Highly concentrated formulas, jam packed with actives and nutrients, effective at targeting specific concerns, serums have become the heart of most skincare routines, replacing the old cleanse tone moisturise practice with a new standard. I get through my fare share of serums, swapping one for the other depending on how my skin looks and feels. Here are 12 serum empties accumulated over the last few months, each with a different promised result.

Caudalie vinosource-Hydra SOS thirst-quenching Serum

Although my all-time favourite Caudalie serum remains their bestselling Vinoperfect Serum thanks to its visible effect on pigmentation, this vegan and oil-free super light serum gives skin a tangible drink of water, for a super refreshing and hydrating result. Perfect for the summer months and humid climates.

Caudalie premier cru serum

Part of Caudalie’s pro-ageing range – and a playful reference to their link to wine making – it provides instant hydration thanks to hyaluronic acid as well as a firming action for up to 6 hours. A delight to use but it doesn’t replace Vinoperfect in my heart.

Aremes fermentis super bioactive serum

A vegan and cruelty-free formula blending 27 botanicals, this powerhouse blend delivers hydration, and protection, restoring, brightening and balancing the skin. It is an oil-based serum, but remains super light. Its hero blend of fermented mushroom metabolites (reishi, shiitake, snow and chaga mushrooms) left my skin looking dewy but not oily.

Chorus supernatural Quench-marine phytoplankton serum

As the name indicates, this is another thirst-quenching formula thanks to serum staple ingredient hyaluronic acid, but also enriched in brightening vitamin C, magnesium, zinc, calcium and potassium. It looks more like a cream but remains very light for layering.

Pietro Simone Dewy Reboot

Known for his results-driven facials with a clinic in New York and London, Pietro Simone compliments his treatments with his own skincare range. By now you’re probably familiar with the serum ingredients staples such as hydrating hyaluronic acid and brightening vitamin C, but it also contains gold and an anti-pollutant shield – this is glow-in-a-bottle.  

Katherine Daniels treatment boost for pigmentation and dark spots

I’ll get taken in by any serum promising to target hyperpigmentation. So of course this one caught my attention. Containing tranexamic acid (which reduces pigmentation in superficial cells), vitamin C (to limit the production of new pigmentation marks) and niacinamide (which also helps to reduce dark spots), this cocktail of antioxidant ingredients works to reduce the appearance of existing damage and prevent further damage. Result: after 3 weeks of daily use, my skin looks less dull and a little more even.  

The Inkey List Tranexamic Acid Serum

Previously sold as a night treatment, this is another serum featuring pigmentation-busting tranexamic acid (at a 2% concentration), coupled with vitamin C (also at 2%) this treatment brightens the complexion, targeting uneven skin tone and dark spots. Bonus: you don’t need to apply anything afterwards, simplifying your skincare routine.

Zorah bioretinol anti-aging night complex

Bakuchiol: the natural alternative to retinol that exploded on the market – and in many skincare routines – a few years ago, is often referred to as a bioretinol, because it’s a natural ingredient that delivers the same skincare benefits as retinol, without the negative side effects such as sun sensitivity. Zorah’s 100% natural Bioretinol feels like a cross between a serum and a sorbet moisturiser that delivers anti-ageing benefits in a light and delicately scented formula.

BYBI Bakuchiol Booster

Another bakuchiol product, BYBI’s Booster can be used as a serum or to supercharge your existing skincare routine by mixing it to an essence, serum, moisturiser or oil – or under a mask. Although oil-based, it does feel super light and leaves skin soft, silky and hydrated, for a smooth result.

Apo.ge Renewing Night Elixir

Made by hand in small batches in Northern California, Apo.Ge is the definition of an indie brand. Cruelty-free formulas are simple yet effective and use certified organic, wildcrafted, fair trade, sustainably grown and locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Not a serum as such, I used their Renewing Night Elixir instead, mostly in the evening. The rich and deep golden oil with manuka and hemp oils made my skin feel nourished and soothed.

Mira Skin City

Although this is an oil-based serum, it is dry enough to quickly absorb into skin and leave it feeling nourished but non greasy. A simple blend of kukui, moringa, safflower and jojoba oils, these ingredients work together to deliver smoothing omega-rich fatty acids as well as vitamins A, C, D and E.

Nourish Antioxidant Peptide Face Mist

If you’re using an oil-based serum but prefer a refreshing finish, just top up with Nourish’s Face Mist for instant hydration and a soothing effect. Great for hydrating top ups throughout the day if your skin feels tight.

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