SheFinds emphasizes that this review is not monetized, compensated, or sponsored in any way. This evaluation of the product is strictly based on the expertise of a beauty industry expert.
Our skin can sometimes feel—well, dull! Over time our complexions can lose some of the warmth they once had and as cell turnover decreases with age and all of that exposure to the skin we enjoyed in our youth catches up with us, we may notice a more uneven complexion that’s marked by discoloration, sun damage, and more redness.
The solution to getting a healthier, more radiant complexion back may include a cocktail of methods and products like retinol, vitamin C, and in-office lasers. But you don’t have to wait years to see results, either. Some truly great serums exist on the market that are formulated with brightening ingredients that will help exfoliate, perk up a dull complexion, and make your skin look more even toned. Here are four serums we — and dermatologists — love.
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
The key to finding a great serum for your particular skin concern is shopping the ingredients. This popular Paula’s Choice serum contains a high percentage of azelaic acid, which is a relatively unknown antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient that can soothe redness in the skin (it’s excellent for anyone who has rosacea or acne). It’s excellent for reducing the growth of bacteria and can help combat mild to moderate acne, and it helps even the skin tone by inhibiting tyrosinase, which causes hyperpigmentation (aka that dark spots you see on your skin).
Purchase this serum at Paula’s Choice.
The INKEY List Niacinamide Oil Control Serum
Continuing our list with a hyper focus on ingredients we come to this serum with niacinamide, a topical form of vitamin B-3 and an ingredient that is also amazing for acne-prone skin and brightening a dull complexion. Niacinamide can fade hyperpigmentation, reduce acne-causing bacteria, strengthen the skin barrier, and give your skin some much-needed hydration.
This serum is described as lightweight and best for oily skin.
Purchase this serum at Sephora.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Fans of this classic vitamin C serum by SkinCeuticals consider it a must-have product. Vitamin C boosts collagen production, helps prevent and relieve sun damage (which is a number one cause of signs of aging like hyperpigmentation and fine lines), and hydrates the skin. Although many products now contain vitamin C, it’s important to remember that they don’t all work the same. Vitamin C can lose its potency fast in topical form, so choosing one that also contains ferulic acid, like this pick, stabilizes it and helps boost its potency. This serum is expensive, but a little goes a long way.
Purchase this serum at Dermstore.
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Face Serum
We saved one of the most important ingredients for skin turnover for last: retinol. Retinol is our gold standard ingredient that has been proven to increase cell turnover, which leads to a less dull complexion, and boost collagen production, which helps smoothen skin and keep it plump and healthy looking.
There are different forms of retinol in various concentrations, some OTC and some prescription, and because it can be a sensitizing ingredient it is recommended that you start off slowly if you’re new to retinol. This serum by CeraVe combines retinol with licorice root (other goodie for brightening the skin) and hydrating ceramides to help combat any drying effects from the retinol. It’s best to use retinol in the evenings and to always wear sunscreen in the morning.
Purchase this serum at CVS.
