Does face serum really work?

Author: Gay Barrows IV  |  Last update: Friday, November 21, 2025

While most serums provide some level of hydration for the skin, the exact benefit of any given serum will depend largely on the ingredients and the skin concern(s) it's meant to address. Lightweight serums with vitamin C, for example, generally target issues such as dullness and discolorations.

Do face serums actually work?

Yes, face serums can make a difference in how well the skin ages when used as part of a comprehensive skincare routine. The effectiveness of a serum in addressing signs of aging depends on its formulation, active ingredients, and consistency of use.

What are the disadvantages of face serums?

Drawbacks Of Using Face Serum Every Day
  • Face serums can be more expensive than other skincare products.
  • People with sensitive skin may face irritation, redness or breakouts if the serum's formulation doesn't suit them. ...
  • Even when used daily, you should only use a small amount of serum.

Do I really need a serum for my face?

“I definitely recommend serums for anyone who is concerned about aging. It's a really good way to get extra anti-aging effects, more than your typical moisturizer and sunscreen,” says Dr. Waldman.

Is it OK to use face serum everyday?

Absolutely. Serums are generally safe for daily use, making them a valuable addition to your daily skincare regimen.

Using Serums? Avoid these 5 common serum mistakes!

What not to do after applying serum?

What not to do after applying serum? After applying face serums you should never use any other skincare product immediately. Wait for a few minutes to allow it to get absorbed in your skin before you follow up with a moisturizer and sunscreen.

At what age should I use face serum?

The right age to use face serums can vary based on individual skin type and concerns. However, many dermatologists recommend introducing a serum into your skincare routine in your mid-20s. This is when the first signs of ageing, such as fine lines or dullness, may start to appear.

Do I need a moisturizer if I use a serum?

Yes! Your skin can benefit from both serum and moisturizer, and it's recommended to use both of these products. However, it's not strictly necessary when you are using a moisturizing face serum. You can adjust your skincare routine to suit your individual skincare needs, concerns, and goals.

What is the best face serum?

The top-rated face serums of 2025:
  • Best Face Serum for Breakouts. Sofie Pavitt Face Mandelic Acid Exfoliating & Clearing Serum. Read more.
  • Best Retinol Face Serum. La Roche Posay Retinol Face Serum with Vitamin B3. Read more.
  • Best Firming Face Serum. Caudalie Resveratrol-Lift Instant Firming Serum. Read more.

What happens when you stop using face serum?

Hydration plays a crucial role in minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Well-hydrated skin tends to look smoother and more youthful. Discontinuing the use of an HA serum can lead to reduced hydration, which may make fine lines and wrinkles more pronounced over time.

Which is better, anti-aging cream or serum?

High Concentration of Active Ingredients

Anti-ageing serums like ours contain potent ingredients such as retinol, peptides, and antioxidants in higher concentrations than creams. This means serums directly deliver the actives your skin needs to boost collagen, fight free radicals, and reduce wrinkles.

Does vitamin C serum really work?

In clinical trials, vitamin C serums have reduced hyperpigmentation from sun damage, lightened dark spots and diminished redness, particularly if the formula had a concentration of 10% to 20% vitamin C and contained stabilizing ingredients like ferulic acid and vitamin E.

Is there a downside to hyaluronic acid?

The most common adverse effects associated with hyaluronic acid filler are pain, bruising, redness, itching, and swelling. These side effects are self-limited and typically last no more than seven days.

Do dermatologists recommend face serums?

According to New York City-based dermatologist David Kim, MD, you should apply your serum after cleansing and before your moisturizer. "Serums have more active ingredients in higher concentration, and they are formulated to either brighten, hydrate, or calm the skin," he says.

How long does it take to see results from face serum?

Serums: Four to Eight Weeks

However, just because they're more potent doesn't mean it works any faster than other skincare products. You can expect ingredients like resveratrol and vitamin C to take around 4-8 weeks before you start seeing results.

What is the No. 1 face serum?

Face Serum for Glowing Skin
  • Vitamin C Daily Glow Face Serum 10 ml. ...
  • Aloe Vera Sunscreen Face Serum with Aloe Vera & Ashwagandha for UVA & B Protection - 30 ml. ...
  • Rice Water Dewy Active Serum With Rice Water & 10% Niacinamide For Glass Skin - 50 ml. ...
  • Green Tea Face Serum With Green Tea & Collagen For Open Pores - 30 ml.

How to get glass skin?

Here are a few clear skin tips to help you on your journey toward healthy-looking glass skin.
  1. Double cleanse. ...
  2. Use an exfoliator. ...
  3. Apply a hydrating serum. ...
  4. Reach for a sheet mask. ...
  5. Layer on a lightweight moisturizer. ...
  6. Always finish with sunscreen.

What is the best anti-aging serum that really works?

  • Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Serum. ...
  • CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum. ...
  • SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. ...
  • Herbivore Moon Fruit 1% Bakuchiol + Peptides Retinol Alternative Serum. ...
  • TruSkin Rejuvenation Longevity Serum. ...
  • Skinceuticals SkinCeuticals Blemish and Age Defense Serum. ...
  • La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment.

Can I leave serum overnight without moisturizer?

You can also use serum alone without added moisturizer, but this may reduce the power of the serum's active ingredients. Serums contain active ingredients such as oat oil, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid that pull moisture into the skin for deep hydration.

How long should I wait between serum and moisturizer?

It typically depends on whether it's oil- or gel-based, but most serums start absorbing immediately. Some skincare formulas can take up to 30 minutes to fully absorb — but that doesn't mean you have to wait that long between skincare steps. Most skincare products are designed to begin absorbing right away.

Can I use serum every day?

In most cases, it's not only okay to use your serum every day—it's recommended to do so in order to reap the full benefits of the product. However, usage can vary depending on the type of serum, the ingredients they contain, and how concentrated it is.

Do serums really work for wrinkles?

Anti-wrinkle serums and creams may make tiny wrinkles less noticeable. Your results may depend on how often you use a product, the type and amount of active ingredient in it, and the type of wrinkles you want to treat.

Do any anti-aging products really work?

The truth is, anti-ageing creams can't magically make you look decades younger overnight, but they can work to help reduce the signs of ageing over time, or help delay them from forming.

How many hours should serum stay on the face?

How long should I leave serum on my face? Serums need time to absorb into your skin so washing them off straight away is counterproductive. Let the product melt into your skin for about 90 seconds before finishing your routine with moisturiser – locking everything in place.

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