The transition from summer to fall doesn’t just mean a change in your wardrobe—it also means that it’s time to take a second look at your skincare routine. This may sound obvious, but the products that held you down in the summer might have to be put on the bench for the next few months. The lightweight moisturizer that was ideal for summer heat and humidity might not hold up once the first fall breeze hits your skin. Or the gel cleanser you thought you’d stick with forever isn’t as gentle or hydrating as you thought it was. Don’t stress, though. We went through our favorite new serum launches and picked our favorites based on the skin concerns they address. After we nailed down our categories, we went through our list again and chose the best skincare serums from three different price ranges, so there’s something for everyone, regardless of your budget. Ahead, find the 9 best skincare serums to add to your fall routine.
Best Hydrating and Firming Serums
If your skin is feeling dry, irritated, or dull, consider a serum with soothing properties. Inside the Ordinary’s serum is a blend of vitamin B12 and gallic acid to reduce redness, soothe dry skin, and protect against environmental aggressors. Glow Recipe Pomegranate Peptide Serum is formulated with polypeptides, pomegranate seed oil, and hyaluronic acid–three ingredients that work to improve skin firmness and boost hydration levels–while La Mer’s Lifting and Firming Serum promotes elasticity and restores volume.
Best Antioxidant Serums
Antioxidants are worth your time for several reasons—they protect your skin from damaging free-radicals that can cause fine lines and wrinkles, while also fading and preventing dark spots. Drunk Elephant’s Illuminating Drops are infused with niacinamide and morus alba leaf extract, two ingredients which soothe inflammation and even out your skin tone. Paula Choice’s serum contains a combination of vitamin C and glutathione to improve skin’s tone and texture without irritation. Vitamin C is the MVP in Alastin’s antioxidant serum; the ingredient is paired with 14 other antioxidants to increase collagen production, reduce inflammation, and brighten hyperpigmentation.
Best Exfoliating Serums
AHA and BHA serums are ideal for buffing dead cells off, clearing out face gunk, and refining your skin’s texture. Vichy’s serum contains a combination of salicylic and glycolic acid to stave off breakouts while also improving the feel of your skin. Byroe’s gentle formula is infused with celery juice, AHAs, and BHAs to unclog pores and clear up your skin. Isdin’s Retinal Advanced Serum is infused with retinaldehyde, a vitamin A derivative that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
