If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission.
Updated March 1, 2024: This article on the best anti-aging face serums was updated with new product selections after an additional round of firsthand face serum testing, plus more information on innovation in the anti-aging skin care category. Our editors are currently testing additional anti-aging serums from brands like Is Clinical and Clarins for consideration in this expert-approved guide.
Our skin ages with us: As we get older, our complexions begin to rat us out for the days spent in the sun without SPF and the late nights out with friends. Thankfully, our skin care routines can be tailored to fight signs of aging, starting with the best anti-aging serums that target common concerns like wrinkles, dullness, and dark spots.
Related Articles
“Face serums are products that deliver a particular active ingredient to the skin,” explains Dr. Joshua Zeichner, an Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. However, not all face serums are created equal, and their benefits depend on its list of ingredients.
“Anti-aging serums can help, hydrate, protect, plump, or even exfoliate or brighten. It’s important to choose a serum that’s right for your skin, as your best friend’s favorite serum may not be right for you,” Dr. Zeichner adds.
In order to find the best anti-aging serum for your skin care goals, it is important to pay attention to the ingredient list. “For instance, if your concern is hyperpigmentation or a pigmentary disorder like melasma, then you may want to reach for a serum that also contains brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or tranexamic acid,” explains Dr. Rachel Westbay, board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical. On the other hand, if hydration is a concern, she suggests looking for hyaluronic acid serums or dry skin serums with ingredients like vitamin E, glycerin, and squalane.
In order to narrow down the best anti-aging serums, our team tested dozens of top face serums and interviewed experts like Dr. Zeichner and Dr. Westbay for their expert recommendations. Ahead, the best anti-aging face serums for your skin concerns.
Top Anti-Aging Serums of 2024
- Editors’ Choice: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 3% Retinol Serum
- Editors’ Choice: SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic
- Editors’ Choice: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
- Bioeffect EGF Serum
- Best for Hydration: La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best Drugstore Option: RoC Derm Correxion Fill and Treat Serum
- Best for Oily Skin: Caudalie Vinoperfect Facial Radiance Dark Spot Serum
- Best Retinol Serum: Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Solution Treatment
- Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum
- Best for Exfoliation: Sunday Riley Good Genes All in One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment
- Dior Capture Totale Le Sérum
- Charlotte Tilbury Magic Serum
- Best for Firming: BeautyPie Youth Bomb Double Retinol Skin Retinol
- Best for Fine Lines: Alastin Restorative Skin Complex
- Best for Sensitive Skin: EltaMD Skin Recovery Serum
- Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate
- Dr. Idriss Major Fade Hyper Serum
- Best Collagen Serum: MMRepose Serum
Editors’ Choice: Top 3 Anti-Aging Serums of 2024
Anti-aging serums cover the gamut of skin concerns, with some catered to instant plumping via heavily hydrating ingredients and others promising long-term benefits over time with ingredients like retinol that speed up cell turnover for firmer, smoother, and brighter skin. On top of your individual skin concerns, your budget, skin sensitivities, and age can impact the anti-aging face serum that’s best for you. All this to say that there’s no singular best overall anti-aging face serum. Instead, our team narrowed down these top three anti-aging serums after a thorough round of product testing and expert input from dermatologists.
- L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 3% Retinol Serum: Proof that a great anti-aging serum doesn’t have to cost a fortune, L’Oréal’s retinol serum is an under-$40 formula that delivers the potent benefits retinol is known for. Our testers noticed an improvement in fine lines and discoloration with consistent use, earning it a spot on our list as the best drugstore anti-aging serum.
- SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum: If discoloration and dullness are your primary signs of aging, look no further than Skinceuticals’ CE Ferulic face serum. This dermatologist-recommended anti-aging serum fades existing dark spots and brightens the skin, while also protecting your skin from future damage via external stressors like sun exposure.
- SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum: Those who want to tackle multiple signs of aging, like fine lines, dark spots, and sagging skin, SkinMedica’s TNS Advanced+ Serum is the way to go. This luxury anti-aging serum effectively addresses all of those concerns with growth factors that accelerate cell turnover for brighter, bouncier skin. It’s also an excellent anti-aging serum for those who have dry skin.
Sign up for WWD Shop’s newsletter to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 3% Retinol Serum
Best for: Fine lines, dullness, hyperpigmentation
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Retinol and vitamin E
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
The drugstore is home to a handful of great anti-aging serums, and our editors get behind L’Oréal’s 3% Retinol Serum as an excellent budget-friendly way to reap the benefits of vitamin A. The ingredient is the gold standard for anti-aging, as it encourages cell turnover for a domino effect of skin benefits: With consistent use, you’ll notice fewer fine lines, less discoloration, clearer pores, and a bouncier feel to your complexion. This L’Oréal serum has a potent 3 percent concentration of retinol, plus vitamin E and hyaluronic acid that soften any adverse reactions (peeling and redness are the most common for new retinol users).
Editor testing and review notes: “The first thing I do when I’m trying a new product is review the product’s ingredient list. L’Oréal’s retinol serum passed my inspection with flying colors, courtesy of a hefty dose of retinol — a proven anti-aging ingredient — as well as vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, which in my experience, help to reduce any irritation I feel from using a retinol product. It feels lightweight but hydrating on my skin, which is a winning combination in my evening skin care routine.”
Value: 4.9 rating | Results: 4.7 rating | Texture: 4.8 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $17.59
Skinceuticals CE Ferulic Serum
Best For: Stubborn dark spots and aging skin
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid
Dermstore Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
Bluemercury Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Skinceuticals CE Ferulic is one of the most talked about anti-aging serums of all time. This brightening serum goes to work against stubborn dark spots and hyperpigmentation. “It not only repairs damaged skin but it also prevents further damage,” says Dr. Stacey Tull, owner and founder of St. Charles Dermatologic Surgery and board-certified dermatologist. Vitamin C is the top ingredient to look for to fight dark spots and oxidative stress, while vitamin E hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier. The combination of the two intensifies the efficacy of each ingredient. Dr. Tull recommends it for skin of all types and ages.
Editor testing and review notes: “Signs of aging can creep up in a number of ways — if you’re like me and experience discoloration, dullness, and sallow skin, there’s no better antidote than Skinceuticals’ CE Ferulic Face Serum. It has a slight smell to it, but that’s my only critique of this formula and a small compromise to make for a product that makes such a visible improvement in the look of my skin. I notice more bounce and a more even, brighter tone when I use it consistently.”
Value: 4.8 rating | Results: 4.9 rating | Texture: 4.8 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $182
SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Best for: Fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Growth factors, peptides, marine extracts
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Dermstore Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
Yes, this is one of the pricier serums on this list, but Dr. Tull promises that it is by far one of “the most effective anti-aging serum on the market.” The bottle has two chambers: The first holds clinically tested growth factors which helps to firm sagging skin and softens wrinkles, and the second contains a blend of botanicals, peptides, and marine extracts. With each pump, both chambers release a drop of serum. Simply mix on the back of your hand and apply to clean skin every night. Your skin will start showing results in about one month.
Editor testing and review notes: “Because I have dry, acne-prone skin, I love that this anti-aging serum hydrates my skin and never breaks me out. I’ve tested a range of SkinMedica products, and this one stands out as a favorite for the results I noticed right at that 28-day mark: I noticed smoothing, firming benefits after a month of use. Some reviews say that the product doesn’t dispense evenly, but I’ve had the opposite experience, easily getting the right amount with every pump.”
What testers say: “I first bought this because it was recommended to me by the beauty salon I go to… it was pricey but I figured I would give it a shot. Immediately after using it I started being questioned on what products I use on my face. I noticed my face also had a bright new glow! This is my third order. I’ve been using this product for approximately 6-7 months with each lasting me for about two months! Love it! Give it a try and you won’t regret it.”
Value: 4.7 rating | Results: 4.8 rating | Texture: 4.9 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $236
Bioeffect EGF Serum
Size: .5 oz.
Key Ingredients: Barley-derived growth factors, hyaluronic acid, glycerin
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Dermstore Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
The Bioeffect EGF Serum contains just seven ingredients — one of which is barley-derived growth factors culled from the brand’s biodynamic greenhouse in Iceland. The growth factors support your skin’s natural collagen production for brighter, smoother, and bouncier skin in the long run. Hyaluronic acid, Icelandic water, and glycerin provide moisture in the short term. Because it’s a potent formula, a little goes a long way: You only need two drops per application to reap these benefits. Shoppers are so impressed with this serum’s skin-transformative properties that one bottle sells every five seconds, according to the brand.
What testers say: “Love this stuff! It is so soft and gentle and my skin feels light and bright after using. I can tell a difference when using this and will continue using despite the higher price.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $159
La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Anti-aging serums are generally focused on targeting fine lines and wrinkles, but keeping skin hydrated is a must for a youthful complexion. This fragrance-free formula gently provides moisture to dry and oily skin types. Dr. Tull considers this one of her favorites thanks to its hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 combination. “The vitamin B5 smooths and nourishes the skin,” she explains. Use on clean, dry skin to provide moisture or apply before your retinol to prevent any redness or irritation.
Editor testing and review notes: “I always get compliments on my glow when I’m using La Roche-Posay’s hyaluronic acid serum — it makes my skin look like I’m wearing a luminous makeup primer or expertly-placed highlighter. The dewy look is excellent for reviving tired-looking skin, and I love how well this formula layers under other moisturizers and makeup.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $39.99
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Face Serum
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Peptides, hyaluronic acid, probiotics, and antioxidants
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Meet the original anti-aging serum: Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair. It was as legendary during its 1982 launch as it is today, with shoppers reaching for it to handle a host of skin concerns like fine lines, dark spots, dryness, and sagging skin. The product was most recently reformulated in 2020 and continues to earn praise from industry insiders (it’s featured on WWD’s list of the greatest skin care products of 2024) with no signs of slowing down. Our editors rate it as a great option for those who want an overall boost in skin quality without irritation, peeling, or redness you could experience from harsher formulas like retinol.
What testers say: “In one week, I noticed my skin was more bright and youthful looking. My makeup looked better as a result as well. I went on to purchase a full sized bottle because usually things like these take a long time to work, but this was quick. I have extremely sensitive and acne-prone skin and this did not irritate my skin in any way or cause acne. This is a product I will probably always use because it is so quick-acting and gentle.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $85
RoC Derm Correxion Fill and Treat Serum
Size: .5 oz.
Key Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
This serum from RoC is one of the best affordable anti-aging skin care options you can find. Shaped like a needle, the packaging encourages the user to tap onto problem areas like the forehead or temples. “This serum combines hyaluronic acid and retinol to give the skin a double punch,” explains Dr. Zeichner. “Retinol stimulates collagen production to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles with continued use, and improves skin, tone and texture.” Meanwhile, the hyaluronic acid functions like a sponge that sops up moisture to the outer skin layer which helps hydrate and plump. It’s the best drugstore anti-aging serum you can find.
What testers say: “I’m 42 and have been using this just about day and night for a month and definitely notice a difference in the appearance of wrinkles on my forehead, crows feet and marionette lines, and in the overall softness of my skin. Once you get used to the applicator (Tip: hold it like a needle), it’s great! I apply a thin layer (gently pat to spread out if you apply it too thick in one area) over the wrinkles, let it sit for about 2 minutes then gently pat the remaining noticeable serum in, let sit for another minute, then apply moisturizer. Highly recommend!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $29.97
Caudalie Vinoperfect Facial Radiance Dark Spot Serum
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Patented vine sap viniferine, olive squalane, biomimetic emulsifier
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Dark spots can be caused by excessive sun exposure, pregnancy, melasma, and more. Regardless of where they come from, they are tough to get rid of. Vitamin C is a common skin tone evener, but for more sensitive skin types, it can be a little harsh. Caudalie has you covered with its patented vine sap viniferine, a.k.a. the sap from grapevines. This ingredient functions as a powerful antioxidant and banishes hyperpigmentation without irritating skin. It’s a great option for oily skin types, as it does it provides a glow without exacerbating shine.
Editor testing and review notes: “As a beauty editor, I know that vitamin C is an important addition to my routine for brightening benefits. But my sensitive skin gets overwhelmed by many formulas, resulting in redness rather than radiance. Enter Caudalie’s Vinoperfect serum — this concoction is so gentle that I can apply it twice daily without any adverse reactions, instead getting a glow that gets brighter with each use.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $82
Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Solution Treatment
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Retinol, vitamin , licorice extract, oat extract
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Dermstore Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
In addition to the anti-aging powerhouse that is retinol, this formula touts brightening vitamin C and soothing oat extract. The result? Smoother, brighter, and softer skin. This treatment’s texture sits between a serum and a moisturizer. But don’t let the thicker feel fool you, it requires a moisturizer to seal it in. For some, this treatment can be hard to tolerate at first. If so, limit it to using only three times a week, increasing in frequency slowly.
What testers say: “At my age, 60+, I’m not expecting it to do wonders, but I do swear by this product. It leaves my skin feeling so soft and smooth, I highly recommend it to everyone. I use it every other day at night because I have dry skin, and top it with moisturizer.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $64
Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Trigger Factor Complex TFCTM, retinol, zinc
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Augustinus Bader is known for its luxurious formulas like the brand’s famous Rich Cream, but their retinol product is a sleeper hit to try for aging concerns. For starters, its powerful blend of active ingredients target everything from fine lines to clogged pores. Retinol resurfaces, zinc soothes, and a variety of marine extracts protect the skin from free radicals and limit bacteria growth. For best results, apply in upward sweeping motions. The serum’s retinol can make skin sensitive to sun, so stay loyal to your favorite face sunscreen while you’re using it.
Editor testing and review notes: “Those with sensitive skin can have a hard time working retinol into a skin care routine — the ingredient often causes flaking and irritation. Augustinus Bader’s luxury anti-aging serum surprised me with its ability to deliver all the benefits I expect from retinol, sans irritation. That allows me to use it regularly on a nightly basis, maximizing the benefits I can get from the serum.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $350
Related:
Best Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin
Best Tinted Moisturizers With SPF
Sunday Riley Good Genes All in One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment
Size: 1.7 oz.
Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, licorice, lemongrass, and prickly pear extract
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
If you are looking for an alternative to a harsh facial scrub or simply a way to improve your glow, a glycolic serum could be your answer. “This treatment utilizes tiny glycolic acid molecules that sink deep into the skin which improves the appearance of hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, fine lines and wrinkles,” explains Dr. Westbay. She recommends using it as a retinol alternative or cycling with your retinol. You can use both in the morning and the evening, but if you use in the AM, make sure to pair with SPF as AHAs make your skin more photosensitive.
Editor testing and review notes: “Dullness is a sneaky sign of aging skin — but it’s one of the easiest skin concerns to remedy when you have Sunday Riley’s Good Genes treatment on hand. Few chemical exfoliators feel hydrating to your skin; most of them leave you on the dry side. This serum, on the other hand, is immensely moisturizing. It’s a one-and-done step that banishes dullness for good.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $122
Related:
Sunday Riley Niacinamide Serum Review
Dior Capture Totale Le Sérum
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Longoza extract, iris extract, and hyaluronic acid
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Capture Totale Le Sérum is the first anti-aging serum from Dior, debuting just last year. The formula’s secret sauce is a fermented longoza extract, which helps firm the skin over time. You’ll also get a special form of hyaluronic acid for an extended skin-plumping effect and immediate moisture. Simple skin care lovers will appreciate that the serum is made with 98 percent naturally-derived ingredients, but that doesn’t stop the formula from giving you results within one week of using it.
What testers say: “The serum itself is very hydrating and leaves skin smooth. I always tap in my skin care and this serum leaves my face feeling soft, often not requiring moisturizer. If you are sensitive to fragrance be aware this does have a very heavy scent. I have very sensitive skin and despite the fragrance have not had any problems.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $125
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Serum
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin c, polyglutamic acid, niacinamide
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
If the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream is already a staple in your routine, the magic serum is a worthy addition. Like the cult favorite moisturizer for dry skin, the ultralight texture is perfect for wearing under foundations. “It combines polyglutamic acid with vitamin C to plump and brighten,” says Dr. Zeichner. He recommends thinking of polyglutamic acid as a cousin to hyaluronic acid. It acts like a sponge, pulling in hydration to the outer skin layers. Then, the vitamin C neutralizes free radical damage which in turn protects the skin from environmental exposures and helps fade dark spots.
Editor testing and review notes: “This Charlotte Tilbury anti-aging serum is my recommendation for those in their 20s looking to get a leg up on signs of aging — it’s effective but not so potent that it’ll leave the skin feeling stripped or irritated. Hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are great ingredients for any skin type — oily included! — and everyone who tries it reports back rave reviews that align with my great experience using this product.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $85
Beauty Pie Youth Bomb Double Retinol Skin Overhaul Serum
Size: 1.69 oz.
Key Ingredients: Retinol, retinoid complex, niacinamide, lactic acid, fi-vita, allosteris, hyaluronic acid, concentrated ceramides
Beauty Pie Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
This formula is a powerful cocktail of the buzziest anti-aging ingredients, and it’s one of the best dermatologist-recommended anti-aging serums. Dr. Zeichner calls out the combination of two forms of retinol to improve the appearance of fine lines, and wrinkles, while minimizing potential irritation, but that is not all. “Lactic acid in the formula enhances cell turnover a while, niacinamide brightens and evens skin tone” he adds. Weighing in at 1.69 ounces, this bottle is the biggest on our list, making it a high-value pick.
What testers say: “I have been using 1% retinol for some time but not on my neck. I recently started using this product and there has been no irritation. I have been using it with the youth bomb collagen peptide cream and my skin appears after only one week more even toned and glowy. Very happy so far and intend to keep on using.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Alastin Restorative Skin Complex
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: TriHex technology, niacinamide, silver mushroom
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Alastin is a staple in many dermatology offices. “If there was ever a powerhouse anti-aging serum, this is it. It really does it all,” says Dr. Westbay. The benefits run the gamut. It improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, helps restore volume to thinning skin, improves elasticity, protects skin from further damage with potent antioxidants, targets dullness and uneven skin tone, and includes a peptide complex that supports the production of new, healthy elastin and collagen, Dr. Westbay explains.
What testers say: “My dermatologist recommended this product for my aging skin. I’ve had chemo and my skin has not been the same. I don’t usually spend so much on a product for my skin but I trust my dermatologist. Her office sells this but it is more affordable on Amazon. It has made a significant difference in the fine lines of my face and makes my skin look smoother and more hydrated. It is absolutely worth every penny!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $185.55
EltaMD Skin Recovery Serum
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: AAC technology, arginine, taurine, glycine, ginger root extract
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Dermstore Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
Bluemercury Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
You may know of EltaMD for its beloved sunscreens and tinted moisturizers with SPF, but its skin care line contains more than just sun protection, especially for sensitive skin types. The run of the mill active ingredients for anti-aging, like retinol or exfoliating acids, are effective, but may irritate sensitive skin types. Dr. Stacey Tull loves this option as an alternative for those who are prone to tight, red reactions. “It contains no fragrances, dyes, or parabens,” she explains, “Plus, it repairs skin while boosting hydration.” The AAC technology is a fancy way of saying it contains three types of amino acids that help the skin remain hydrated. Plus, arginine and taurine help hydrate the skin and keep the barrier strong.
What testers say: “I am 67 years young with rosacea and was looking for something to help ‘calm’ my skin. I tried this serum (never used a serum before) and it has worked wonders. The redness in my cheeks dissipated significantly. I was so impressed with the serum, I have gone ahead with the entire EltaMd Skin Recovery line and am thrilled. My facial skin is soft, supple and now has very little redness. I am a happy camper and would strongly recommend.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $63
Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate
Size: 1.6 oz.
Key Ingredients: Fermented Roselle extract, Heartleaf extract, Reishi mushroom, Iris root extract, peptides
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Like a wellness smoothie for your skin, Shiseido’s Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate is one of the bestselling anti-aging face serums on the market (the brand sells one bottle every three minutes). The multitasking formula targets more than one singular skin concern, tackling issues like skin laxity, dryness, and a compromised skin barrier, all the while making the other products you layer on top absorb better. It has a lightweight texture that feels like cool water on the skin, leaving you instantly radiant with improved skin quality in the long run.
What testers say: “My mom has been using products from this brand since she was 20 and she always gets compliments on how young she looks. This brand is effective long term and truly works! I loved this product it had a light consistency.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $110
MMSkincare MMRepose Serum
Size: 1 oz.
Key Ingredients: Collagen, aloe, peptides, aromatherapy blend
“This serum contains a powerful blend of adaptogens, pre-probiotics, and photodynamic actives that respond to the skin’s microbiome to help repair, balance and protect for healthier, more resilient skin,” says Dr. Westbay. Beyond that, it contains night-blooming cucumber, which is a botanical extract that helps regulate the skin’s natural circadian rhythm and repair cellular damage overnight — a.k.a., it optimizes your beauty sleep. Plus, the formula is aloe based, so it prevents transepidermal water loss and prevents overnight dehydration. If that isn’t enough to sell you, the serum also protects against environmental aggressors and oxidative stresses encountered during the day.
What testers say: “I have sensitive skin that is irritated by most skin products, especially moisturizing products, but none of the MM products, including the MMSerums, irritated my skin.
Despite having many high quality ingredients in them, none of those ingredients caused any irritation.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $85
Key Ingredients to Look For in Anti-Aging Serums
When shopping for anti-aging serums, the most important thing to look for is the right ingredients. The benefits you are looking for will change your ingredient preference. For example, antioxidants like vitamin C are great for fighting dark spots while vitamin a derivatives like retinoids or retinols are good for diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.
- Retinol: Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A, and vitamin A is the gold standard for anti-aging. Vitamin A is one of the most studied and tested ingredients when it comes to reversing the signs of aging. It increases cell turnover which brightens dark spots, keeps pores clear, and stimulates collagen production. Retinol can be irritating to the skin and cause redness or scaling. In order to build up a tolerance, experts recommend using only once or twice a week at first. As your skin adjusts, you can start applying more frequently.
- Antioxidants: Antioxidants are ingredients that helps prevent oxidative damage on the skin from free radicals and environmental aggressors which can be responsible for premature aging on the skin. Some common examples of antioxidants include vitamin C, vitamin E, and niacinamide. Oftentimes, antioxidants work in tandem to offer multiple benefits like hydration, brightening, exfoliating, and more.
- Niacinamide: Niacinamide has gained a fair amount of buzz this past year, and for good reason. It is a known barrier booster, keeping moisture in and irritants out. Niacinamide has also been shown to keep pores clear and soothe irritated skin, too.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid gets a lot of love for its hydrating abilities, however, the benefits extend beyond moisture. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, which helps plump up the skin and minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
- AHAs: Otherwise known as alpha hydroxy acids, ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, and citric acid are chemical exfoliators. They peel away old, dead skin cells. Serums with these ingredients help improve skin’s texture, boost skin’s radiance, and clear clogged pores. Do not use alpha hydroxy acids and vitamin A together on the same day, and make sure to wear SPF consistently as the ingredients make your skin more sensitive to rays.
The Best Anti-Aging Serum for Different Age Ranges
When should you start using an anti-aging serum? The answer varies from person to person. However, Dr. Westbay recommends incorporating an anti-aging serum into your routine by your mid 20s at the latest. To nip signs of aging in the bud, prevention is paramount. Wearing an SPF 30 or higher everyday protects your skin from UV rays.
- Best anti-aging serums for 30s: Once you hit your thirties, collagen and elastin production starts to decline. Because of this, you may start to notice some fine lines deepening and some dark spots emerging. If you haven’t already, it may be time to invest in a high quality vitamin C serum for daily morning use. This will keep your skin looking even and fade pesky hyperpigmentation. Beyond that, it is important to keep skin hydrated as much as possible. Look for a hyaluronic acid serum and a quality moisturizer to seal in the benefits.
- Best anti-aging serums for 40s: Although it’s different for everyone, the forties decade is where many women experience the beginning signs of menopause. This means that your estrogen levels begin to decrease and the skin gets thinner and begins to lose its bounce. In order to combat dullness, try using an AHA serum like a glycolic or lactic acid. The skin around the eyes, unfortunately, is one of the first places to show signs of aging. On top of anti-aging serums, our experts recommend regularly using an eye cream to diminish the appearance of crow’s feet.
- Best anti-aging serums for 50s: In your fifties, your skin has succumbed to the effects of gravity and accumulated sun damage. It may be time to rethink your current skincare routine. Our experts recommend using a gentle face wash for dry skin or oily skin as harsh ingredients can cause irritation. In terms of serums, it is best to alternate between a potent vitamin A and an intense hydrator. Another vitamin A derivative, tretinoin, must be prescribed by your dermatologist, but it is one of the best at fighting deep inset lines.
- Best anti-aging serums for 60s plus: As your skin ages, it gets thinner, drier, and more sensitive. Keeping your skin hydrated and caring for your skin barrier is more important than ever. Read through your skin care labels and make sure that they are fragrance free. Also, be sure to incorporate a hydrating serum into your routine. If your skin is still on the dry side, turn on a humidifier in your bedroom at night.
How We Chose the Best Anti-Aging Serums
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
In order to find the best anti-aging serums, our team combed the market for options from top brands. We read through ratings, examined features, and personally tested different anti-aging serums to see if they lived up to their claims. We considered top factors for anti-aging serums like size, ingredients, benefits, and accessibility. On top of that, we spoke to board-certified dermatologists for their expert opinion and recommendations. Our list also includes product picks from extensive reporting conducted to create a list of the greatest skin care products of 2024. The list involved input from over 600 beauty industry insiders, executives, financiers, creators, professionals and founders, narrowing down the top 100 products based on criteria like product efficacy and formula innovation. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Joshua Zeichner is an Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He is one of the country’s key opinion leaders in treating acne and rosacea, and is an expert in cosmeceuticals, skin care, and cosmetic Dermatology.
Dr. Stacey Tull is the owner and founder behind St. Charles Dermatologic Surgery. Her prominence as a board-certified dermatologist stem from her exceptional expertise in the realm of skin cancer. Being a dedicated Mohs surgeon in the region, Dr. Tull has provided care to more than 20,000 patients since commencing her career in Dermatological Surgery in 2001.
Dr. Rachel Westbay is a board certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical in New York City. With a primary focus on cosmetic and general dermatology, she excels at the use of injectables and is also highly proficient in laser surgery, as well as other minimally and non-invasive cosmetic procedures, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), thermal skin tightening, body contouring and tumescent liposuction.
Meet the Author
Anneke Knot is a freelance writer in the fashion and beauty space based in San Francisco, California. With over seven years of experience in beauty product testing and writing, she has extensive knowledge of face serums and beyond. Aside from WWD, her editorial work can be found in publications like InStyle, The Strategist, Byrdie, Forbes, and more.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits beauty, fashion and lifestyle stories. She has over six years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She’s tested hundreds of products during her time as an editor, so she’s well-versed in selecting the products that make a meaningful difference in your anti-aging skin care routine. Sullivan contributed to the March 2024 update of this article with new insights and product picks after a round of testing top anti-aging face serums.