Over the years, my skin care routine has changed. I tweak it as I grow older and notice little changes, whether fine lines or, more typically, increased dryness. Combine those two, though, and you have a serious case of OMG-my-skin-is-freaking-out-please-help-me-now-itis.
Enter the much-lauded anti aging serums, a facial treatment that seemingly does it all. Lightweight and indulgent, serums go a long way in the anti-aging world. Not only are they renowned for combating those pesky early signs (the aforementioned fine lines and wrinkles), but they also penetrate deeply to moisturize and nourish skin. The beauty of a serum is that it really gets to the heart of the matter—it is heavily concentrated with powerful active ingredients that tackle even the trickiest skin issues.
Look for serums that contain:
Vitamin C: It brightens, it fades sun spots and other types of discoloration, and it gives skin a clearer, more luminous appearance. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and a must for aging skin.
Retinol: Practically synonymous with anti-aging, retinol is a powerful stimulant that wakes up skin cells and encourages collagen production. With regular use, skin looks more toned and even.
Hydroquinone: Dealing with age spots and other pigmentation issues? Look for a serum with hydroquinone, a bleaching agent that may help fade existing spots. It’s a controversial ingredient, but is an effective one in alleviating stubborn pigmentation.
Every now and then, you’ll find a fruit or vegetable derivative in the mix. Many of these have powerful smoothing and anti-aging properties, as well. I love serums particularly because they’re so gentle on my oft-sensitive skin, and because I wake up with smoother skin every single time. Here are nine anti-aging serums that stand out from the pack.
Looking for the perfect anti-aging serum for you? Check out the best-of-the-best in the slideshow.
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Best Anti-Aging Serums
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Murad
Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum, $60
One of the most obvious signs of aging is the inevitable development of age spots. These can fade when you use a product like this serum, which contains clearing hydroquinone. The brightening effect leaves skin looking fresher and healthier.
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Caudalie
Caudalie Polyphenol C15 Anti-Wrinkle Defense Serum, $62
It may feel rich and silky, but don’t be fooled---this serum sinks right in without any oily residue (guess it helps that it’s oil free). Smooth it on to achieve instantly soft skin; over time, its complex grape seed polyphenol and vitamin C ester complex will prevent environmental damage.
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Tata Harper
Tata Harper Rejuvenating Serum, $95
By boosting the production of collagen, this advanced serum diminishes the appearance of wrinkles while nourishing skin with hyaluronic acid and firming sagging areas. Free of synthetics, gluten, and fillers, it contains organically derived ingredients.
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Drunk Elephant
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum, $80
The fruit enzymes in this serum slough off dead skin cells, while vitamin C fades existing spots and helps slow the production of new ones. You might question the offbeat name, but trust---it’s recognized for its fragrance-free, natural products. This product feels absolutely lovely on even the most sensitive skin.
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Fresh
Fresh Black Tea Age-Delay Serum, $85
Talk about smooth skin. This lovely serum has it all, from a fruity free-radical busting complex (including lychee seed extract and blackberry leaf extract) to antioxidant vitamins C and E. If your skin is sensitive, you may love this in particular for its soothing evening primrose extract.
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Boots
Boots No7 Protect & Perfect Advanced Serum, $24.99
For a while there, everyone was raving over this so-called miracle serum. My curiosity naturally piqued, I gave it a trial run and was suitably stunned by how beautifully it sinks into the skin. Its superstar ingredient is Matrixyl 3000 Plus, a super-charged peptide infused with antioxidants and salicylic acid for a clearer, brighter, and more refreshed complexion.
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Olay
Olay Regenerist Regenerating Serum, $22.99
Key to this serum is niacinamide (or vitamin B3), which is renowned for its brightening (and anti-redness!) properties. As it dulls away dark spots and reduces hyper-pigmentation, it also firms and restores moisture. This serum feels incredible---silky and light, more like an essence than a lotion.
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Supergoop!
Supergoop! City Sunscreen Serum SPF 30, $42
It’s never too early to begin using anti-aging products, and it’s 100% essential to wear sunscreen. Combine the two and you have this broad spectrum sunscreen serum, which slows early signs of aging while protecting skin from harmful UV rays.
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Neutrogena
Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Anti-Wrinkle Deep Wrinkle Serum, $20.49
Hello, retinol! Hello, antioxidants! If you’re looking for a value-driven product, this is the serum for you. It’s designed to begin showing results in two weeks, thanks to its potent formula.
