The super serums you need in your life

Are you clued up on what serums can do for your skin? With the barrage of products out there, both in store and online, it’s not surprising that this skincare heavyweight can cause some confusion when it comes to suitability, usage and results.

Usually liquid or fluid in texture, serums are normally used after cleansing to spot treat anything from redness to oiliness. A serum's power lies in its ingredients—it may include a hydrator such as hyaluronic acid, or an active such as vitamin C—but no matter what your skin type or skin issue, there’s a serum to suit your needs.

In terms of usage, serums can be ‘dosed’ into a moisturiser (see Weleda’s new drops below), or used as a standalone product; serums can also be regarded as a skincare capsule wardrobe essential, as different formulations can be deployed depending on the month or season, or in response to what your skin needs.  

So whether you suffer from irritation, dehydration, pigmentation or breakouts, if you haven’t done already, it’s time to add a serum into your skincare arsenal. We promise that you’ll never look back.

5 serums to try today

HydroPeptide Power Serum

This bestselling peptide serum for all skin types works to radically repair skin while improving the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The superior formula includes high performance peptide complexes and collagen-boosting antioxidants that work in synergy to firm skin, address facial volume loss and treat ageing concerns including frown and smile lines, with no needles in sight.

Dr Somji Signature Serum

Ideal for all skin types, this serum contains antioxidants and moisturising actives, including probiotics, encapsulated retinol (which reduces the potential for irritation), and plant-based exosomes, to hydrate, soothe, protect and nourish your skin. Also included is SOM1X, a signature blend of active ingredients, developed to be proactive rather than reactive, to problematic skin—it helps to fortify the skin barrier and protect its microbiome.

Simon Ourian MD Panthenol Calming Serum 

Tried and tested by the EV team, this excellent lotion-like serum is easily absorbed and does what it says on the tin, calming and soothing sensitive or irritated skin without leaving any sticky residue. Hydration is provided by superstar ingredients including panthenol, aloe vera, deeply hydrating sodium hyaluronate, and alaria esculenta extract (algae).

Alastin A-Luminate Brightening Serum 

Suffering with hyperpigmentation, sun damage or brown spots? A-Luminate will soon be your best friend. This hydroquinone free serum is clinically proven to help minimise the appearance of dark spots, age spots, hyperpigmentation, and brown patches, resulting in more even skin. The formula also protects against future damage with continued use, and improves the appearance of redness that often accompanies hyperpigmentation.

Weleda Serum Booster Drops 

These new vegan-friendly, concentrated boosters are designed to mix and match so your skin gets what it needs, when it needs it—simply mix a drop or two into your favourite face cream to supercharge the effects. Choose from Hyaluronic Moisture Serum Drops for hydration; Extra Rich Omega Serum Drops for intensive nourishment; Pore Refining Vitamin C&E Serum Drops to refine pores; Slow Ageing Astaxanthin Serum Drops for antioxidant protection; Sunkissed Bronzing Serum Drops for a bronzy glow, and Glow Perfecting Serum Drops for a natural glow.