A fresh glow right this way.
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We all know (and love) what strategically placed highlighter or a touch of bronzer can do. That lit-from-within glow has been the focus of many articles and makeup lines—and for good reason. It can transform you into an effervescent goddess, distract you from imperfections, and, perhaps most importantly, make it look like you got a full night of sleep. But what if instead of creating that glow with makeup, you could wake up with naturally radiant skin? Radiance-boosting serums are key to getting the perfectly luminous, even-looking skin we all dream about. These formulas (which often contain potent antioxidants like vitamin C) can help diminish dark spots, refine skin texture, and create a brighter complexion. By adding this one step to your routine, you won’t have to rely on makeup for flawless-looking skin.
With claims like these, it’s no wonder that almost every brand has a stake in the radiance-boosting game. To help you choose which illuminating serum will be your new holy grail, we researched the best ones, assessing their ingredients and claims. After consulting with Dr. Ife J. Rodney, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Eternal Dermatology in Fulton, Maryland, and testing dozens of options, we landed on these bright stars below.
Best Overall
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum
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Benefits: Firm, plumps, reduces the appearance of dark spots | Skin Type: Oily, dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once a day | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
It may be the eye cream from this Banana Bright line that gets all the attention, but don’t sleep on this serum. Almost anyone can benefit from this multitasking formula that addresses a variety of complexion concerns. Along with a potent amount of illuminating vitamin C, it contains gently exfoliating PHAs (polyhydroxy acid) and hydrating and plumping hyaluronic acid.
We were big fans of the pump top bottle that dispensed the perfect amount and how well it hydrated our skin while imparting plenty of glow. It isn’t sticky or tacky and layers really nicely under other skincare products. Just take note that it may cause a bit of irritation if you have sensitive skin.
Best Budget
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
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Benefits: Reduces the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Twice a day | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
This serum packs a huge punch without breaking the bank. It’s formulated with a 2% concentration of alpha arbutin, a powerful skin illuminator known for being gentler than its counterparts. “This is a naturally occurring skin-tone evener that blocks the enzymes responsible for melanin production,” explains Dr. Rodney. The ingredient is supported by hyaluronic acid and slowly releases for an enhanced delivery, which sets it apart from other illuminating serums. We found it to be a game-changer, especially when used as part of a cohesive skincare routine.
Best Vitamin C Serum
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
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Benefits: Protects against free radicals and aging | Skin Type: Dry, normal, sensitive | Dosage: Once a day | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
There’s a reason this pick from SkinCeuticals tops our Best Vitamin C Serums list. We have sung its praises time and again. As its moniker suggests, it’s a magical blend of vitamins E and C, plus ferulic acid that helps transform and even skin tone instantly and over time, leaving behind an impeccable glow.
Dr. Rodney is a fan of this formula, too, lauding the brand’s unique formula that maximizes the stability and efficacy of vitamin C and yields “impressive results.” We saw a noticeable change in our skin after using this for six weeks—it was not only more illuminated and more glowy, but our fine lines and wrinkles appeared less noticeable, too.
Best for Hyperpigmentation
Goodal Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum+
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Benefits: Hydrates, brightens soothes | Skin Type: Oily, dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once or twice a day | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
We love this pick for anyone dealing with serious dark spots since it relies on several skin tone-evening ingredients. There’s vitamin C—derived from green tangerines, per the name—but there’s also a high concentration of niacinamide (4%, to be exact). It’s also nice and hydrating and contains soothing centella asiatica—always a boon if you have sensitive skin.3 We noticed that our skin looked healthier, luminous, and generally more even after a few weeks—and saw an improvement in texture after just a few days.
Best Anti-Aging
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Vitamin C Face Serum
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Benefits: Evens skin tones, reduces wrinkles, boosts radiance | Skin Type: Oily, dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once a day | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
There’s an impressive 10% concentration of pure vitamin C in this formula, making it super effective for illuminating skin as well as delivering overall anti-aging benefits. (and yes that includes smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles). We really like that it came in a metal tube with a precise applicator, making it easy to dispense just the right amount. But that tube has another benefit; it protects that potent vitamin C from light and air so it doesn’t break down.
While we didn’t necessarily see instant results, it did leave the skin more luminous and firmer in the long run—so much so that we could even start wearing less makeup.
Best Quick Fix
Yes To Grapefruit Brightening Serum
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Benefits: Firm, plumps, reduces the appearance of dark spots | Skin Type: Oily, dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once a day | Size: 0.95 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
We couldn’t get over how well this serum worked, especially considering the low price point. It left complexions glowy and hydrated right after the first use and improved texture after a day of wear. After a few weeks, we saw more even-looking skin and increased overall radiance. What more could you ask for? Credit the vitamin C and exfoliating PHAs in the formula. While we like the light grapefruit scent, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Most Hydrating
Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil
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Benefits: Brightens, firms, and hydrates | Skin Type: Dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once a day | Size: 1.01 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
If you have dry skin (or just love a good skin oil) try this one. It’s fast-absorbing but still leaves skin super glowy. We even skipped foundation on the days we used it, and we always got tons of compliments about how radiant our complexion was after using it. Vitamin C is responsible for that, while lightweight squalane (which is low-key more hydrating than hyaluronic acid) does the hydrating duties. However, since this is an oil, it’s not ideal for oily or acne-prone skin types. And while the clear glass bottle is pretty, you’ll need to keep it away from windows or the vitamin C may oxidize.
Best With Antioxidants
Klur Brilliant Light Repair Serum
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Benefits: Brightens, protects, corrects skin damage | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Once every other day | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
No matter your skin type or tone, this pick from Klur is ideal for helping target hyperpigmentation and illuminate the skin. Vitamin C works synergistically with other antioxidants in the formula (vitamin E, rosehip seed oil) which provide corrective and protective benefits (aka if you work in a city, these ingredients will help shield your skin from environmental stressors such as pollution).
We were big fans of how beautifully it absorbed into the skin, as well as how soft, smooth, and hydrated our complexion looked and felt after using it regularly. We just wish we got more product for the price
What to Look for in a Brightening Serum
- Vitamin C: Dr. Rodney says this is one of the best illuminating ingredients out there. It’s a powerful protective antioxidant that also inhibits the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme needed for melanin (aka, pigment production).
- Alpha and beta hydroxy acids: AHAs and BHAs are chemical exfoliants that help slough off dead, discolored skin cells, revealing healthy, more even-toned skin underneath, Dr. Rodney explains. You can also look for their slightly gentler counterpart, PHAs.
- Kojic acid: Dr. Rodney also likes this natural ingredient, which helps reduce dark spots by slowing down melanin production in targeted areas.
FAQ
When should I use an illuminating serum?
Always check the label of your products to see what the manufacturer recommends. But depending on the type of illuminating serum you’re using, you can typically use it up to two times per day: in the morning and at night. That said, products that contain actives such as alpha hydroxy acids should typically be used only once per day or less often, as they can potentially over-dry and irritate the skin. If your radiance-boosting serum doesn’t contain any exfoliating or drying ingredients, it’s probably safe to apply twice per day.
Can I use an illuminating serum under makeup?
Usually, you can. Many radiance-boosting serums work well under makeup. You can use an illuminating serum as a primer, as some may help makeup apply more evenly and look smoother. And it goes without saying, but always apply your makeup after you have completed your entire skincare routine (and yes, this should include SPF especially if your serum includes vitamin C). You might want to skip using an illuminating serum under makeup if your product contains potentially irritating ingredients that can cause initial redness.
Who should use an illuminating serum?
Radiance-boosting serums that don’t contain any exfoliants should be safe for most, if not all, skin types. With illuminating serums that do contain chemical exfoliants, you’ll first want to make sure that those ingredients are a fit for your skin type. All skin types can generally benefit from a radiance-boosting serum, as they’re designed to make skin appear smoother and more glowing. Many of these serums also address signs of aging.