Best Face Serums of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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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

COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence 3.38 fl.oz 100ml, Hydrating Serum for Face with Snail Secretion Filtrate for Dull Skin & Fine Lines, Korean Skin Care Cover #TOP 1
COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence 3.38 fl.oz 100ml, Hydrating Serum for Face with Snail Secretion Filtrate for Dull Skin & Fine Lines, Korean Skin Care
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Vitamin C Face Serum - Dark Spot Remover Facial Serum, Vit C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, & Vit E - Anti Aging and Skin Brightening Serum, Pure Vitamin C Serum Skin Care 30 ml Cover #TOP 2
Vitamin C Face Serum - Dark Spot Remover Facial Serum, Vit C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, & Vit E - Anti Aging and Skin Brightening Serum, Pure Vitamin C Serum Skin Care 30 ml
ftb score rating icon 9.7
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum - Anti Aging Facial Serum with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E - Brightening Serum - Even Skin Tone, Improve Appearance of Dark Spots, Fine Lines & Wrinkles, 1 Fl Oz Cover #TOP 3
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum - Anti Aging Facial Serum with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E - Brightening Serum - Even Skin Tone, Improve Appearance of Dark Spots, Fine Lines & Wrinkles, 1 Fl Oz
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Face Serums

#TOP 1

COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence 3.38 fl.oz 100ml, Hydrating Serum for Face with Snail Secretion Filtrate for Dull Skin & Fine Lines, Korean Skin Care

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Cranberry
COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence 3.38 fl.oz 100ml, Hydrating Serum for Face with Snail Secretion Filtrate for Dull Skin & Fine Lines, Korean Skin Care Cover
COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence 3.38 fl.oz 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
Non-greasy and absorbs quickly
Improves skin texture
Hydrating and plumping effects
Suitable for sensitive skin
Fragrance-free formula
What We Don't Like
Some might find it sticky
Pricey compared to drugstore options

Vitamin C Face Serum - Dark Spot Remover Facial Serum, Vit C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, & Vit E - Anti Aging and Skin Brightening Serum, Pure Vitamin C Serum Skin Care 30 ml

EC-VITAMINC
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Vitamin C Face Serum - Dark Spot Remover Facial Serum, Vit C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, & Vit E - Anti Aging and Skin Brightening Serum, Pure Vitamin C Serum Skin Care 30 ml Cover
Vitamin C Face Serum - Dark Spot Remover Facial Serum, Vit C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid, & Vit E - Anti Aging and Skin Brightening Serum, Pure Vitamin C Serum Skin Care 30 ml

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
Improves skin softness
Lightweight and non-greasy
Affordable price
Quick absorption
Visible results
What We Don't Like
Strange initial smell
Thin consistency may not suit everyone

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum - Anti Aging Facial Serum with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E - Brightening Serum - Even Skin Tone, Improve Appearance of Dark Spots, Fine Lines & Wrinkles, 1 Fl Oz

TruSkin Naturals
Best Vitamin C Serum
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum - Anti Aging Facial Serum with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E - Brightening Serum - Even Skin Tone, Improve Appearance of Dark Spots, Fine Lines & Wrinkles, 1 Fl Oz Cover
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum – Anti Aging Facial Serum with Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E – Brightening Serum – Even Skin Tone, Improve Appearance of Dark Spots, Fine Lines & Wrinkles, 1 Fl Oz

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum is a plant-based formulation designed to improve wrinkles, dark spots and under eye dark circles. It is certified cruelty free and is formulated, manufactured and bottled in the USA for guaranteed freshness. Customers have reported smoother skin, brighter skin, and reduced dark spots and wrinkles. However, some customers have reported issues with the packaging and the product's alkaline PH.

What We Like
Hydrates skin effectively
Fades dark spots
Brightens complexion
Non-sticky texture
Quick absorption

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

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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
All-natural ingredients
Lightweight and absorbent
Visible skin improvements
Hydrating without greasiness
Simplifies skincare routine
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent retinol texture

Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum

689973141950
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum Cover
Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum - Hydrating, Non-greasy formula to Moisturize, Plump - 1% HA, Anti-aging, Water-Based Skincare for Face

Experience deep and long-lasting hydration with Good Molecules Serum. Notice the plumping, firming, and moisturizing effects on your skin. The potent formula with two forms of hyaluronic acid penetrates multiple skin layers, combating dehydration and loss of firmness. This serum is the perfect addition to your beauty regimen, suitable for all skin types. Apply it in the morning and at night before oils, creams, and moisturizers for best results. Its gentle and powerful formula will help your skin maintain its radiant glow, appearing supple, smooth, and firm.

What We Like
Improves skin texture
Hydrates and plumps skin
Quick absorption, non-greasy
Great value for the price
Gentle on sensitive skin
What We Don't Like
Fast depletion with frequent use
Occasional shipping issues

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 Serum | 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
Lightweight formula
Improves skin texture
Soothes sensitive skin
Visible radiance
What We Don't Like
Somewhat pricey
Can be too moisturizing in summer

CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum

1653805
BLUE,WHITE
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum Cover
Cerave Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face with Vitamin B5 and Ceramides | Hydrating Face Serum for Dry Skin | Fragrance Free | 1 Ounce

CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face is a lightweight, hydrating serum with a smooth, gel texture. It is formulated with the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid, an ingredient that helps retain skin's natural moisture. It also contains Vitamin B5 to help soothe skin and CeraVe's patented MVE ingredient-delivery technology to continually release moisturizing ingredients and provide 24-hour lasting hydration. It is suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more.

What We Like
Lightweight and non-greasy
Excellent hydration
Absorbs quickly
High-quality ingredients
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Mixed reviews from some users
#TOP 8

Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum

g23t04
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum Cover
Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum - 10% Niacinamide Balancing B3 Facial Serum for Acne, Tone, Texture - Brightening and Hydrating Skincare for Face

The Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum is designed to enhance your skin's appearance by refining its tone and texture. You can expect a brighter and healthier complexion, boosting your confidence. This soothing serum is perfect for acne-prone skin, as it helps reduce moisture loss without drying you out. With its 10% Niacinamide content, it effectively addresses issues like breakouts, uneven skin tone, and enlarged pores. Incorporating this product into your daily routine is easy—just apply a few drops in the morning and evening before your other skincare products.

What We Like
Lightweight texture
Hydrating and moisturizing
Visible results quickly
Affordable price
Good for all skin types
What We Don't Like
Thick consistency
#TOP 9

Retinol Serum for Face

Combo pack 1oz
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 3)
Retinol Serum for Face Cover
GLEOW Retinol Serum for Face - Vitamin C Face Serum with Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face - Vitamin C Serum for Face - Retinol for Face - Hydrating Face Serum for Women and Men 3x1oz - Glow Face Serums

Introducing the GLEOW Retinol Serum, a powerful facial serum that combines the benefits of Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and Retinol. Made in the USA with the best ingredients, this serum is developed by a Cosmetic Chemist in collaboration with Dermatologists. With its Vitamin C content, it helps brighten and even out your skin tone, reducing dark spots and blemishes for a lasting glow. The Hyaluronic Acid component provides deep hydration, leaving your skin supple and ultra-soft. And with the addition of Retinol, this serum targets wrinkles and fine lines, fighting against skin imperfections. Plus, GLEOW offers an extended manufacturer guarantee, giving you the option to get a refund within 90 days if you're not satisfied. Try the GLEOW Retinol Serum and experience the benefits for yourself!

What We Like
Affordable and effective
Easy to use
Good packaging with pumps
Improves skin texture
Cruelty-free and vegan
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent product quality
Uncertain active ingredient concentrations

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
Gentle on sensitive skin
Fragrance-free formula
Hydrating and nourishing
Lightweight and non-greasy
Improves skin texture and tone
What We Don't Like
May cause minor breakouts
Can be drying for some users
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 1,785,163 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 $19.96.

The face serums are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of face serums, including COSRX, Eclat Skincare, TruSkin Naturals, Tree of Life Beauty, Good Molecules. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 5,548 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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
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#TOP10
Brand COSRX Eclat Skincare TruSkin Naturals Tree of Life Beauty Good Molecules La Roche-Posay CeraVe Good Molecules GLEOW CeraVe
Skin Type All, Sensitive All Skin Tones, Fair, Medium, Dark, Medium Dark, Very Dark, Combination, Oily, Sensitive, Acne-Prone, Young Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal All All, Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal Sensitive, Dry Dry All, Oily, Sensitive, Dry, Normal All All
Product Benefits Rejuvenate Firmness, Neck Lines, Wrinkles, Elasticity, Plumpness, Lines, Texture, Pores, Skin-Tone Evenness, Radiance Brightening Anti-aging,Brighten,Brightening,Firming,Hydrating,Moisturizing,Smoothening,Soothing Renew Two types of Pure Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin B5. Oil-Free. Allergy-Tested. Noncomedogenic. Safe for all skin types. Hydrating Brightening Nourishing Anti-Aging
Use for Face Face Skin, Face, Body, Hand Face Face Face Face Face Face Face
Scent No Artificial Fragrance Brightening Vitamin C Serum for Wrinkle Reduction Vitamin C Serum (1oz) Power Trio Set Unscented Scented Fragrance Free Unscented Unscented Fragrance Free
Special Ingredients Snail Secretion Filtrate 96% - Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Retinol hyaluronic_acid Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic Acid - Hyaluronic Acid Encapsulated Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Ceramides
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy