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The 5 Best Serums For Aging Skin That Will Bring The Glow Back, Expert Says

A top dermatologist reveals her most highly recommended picks.

You are what you eat, and your skin is a testament to that. (For instance, did you know that vitamins and minerals found in fruits and veggies are linked to fewer wrinkles and dry skin that's caused by aging?) Needless to say, it's so important to nourish your skin from the inside out and care for it properly so it has an all-around healthy glow. With so many skincare and beauty products on the market, it can be difficult to determine what's necessary to add to your wellness routine and what's not worth the hype. Well, we spoke with Dr. Leyda Bowes, board-certified dermatologist about the absolute best serums for aging skin you should have on deck. Bowes shares her top picks that'll bring that youthful glow back to your skin.

Read on to learn more about the best serums for aging skin, and next, be sure to check out The 6 Best Exercises for Strong and Toned Arms in 2022, Trainer Says.

Your skin can reveal so much about your overall health

woman looking in the mirror at her skin
Shutterstock

First off, it's important to know that your skin gives away a lot about your overall health. Bruce Brod, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist at the University of Pennsylvania says in an American Academy Dermatology Association article, "One of the first things a dermatologist can tell by looking at someone is how much outdoor exposure they've had by the appearance of sun damage for their age. Things like wrinkles, spots, uneven pigmentation, and loss of elasticity."

Steven Daveluy, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist at the Wayne State University School of Medicine in Dearborn, Michigan adds, "Droopy, saggy, dark circles under the eyes can be a clue to fatigue." Daveluy continues to explain, "One of the signs of dehydration is sunken-looking skin around the eyes."

So what's one to do? Well, according to Harvard Health, skin serums are something many women are using for their skin to help with problems like wrinkles, dullness, and brown spots—things that have happened over time. According to Dr. Abigail Waldman, Harvard Medical School, serums are formulas of a high concentration that absorb into your skin real fast. A serum can address and improve many skin issues. Waldman says, "I definitely recommend serums for anyone who is concerned about aging. It's a really good way to get extra anti-aging effects, more than your typical moisturizer and sunscreen."

If you have skin imperfections, it's time to reassess your skincare regimen, and make sure your complexion is getting what it needs. In order to do that, check out Dr. Bowes' highly recommended serums for aging skin below that will help you achieve glowing, youthful skin.

Related: The #1 Skincare Routine For Ageless Skin, Top Dermatologist Says

ZELMA Brightening Serum by Piel Eterna

piel eterna serum
Santo Remedio
$60 at Santo Remedio
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According to Bowes, the ZELMA Brightening Serum "contains one of the highest levels of lipid-soluble (more potent and stable) forms of vitamin C: Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THD Ascorbate) at 10%. This is important because this form of vitamin C remains active within the product for a longer period of time, compared to other forms. It is also able to penetrate the skin more quickly and reach deeper layers, thus increasing its efficacy. This formulation is also better tolerated by those with more sensitive skin or suffering from rosacea." Bowes adds, "THD Ascorbate has a significant skin brightening effect, and also acts as a powerful antioxidant, fighting skin aging and improving the appearance of wrinkles and skin texture in general."

Additionally, this product features a unique mineral rescue complex comprised of magnesium, selenium, and zinc, which provides restorative functions for your skin and its cellular function. If you happen to be under a great deal of environmental, emotional, or health-induced stress, this is extremely beneficial.

C E Ferulic by SkinCeuticals

SkinCeuticals serum
SkinCeuticals
$167 at SkinCeuticals
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Bowes notes this serum by SkinCeuticals "contains vitamin C in the form of L-Ascorbic acid, as well as Vitamin E. The ferulic acid in this formulation helps stabilize both Vitamins C and E. They work as skin brightening agents and as antioxidants, improving the overall skin texture." She adds, "It also contains humectants such as glycerin and ethylene glycol, which help keep the skin moisturized."

Related: The Benefits Of The "Slugging" Trend Everyone's Doing For Youthful Skin

Even Tone Correcting Serum by skinbetter

serum by skinbetter
skinbetter
$150 at skinbetter
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There are two skin lightening agents in this innovative formula, both of which are very effective, hexylresorcinol and alpha-arbutin, Bowes explains, adding, "It also contains Arginine PCA, an amino acid complex with skin brightening properties, and Kakadu plum extract, which is a source of vitamin C. This serum keeps the skin moisturized due to its content of ceramides and omega fatty acids."

Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum by CeraVe

skin serum by CeraVe
Target
$23 at Target
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Most skin types will respond well to this particular CeraVe formula, Bowes says. She also says it "contains the L-ascorbic form of Vitamin C. It is a lightweight moisturizer with three essential types of ceramides that help restore the skin barrier. It also contains humectants like pantothenic acid and hyaluronic acid, which are able to retain water within the skin, making it appear smoother and plumper. This formulation is well tolerated by most skin types."

Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate by Lancôme

lancome serum anti-aging
Nordstrom
$78 at Nordstrom
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Bowes recommends this anti-aging face serum by Lancôme and notes, "Containing bífidus prebiotic, this serum promotes skin barrier recovery and protects against external aggressors like dry weather and pollution. With hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, this serum hydrates and [plumps] the skin, for a more radiant, even skin tone."

Alexa Mellardo
Alexa is the Mind + Body Deputy Editor of Eat This, Not That!, overseeing the M+B channel and delivering compelling fitness, wellness, and self-care topics to readers. Read more about Alexa