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The Best Serums For Every Skin Type & Concern
While a moisturiser hydrates the skins surface, serums contain smaller molecules which penetrate far more deeply through the dermis layers and bring the moisturiser applied on top along with it. Offering targeted treatment for a variety of skin concerns in one simple step, those looking to brighten, slow signs of ageing, even skin tone or boost collagen will have plenty of amazing options to choose from.
Sunday Riley’s brand-new Tidal Wave Serum has seriously raised the bar, with a knockout combination of active ingredients to hydrate, soften and plump your skin. Let’s be honest, who can say no to help with dehydration? Plus, those with oilier skin types may also prefer to receive hydration in the form of a serum rather than a moisturising cream, thanks to its lighter texture.
If you’ve been questioning the value of a serum in your routine or are looking for your new favourite, keep reading to discover the best on the market.
The Best Serums To Try In 2026
Sunday Riley
Tidal Deep Hydration and Plumping Serum, £70.00
The Best Hydrating Serum
Looking for next-level hydration? Sunday Riley’s got you covered. The brand’s latest hydrating serum contains five types of hyaluronic acid to intensely hydrate the surface, achieving plump, smooth results. Polyglutamic acid seals in moisture for long-lasting hydration, and lotus-derived mucin (the vegan alternative to Korean Skincare hero, snail mucin) gives your skin that healthy bounce. If that wasn't enough, silk-derived peptides are infused to maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Medik8
Niacinamide Peptides, £39.20
The Best Clarifying Serum
Smooth, clear skin is always in style and treating congested pores has been simplified by Medik8’s clarifying serum. Working to clear sebum build up and balance oily skin, this formula helps with blemishes and niacinamide refines the appearance of pores. The gentle formula uses replenishing peptides and lightweight hyaluronic acid to avoid stripping your skin barrier and deliver natural radiance.
The INKEY List
Starter Retinol Serum, £9.60
The Best Retinol Serum
No matter where you are in your retinol journey, The INKEY List has a range of options to meet you. This serum is formulated for those just starting out with retinoids and are looking to prevent signs of ageing. With continued use, your skin will feel soft, smooth and more even and the formula is enriched with barrier-boosting lipids to remain comfortable and soothed. When you’re ready for the next step, try the Advanced Retinol Serum.
Erborian
Centella Red Serum, £12.80
The Best Soothing Serum
If your skin feels stressed and needs comfort, this soothing formula is one to reach for. Powered by centella asiatica, a hero Korean skincare ingredient known to calm redness and restore hydration, working alongside anti-inflammatory bisabolol and barrier-supporting ectoine to help relieve irritation and protect moisture levels. The result is skin that feels immediately calmer, supported and visibly more balanced.
DR SAM'S
Flawless Vitamin C NAD+ Serum, £51.20
The Best Brightening Serum
All skin types will benefit from a shot of vitamin C, and this formula packs a high-strength concentration. The antioxidant-rich blend delivers goodness deep into the skin while helping to even out and reduce areas of pigmentation. You can also expect your pores to be refined and fine lines to appear less noticeable for the ultimate glow, as sunflower shoot extract boosts skin cells, increasing NAD+.
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