We all know what makeup can do, right? Highlighter and bronzer can instantly give you that glow.
It can make you look like you actually slept. But, what if you could have radiant skin naturally?
Enter brightening serums. They are your ticket to perfect skin.
These serums often pack potent antioxidants. Vitamin C is a popular ingredient.
They can help with dark spots and refine skin texture. This adds one step to your routine after cleansing but before moisturizing.
You will not have to rely solely on makeup. Almost every brand has a brightening serum.
Here are some favorites for every price point. They are all tried-and-true.
Keep reading to find the best brightening serums.
Alchimie Forever Pigment Lightening Serum. This serum is packed with rejuvenating ingredients.
It has hyaluronic acid and vitamins C and E. It also includes skin-calming ingredients.
This combination evens skin tone. It reduces signs of aging.
It brightens and hydrates.
Tata Harper Concentrated Brightening Serum. This serum is on the pricier side.
It is considered one of the best. It is full of natural ingredients.
It minimizes dark spots. It gives skin a luminous look.
It is safe for sensitive skin. It uses pure ingredients that work.
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2 Percent + HA. This serum is under 10 dollars.
It is formulated with alpha arbutin. It is a powerful skin brightener.
It is gentler than other options. This is a naturally-occurring skin lightener, says Dr. Ife J. Rodney.
It blocks enzymes responsible for melanin production. It is supported by hyaluronic acid.
It sets it apart from other brightening serums.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. This is a favorite.
It is a blend of vitamins C and E, plus ferulic acid. It transforms and evens skin tone.
It leaves behind a glow. Dr. Rodney loves this formula too.
It maximizes the stability and efficacy of vitamin C. It yields impressive results.
Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Dark Spot Serum. The secret is viniferine.
It comes from grapevine sap. It was named America favorite for evening skin.
It works very well.
Dr. Dennis Gross C + Collagen Brighten and Firm Vitamin C Serum. Vitamin C is essential.
It is needed for tissue growth and repair. It boosts collagen, lightens discoloration, and fights free radicals.
This serum does it all. It is highly potent.
It supports collagen and fights sun damage. It is formulated without unwanted minerals.
You can use it every day for maximum effect.
Chantecaille Blanc Gardenia Brightening Essence. This uses plant stem cells and botanical extracts.
It brightens and evens skin. Green decaffeinated coffee gently exfoliates.
Water lily extract soothes and prevents damage. It delivers great results.
Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop. Korean brands bring us the best skincare.
This serum is no exception. It uses vitamin C to fade spots.
It keeps skin firm and youthful. It is affordable.
It won the Soko Glam 2015 Best of Beauty Award.
Final Verdict. No product is better for glowing skin than a brightening serum.
Vitamin C is one of the best brightening ingredients. Alpha-arbutin is another great natural lightener.
The Dr. Dennis Gross C + Collagen Brighten and Firm Vitamin C Serum does exactly what the name suggests.
What to Look For In a Brightening Serum. Vitamin C.
This is one of the best brightening ingredients. It is a protective antioxidant.
It inhibits the production of tyrosinase. Tyrosinase is an enzyme needed for melanin production.
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids. These help to remove dead cells.
They reveal healthy, even-toned skin.
Kojic Acid. This natural ingredient reduces brown spots.
It slows down melanin production.
FAQ. When should I use brightening serum?
Always check the label. You can usually use it twice a day.
Products with alpha hydroxy acids should be used once a day or less. They can potentially over-dry and irritate the skin.
If your serum does not have those ingredients, it is probably safe to apply twice per day.
Can I use brightening serum under makeup? Usually you can.
Many work well under makeup. Use it as a primer.
Apply makeup after your skincare routine. You might want to skip it if it contains irritating ingredients.
Who should use brightening serum? Brightening serum without exfoliants should be safe.
With chemical exfoliants, make sure they fit your skin type. All skin types can benefit from brightening serums.
They make skin smoother and more glowing. There are many serums that also address signs of aging.