Best Face Serums of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Face serums have become a staple in modern skincare routines, celebrated for their concentrated formulas that deliver active ingredients directly to the skin. Designed to address various concerns—from hydration and aging to brightening and acne—these lightweight elixirs penetrate deeply, offering targeted treatment. With a range of options available, including vitamin C for radiance and hyaluronic acid for moisture, serums cater to diverse skin types and needs, making them an essential addition for anyone seeking a healthier, more vibrant complexion.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with Ceramides Cover #TOP 1
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with Ceramides
ftb score rating icon 9.8
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum Cover #TOP 2
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum
ftb score rating icon 9.7
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum Cover #TOP 3
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Face Serums

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with Ceramides

769915233490
Clear
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with Ceramides Cover
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides), Multi-Depth Hydration Serum for Plumper, Smoother Skin, 1 Fl Oz

The Ordinary Hydration Serum offers quick and lasting moisture, helping your skin look smoother and plumper throughout the day. It includes ceramides, which work to lock in moisture and strengthen your skin’s natural barrier, protecting it from damage. This serum also targets fine lines, making them less visible while improving your skin’s elasticity and softness. Additionally, the pro-vitamin B5 in the formula boosts your skin’s ability to hold onto moisture and supports the creation of important barrier elements like ceramides. Using this serum can help you maintain healthier, more hydrated skin with a youthful feel.

What We Like
Long-lasting hydration
Plumper, smoother skin
No scent or residue
Affordable price
Gentle for sensitive skin
What We Don't Like
Slight stickiness initially
May need extra moisturizer
#TOP 2

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum

769915190311
Clear
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum Cover
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 1 Fl Oz

The Ordinary Niacinamide Serum is designed to brighten and smooth your skin, helping you achieve a more radiant complexion within just one week. Its lightweight, water-based formula hydrates your skin while strengthening the skin barrier, making your face feel refreshed and protected. With a potent 10% concentration of niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and 1% zinc PCA, this serum helps control excess oil in as little as three days, which can reduce shine and prevent breakouts. Over four weeks, you may also notice that your pores look smaller and less noticeable, giving your skin a clearer, more even texture.

What We Like
Controls breakouts and acne
Improves skin texture
Reduces oil and shine
Lightweight and quick absorption
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Can be drying for some
May cause mild peeling

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

3337875583626
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum Cover
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face, Vitamin B5 + Hyaluronic Acid + Madecassoside, Hydrating Serum Visibly Plumps Skin, Sensitive Skin Safe, Anti Aging, Oil-Free

This facial serum is an effective solution for fine lines, wrinkles, loss of volume, and dehydration. It contains pure hyaluronic acid, madecassoside, and vitamin B5, which help to repair and replenish the natural moisture barrier of your skin. The serum's rich texture leaves your skin supple and hydrated, suitable for sensitive skin. You can use it alone or add it to your favorite moisturizer to give your skin an extra boost.

What We Like
Deep hydration
Fast absorption
Gentle for sensitive skin
Smoother, plumper skin
Works well under makeup
What We Don't Like
High price
Small bottle size

Tree of Life Beauty Facial Skin Care Set, Brightening, Firming, Hydrating, Dry Face, Dermatologist Tested - Trio Power Kit, Vitamin C, Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid, 3 count of 1 Fl Oz

Tree of Life
B014PGEEO2
Trio Power Set
Tree of Life Beauty Facial Skin Care Set, Brightening, Firming, Hydrating, Dry Face, Dermatologist Tested - Trio Power Kit, Vitamin C, Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid, 3 count of 1 Fl Oz Cover
Tree of Life Beauty Facial Skin Care Set, Brightening, Firming, Hydrating, Dry Face, Dermatologist Tested - Trio Power Kit, Vitamin C, Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid, 3 count of 1 Fl Oz

Tree of Life's Vitamin C Serum, Retinol Serum and Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a power trio for your best skin yet. It is designed to visibly brighten, reduce dark spots, smooth, and hydrate the skin. It is suitable for all skin types and tones, and is cruelty-free, dermatologist-tested, and made with thoughtfully-chosen ingredients. Customers have reported seeing a reduction in redness, flakiness, and blemishes, as well as an overall improvement in skin texture and a healthy glow.

What We Like
Visible skin brightening
Non-irritating formula
Lightweight, non-greasy texture
Reduces acne scars
Cruelty-free, no harsh chemicals
What We Don't Like
Slight price increase
Minor redness with overuse
#TOP 5

SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Ampoule Serum

SG_B06Y15D1LH_US
SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Ampoule Serum Cover
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 3.38 fl.oz, 100ml, Korean Face Serum with Centella Asiatica, Hydrating and Moisturizing Care, Soothing Facial Serum for Skin Balance and Glow, Korean Skin Care

SKIN1004 Centella Serum is a facial serum made of 100% Centella asiatica extract from Madagascar. It has a light watery texture and non-sticky formula that immediately calms and hydrates sensitive skin. The Madagascan Centella asiatica contains 7 times more soothing actives than other centella asiatica, making it effective in soothing acne-prone and sensitive skin. With only one effective ingredient, this serum ensures maximized benefits. SKIN1004 Centella Serum is perfect for those who want to soothe and hydrate their sensitive skin without any added ingredients.

What We Like
Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
Calms redness and irritation
Hydrates without greasiness
Supports damaged skin barrier
Gentle for sensitive skin
What We Don't Like
May need extra moisturizer

CeraVe Anti Aging Retinol Serum

CVE-53731
WHITE
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
CeraVe Anti Aging Retinol Serum Cover
CeraVe Anti Aging Retinol Serum For Face, Encapsulated Retinol With Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide & Ceramides, Smooths Wrinkles & Fine Lines, Gentle Skin Brightening Serum, Fragrance Free, 1 Oz

CeraVe Anti Aging Retinol Serum is a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating formula designed to help improve skin's texture, including visible signs of aging such as fine lines, while also helping to repair the protective skin barrier with essential ceramides. Its lightweight serum with a gel texture and a non-greasy feel, absorbs quickly into the skin, making it an ideal daily retinol serum for all skin types. The serum contains key ingredients such as Encapsulated Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and Ceramides, which helps to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, attract hydration to the skin’s surface, help calm the skin, and restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.

What We Like
Lightweight, quickly absorbed
Non-greasy, fragrance-free
Moisturizing, hydrates skin
Gentle for sensitive skin
Improves skin texture
What We Don't Like
Modest results for advanced users
Low retinol concentration

Eclat Skincare Vitamin C Serum - Skin Care for Dark Spots, Vitamin C Serum for Face with Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, & Vit E - Anti Aging and Skin Brightening Vit C Formula for Face Care 1 Fl Oz

EC-VITAMINC
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Eclat Skincare Vitamin C Serum - Skin Care for Dark Spots, Vitamin C Serum for Face with Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, & Vit E - Anti Aging and Skin Brightening Vit C Formula for Face Care 1 Fl Oz Cover
Eclat Skincare Vitamin C Serum - Skin Care for Dark Spots, Vitamin C Serum for Face with Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, & Vit E - Anti Aging and Skin Brightening Vit C Formula for Face Care 1 Fl Oz

PURE Vitamin C Serum for Face is a scientifically optimal 20% concentration of the most potent pure vitamin C, sodium ascorbyl phosphate. It is cold processed at 1-4°C and packaged in FrostProtect glass that blocks destabilising light & oxygen. It is vegan and cruelty free, and is made without parabens & silicones. It is formulated with 5 synergistic ingredients – retinol, jojoba oil, vitamin E, aloe vera & MSM – that doubles vitamin C's photoprotective qualities and accelerates skin renewal and new cell turnover. In a study of 47 users, 94% said dark spots had faded, and 91% saw more radiance in just 2 weeks.

What We Like
Brightens and evens skin tone
Fades dark spots
Lightweight, fast absorption
Non-irritating for sensitive skin
Improves firmness and smoothness
What We Don't Like
May be less effective for some
Results depend on consistent use

The Ordinary Serum Favorites Set

689973130299
Clear
3 Ounce (Pack of 1)
The Ordinary Serum Favorites Set Cover
The Ordinary Serum Favorites Set – Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Caffeine Solution 5% – Eye and Face Serums for Hydrating, Brightening & Pore-Minimizing Skin Care

The Ordinary Serum Trio offers a powerful combination of ingredients to enhance your skin care routine. The caffeine solution targets and reduces visible blemishes, helping you achieve a clearer complexion. Hyaluronic acid works to boost your skin’s texture and glow by deeply hydrating and plumping your skin. Niacinamide provides essential vitamin B3, which supports skin health and helps even out skin tone. Zinc contributes to maintaining healthy skin by balancing oil production and promoting healing. Together, these serums deliver hydration, brightness, and improved skin clarity for a refreshed appearance.

What We Like
Hydrating and healthy glow
Suitable for sensitive skin
Reduces puffiness and firms eyes
Affordable and high quality
Beginner-friendly routine
What We Don't Like
Slight stickiness after application
Minor breakouts for some users
#TOP 9

COSRX Snail Mucin Repairing Serum 100ml, Hydrating Serum for Face with Snail Secretion Filtrate for Dull Skin & Fine Lines, Korean Skin Care

CR_COS0003
Cranberry
COSRX Snail Mucin Repairing Serum 100ml, Hydrating Serum for Face with Snail Secretion Filtrate for Dull Skin & Fine Lines, Korean Skin Care Cover
COSRX Snail Mucin Repairing Serum 100ml, Hydrating Serum for Face with Snail Secretion Filtrate for Dull Skin & Fine Lines, Korean Skin Care

The COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence is a lightweight, hydrating serum that is formulated with 96.3% Snail Secretion Filtrate. It absorbs quickly into the skin and provides long-lasting hydration without a heavy feeling. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin and helps to repair and rejuvenate the skin from dryness and aging. Customers have found this product to be incredibly effective in improving skin vitality, reducing dullness, and soothing dehydrated skin.

What We Like
Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
Sustained hydration and moisture
Improves skin texture and glow
Non-irritating for sensitive skin
Layers well with other products
What We Don't Like
Initial slimy feel for some users
Very dry skin may need extra moisturizer

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum

10013
Hydrating Serum
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum Cover
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum, Hydrating Face Moisturizer For Dry Skin, Oil-Free Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer, 1 FL OZ

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a unique face serum formula that delivers higher hydration levels for skin that glows day after day. It contains hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture and locks it in. The gentle hydrating formula is both oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores. The serum absorbs quickly to quench skin and addresses the root cause of dryness to deliver hydration. Complete your at-home skincare routine with this facial serum and pair it with other products from the Neutrogena Hydro Boost collection.

What We Like
Lightweight hydration
Non-greasy texture
Soft, pleasant fragrance
Quick absorption
Suitable under makeup
What We Don't Like
Minimal effect on wrinkles
Buying Guide Image

Guidelines for Choosing the Right Face Serums

Introduction

Facial serums are a popular skincare product that can help improve the overall appearance and health of your skin. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which serum is the right one for you. In this article, we will discuss how to choose a facial serum that is best suited for your skin type and concerns.

Consider your skin type and concerns

The first step in choosing a facial serum is to consider your skin type and any concerns you may have. Different serums are designed to address specific skin concerns, such as dryness, dullness, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and acne.

If you have dry skin, look for a serum that is hydrating and moisturizing. Ingredients to look for include hyaluronic acid, which helps to retain moisture, and natural oils such as jojoba or avocado oil, which can help to nourish and protect the skin.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, choose a serum that is lightweight and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores. Ingredients to look for include salicylic acid, which can help to unclog pores and reduce breakouts, and tea tree oil, which has natural antibacterial properties.

Read the label

Once you know your skin type and concerns, the next step is to read the label of the serum you are considering. This will provide important information about the ingredients in the serum and how they can benefit your skin.

Pay attention to the concentration of active ingredients in the serum. Higher concentrations can be more effective, but they can also be more irritating to the skin. If you have sensitive skin, look for a serum with a lower concentration of active ingredients, or choose a serum with natural and gentle ingredients.

Also, look for serums that are free from potentially harmful ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, and fragrances. These ingredients can irritate the skin and may even be harmful to your health.

Test it out

Before committing to a full-sized bottle of serum, it's a good idea to test out a small amount of the product on your skin. This will allow you to see how your skin reacts to the serum and if it is effective for your skin concerns.

To test a serum, apply a small amount to a patch of skin, such as your inner arm or neck. Wait a few hours to see if any redness or irritation occurs. If your skin reacts well to the serum, you can try applying it to your face.

Consult with a skincare professional

If you are still unsure about which serum is right for you, consider consulting with a skincare professional. A skincare professional can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your skin type and concerns.

In conclusion, choosing the right facial serum for your skin can be a daunting task. By considering your skin type and concerns, reading the label, testing the product, and consulting with a skincare professional, you can choose a serum that will be effective and beneficial for your skin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does serum do to your face?

Facial serums have several benefits for your skin. They boost collagen production, making the skin firmer and reducing the signs of aging. Serums also enhance skin radiance, reduce fine lines, and calm irritated skin by reducing inflammation. Overall, serums provide nourishment and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

2. Which is best for wrinkles: retinol or hyaluronic acid?

When it comes to reducing the appearance of wrinkles, both retinol and hyaluronic acid can be beneficial, but they work in different ways. Retinol is effective in improving fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. On the other hand, hyaluronic acid is excellent for hydrating and plumping the skin. The choice between the two depends on your specific skincare needs and concerns.

3. Is it OK to use face serum everyday?

Yes, it is safe and recommended to use a face serum every day. Serums typically have a higher concentration of active ingredients compared to moisturizers. Using a serum daily can provide your skin with consistent nourishment and optimal results. Incorporating a face serum into your daily skincare routine can help address specific skin concerns and improve the overall health and appearance of your skin.

4. Do you put serum on before or after moisturizer?

In a skincare routine, it is generally recommended to apply serum before moisturizer. Serums are usually lightweight and contain active ingredients that need to penetrate the skin. Applying serum first allows the skin to absorb the active ingredients effectively. Moisturizer, being thicker, can then be applied on top to provide hydration and lock in the benefits of the serum.

Editor's Notes

During our face serum research, we found 48 face serum products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,883,579 customer reviews through our big data system to write the face serums list. We found that most customers choose face serums with an average price of $19.01.

The face serums are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of face serums, including The Ordinary, La Roche-Posay, Tree of Life, SKIN1004, CeraVe. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Face Serums Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand The Ordinary The Ordinary La Roche-Posay Tree of Life SKIN1004 CeraVe Eclat Skincare The Ordinary COSRX Neutrogena
Skin Type All All All, Dry, Sensitive All Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily, Sensitive - All Skin Tones, Fair, Medium, Dark, Medium Dark, Very Dark, Combination, Oily, Sensitive, Acne-Prone, Young All All, Sensitive All
Product Benefits Provides immediate, long-lasting hydration for smoother, plumper, and healthier-looking skin. Visibly improves skin radiance and smooths texture in one week. Two types of Pure Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin B5. Oil-Free. Allergy-Tested. Noncomedogenic. Safe for all skin types. Anti-aging,Brighten,Brightening,Firming,Hydrating,Moisturizing,Smoothening,Soothing Soothing - Firmness, Neck Lines, Wrinkles, Elasticity, Plumpness, Lines, Texture, Pores, Skin-Tone Evenness, Radiance Hydrate, balance & brighten with this 3-step set for smoother skin, clearer tone & visibly refreshed eyes. Rejuvenating Hydrating
Scent Fragrance Free Fragrance Free Scented Power Trio Set No fragrance (Centella Asiatica) - 01 - Brightening Vitamin C Serum Fragrance Free Unscented Unscented
Use for Face Face Face - Face - Face Face Face Face
Special Ingredients Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B6 Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid, Madescassoside, Vitamin B5 - - - High-potency vitamin C (boosts radiance and fights fine lines) hyaluronic acid (locks in moisture and boosts collagen), aloe vera (calms and hydrates), vitamin E (strengthens and protects). hyaluronic_acid Snail Secretion Filtrate 96% Glycerin
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
Where to Buy