Upgrade Your Glow Game with Serums
You’ve mastered the basics—cleanse, tone, moisturize. Congrats! Now it’s time to bring the special sauce into the mix: serums.
Why Serums are the Real MVPs
- High‑powered ingredients that go deep into your skin, fighting dullness, dehydration, and those annoying inflamed spots.
- They’re lightweight and fast‑absorbing, so you can layer them under whatever else you’re using without the dreaded greasy feel.
- Almost budget‑friendly, so you can treat your face without emptying your wallet.
Top Picks Under $50 (Because Your Skin & Wallet Both Deserve a Treat)
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum – For the ultimate moisture marathon.
- La Roche‑Posay Pure Vitamin C10 – Brighten without irritation.
- Garnier SkinActive Antioxidant Serum – Eats up free radicals like they’re nothing.
- Simple Yet So Good Multi‑Power Serum – Simple ingredients, big results.
- Oscar Kym Antioxidant Serum – Because perks like a green double‑green eye are totally worth it.
Don’t just take our word for it—sprinkle some serum on your face and watch the magic unfold. It’s like a spa day in a bottle, but without the tiny slippers.
1. THEFACESHOP Dr. Belmeur Advanced Cica Recovery Serum, $48
Meet Your Skin’s New Best Friend
Whether you’re a champion of the sensitive‑skin crowd or just need a gentle yet mighty defense, this serum steps up to the plate.
How It Works
- Ceramides – Build a watertight moat to keep bacteria out.
- Panthenol – The calm‑down agent that delivers soothing, anti‑inflammatory magic.
- Madecaddoside – A secret weapon from Centella asiatica that soothes irritation and repairs skin damage.
Bottom line: skip the training? Nope—this serum keeps your skin hydrated, protected, and ready to tackle the everyday hustle.
2. Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum, $37
Say Hello to the New Green Tea Serum that’s basically a spa for your skin
Why this updated formula is the real deal
Fresh Green Tea Water 2.0 – 100 % pure, green‑tea‑driven hydration, extracted from the brand’s own Beauty Green Tea blend.
- 16 Mighty Moisture Amino Acids – the little powerhouses that keep your skin in tip‑tap condition.
- Amino acid concentration is 3.5× higher than the original – more of the stuff that makes lips plump and pores tiny.
- Green tea seed oil locks the moisture in, so your skin stays cozy for hours, no “puffy‑pockets” in the morning.
These ingredients work like a dynamic duo: the amino acids maintain hydration and preserve texture, while the seed oil seals in that freshness. The result? Soft, supple, and ultra‑healthy-looking skin that feels like a teen‑aged pillow. That’s the secret sauce, and it’s one that’s keeping fans buzzing for all the right reasons.
3. Derma Lab Hydraceutic Double Power Vitamin Concentrate, $49.90
Double‑B Magic: Hydration Meets Healing
Why settle for one hero when you can have two? This serum packs Vitamin B5 and Vitamin B3 into a single drop‑per‑day dose, tackling irritation, boosting moisture and keeping pig‑mented skin in line.
Vitamin B5: The Moisture Maestro
- At 5 %, it kicks your skin regeneration into high gear.
- Pulls water into every pore and locks it in like a snug blanket.
- Acts as a shield, fending off everyday irritants that would otherwise drive your skin mad.
Vitamin B3: The Antioxidant Ally
- Hen 5 % of this powerhouse also fights free radicals, preserving that youthful glow.
- Prevents that dreaded dry‑skin sigh.
- Tempts melanin to take a backseat, so you see less unwanted pigmentation.
Put them together, and you have a serum that’s at once a moisturiser, a defence wall and a pigment‑control champion—all in one sleek bottle.
4. Fresh Vitamin Nectar Antioxidant Face Serum, $45
Meet the Ultimate Skin‑Smoothie
Imagine cranking up a massive green smoothie, but this time the blender is your face.
Vitamin Power‑Up
- Vitamin C, E & B5 – the dream team that battles free radicals.
- Lemon & orange extracts – add a splash of sunshine for that bright glow.
- Minerals – the strong‑builders that keep your skin sturdy.
Root‑root Refresh
- Jicama juice – hydrates like a tiny spa retreat.
- Chicory root juice – gives a subtle, earthy whisper.
- Ginger water – adds warmth and a rosy kick.
Final Touches
Beta carotene for that natural radiance, and coconut oil to lock in moisture, leaving your skin silky and smooth.
When you mix all these components, it’s like a well‑tuned band – hydrating, defending against damage, and letting your skin shine at its best.
5. Estelle & Thild Biocalm Anti-Redness Rescue Serum, $44
Soft Skin Haven: Your Sensitive Skin’s New BFF
Ever feel like your face is throwing a tantrum every time you touch it? Get ready to hug your skin back!
What It Does
- Calms & Soothes: Instant chill — no more redness, just peace.
- Hydration Boost: Think of it as giving your skin a giant water‑sip.
- Radiance Up: Like a natural glow‑up that doesn’t involve a filter.
Nature’s Secret Ingredients
- Certified‑organic Apricot Kernel Oil: Softens skin like a cozy blanket.
- Jojoba Oil: Balances, doesn’t over‑do the moisturizing.
- Oat Kernel Extract Oil: Keeps irritation at bay; it’s basically a spa day for your pores.
- Fresh Elderflower Extract: Adds a gentle floral touch that keeps things breathable.
Why You’ll Love It
From the moment you splash it on, you’ll feel the difference: less itch, more smoothness, and a subtle glow that makes you look like you just strayed from a sunrise episode.
6. NIOD Survival 30, US$31.56 (S$44), From Net-A-Porter
Meet NIOD: The Non‑Invasive, Fun‑Friendly Skin Savior
NIOD (short for Non‑Invasive Options in Dermal Science) comes from Deciem, the folks behind the cult‑favorite The Ordinary. It’s like the cool cousin of your skincare routine – scientific, but with a dash of personality.
Why You’ll Love This Serum
Absolutely no boring jargon – just what this little bottle does:
- Tomato Carotenoid Complex – Think of it as a bright‑your‑day filter that tackles redness from sun exposure.
- Algae Extract – Your skin’s personal bodyguard against the nasty free radicals that come from pollution and everyday stress.
- SPF 30 – Gives your complexion a double‑layer shield against UVA and UVB rays, so you won’t end up looking like a burnt tomato.
The Science Meets the Chill
While the formula is rooted in solid research, it’s packaged in a way that feels a lot less like a lab experiment and more like a spa day. It’s the kind of serum that makes you grin every time you see that bright bottle on your shelf.
TL;DR: Shield, Calm, Protect – All in One Bottle.
7. Lixirskin Night Switch PHA/AHA 10%, US$27.88, From Net-A-Porter
A Whimsical Six‑Ingredient Skin‑Fixer
Say hello to the serum that’s practically a minimalist’s dream, with just six carefully chosen ingredients. Among them, the real MVP trio—lactic acid, lactobionic acid, and phytic acid—takes the spotlight.
Meet the Gal‑Force
- Lactic Acid – Think of it as a gentle hydrating hug for your skin.
- Lactobionic Acid – The antioxidant superhero that fights off those pesky free radicals.
- Phytic Acid – A detox‑doorway that keeps your complexion squeaky clean.
How the Acrid Alchemy Works
This trifecta of acids blends together to exfoliate dead skin cells, sparking a fresh turnover of bright, revitalized skin.
By doing this, it gently:
- Reduces the stubborn appearance of fine lines
- Fades hyperpigmentation (no more mysterious dark spots!)
- Nips enlarged pores in the bud, giving you a smoother canvas
In short: it’s a light‑weight, all‑in‑one solution that keeps your skin feeling fresh, resilient, and radiant—without the fuss of a cluttered formula.
8. Pixi Glow Tonic Serum, $41
Lightweight Radiance Serum
Why You’ll Love It
- Glycolic acid gently peels away dead skin for a smoother canvas.
- Aloe vera brings instant calm, soothing any rough edges.
- Ginseng extracts give your skin a natural boost, balancing it like a spa day in a bottle.
How It Works
Think of this serum as a tiny exfoliating spa. Glycolic acid loosens dull cells, aloe vera softens the invasion, and ginseng revives the vibe, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and ready to glow.
Feel the Glow
After a few swipes, your face reads like a fresh‑skinned morning—hydrated, nourished, and irresistibly softer than a summer breeze. Give it a try and let the radiant vibes roll in!
9. L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Micronized Centella Essence Water, $35.90
Revitalizing Skin with the Power of Centella Asiatica
Imagine a potion that’s 92% pure Centella Asiatica—yes, the “tiger grass” known for its skin‑loving magic. This booster is designed to kick-start the healing rhythm of your skin, targeting those pesky signs of ageing like uneven tones and droopiness.
Why Centella Asiatica is a Hero
- Fast‑track healing: The natural compounds help speed up cell repair.
- Brighten and smooth: Tackles hyperpigmentation and brings back that firm, youthful bounce.
- Hydration hero: Keeps your complexion plumped and clear without the greasy feel.
Breakthrough – Tiny Droplets for Mighty Results
Thanks to cutting‑edge science, this essence‑water uses droplets that are five times smaller than usual. The result? They slip right into the deeper layers of skin, delivering the good stuff where it counts.
Drop in, let it soak, and watch your skin feel refreshed, smoother, and just a touch happier.
10. Bio-Essence Bio-Gold 24K Gold Gold Water, $36
Meet Your Skin’s New Superhero Team
When it comes to keeping those crow’s feet in check, the Bio Energy Complex backed by herbal extracts is the dynamic duo your skin has been waiting for. Think of it as a personal trainer for your facial muscles, a nutritionist for your pores, and a mood‑lifter all in one sleek bottle.
1. Counter‑Attack on Free Radicals
Free radicals are the troublemakers that speed up aging faster than a bad episode of a soap opera. These herbal warriors swoop in, neutralize the damage, and shut the premature aging alarm.
2. Deep Moisture Infusion
Your skin isn’t just getting a quick sprinkle; it’s getting a full, luxurious hydration shower. This deep nourishment smooths textures, so you’ll notice that “I swear I’ve never been this smooth.”
3. Glow‑Boosting Magic
Say goodbye to dullness. The mix amps up natural radiance, giving you that “just‑out‑of‑the‑bath” glow, but better—because now everyone can see it.
4. Elasticity Upgrade
Stiff skin? No thanks. The Complex helps your skin bounce back like a fresh rubber band. You’re basically giving your face a yoga class, but faster.
5. Pore‑Size Slimming Diet
Those enlarged pores that have become the bazaar of the skin? They shrink dramatically, revealing a smoother canvas, all without a micro‑conduit.
6. Balance Your Skin’s Hormones
Ever feel like your skin is popcorn‑ready? The blend calms the internal “pop” mechanism—oily and dry moods are tamed, so your complexion stabilizes and vibe‑synchronizes.
With Bio Energy Complex, your face gets the full package: protection, nourishment, and a balanced mood that feels as fresh as a cool morning breeze. Try it, and let your skin do the talking—after all, who can resist a glowing, elastic, and paneled podium?
11. Sephora Collection Ultra Glow Serum, $29
Glowing Skin? Meet the Ocean’s Secret Weapon!
Ever wonder what happens when a splash of vitamin C and vitamin E takes a vacation to the deep sea? They come back with a natural, healthy glow that’ll make your skin look like it just stepped out of a spa, not from a spreadsheet.
What Makes It Work Magic:
- Vitamin C & E combo – Think of them as the superhero duo that powers your skin, protects it from everyday villains like pollution, and keeps it looking fresh.
- Marine algae – This isn’t just algae; it’s the ultimate skin “tensile strength” guide, helping keep your face firm and firm as a well‑tied knot.
Texture? Slick, Not Sticky
Light, non‑oily, and it gets swooped right into the skin—no greasy after‑taste, just the kind of sneak‑attack absorption that lets you skip straight to makeup without the waiting game.
Best for Sensitive Skin?
Check! It’s gentle, doesn’t sting, and is perfect for those who can’t put up with drama. Fresh, calm, and ready for your everyday glow.
12. Dr Sebagh Supreme Maintenance Youth Serum, US$33.97, From Net-A-Porter
Dr. Sebagh’s Light‑Touch Serum – 95% Pure, 100% Gorgeous
Why You’ll Love It
Picture a serum lighter than a feather yet buzzing with a super‑charged squad of actives. With 95% of its formula dedicated to fighting skin woes, Dr. Sebagh’s serum feels like your skin’s personal body‑guard turned glam squad.
- Resveratrol – The antioxidant ninja that fends off free‑radical villains.
- Vitamin C – The glow‑getter that evens tone and gives your complexion that subtle, sun‑kissed sparkle.
- Three anti‑ageing peptides – The hydration & firm‑up trio that tightens and smooths those pesky fine lines.
- Hyaluronic acid – The plump‑up wizard that hydrates from deep down, giving skin a fresh, dewy lift.
And the cherry on top? It’s completely oil‑free, so your pores stay fresh and the finish remains matte and non‑greasy. It feels like a feather blanket on your face, armed with vitamin C for that natural “Wow!” glow.
First kicked off in CLEO Singapore, this serum has already won the hearts of beauty aficionados craving a lightweight, powerhouse formula.
Your skin will thank you, and so will your mirror — because it’s about time the “best self” got a little brighter.
