Here is a list of great face serums I have come across (most of them I have also tried and fell in love with) while working at Ulta Beauty.
1. The Ordinary: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, $5.90
This serum helps get rid of acne by reducing the signs of congestion and balancing sebum activity. Sebum is an oily substance that can clog hair follicles on the skin resulting in bacteria that causes inflammation and acne. Niacinamide also has brightening benefits to help reduce the signs of acne scars and discoloration.
2. The Ordinary: Lactic Acid + HA, $6.80
This serum is formulated to exfoliate and create visibly smoother and brighter looking skin. It also targets textural irregularities, signs of congestion, uneven skin tone, and signs of aging. This serum is also free of gluten, nuts, oil, silicone, parabens, and sulfates.
3. Mad Hippie: Antioxidant Facial Oil, $24.99
This antioxidant oil helps to hydrate the skin while protecting it against photoaging. Photoaging is premature aging of the skin caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and artificial UV sources. It is never too early to protect one’s skin from the harshness of sun damage and shield it from premature signs aging.
4. Mad Hippie: Vitamin C Serum, $33.99
This is an award-winning Vitamin C serum that works hard to brighten, tighten, and smooth skin. This serum contains: Vitamin C which helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and skin discoloration. Hyaluronic Acid which helps to hydrate and plump up skin. Chamomile Extract which helps to smooth and calm skin, and lots of other great ingredients. This brand is also vegan and cruelty-free!
5. Derma E: Acne Control Treatment Serum, $16.99
This serum is great for banishing blackheads, blemishes, and breakouts. It works to unclog pores and leave the skin looking happier and healthier. It also contains lavender and chamomile to help reduce inflammation and soothe acne. This brand is also vegan and cruelty-free!
6. First Aid Beauty: Ultra Repair Oat & Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil, $30 By including both Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil and Colloidal Oatmeal, this serum helps to calm and soothe dry, distressed skin. It also works to hydrate and accelerate the skin’s natural healthy process to leave skin looking healthy. The serum also uses unique dry oil so that the skin never feels greasy after use.
7. Mario Badescu: Rose Hip Nourishing Oil, $22
During the wintertime, skin often becomes dry. Luckily, this serum revives dehydrated skin with a lightweight and nourishing formula. Rose hip oil provides intense moisture and helps soothe dry patches on the skin’s surface. This serum also contains Vitamin C which works to brighten the skin.
8. Beekman 1802: Milk Drops Probiotic Ceramide Serum, $45
This lightweight goat milk serum is packed with essential ceramides, squalane, hyaluronic acid, and plant enzymes to transform dull, tired skin into radiant skin. It restores hydration to the skin for a more youthful appearance. It also helps to control oily skin, clear pores, and balance discoloration. This serum is safe for sensitive skin and free from fragrances, sulfates, and parabens.