Whether your complexion is dry, oily, or acne-prone, a great serum is an integral part of any skincare routine—and for good reason. Serums can expertly deliver important ingredients like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid to the depths of your epidermis. But until now, there’s a good chance that you thought serums were reserved for your daytime regimen. Not only is it a good idea to include this skincare staple into your pre-bedtime routine, but you’ll also want to consider picking up a night serum. Turns out, a new formula can do wonders for your skin.
Shop the Best Night Serums
- BEST OVERALL SERUMSkinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight CreamRead more
- BEST BUDGET SERUMCeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Face SerumRead more
- BEST FOR DRY SKINKiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate Moisturizing Face Oil SerumRead more
“Day serums are designed to protect skin from free radicals, UV rays, and pollution and often contain ingredients like antioxidants like vitamin C that work to neutralize free radical damage, and hydrators like hyaluronic acid that strengthen the skin barrier and provide hydration,” says Tiffany Libby, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Brown Dermatology in Providence, Rhode Island. Night serums, on the other hand, often boast retinol, peptides, and other compounds that focus on repair and regeneration. After all, your body and mind recharge overnight, so why would your skin be any different?
According to Lauren Penzi, a board-certified dermatologist in Long Island, New York, the best night serums typically have targeted effects based on your skin’s specific needs. So, where to begin? Read on to find the very best night serums loved by professionals and shoppers alike. With any luck, beauty sleep is just a few clicks away.
BEST OVERALL SERUM
Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream
Pros
- Reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Lightweight and hydrating consistency
- Great for dryness and dark spots
Cons
- Over $100
- The use of retinols can be irritating to some
It might be rare to see a night serum receive so much praise from a dermatologist, but Skinbetter Science’s AlphaRet Overnight Cream hits a high note. Not only did Penzi say this option is great for both “beginners as well as skincare veterans,” but Libby also said that everyone she’s recommended this serum to has “loved it.” Don’t let its name confuse you: This formula has a lightweight consistency akin to a serum.
Though this option is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by 33 percent, it does come with a caveat. “It is formulated with retinol as well as lactic and glycolic acids which is risky given both their potent activities,” Libby advises. “However, this irritation is significantly offset by pairing it with hydrating and nourishing ingredients such as squalane, niacinamide, ceramides, and fatty acids.
Customer Review:
“The absolute best face cream for treating hyperpigmentation, lines and acne scars. I wanted something that would just give me that glass-skin, even toned look and after two weeks my face has cleared up completely! It’s pricey, but if you want real results with good ingredients, this is it. It has been tested by scientists and the website will show all ingredients so the transparency of the brand is really there.”—Ellie M.
BEST BUDGET SERUM
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Face Serum
Now 27% Off
$16 at Amazon$9 at Walmart$22 at Dermstore
Pros
- Affordable
- Fast-absorbing formula
- Great for brightness and texture
Cons
- Some shoppers found this serum created a burning sensation
- Consistency is a tad thick for some
As CeraVe’s Resurfacing Retinol Face Serum proves, it’s possible to find a dermatologist-approved night serum for a fair, affordable price. Here, encapsulated retinol helps improve the skin’s texture and visible signs of aging. Meanwhile, niacinamide calms the skin, which is particularly important given how finicky retinol can sometimes be. There’s also licorice root extract and a trio of ceramides to brighten the skin and improve its barrier, respectively.
“It’s gentle, lightweight, and fast absorbing without fragrances or sensitizers at an affordable price point,” adds Azadeh Shirazi, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of La Jolla Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center in San Diego. “It’s also available at most retailers.”
Customer Review:
“I’m a bit skeptical on these products but after using for a week I notice smoother skin and my pores seem smaller! That was my big issue. As I’ve aged my pores seem bigger and I was amazed how this helped!”—Susie
BEST FOR DRY SKIN
Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate Moisturizing Face Oil Serum
Pros
- Lightweight, non-clogging formula
- Botanical oils help hydrate the skin
- Light, pleasant smell
Cons
- Droplet applicator dispenses small amounts, so it might require a learning curve
Think of Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate Serum as the overnight moisture boost your skin so desperately needs. A cocktail of naturally derived flower and seed oils—lavender, primrose, and jojoba, to name a few—makes your skin feel supple, not sebaceous.
Not only does this lightweight serum seriously hydrate your skin—Kiehl’s claims one night’s use can “visibly correct” the toll a poor night’s sleep can have on your skin—but it can also tone, improve texture, and reduce signs of aging. Bonus points: A little bit goes a long way, so you’ll have this bottle for quite some time.
Expert Review:
“I am not usually a big fan of face oils, but this oil-serum hybrid from Kiehl’s is my go-to formula when my skin is feeling irritated and red in the winter months. It leaves skin feeling soft and bright by the morning, and the scent is like aromatherapy to help me sleep.” — Jenna Rosenstein, beauty director
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
BEST MULTI-PURPOSE SERUM
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi Recovery Complex Face Serum
$128 at Sephora$140 at Amazon$128 at Nordstrom
Pros
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Offers long-lasting hydration
- Gentle on skin
Cons
- Over $100
- Some shoppers didn’t notice a dramatic improvement in skin texture
Night serums are typically designed to address certain skin issues and needs, but if you’re looking to tackle a few things with one formula, this option from Estée Lauder is a no-brainer. Antioxidants work to combat free radical damage, while an assortment of night peptides renew the skin while you’re sleeping. Meanwhile, hyaluronic acid works to provide 72 hours of nourishing hydration. Oh, and did we mention a study found that 91 percent of participants notice an improvement of fine lines and wrinkles? It’s no wonder why it’s become a bonafide beauty icon.
Customer Review:
“I have been using this for a year now and it has transformed my 41-year-old skin. I do not go without it each night.”—ebrow17
BEST FOR MATURE SKIN
RoC Skincare DERM CORREXION Fill + Treat Serum
$39 at rocskincare.com$23 at Walmart
Pros
- Non-greasy texture
- Many shoppers appreciate how this serum doesn’t have a strong smell
- Clinically proven to help improve fine lines and wrinkles
Cons
- The consistency is a bit thick
- The applicator requires a learning curve
Fine lines and wrinkles are no match for RoC Skincare’s Derm Correxion Fill and Treat Serum, which the brand calls a “non-invasive wrinkle filler.” “This serum can quickly diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as it contains two major active ingredients,” Penzi says. Hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates and plumps the skin, and retinol increases cell turnover and promotes new collagen.
There’s also a dose of swertiamarin, which helps visibly smoothen the skin. And this serum works: A clinical study found 100 percent of people notice a visible improvement of deep wrinkles within four weeks.
Customer Review:
“This is my second time buying this product. I found that with consistent use, it did diminish certain lines on my face especially the lines between my eyebrows. They have also improved the tube and applicator. I recommend it especially for the price!!”—Rita C.
BEST ECO-FRIENDLY FORMULA
Osea Seaglow Overnight Serum AHA Treatment
$68 at oseamalibu.com$65 at Walmart$68 at Nordstrom
Pros
- Clean ingredient
- Buffs away dry skin flakes and clogged pores
Cons
- Slightly sticky feel once applied
- Can make dry skin feel drier, so pair with a good moisturizer
Made with naturally derived ingredients—not to mention it’s PETA-approved and climate-neutral-certified—Osea’s Seaglow Overnight Serum AHA Treatment is a clean beauty pick that works.
“Formulated with alpha-hydroxy acids, plant-based phytic acid, and tropical fruit extracts, this overnight serum gently exfoliates for smoother, brighter, healthier looking skin,” says Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist. While the light exfoliation might deftly tackle clogged pores and acne, a sprinkle of sea actives and fermented shiunko oil bolster the skin’s moisture barrier. Bonus points: Tropical fruit extracts like caja, mango, and banana leave a smooth complexion behind.
Customer Review:
“I’ve been using the seaglow overnight serum based on a friend’s recommendation for about a month now and I love it. Just having an, ahem, milestone birthday has made me reinvest in my skin. And I don’t want to sacrifice carcinogenic ingredients or my ethics to do it. I feel like this makes me look 10 years younger!”—Ariella K.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
BEST FOR BLEMISHES
True Botanicals Repair Nightly Treatment Serum
Pros
- Designed to tackle blemishes and redness
- Clean formula with naturally derived ingredients
Cons
- Over $100
- Some noted a thick, “gritty” texture
Zap away acne with True Botanicals’ Repair Nightly Treatment Serum, which is packed with bioholistic, blemish-blasting ingredients. The magic lies in black willow bark extract, a naturally derived ingredient with the same impact as salicylic acid. (Minus the risk of irritation, that it.) There’s also a hint of olive leaf extract to calm the skin, a must for anyone dealing with acne.
True Botanicals is determined to bring a natural, science-backed approach to anti-aging skincare, and its multi-weighted mix of hyaluronic acid works to plump fine lines and wrinkles.
Customer Review:
“I am no longer afraid to go without makeup, my skin tone and evenness is amazing! Definitely notice a difference and Read more about review stating Amazing!will never be without the Repair Nightly Treatment.”—Darcy
BEST EXFOLIATING
Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment
$85 at sundayriley.com$85 at amazon.com
Pros
- Gently exfoliates the skin
- Great for brightening dark spots and hyperpigmentation
Cons
- Over $50
With Sunday Riley’s Lactic Acid Treatment, you can buff away dry, flakey skin while you catch some shut-eye. “Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates the skin while also helping to reduce the appearance of dark spots and wrinkles,” says Camp. (There are also soothing ingredients like arnica and prickly pear extract to counter the lactic acid.) While this serum delivers exfoliation, it also brightens and hydrates the skin with ingredients like licorice and aloe. In fact, the brand claims it has a facial-like effect—brightening, plumping, and toning—in three minutes.
Customer Review:
“This serum has been part of my skincare routine for about two years now. I have seen a significant difference in my complexion and my esthetician compliments my skin. It does what it says, highly recommend.”—Francine
Ready to elevate your online shopping list?
Sign up for our daily style and shopping newsletter.Email addressSign up
By signing up, I agree to the Terms of Use (including the dispute resolution procedures) and have reviewed the Privacy Notice.
BEST RETINOL SERUM
SkinMedica Retinol Complex 0.5
Pros
- Comes in a variety of retinol concentrations
- A little amount of serum goes a long way
Cons
- Retinol can be harsh so it should be avoided by pregnant people
- Over $50
Since many night serums are focused on repairing the skin, a lot of the formulas you see here include retinol. That said, Libby calls this option from SkinMedica is her “go-to” choice. Compatible with a variety of skin types, this serum features an antioxidant blend called PhytoShield Complex, which is proven to improve tone. However, nourishing ingredients like squalane, ceramides, niacinamide help reduce any potential irritation. Best of all? This serum comes in various retinol concentration levels.
“There are also 0.25 and 1.0 in the line, so you can start with the 0.25 and work your way up the treatment ladder,” Libby adds. “The key is consistency, so whichever you can tolerate on your skin more frequently in your skincare routine is the way to go.”
Customer Review:
“I have used a lot of different retinol serums and I can say, this one is very good so far. I have very sensitive skin and I’m always careful when incorporating something new in my routine, but I was pleasantly surprised with how fast I started using this one everyday. I haven’t noticed any dryness or irritation. It does have slight scent, I was concerned at first (I avoid fragranced products because of my sensitivity)but it didn’t bother me.” —Emilia
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Paula’s Choice CALM Repairing Serum
$45 at paulaschoice.com$45 at Amazon
Pros
- Helps reduce redness and irritation
- Incorporates hydrating, gentle ingredients
Cons
- Smell is polarizing
- Some noted a sticky feel
Anyone with sensitive skin knows that adding just one more item to their regimen is risky. Fortunately, the Calm Repairing Serum from Paula’s Choice is designed to combat inflammation, irritation, and even rosacea. Hyaluronic acid offers a boost of moisture while plumping fine lines, while ceramides help bolster the skin barrier. But it’s the use of plant extracts that calm the skin, minimize the appearance of irritation, and keep redness at bay. While this formula isn’t specifically billed as a night serum, but you can apply it after washing your face before bedtime.
Customer Review:
“This serum saved my rosacea skin. It calmed my redness down and made my enlarged pores smaller. Please don’t ever discontinue this product, I will be a customer forever.”—Lucia
What to Look for in a Night Serum
According to Camp, night serums are all about resetting and repairing your skin, so it’s important to focus on ingredients that promise just that. “When searching for a night serum, look for ingredients that address anti-aging concerns and help skin recover,” he says. For example, retinol, bakuchiol, and peptides are great for anyone who wants to address anti-aging concerns. Meanwhile, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, squalane, and ceramides can aid in skin repair.
As for what to avoid? It’s always a good idea to avoid irritants like dyes, fragrances, and harsh alcohols. Shirazi also says it’s smart to not double up on ingredients. “If your serum or moisturizer has hyaluronic acid, then you do not need a dedicated hyaluronic acid serum,” she says.
How Often Should You Use a Night Serum?
Well, it depends. While you should always take a cue from your skin’s need—and reconsider your formula if you’re noticing negative side effects—it’s best to use your night serum sparingly. “Since most night serums have actives that can be potentially irritating, I recommend applying two to three nights per week and gradually increasing to every other to every night as tolerated,” Penzi says.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
How to Apply a Night Serum
When it comes to ordering your bedtime skincare routine, treat your night serum just as you would a daytime formula. “If you think of your nightly skincare routine as a three-course meal, serums are the main course,” Shirazi explains. Many people think they are moisturizers, but they’re the treatment part of your skincare routine.” Translation: Your night serum should be applied after you apply (and rinse off!) a cleaner but before you slather on a heavier moisturizer or cream.
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Tiffany Libby is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Brown Dermatology in Providence, Rhode Island
- Dr. Lauren Penzi is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery.
- Dr. Azadeh Shirazi is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of La Jolla Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center in San Diego.
- Dr. Brendan Camp is a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York.
More Skincare Favorites From Bazaar’s Editors
- The 12 Best Drugstore Vitamin C Serums
- The 21 Best Night Creams for Every Skin Type
- 15 Eyelash Growth Serums, Recommended by Eye Doctors
- Why Don’t You Buy…An Overnight Lip Mask Infused With Lavender
- 10 Best Growth Factor Serums To Put Your Best Skin Forward
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Why trust Harper’s Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, hair care, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
