Hello! Please note that this post is sponsored by Naked & Thriving. However, this was my honest comparison. Thanks for visiting!
Anti-Aging? Anti-Wrinkle? Hydration?
Finding the right serum for glowing, visibly healthy skin these days feels like preparing a giant research project. While it’s great that there are so many options on the market, it’s also daunting to analyze brands, ingredients, and reviews to find options that will actually work.
Not only that, but this process can also involve a lot of money to try different brands until you land on a holy grail. So often brands overpromise and underdeliver on results.
Luckily, our beauty editors have done the heavy lifting, reviewing the most buzz-worthy serums. We looked for options that not only lead to fresh, radiant skin but also have perks, like cruelty-free certifications and budget-friendly prices.
So without further ado, here are the best anti-aging serums of 2023, recommended by our beauty editors:
1. Naked & Thriving Renew Resurfacing Night Serum
First, who can resist the gorgeous bottle of this Renew Resurfacing Night Serum by Naked & Thriving? We love leaving it on display on a tray in the bathroom. But this serum is so much more.
Across the board, we loved how hydrating this serum felt right after applying and into the next day. It goes on for overnight wear and helps exfoliate dull, dead skin away, leading to smooth feeling, clear, and glowy skin. We really did wake up like this!
We love that Renew is so much more than just hyaluronic acid, which is actually a multi-weight hyaluronic acid that helps target multiple levels of the skin. But on top of that, it also contains 5 gentle alpha hydroxy acids to support exfoliation. And it contains ferulic acid, which is a powerful antioxidant that has demonstrated the ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s rare to find all of these ingredients in one serum, let alone one that is formulated for all skin types!
It also received bonus points for being Leaping Bunny Certified, meaning it isn’t tested on animals. Plus, it comes in at a wallet-friendly $68 for a 30 mL bottle or $28 for the travel size. For a limited time, you can get up to 25% off face and body sets from Naked & Thriving that include their bestselling Renew Serum. Run before they sell out and get FREE shipping on orders over $50!
If you were to try one serum, this would be our pick. It’s a multitasker that tackles the appearance of fine lines, hydrates, and helps nourish skin with amazing antioxidants.
1 of 3
Independent clinical study photo of Renew user taken at baseline and four weeks, following standard directions. Results may vary.
2. Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex
The Advanced Night Repair Serum from Estee Lauder targets visible signs of aging overnight. It glides on well, although the formula feels a bit thin. It feels hydrating on combination and oily skin without being too heavy.
The formula does boast Caffeine and Chamomile, which may sound quite the opposite but can be utilized to support skin against environmental stressors. In addition to these, it contains Glycerin and Squalane, both known to hydrate. Admittedly it does contain synthetic dyes Red 4 and Yellow 5, which some customers may prefer to avoid.
The main drawback of this night serum is the cost. The smallest, 1-ounce bottle starts around $80 and goes up to about $220 for a 3.9-ounce bottle.
3. Lancome ADVANCED GÉNIFIQUE FACE SERUM
The Lancome Advanced Genifique Face Serum is another top contender, with noticeable results in just a week of regular use. This serum is designed for both morning and nighttime use and the lighter texture and quick absorbency are helpful for when you need to apply makeup afterward.
This serum also contains hyaluronic acid; however, the molecular weights in the serum aren't stated, which can be important for how it interacts with skin. It also contains Bifidus Prebiotic, which is supposed to help provide a favorable environment for good bacteria. Undisclosed Fragrance is listed on this formulation, which can be any number of ingredients.
But again, this is another pricey option. It comes in five sizes: 0.67 ounces for about $60; 1 ounce for about $88; 1.7 ounces for about $132; 2.5 ounces for about $175; and 3.9 ounces for about $255.
4. La Mer The Revitalizing Hydrating Serum
Beauty enthusiasts are familiar with La Mer; for many, it’s a dream product. But we’ll be blunt — this is by far the most expensive serum on the list. The 1-ounce bottle can cost a whopping $255. It’s meant to be used twice per day, so the cost will really add up when using it that frequently.
This serum contains the brand's signature Miracle Broth and Youth Activating Ferment to help support healthy-looking skin and natural repair. Although La Mer doesn't technically have hyaluronic acid in it, it has sodium hyaluronate, which has very similar properties and benefits.
The scent, slightly floral and not unlike baby powder, may not be for everyone. Otherwise, this is a luxurious serum, both lightweight and hydrating, that delivers an immediate glow.
5. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
The Ordinary is one of our top picks because of its effectiveness and affordability. Its Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a great hydrator and users report noticeably smoother and more supple skin after 4 weeks. We found it to have a thicker texture that can feel sticky, which isn’t great if you’re putting any makeup on afterward.
This serum is vegan and cruelty-free. It’s one of the most inexpensive serums on the market, at about $8.90 for a 30 mL bottle or about $15.70 for a 60 mL bottle.
Final Verdict
Clearly, there are plenty of excellent serums on the market that will help your skin feel its best. Different serums target different skin concerns but overall, we felt that the Naked & Thriving’s Renew Resurfacing Night Serum left our skin absolutely glowing. It's a great multipurpose serum that targets the look of fine lines, helps to maintain moisture levels, and leaves skin feeling firm and nourished.
For a limited time, you can get up to 25% off face and body sets from Naked & Thriving that include their bestselling Renew Serum. Run before they sell out and get FREE shipping on orders over $50!
Whichever serum you choose, be sure to read the label so you are not mixing ingredients that are incompatible. And remember to wear sunscreen every day!
