The 10 Best Anti-Aging Serums, According To Skincare Experts

Skin type: All | Key ingredients: L-ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E), ferulic acid, glycerin | Size: 1 ounce

A top pick in our roundup of the best vitamin C serums, this editor favorite has just over 4,500 5-star reviews on Dermstore. The antioxidant-packed cocktail of vitamins C and E, plus ferulic acid, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, neutralizes free radicals and helps to reverse signs of environmental aging, including sun spots. It does have a strangely distinctive smell (as many vitamin C serums do), but that goes away once it absorbs into your skin.

Skin type: All | Key ingredients: Glycerin, niacinamide, panthenol, camellia sinensis leaf extract | Size: 1.7 ounces

The next time you’re filling your Target cart with a million things you don’t need, do yourself a favor and pick up this affordable serum you do need. This under-$30 product has an amino-peptide complex that infuses hydrating and firming ingredients deep into the skin to leave your complexion smoother and more plumped in a matter of weeks. We love that it’s fragrance-free and has a lightweight gel texture that absorbs lightning fast. And the inclusion of dimethicone makes it perfect to use as a pre-makeup primer.

Skin type: Normal and dry | Key ingredients: Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, caprylyl glycol (a humectant), sunflower seed oil | Size: 1 ounce

This anti-aging powerhouse from French brand Caudalie works effectively on skin of every age. Resveratrol is sourced from grapes, and is known to defend the vine against harsh weather conditions; when used in skincare, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties work to combat environmental aggressors like UV, stress and pollution. Polyphenols, plant-based micronutrients, help prevent free radical damage that can lead to loss of volume and fine lines. And finally, a patented technology created in partnership with Harvard University called TET8 wakes up skin cells to encourage collagen and elastin production.

Skin type: Normal, dry and combination | Key ingredients: Caffeine, squalane, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate | Sizes: 0.67 ounce, 1 ounce, 1.7 ounces, 3.9 ounces

They don’t call it beauty sleep for nothing—your skin naturally repairs and rebuilds overnight when you’re catching some z’s. This non-greasy, quick-absorbing serum speeds up the process by supporting the skin’s natural ability to repair and boost collagen. High levels of hyaluronic acid also help lock in moisture for up to 72 hours, further optimizing skin’s natural repair process.

Skin type: Dry and combination | Key ingredients: Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, lavender extract, aloe leaf juice | Sizes: 1 ounce, 1.7 ounces

Tata Harper’s Rejuvenating Serum helps to reverse signs of aging without the use of unnecessary filler ingredients or artificial fragrance. Spanish lavender works as a natural plumper and helps temporarily relax the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid boosts moisture for firmer, more plump skin, while vitamins A and C, rosehip seed oil and date palm extract smooth and soften the texture of even the driest skin.

Skin type: All skin types | Key ingredients: Encapsulated retinol, aloe leaf juice, apricot kernel seed oil, marula seed oil | Size: 1 ounce

It’s hard to believe that a serum at this price does anything, let alone reduce the appearance of fine lines with encapsulated retinol, brighten with kojic acid and moisturize with marula and jojoba oils. When used nightly, results compound over time. Plus, the cute packaging is nothing short of display-worthy.

Skin type: Normal, combination and oily | Key ingredients: Encapsulated retinol, apple fruit extract, lactic acid | Sizes: 0.34 ounces, 1 ounce

Retinol can be a difficult ingredient for some people with sensitive skin; while it works wonders at combatting a dull complexion and loss of firmness, it can be too harsh depending on its formulation. Shani Darden’s encapsulated retinol is designed to gently yet effectively improve the look of fine lines, smooth texture and boost elasticity without irritating the skin. Additionally, AHA exfoliates and evens tone and texture, while apple extract helps reduce signs of aging and protect the skin from pollution. And it’s still powerful enough to make a difference in more resilient skin types.

Skin type: All skin types | Key ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, phytosterol esters, watermelon seed oil, black currant seed oil | Size: 1 ounce

Think of this detoxifying serum as a green juice for skin: It’s jam-packed with micronutrients to purify and balance your complexion, while using gentle florals, antioxidants and essential vitamins to hydrate and protect. Plus, the brand’s unique Active Flower Concentrate works to shield skin from environmental aggressors.

Skin type: All skin types | Key ingredients: Bakuchiol, retinol, ferulic acid, rambutan | Size: 0.5 ounces

To target wrinkles around the eyes, look for a product with retinol or bakuchiol, a plant-derived antioxidant that stimulates collagen. The Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Triple Correction Eye Serum contains both ingredients, along with ferulic acid and rambutan to fade discoloration and improve elasticity. Despite the powerful actives, users say the formula is gentle and has a refreshing gel-like consistency. It can be used in the morning or at night, but make sure to apply sunscreen as well if you’re applying it in the day.

Skin type: All skin types | Key ingredients: Grape seed oil, avocado oil, rose flower oil, carrot seed oil, evening primrose extract | Sizes: 1 ounce, 1.7 ounces

This serum is made with a powerful blend of botanical oils to nourish, soothe, hydrate and balance the complexion. Grape seed, dandelion and calendula soothe reactive skin and reduce redness, while hazelnut, jasmine and neroli oils balance and hydrate. Despite the numerous oils and extracts packed into the bottle, the formula feels light and absorbs quickly with no greasy residue. For best results, apply five to six drops to your hands and rub together to activate the serum. Gently push and press the formula into your face, neck and décolleté for 30 seconds or until absorbed. (Although formulated for all skin types, it works particularly well for oily or combination skin.)