The Boots guide to face serums – & 11 of the best to try
Rachael Martin
Beauty & Skincare
Reading time: 7 minutes
Face serums – they could be the secret to glowing, healthy skin. From how to use one to finding the perfect match for your needs, here’s everything you need to know
When it comes to our skin, the power of a great serum isn’t to be ignored. This wonder product can help transform a basic wash-and-go skincare routine into something seriously transformative, revealing a visibly different, brighter, more glowing complexion from first use.
With this in mind, we spoke to consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall and Helen Wyre Charkham, co- founder of top dermatology clinic No.23 Skin, who have provided answers to our burning questions.
From how to apply serum to how long after serum should you apply moisturiser, here’s everything you need to know.
What is a face serum?
Let’s start by getting to grips with the basics.
"A serum is a concentrated form of an active ingredient," explains Helen. "These include retinol, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid among many others.
The serum you pick will depend on your primary skin concern as the active ingredient will target this specific issue.
What’s the difference between a serum and a moisturiser?
"Serums are liquid products of concentrated ingredients that usually penetrate deeper into the skin," explains Dr Hextall. "They’re an ideal vehicle to deliver actives into the skin and should be applied after cleansing and before moisturising. Moisturising is more about trapping and sealing in moisture to support the skin’s protective barrier and prevent water loss."
Helen adds: "I’d say the best way to describe the difference is that a moisturiser is passive, while a serum is active." Combined, they make for a skincare dream team.
What types of active ingredients should we look for in a serum?
"It’s always helpful to look for ingredients based on what your skin concern is," explains Helen. Here’s a quick explainer about some of the well-known ones – and what they can help target.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C can be great for helping brighten a dull complexion and can be a key part of your anti-pollution skincare kit. "Many vitamin C serums are very light and often more watery in texture. They layer easily under hydrating serums such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin," explains Dr Hextall.
"Those with dark spots caused by hyperpigmentation may also benefit," adds Helen.
Niacinamide
"Niacinamide serums can be applied to calm the skin and reduce unwanted pigmentation alongside other actives that ordinarily can cause some unwanted irritation," says Dr Hextall.
Check out our edit of eight of the best niacinamide serums for some add-to-cart inspo.
Hyaluronic acid
An all-rounder, hyaluronic acid is a humectant that occurs naturally in the skin and can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. It’s great for dry and ageing skin as hyaluronic acid production decreases as we get older.
Retinoids
If fine lines and dull skin are your concern, then consider reaching for a retinoid-rich serum. It can help improve the appearance of wrinkles as well as skin texture.
"If this active causes some irritation, you can apply a hydrating moisturiser afterwards to reduce this common side effect," suggests Dr Hextall. New to retinoids? Start slowly and apply once a week to begin with. Try a lower concentration first to see how well your skin tolerates it. No7, through research with University of Manchester, found that 0.3% is the sweet spot for many people, "as it offers a perfect balance between impressive results and skin tolerance", says No7 skin scientist, Dr Ellie Bradley. "On the other hand, 1% is better suited to those who are experienced with retinol."
Acids
Mild acids act as an exfoliator for the skin, getting rid of dead skin cells and helping complexion appear brighter and more radiant. "Anti-pigmentation ingredients such as tranexamic acid, kojic acid and azelaic acid are often found in serum form," says Dr Hextall.
Are there ingredients that don’t combine well?
Considering creating a cocktail of serums in the name of beauty? This is your cue to hold off.
"Broadly, I would be cautious about combining serums that are potential irritants," says Dr Hextall. "Retinoids can cause redness and irritation, especially when first introduced to sensitive skin. If this is combined with other potentially irritating actives, such as acids, this may cause issues with inflammation and moisture loss. I always recommend using these ingredients at different times."
If you’d like to know how to use both and when, you can get the lowdown on skin cycling here.
If you’re using a serum containing a retinoid or exfoliating acid, make sure to use sunscreen and limit sun exposure as they may increase your sensitivity to UV rays.
Are there ingredients that play nicely together?
"Some actives do work well together with a so-called synergistic effect," says Dr Hextall. "For example vitamin E enhances the efficacy of vitamin C. Add ferulic acid to this combination and the effects are boosted further."
And when it comes to layering?
"Look at their texture and apply the lightest, most fluid first. Once absorbed, apply the thicker serums such as hyaluronic acid and finally your moisturising products to seal the skin," says Dr Hextall.
What is the correct way to apply a serum?
"I always recommend applying serums morning and night after cleansing and before moisturising," says Dr Hextall. "In the morning I recommend applying a vitamin C serum first, then a hyaluronic acid option. Finish with a light moisturising lotion to trap that hydration."
As for the evening, "Apply an active, such as a retinoid and then follow with hydrating products. My mantra is active first, then repair."
And another useful tip from Helen? "Always begin with clean hands!"
How long does it take for serum to absorb?
"If a serum is watery, its absorption is almost instant," explains Dr Hextall. "However, something like a hyaluronic acid is usually slightly thicker in texture and should be allowed around a minute to absorb before applying a light water-based moisturiser."
And if you’re noticing some pilling? Check out our top tips and advice on how to stop this from happening in our skin cycling feature.
11 of the best face serums to try at Boots
Whether you’re dealing with dull or dry skin or looking for something to help improve the appearance of skin texture or uneven skin tone, here are 11 of Team Health & Beauty’s favourite face serums that can provide a helping hand.
Best serum for menopausal skin
Try: No7 Menopause Skincare Instant Radiance Serum
• Size: 30ml
• Co-created with over 7,000 menopausal women
No7’s skincare range for menopausal skin is making waves in the beauty industry. Just look at the reviews! This nourishing serum uses Collagen Peptide Technology to help deliver firmer skin*, while hyaluronic acid leaves skin looking plump and springy. It’s designed to boost your outer glow, while the instantly cooling applicator helps soothe and calm skin.
Best hydrating serum
Try: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Filler 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
• Size: 30ml
• Contains 1.5% pure hyaluronic acid
This hydrating serum packs a punch thanks to a potent dose of macro and micro hyaluronic acid. It’s also non-greasy and fast-absorbing, making application a dream.
Best serum for mature skin
Try: No7 Pure Retinol 0.3% Retinol Night Concentrate
• Size: 30ml
• Created with 0.3% pure retinol
Ideal for older skin, this retinol-infused serum helps increase cell turnover and ultimately, boost radiance in both the short and long term. We like to apply it in the evening for a brighter, bouncier complexion come morning.
Best retinol alternative serum
Try: Elemis Pro-Collagen Renewal Serum
• Size: 15ml
• Suitable for everyday use
Among our favourite products from Elemis (and there’s more than just a few) is this serum. Providing an alternative to retinol, simply pat into a cleansed complexion in upward strokes for best results.
Best hybrid serum
Try: Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C 2in1 Brightening Serum Cream SPF 25
• Size: 50ml
• SPF 25
• Suitable for all skin types
• Cruelty-free
Just a slick of this vitamin C rich serum and cream hybrid helps to dial up radiance, meaning you can take your glow game to the next level with minimal effort. Better yet, it earns bonus points as it contains an SPF of 25.
Best brightening serum
Try: Olay Vitamin C + AHA24 Day Gel Serum For Bright And Even Tone
• Size: 40ml
• Dermatologist tested
Ideal for those who are congestion-prone, this silky lightweight number slips onto skin like a dream – which is music to our ears. Goodies like vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acid and niacinamide combine to work some serious magic, reducing dull skin and improving the look of uneven tone.
Best premium serum
Try: Chanel N°1 De Chanel Revitalising Serum
• Size: 30ml
Our radiant, glossy complexion? It’s Chanel, dahhling! Well worth the extra pennies, this serum is as luxurious as the name suggests. Soothing red camellia extract creates a glow that helps mimic a great night’s sleep.
Best firming serum
Try: Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Instant Firming Serum
• Size: 30ml
• Made of 100% recyclable glass and plastic
Never one to disappoint, Caudalie's Resveratrol Instant Firming Serum perfects skin that’s looking a little on the dull side. Hyaluronic acid works its skin-plumping magic, while olive squalane adds an extra dose of nourishment. Resveratrol and vegan collagen help firm and moisturise, too.
Best budget serum
Try: Boots Ingredients Hyaluronic Acid Serum
• Size: 30ml
• Suitable for vegans
• Carton and bottle widely recycled
A beauty bargain, this affordable hyaluronic acid serum’s no fuss formulation provides a veil of hydration for parched skin. It’s as friendly to the skin as it is to the bank balance.
Best ceramide serum
Try: Byoma Hydrating Serum
• Size: 30ml
• Vegan
• Cruelty-free
• Dermatologist tested
There’s a buzz around Byoma skincare products that’s going nowhere fast. We’re reaching for this ultra-lightweight, moisture-boosting serum that’s bursting with hydrating heroes – we’re talking ceramides and fatty acids galore, for gleaming, glowing skin.
Best cult classic
Try: Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum
• Size: 50ml
• Approved by the British Skin Foundation
When you’ve been approved by the British Skin Foundation, then you know you’re doing something right. This lightweight gel serum glides onto skin and is suitable for even the most sensitive of complexions.
Now the serum secrets are out, you’ll be on your way to happier and healthier skin.
Discover more top face serums in our full range.
*Consumer study
