Adieu to Free Radicals: Uncovering the 14 Top-tier Antioxidant Serums
Discover the hottest antioxidant serums to shield your skin from free radicals and elevate your skincare routine. These bad boys might help reduce fine lines, brighten skin, and provide an immense amount of hydration. Find your ideal match and radiate with confidence.
If you haven't noticed, antioxidant serums are all the rage these days, and it's not just hype. Chilling out with antioxidants in food, coffee, and tea is rad, because they battle all the crap no one's got time for - like oxidative stress brought on by free radicals (such as pollution, cigarette smoke, diseases, and UV rays).
But can antioxidants do the same magic if we slather them onto our skin? You bet your sweet ass we asked the experts. We chatted with a couple of board-certified dermatologists to get the scoop on what these serums can do (spoiler alert: free radical protection, brightening, insane hydration, and more) and then we got to work finding the best options out there.
Keep reading to score your perfect antioxidant serum match.
Top antioxidant serums
- Best overall: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum
- Best for oily skin: La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum
- Best for sensitive skin: Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Serum
- Best for hyperpigmentation: SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF with Ferulic Acid
- Best budget: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Best budget with retinol: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
- Best with SPF: La Roche-Posay Anthelios AOX Daily Antioxidant Serum SPF 50
- Best for discoloration: SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense
- Best for loss of firmness: Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum
- Best for enlarged pores: Fenty Skin Fat Water Pore-Refining Toner Serum with Niacinamide
- Best fan favorite vitamin C: Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum
- Best drugstore: Avene A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum
- Best high end: Revision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30%
- Best organic-based: Juice Beauty Green Apple Age Defy Serum
What do antioxidant serums even do?
"WTF is an antioxidant serum?" is a reasonable question. We chatted with Dr. Kellie Reed, a board-certified dermatologist in Austin, Texas, and Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist in Birmingham, Alabama, to explain it like we're 5.
"Free radicals can cause some bad skin conditions like rashes and skin cancers, as well as premature aging," Reed says. And according to Hartman, free radicals formed by exposure to UV light degrade collagen, which leads to a dull complexion and sagging skin. A decrease in collagen production also results in fine lines and wrinkles.
So, these badasses are here to help neutralize those free radicals, reducing the chances of premature aging, skin cancer, and other issues. And guess what, my friend? Collagen production peaks at age 22, and then decreases every decade. So, it's important to prevent breakdown as much as possible.
Serums specifically can help you kick it up a notch. According to Hartman, serums absorb deeper into the part of your skin that produces collagen and elastin, making it more likely that the active ingredients will get deeper and be more effective.
TL;DR: Because our skin is constantly under threat of free radical damage, antioxidant serums are commonly used in skin care products to help treat the skin.
Choosing the best antioxidant serum for you
To score the perfect antioxidant serum, Hartman suggests nailing down your main skin care goal or concern (like reducing signs of aging, treating acne, hyperpigmentation, etc.). Once you do that, here's what to consider:
Key ingredients to look for
Here's a list of ingredients that are great in antioxidant serums:
- Vitamin C: Also known as ascorbic acid, this mighty vitamin has a slew of benefits, including protecting skin from free radicals, improving uneven skin tone, signs of aging, and hyperpigmentation. It also sparks collagen growth, helping out melasma (brown spots or patches).
- Vitamin E: Known for its potent antioxidant properties, vitamin E boosts the skin's moisture levels. It often pairs with vitamin C to stabilize it, providing extra UV protection.
- Niacinamide: This vitamin B3 derivative enhances skin's tone and texture and has anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in acne treatment, reducing redness, and fighting hyperpigmentation.
- Ferulic acid: Popular as an anti-aging ingredient, ferulic acid helps stabilize vitamin C and offers additional antioxidant protection.
Possible side effects
When starting a new antioxidant serum, Hartman recommends incorporating it into your routine two to three times a week to see if your skin reacts well. If you experience redness or your skin feels hot after using a new product, stop using it and chat with your derm if you can. Reed agrees that some products can irritate the skin, possibly causing redness or dryness.
Packaging matters
Yep, queens, it does. Reed recommends airtight containers like pumps, while tubs or small jars are not the best for sensitive ingredients. Vitamin C is relatively unstable and degrades faster when exposed to light and air, so it's crucial to protect it. Also, select dark, opaque containers to block out UV light that can deactivate sensitive ingredients like antioxidants.
Splurge wisely
Hartman encourages splurging in this skin care category, as you'll get the most bang for your buck. However, budget-friendly options can be found as well. Just remember to check the active ingredients to ensure they work well together. And when in doubt, chat with your board-certified dermatologist!
How we chose the best antioxidant serums
We consulted our dermatologist friends, combed through reviews, and selected picks considering skin type, active ingredients, and price for every type of budget. Here's the rundown on our top picks.
Best Overall Antioxidant Serum
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum
- Active ingredients: L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), alpha tocopherol (vitamin E), ferulic acid
- Benefits: Brightening, reduces fine lines, free radical protection
- Size: 1-ounce (oz) bottle
- Pros: Widely considered the best vitamin C serum
- Cons: Can be quite pricey
Our dermatologist friends agree that SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is a top choice, working great for dryer skin. It sports a combination of 15% L-ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C) with alpha tocopherol (vitamin E) and ferulic acid, forging a strong synergistic effect. This baby brightens up the skin, helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, and binds free radicals brought on by the sun and pollution. And with over 10K reviews on Google, which mostly gush about its effectiveness, it's no wonder it's a popular pick.
Shop now at Dermstore
Best Antioxidant Serum for Oily Skin
La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum
- Active ingredients: L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, glycerin
- Benefits: Helps with acne, safe for sensitive skin
- Size: 1-oz bottle
- Pros: Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic
- Cons: Unclear if salicylic acid degrades vitamin C
This budget-friendly vitamin C serum is a more affordable option that can leave skin protected and radiant without irritation. It includes salicylic acid, a proven acne-fighting powerhouse, and hyaluronic acid and glycerin for massive hydration. The only downside is that some experts question whether the presence of salicylic acid may negatively impact the potency of the vitamin C. However, reviewers are more focused on the benefits:
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Best Antioxidant Serum for Sensitive Skin
Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Serum
- Active ingredients: Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (vitamin C), vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, peptides, ceramides
- Benefits: Helps dull, uneven skin tone, anti-aging perks
- Size: 1-oz bottle
- Pros: Affordable, good for sensitive skin
- Cons: Some might find it too thick
Along with helping out dull, uneven skin tone, this serum promises to have anti-aging benefits and provide hydration to dry, sun-damaged skin. It offers the form of vitamin C that Reed recommends for people who find L-ascorbic acid irritating (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), making it a solid pick for those with sensitive skin. The formula also contains coenzyme Q10 and peptides, known for strengthening the skin's barrier and replenishing moisture.
Reviewers are generally happy, noting that it soothes and softens, helping hide fine lines and wrinkles. However, some reviewers claim the thicker consistency might not be for everyone.
Shop now at Sephora
Best Antioxidant Serum for Hyperpigmentation
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF with Ferulic Acid
- Active ingredients: L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), ferulic acid, phloretin CF
- Benefits: Helps with discoloration, acne, aging
- Size: 1-oz bottle
- Pros: Derm-recommended
- Cons: Can be pricey
Recommended by Reed, this daytime vitamin C serum is definitely a splurge. SkinCeuticals is a consistent player on our list due to its reputation, and this one holds the promise to deliver advanced environmental protection while also treating hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and discoloration. This formula sports a combination of 10% L-ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C), 0.5% ferulic acid, and phloretin, a well-known anti-aging ingredient known to exhibit benefits for discoloration. Plus, the brand claims that once absorbed, the serum stays effective for 72 hours.
Reviewers love SkinCeutical's products, celebrating its ability to help their hyperpigmentation and acne scars.
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Best Budget Antioxidant Serum
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Active ingredients: Niacinamide, zinc
- Benefits: Helps with acne and texture, oily skin
- Size: 1-oz bottle
- Pros: Very affordable, cruelty-free
- Cons: Can cause a tingly or burning sensation
For a super affordable option, this serum recommends our dermatologist friends. This pick also contains niacinamide - a form of vitamin B3 known for curbing oil production and strengthening the skin barrier, and zinc, which helps with increased oil and sebum on the skin. It's also famous for its anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in acne treatment, reducing redness and fighting hyperpigmentation. The price here is incredibly low, and the pick is cruelty-free as well. However, the higher concentration of niacinamide might cause a tingly/burning sensation for some reviewers - especially those with sensitive skin.
Shop now at Sephora
Best Budget Retinol Serum
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
- Active ingredients: Retinol, vitamin B3 (niacinamide), ceramides, hyaluronic acid
- Benefits: Helps with acne, pigmentation, and anti-aging
- Size: 1-oz bottle
- Pros: Affordable, non-comedogenic
- Cons: Contains alcohol, which can be drying
Recommended by Reed, this affordable pick features encapsulated retinol, which provides gentler delivery and fewer side effects than some other retinol serums. It also contains niacinamide, an antioxidant known for reducing inflammation, inhibiting oxidative damage, improving the epidermal barrier function, and decreasing skin hyperpigmentation. The formula is also packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help strengthen the skin barrier and replenish moisture. Users love the results for acne-prone, sensitive skin, with reviewers noting that the serum offers excellent benefits for a low price.
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Best Antioxidant Serum with SPF
La Roche-Posay Anthelios AOX Daily Antioxidant Serum SPF 50
- Active ingredients: Ascorbyl glucoside (vitamin C), vitamin E, scutellaria baicalensis root extract, silica
- Benefits: Helps with fine lines, texture, brightening
- Size: 1-oz bottle
- Pros: 2-in-1 step, includes SPF, doesn't leave a white cast
- Cons: Smaller bottle
Recommended by Reed, this 2-in-1 serum and sunscreen is a time-saver and offers the added bonus of SPF 50. The formula includes ascorbyl glucoside (a form of vitamin C) to help combat free radicals and vitamin E for antioxidant action and moisturization. It also uses scutellaria baicalensis root extract for brightening effects. Reviewers appreciate that it's lightweight, layers well with other products, and doesn't leave a white cast.
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Best Antioxidant Serum for Discoloration
SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense
- Active ingredients: Tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, glycerin
- Benefits: Helps with discoloration, acne, and aging
- Size: 1-oz bottle
- Pros: Derm-recommended ingredients
- Cons: Can be pricey
Recommended by Reed, this dark spot corrector contains some of her favorite ingredients: tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide, all of which help brighten skin. Kojic acid serves the dual purpose of inhibiting the production of tyrosinase, thereby reducing hyperpigmentation of the skin, while tranexamic acid is another powerful ingredient with a proven track record for effectively treating melasma and hyperpigmentation. Reviewers are largely satisfied, celebrating the improvements in their discoloration issues, but some see no results or report skin irritation or breakouts.
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Best Antioxidant Serum for Loss of Firmness
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum
- Active ingredients: L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), ferulic acid, vitamin E, vitis vinifera (grape) juice extract, pumpkin ferment extract, green tea extract, hyaluronic acid
- Benefits: Firming, brightening, antioxidant protection
- Size: 0.94-oz bottle
- Pros: Vegan, cruelty-free
- Cons: Can be pricey
Looking to get a ton of anti-aging goodies in one bottle? This vegan day serum by Drunk Elephant delivers. It offers a cocktail of vitamins C and E, ferulic acid, and a host of botanical extracts to protect the skin from UV damage, lighten discolorations, and brighten up the overall complexion. The serum is also suitable for normal, dry, combo, and oily skin types. Remember this one requires mixing before use for the best results.
Shop now at Sephora
Best Antioxidant Serum for Pores
Fenty Skin Fat Water Pore-Refining Toner Serum with Niacinamide
- Active ingredients: Niacinamide, green tea extract, witch hazel
- Benefits: Helps with enlarged pores, oiliness, and dark spots
- Size: 5.0-oz bottle
- Pros: 2-in-1 toner and serum
- Cons: Might be too drying for some
Offering a double bang for your buck, this product from RiRi works as a toner and antioxidant serum. Besides niacinamide for brightening and evening out skin tone, it also includes green tea extract and witch hazel to ensure your pores stay refined, your skin stays oil-free, and your dark spots fade away. This serum is also super lightweight, making it great for those who prefer something more watery. Reviewers mainly appreciate its ability to reduce pore size and oiliness but note that some find it too drying for their skin.
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Best Antioxidant Serum for Uneven Texture
Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum
- Active ingredients: Ascorbyl glucoside (vitamin C), ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate (vitamin C), azelaic acid, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, isolated algae extract, and vitamin E
- Benefits: Improves texture and reduces dark spots
- Size: 1-oz bottle
- Pros: Vegan and cruelty-free
- Cons: Might not be suitable for sensitive skin
This popular serum boasts a blend of brightening vitamins A, B, and C (ascorbyl glucoside and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate) and other natural ingredients like algae extract, azelaic acid, and niacinamide, to even out texture, reduce dark spots, and improve the overall appearance of the skin. The formula is also vegan and cruelty-free. Reviewers have given it rave reviews, with many noting its impressive results. However, users with sensitive skin might experience irritation or breakouts.
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Best Drugstore Antioxidant Serum
Avene A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum
- Active ingredients: Ascorbyl glucoside (vitamin C), schisandra chinensis extract, lauryl glucoside, sodium hyaluronate
- Benefits: Helps with fine lines, hydration, and brightening
- Size: 1.69-oz bottle
- Pros: Affordable, non-greasy, fragrance-free
- Cons: Doesn't contain vitamin E
Avene's affordable antioxidant serum is a solid choice for its ability to help prevent signs of aging, brighten the skin, and lock in hydration. The formula boasts Schisandra Chinensis extract, a traditional Chinese herb known for its antioxidant properties, as well as hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and lauryl glucoside. Reviewers appreciate the lightweight, non-greasy texture and oil-free formula, making it great for combination and oily skin types.
Shop now at Walgreens
Best High-End Brightening Antioxidant Serum
Revision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30%
- Active ingredients: Sodium ascorbyl phosphate (vitamin C), ferulic acid, vitamin E, retinyl palmitate, thioctic acid, coenzyme Q10, idebenone, resveratrol, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, and algae extract
- Benefits: Brightening, helps with fine lines, antioxidant protection
- Size: 1-oz bottle
- Pros: Dermatologist-recommended
- Cons: Can be quite pricey
Offering multiple forms of vitamins A and C, this luxury serum also provides additional antioxidants like ferulic acid, coenzyme Q10, and resveratrol to protect the skin and improve texture. The formula is super impressive and promises to target wrinkles, discoloration, and even help smooth and soften the appearance of acne scars. Reviewers are generally impressed with its brightening ability, but some note issues with sensitivity or irritation.
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Best Organic-Based Antioxidant Serum
Juice Beauty Green Apple Age Defy Serum
- Active ingredients: Organic aloe vera, lemon extract, green apple fruit extract, white tea extract
- Benefits: Helps with fine lines, antioxidant protection, and hydration
- Size: 1-oz bottle
- Pros: Uses 100% organic ingredients, cruelty-free
- Cons: Can be too gentle for some skin types
Juice Beauty's green apple age defy serum includes a refreshing blend of organic apple extract, lemon extract, white tea extract, and aloe vera, offering antioxidant protection and hydrating benefits. This feels lightweight, absorbs easily, and makes skin feel more supple and nourished. However, due to its gentler formula, it may not be strong enough for those with more advanced skin concerns.
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Tips for applying antioxidant serums
When to apply
Hartman suggests using antioxidant serums in the morning, with SPF on top. Reed recommends applying 'em in the morning after cleansing the skin, before moisturizers and sunscreen.
How to apply
Apply your serum with clean, dry hands. For most serums, a few drops should be enough to cover the entire face. Avoid the eyes, lips, and nostrils.
Avoid layering certain ingredients
Retinol should not be combined with some forms of vitamin C due to potential adverse effects. Stick to an antioxidant serum in the morning and opt for a product with retinol at night.
Don't forget to patch test
It's essential to patch test your new-to-you serum on a small area of skin, like the inside of your wrist, to check for sensitivities or irritation before applying to your face.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of antioxidant serums?
Hartman describes antioxidants as the protectors you apply before heading out into the world, shielding from harmful free radicals in the environment, such as pollution, stress, UV light, and smoke.
What is the best skin antioxidant?
According to Hartman, Vitamin C is a popular choice due to its extensive research and proven benefits for skin health.
Is vitamin C an antioxidant serum?
Yes, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant commonly found in serums. Keep an eye out for "ascorbic acid" on the ingredient list for the most effective form of vitamin C for your skin.
The given words are used in the following sentences:
- "Looking to get a ton of antioxidant properties in one bottle? Some of the best antioxidant serums contain vitamins like C, E, and niacinamide."
- "If you're someone with oily skin, consider serums with ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, or antioxidant-rich scutellaria, as they can help combat shine."
- "Consider adding antioxidant serums with ingredients like ferulic acid and scutellaria baicalensis root extract to your skincare routine, as they provide additional free radical protection alongside vitamin C."
These sentences are derived from the given text, referencing the use of antioxidant serums in the context of skincare, discussing the various ingredients found in these serums, and giving tips on how to find the right serum for specific skin types.
