An anti-ageing serum can be a useful addition to your daily skincare routine, but not every product suits every skin type. Fine lines, dryness, a dull complexion and loss of firmness also call for different ingredients.
The packaging often promises quick results, a younger-looking appearance or an intensive effect. So check the ingredients list, instructions for use and suitability for your skin type first. This can help you avoid buying an expensive anti-wrinkle serum that irritates your skin or ends up unused in the bathroom cabinet.
A list of dozens of peptides, extracts and antioxidants may look impressive, but it tells you little about how the product will work for you. Focus on the role of the key ingredients:
The presence of an ingredient does not guarantee a particular result. Check the concentration too, if it is listed on the packaging, and make sure the texture is comfortable enough for daily use.
Retinol serum is generally used in the evening. For example, start by using it every other day and pair it with a face cream containing SPF during the day. According to the product information, ROC Retinol Correxion capsules should be introduced gradually; experienced retinol users can use them more often.
Sun protection remains important with other active ingredients too. An anti-ageing serum is not a substitute for SPF. If you have sensitive skin, it is a good idea to test a small amount on a limited area of skin first.
A serum may be suitable for mature skin, but still feel uncomfortable if your skin is prone to reacting. Check for:
If in doubt, choose a fragrance-free formula and introduce just one new product at a time. Stop using it if you experience redness, itching or a burning sensation. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
First, decide what you want to address. For dryness, choose a hyaluronic acid serum or a formula containing glycerine, panthenol and shea butter. For fine lines, look at retinoids, peptides or adenosine. A firming serum often contains several hydrating and supporting ingredients, but the product description does not guarantee a medical or lasting change.
If your main concern is a dull complexion or making dark spots less visible, look for niacinamide or alpha-arbutin. According to its ingredients list, Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum contains 2% alpha-arbutin, rice bran water and niacinamide. This makes it more of a serum for an even-looking complexion than an intensive retinol product.
A lightweight essence usually absorbs quickly and suits normal or combination skin. A richer formula containing oils, shea butter or silicones may feel more comfortable on dry or mature skin. Compare the pack sizes too:
A larger pack is not automatically better value. Calculate the price per millilitre and check how soon you need to use the product after opening.
A pump bottle or capsule can help you measure the amount more accurately. If you use a dropper bottle, avoid hygiene issues by not placing the dropper directly on your skin. Apply a serum after cleansing and, if you use one, toning, then follow with a moisturiser.
For retinol serum, use it in the evening, build up gradually and wear SPF during the day. According to the product information, a hydrating serum without a retinoid can often be used morning and evening, but always follow the instructions on the label of your chosen formula.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this 30 ml formula contains bakuchiol, glycerine, betaine and allantoin. This Korean skincare serum is a good option if you want to ease into using a serum for fine lines.
The product description says it is suitable for dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. However, check the plant extracts in the ingredients list first.
Contains 10.000 ppm bakuchiol; perfume is not listed in the ingredients provided; according to the product information, use morning and evening.
Why it suits this profile: This fragrance-free, oil-free formula contains sodium hyaluronate, glycerine, bifida ferment lysate and tripeptide-32, among other ingredients. Estée Lauder says the serum is designed to hydrate and address visible signs of skin ageing.
The product details are clearly stated: 30 ml, fragrance-free, oil-free and suitable for all skin types. Brand claims about visible results are not a guarantee for every user.
Fragrance-free texture, hyaluronic acid, and according to the product information, use during the day and in the evening.
Why it suits this profile: This 40 ml night serum contains retinyl propionate, glycerine and dimethicone. It is designed for those specifically looking for retinol-like night-time skincare to help skin texture look smoother.
The directions are clear: apply in the evening and use UV protection during the day. Start gradually and avoid contact with the eyes.
Fragrance-free formula, 40 ml size and a clear evening routine featuring retinyl propionate.
Why it suits this profile: According to the ingredients list, this 50 ml essence contains glycerine, niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, adenosine, panthenol and several peptides. The product information says the formula is unscented.
The ingredients list shows that the formula contains both moisturising ingredients and peptides. If you have sensitive skin, carry out a patch test first.
Unscented, 50 ml size, with a combination of glycerine, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and peptides.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.
Apply the serum to cleansed skin, before your moisturiser. A hydrating serum can often be used morning and evening. Retinol and retinyl propionate are usually used in the evening. Always check the instructions on the packaging.
The shelf life is shown on the packaging as either a use-by date or a period after opening. Store the product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and close the bottle securely. If its smell, colour or texture changes, stop using it.
You can, but avoid introducing several potent active ingredients at once. For example, start by combining one hydrating serum with a moisturiser. If you also want to use a retinol serum, introduce it on separate evenings and gradually increase how often you use it. Stop if irritation occurs, and check the full ingredients lists beforehand.