The Best Anti-Aging Serums, Tested and Reviewed
Since the fountain of youth can’t be bottled up and sold, skincare brands and experts have created the next best thing: Anti-aging serums. As a way to dial back time, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and give our skin that youthful glow we all crave, many turn to these potent formulas for lasting results. No matter your age or skin concern, there is a blend that will help boost your confidence and improve your overall complexion. But like shopping for eye creams, night creams, tinted moisturizers, and other products for your skin care routine, it can be difficult to really get a sense of what’s actually in the bottle. Here, we deep-dived into the best anti-aging serums, testing out some of the most highly-recommended products. Consider this your invitation (or gentle nudge) to start focusing on your skin health ASAP.
The best lightweight anti-aging serum: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
No matter if you’re just getting started in your skincare routine or you’re looking for a way to upgrade, choosing an anti-aging serum that produces noticeable results is a big motivator. My top pick that has boosted my confidence, added a glow to my complexion, and reduced hyperpigmentation is SkinCeuticals’ best-selling C E Ferulic serum. It’s my go-to morning serum, applied to a cleansed face, before eye cream and moisturizer. It absorbs super fast, doesn’t feel heavy on my skin, and the combo of ferulic acid and pure vitamin C and E protects against environmental damage and free radicals.
Because of the unique, highly potent formula, it reduces wrinkles and lines while also brightening and firming up the pores. In just a week, I noticed a difference in my overall complexion, a feat few anti-aging serums have accomplished. Although on the pricier side, the small bottle lasted three months, since the daily dose is just a few dots scattered around the face.
The biggest drawback isn’t in the serum itself but in the smell. Since it’s pure vitamin C and E, a perfume does not mask it, and you might notice a chemical-like odor. While some reviewers report a sticky residue after application, I always let the serum dry for five minutes before continuing with my getting ready ritual.
Specifications:
- Size: 1 fl. oz.
- Skin Type: Ideal for dry, normal and sensitive skin types
- Dosage: Apply once a day in the morning, after cleansing and toning skin: Apply four to five drops to a dry face, neck, and chest before your other anti-aging skin care products
- Key ingredients: Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), Vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol), and Ferulic Acid
What we like:
- Helps with hyperpigmentation
- Absorbs easily
- Boosts skin texture and brightness
What we don’t like:
- Pricey
- Chemical smell
- Leaves sticky residue