Editor Tip: Try it after laser resurfacing, microneedling, or IPL to seriously calm your skin.
Key Ingredients: Arnica, phytoene, phytofluene | Who It’s For: People who have super sensitive skin and/or consistently get in-office procedures
Best for Oily Skin: Shani Darden Lactic Acid Exfoliating Serum
Why It’s Worth It: Dark spots be damned, because Shani Darden’s Allure Best of Beauty-winning Lactic Acid Exfoliating Serum is here to tackle hyperpigmentation with its hero ingredient. It contains an exfoliating mix of lactic and polyhydroxy acids to discoloration and texture. These two acids are considered gentler than an intensive AHA like glycolic acid or BHA like salicylic acid because they have larger molecules, which means they don’t penetrate as deeply into the skin. Meanwhile, a soothing complex of hyaluronic acid, aloe, and green tea targets dryness and irritation.
Editor Tip: Since this formula contains active ingredients, you’ll want to reserve it for your evening routine during retinol-free nights.
Key Ingredients: 9% lactic acid, gluconolactone (PHA), glyercin, hyaluronic acid, aloe, green tea | Who It’s For: People with large pores
Frequently Asked Questions
Why you should use a face serum
Face serums have become a mainstay in every Allure editors’ skin-care routine, and they should be in yours, too. Kenneth Howe, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, explains that “in contrast to moisturizers, serums don’t contain air-tight, occlusive ingredients, which allow them to penetrate more deeply into the epidermis, carrying their active ingredients with them.”
Another reason these facial serums are a mainstay for skin-care novices and lovers alike? The good, old feel factor. “Serums are the new moisturizers,” New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Ellen Marmur, MD, tells Allure. “They are perfect for layering — like a primer on clean skin before makeup or sunscreen.”
When do I apply my serum?
According to New York City-based dermatologist David Kim, MD, you should apply your serum after cleansing and before your moisturizer. “Serums have more active ingredients in higher concentration, and they are formulated to either brighten, hydrate, or calm the skin,” he says. “Then a moisturizer goes on top to lock in the moisture and to repair the skin barrier.”
Can I use multiple serums at once?
Dr. Kim says you can tag-team multiple serums to tackle multiple skin-care concerns, but just make sure you aren’t flooding your pores with too many harsh active ingredients at once — that can lead to sensitivity and irritation. “For example, you can apply a lightweight vitamin C serum with a hydrating serum on top before sunscreen,” says Dr. Kim. “This is particularly effective for people with oily acne-prone skin who don’t like a heavier thicker moisturizer.”
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
