skin texture, blemishes, dull skin, dehydrated skin

Consistency

Drop

Creamy

Drop

drop

liquid

liquid

drop

Packaging

Dropper bottle

Plastic airless pump container

Dropper bottle

Dropper bottle

Dropper bottle

Dropper bottle

Airless pump container

Non-comedogenic?

Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
4.8
4.7

Overview

Key Ingredients

3% Stabilized Vitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), Vitamin E

Key Ingredients

Encapsulated retinol, Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and three essential ceramides(1,3,6-II)

For skin type

All skin types, sensitive

For skin type

All skin types, aging skin

Texture

Silky

Texture

Lightweight, gel

Fragrance?

Yes

Fragrance?

No

Skin concerns

Targets dull skin and hyperpigmentation

Skin concerns

Targets dull skin and is great for anti-aging

Consistency

Drop

Consistency

Creamy

Packaging

Dropper bottle

Packaging

Plastic airless pump container

Non-comedogenic?

Yes

Non-comedogenic?

Yes

Our criteria for choosing these products

Taking care of your skin is not as easy as it sounds, and having thousands of skincare products out there doesn't make it any easier. To help you narrow down your options and also ensure you get the best result for your skincare goal, we carefully curated this list after considering different factors, including:

  • Product ingredients: Since your skincare concern is to achieve glowing skin, we included face serums that contain key ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, retinol, and tranexamic acid, which are known for brightening, improving dark skin patches, and reducing visible aging signs.
  • Product characteristics: We prioritized face serums with certain properties, such as being lightweight and absorbing quickly into the skin. These characteristics can help you quickly attain glowing skin.
  • Tested: We included a range of products that have been dermatologist-tested and allergy-tested for people with certain allergies.
  • Affordability: Knowing that not everyone may be able to afford high-end products, we also considered cost. We included some products we consider more affordable while still offering the desired value.

Ingredients to look out for in a face serum

To get the best results, look out for these powerful ingredients before purchasing a face serum:

  1. Niacinamide
  2. Hyaluronic acid
  3. Vitamin E
  4. Vitamin B5
  5. Vitamin C
  6. Retinol
  7. Salicylic acid
  8. Ceramides
  9. Peptides
  10. Green tea
  11. Aloe vera
  12. Azelaic acid
  13. Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA)
  14. Beta-hydroxy acids (BHA)

These ingredients serve different purposes, so knowing your skin type and concerns is important when it comes to choosing a serum that best suits you.

Things to consider when purchasing a face serum

before you decide which face serum to purchase, here are some things to consider

Budget:

Numerous nice and effective serums are available, but you must always consider your budget. Pricey doesn’t always mean better. Many effective serums are budget-friendly.

Skin concerns:

When sourcing for face serums, you don't just buy based on aesthetics or beauty, you must consider your skin concerns. Identify your issue (e.g., hydration, anti-aging, brightening) to choose the right ingredients.

Skin type:

The next thing to consider is your skin type when purchasing your face serum. Some serums are tailored for specific skin types (oily, dry, combination, sensitive). Once you can identify your skin type, it becomes easier to choose a serum. 

Non-comedogenic:

Before purchasing that face serum, ensure it is non-comedogenic, which means it will not clog pores or cause acne. 

Fragrance-free:

If you have sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free formulas to avoid irritation.

Wrap up

Face serums may seem like an optional step in your routine, but they are a game-changer. They deliver active ingredients deep into the skin, tackling concerns like dehydration, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and fine lines.

However, selecting the right serum requires knowledge—using the wrong ingredients can be ineffective or even harmful. If you're unsure which serum is best for you, consult a dermatologist or an aesthetician.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What face serums should not be used together?

Face serums containing different face acids should not be used together unless a professional advises it. Here are some combinations that may cause allergic reactions; 

Retinol or retinoids with AHA, vitamin C, or salicylic acid, Vitamin C and alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), Hydroquinones and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)

What are some of the best face serums in Nigeria?

Some top-rated face serums in Nigeria include:

Dang! Vitamin C concentrated serum, Uncover Baobab Glow-C Serum (vitamin C), Anua peach 70 Niacinamide serum, CosRX the hyaluronic acid 3 serum, Beauty of joseon glow deep serum: Rice + Alpha Arbutin

How many face serums can you use at once?

Limit the number of serums to 2-3 at a time to avoid overwhelming your skin.

Related articles:

Proper skin care can be tricky especially for those who do not have the required knowledge. To avoid the mistakes that come with this, read common skincare mistakes to avoid and why

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