12 Serums Beauty Editors Swear By

Skincare lovers often turn to serums when they want visible results and an extra layer of care in their daily routine. Beauty editors are no different, and many have favorite serums they continue to recommend for their effectiveness and consistency. These serums target different skin needs, whether it is hydration, brightness, or firming. They are often chosen because they perform well under makeup and can easily fit into a simple routine. Editors also appreciate formulas with trusted ingredients that are backed by research. While preferences vary, the following serums have earned a loyal following in the beauty world.

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Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair

This serum has become a staple for many beauty editors thanks to its reputation for improving skin texture over time. It is designed to support hydration and smoothness while working overnight, making it a favorite for those who want to wake up with refreshed skin. The formula includes hyaluronic acid and a blend of ingredients that help soften the look of fine lines. Editors often mention how well it layers with other products without causing irritation.

Another reason for its long-standing popularity is its gentle approach, making it suitable for different skin types. It helps restore moisture after long days in dry or polluted environments, which is why many keep it in rotation year-round. The price is around $85 for a standard 1.7 oz bottle, making it a luxury pick that has consistently earned positive reviews.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

This vitamin C serum is often highlighted by editors for its ability to brighten and improve overall skin appearance. It combines vitamin C with vitamin E and ferulic acid, creating a blend that helps fight early signs of aging while also improving uneven tone. Many editors credit it for giving skin a more refreshed and radiant look over time.

It is also a popular recommendation for those looking to add a reliable antioxidant step into their skincare. The texture is lightweight, and it absorbs quickly, making it a good option for both morning and evening use. A 1 oz bottle is priced around $182, which makes it a splurge, but editors often stress that the results justify the price.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Editors often suggest this serum for people dealing with enlarged pores or oily skin. Niacinamide is well known for helping to balance oil production while calming visible redness, making this a standout choice. The added zinc supports the formula by addressing breakouts and overall skin clarity.

One reason beauty editors like this serum is that it is effective without being expensive, making it accessible to a wide audience. It can easily be introduced into any routine without heavy commitment. At around $6 for a 1 oz bottle, it is one of the most budget-friendly serums that consistently delivers results.

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum

This serum is frequently praised for its exfoliating properties that help reveal smoother skin. It contains a mix of AHA and BHA acids that gently resurface the skin overnight. Editors value it for reducing the look of dullness and uneven texture without feeling too harsh.

Because of its ability to promote cell turnover, many editors mention that it works well for those who want a more even complexion. It is especially popular among those with combination skin who need help clearing congested pores. A 1 oz bottle retails for about $90, placing it in the mid-to-high range for targeted serums.

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum

This serum is often chosen by editors who want hydration and skin plumping. It combines hyaluronic acid with vitamin B5, making it both hydrating and soothing. Many editors appreciate its gel-like texture that layers well under moisturizers and sunscreen.

It is considered a reliable option for those with sensitive skin due to its gentle formula. The serum is also widely available in both drugstores and online, making it easy to purchase. The average cost is around $40 for a 1 oz bottle, making it a practical mid-range choice.

Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster

Editors often mention this serum as a powerful choice for refining pores and evening out skin tone. The formula delivers a concentrated dose of niacinamide while still being lightweight and non-greasy. It blends easily with moisturizers, allowing flexible use.

Another reason editors recommend it is its suitability for layering with other actives like vitamin C or retinol. It helps improve overall skin clarity with consistent use, making it a repeat favorite in editor picks. The price is around $52 for a 0.67 oz bottle, which places it in the mid-to-luxury range.

Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment

This serum is often highlighted for its instant smoothing effect. It uses lactic acid to gently exfoliate, which helps brighten dull complexions and soften fine lines. Editors often point out that skin looks more even after just a few uses.

The versatility of this serum is another reason editors recommend it, as it can be used daily or as a quick pick-me-up before events. Its ability to deliver noticeable results has kept it in beauty roundups for years. The price is around $122 for a 1 oz bottle.

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum

Editors frequently recommend this serum to those struggling with dark spots and uneven tone. It is powered by viniferine, an ingredient derived from grapevine sap that is said to be more effective than vitamin C for brightening. Many editors have praised its ability to reduce discoloration with regular use.

The formula is lightweight and suitable for all skin types, which makes it appealing to a wide audience. It has become a go-to for those looking to achieve a more luminous complexion without irritation. The market price is around $82 for a 1 oz bottle.

Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum

Editors often describe this serum as a luxury oil-based treatment that supports hydration and balance. It contains more than 20 botanicals that work together to provide nourishment and radiance. Its reputation comes from both its high-quality ingredients and consistent results.

Another factor that makes it stand out is how it doubles as both a serum and a facial oil, making it versatile in a skincare routine. It is often mentioned in editorial picks for high-end splurges. The price is about $195 for a 1 oz bottle, which places it among the most expensive options editors recommend.

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Editors frequently recommend this overnight oil for its ability to restore skin while you sleep. The serum is packed with essential oils and botanicals that help improve skin’s overall radiance and texture. Many appreciate how it hydrates and soothes without feeling greasy.

It is especially favored by those with dry or stressed skin, as it helps replenish moisture and calm irritation. Editors often point out that it leaves the skin feeling soft and nourished in the morning. The 1 oz bottle costs about $52, which is reasonable for a high-quality night treatment.

Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Serum

Olay’s Regenerist line is well known for its anti-aging properties, and this serum is no exception. It uses a combination of peptides and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and firm the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Editors frequently mention its effectiveness for those seeking to maintain youthful-looking skin without breaking the bank. Its non-greasy texture makes it suitable for daily use, especially under makeup. The price is around $28 for a 1.7 oz bottle, making it a budget-friendly anti-aging option.

Dr. Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Brighten & Firm Vitamin C Serum

This serum stands out for its combination of vitamin C and collagen amino acids, working together to brighten and firm the skin. Editors often recommend it for those with dull or uneven skin tone, as it helps to promote a more luminous complexion.

Its formula also includes a dose of antioxidants, which help protect the skin from environmental damage. With consistent use, many users see improvements in both brightness and texture. The price is around $75 for a 1 oz bottle.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.