Glowing, radiant skin is something we all aspire to have. With the myriad of skincare products in the market, it can get overwhelming to choose the right serum that actually works.
In this blog, we have curated a list of the top 15 serums that deliver bright, glowing skin. These serums are loaded with skin-benefiting ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and more that target dullness, pigmentation and hydration issues. Read on for an in-depth review of each serum to help you find the best pick for your skin type and concern.
This serum contains 5% niacinamide along with hyaluronic acid that hydrates the skin while also tackling dullness and pigmentation. The lightweight, oil-free formula is great for all skin types.
This gentle, fragrance-free serum delivers brighter and clearer skin overtime with its powerhouse niacinamide and hyaluronic acid formula. It works well for sensitive and acne-prone skin types too. The price is quite affordable given the quality ingredients. Overall an effective serum to fight dull, uneven skin texture.
This 10% vitamin C serum helps brighten dull skin and improve uneven skin tone for a healthy, radiant glow. The stable vitamin C derivative is gentle enough for beginners too.
An impressive vitamin C serum with 10% pure ethyl ascorbic acid that brightens dull skin and minimizes the appearance of spots and marks. The formula is quite stable unlike pure L-ascorbic acid serums, so it stays effective for longer. It gently delivers skin-brightening results without causing any irritation or dryness making it ideal for vitamin C beginners.
This 15% vitamin C serum with L-ascorbic acid helps tackle pigmentation and dullness by inhibiting melanin production in the skin. Vitamin E provides nourishment and protects from environmental damage.
One of the most potent vitamin C serums in the market with 15% pure L-ascorbic acid that effectively tackles uneven skin tone, dark spots and boosts radiance. While the percentage is on the higher side, the serum is enriched with vitamin E that offsets potential dryness or irritation making it suitable for all skin types. Shows visible results in minimizing pigmentation and brightening complexion with regular use.
Garnier Vitamin C Face Serum contains 2% ascorbic acid that delivers brighter, smoother skin with continued use. The lightweight gel absorbs quickly without leaving behind any oily residue.
This affordably priced vitamin C serum from a reputed brand like Garnier is a good option for beginners to experience the radiance-boosting effects of topical vitamin C, without potential irritation or dryness. While the 2% concentration means visible results will take more time, the formula is gentle enough for daily use even for sensitive skin types. Overall a decent starter vitamin C serum.
Plum Vitamin C face serum contains a 15% dose of 3-O-Ethyl l-Ascorbic Acid along with skin-soothing and antioxidant-rich botanicals like aloe vera and citrus extract. This helps minimize signs of photo-damage and evens out skin tone and texture.
A powerful cocktail of 15% vitamin C, citrus extracts and botanicals that noticeably evens out skin tone and fade pigmentation with regular usage. The 3-O-Ethyl derivative form of vitamin C is highly potent, yet very gentle on the skin making it ideal for all skin types. We also love that the no-fuss serum is vegan and contains soothing aloe vera making it great for sensitive skin as well. Overall, delivers radiance boosting results without irritation.
This L’oreal serum contains 1% glycolic acid and 2% niacinamide to deliver brighter, clearer skin by reversing pigmentation. Oil-free formula with vitamin Cg antioxidant.
This serum packs quite a punch with a combination of chemical exfoliator glycolic acid and brightening agent niacinamide that powerfully tackles signs of uneven skin tone and damage. At an affordable price point, the formula delivers professional results in fading pigmentation and refining skin texture with constant use. Lightweight serum ideal for those with oily skin and enlarged pores as it won’t clog the skin.
This skin lightening serum from Dot & Key combats dullness through a powerful vitamin cocktail of 10% vitamin C (Ethyl Ascorbic) + 5% vitamin E + 5% niacinamide, suitable for all skin types.
This serum is like a one-stop solution for all skin concerns like uneven tone, dark spots and early aging signs with potent antioxidant vitamins C, E and B3 that work synergistically to brighten, nourish and firm the skin. The multiple vitamin formula also makes this serum incredibly stable with no irritation, making it suitable for all skin types. Impressive results in tackling dullness and pigmentation issues at an affordable rate.
A trifecta serum combining 10% vitamin C, 5% niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to tackle lackluster skin and signs of aging like fine lines. Paraben and silicone-free formula.
This serum packs in a power trio of antioxidants, brightening and hydrating agents that work together beautifully to transform dull, pigmented and aging skin. Vitamin C and niacinamide fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation while hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates the skin. A reasonably priced, multitasking serum that delivers professional results minus any irritation, making it suitable for all skin types.
A hydrating anti-aging serum with 1.5% stabilized hyaluronic acid that restore deep hydration to the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The formula is infused with salicylic acid to refine pores and clear skin.
This reasonably priced, dermatologically tested serum beautifully infuses skin with hydration while also tackling visible signs of aging like fine lines thanks to the hyaluronic acid. We appreciate that L’oreal has used pure stabilized HA that penetrates deeper and works longer instead of a derivative. The pore refining salicylic acid helps keep breakouts away too. Light enough for oily skin yet deeply hydrating for dry skin.
This 10% niacinamide serum from Plum with the added benefits of rice water and olive oil nourishes the skin while also improving skin clarity by fading spots and blemishes. Non-greasy, fragrance-free formula for all skin types.
A solid serum with an impressive 10% niacinamide concentration to target lackluster skin tone, spots and irritation. We like that plum has used additive benefits of rice water and olive oil to boost hydration and make this serum suitable for even sensitive or acne-prone skin where higher percentages of niacinamide may cause flushing. Gets quickly absorbed without feeling sticky. Overall a great easy-to-use brightening serum.
Mamaearth’s Rice Glow Face Serum combines rice water, niacinamide and ceramides in a lightweight formula that targets pigmentation and achieves ‘glass’ hydrated skin. Also contains arbutin and ascorbic acid for added brightening benefits.
This serum achieves that coveted ‘glass skin’ look which is super hydrated and dewy skin with a luminous glow. The powerhouse combination of niacinamide, rice water and ceramides in the formula tackles uneven skin tone and dryness effectively while making the skin appear translucent overtime. Bonus brightening from arbutin and vitamin C derivatives. Light enough for acne-prone skin. Impressive glow serum overall without any toxic ingredients. Works year round even during humid summer months without feeling greasy.
A maximum strength 16% vitamin C serum with vitamin E, Ferulic acid and fullerenes that visibly brightens and evens out skin tone for a luminous glow. Suitable for normal to oily or combination skin.
One of the highest concentrations of vitamin C we have seen in a serum that delivers dramatic results in terms of minimizing acne scars, marks, sun damage and brightening complexion. We like that the formula balances potency with vitamin E, ferulic acid and fullerene to offset dryness/irritation concerns making it suitable for most skin types except very dry skin. Shows visible improvement in as little as 3 weeks. Worth the money.
Oil-based vitamin C restoring serum from Korean skincare brand Pilgrim infused with 5% pure vitamin C, soothing botanicals and hyaluronic acid for a healthy, dewy glow.
This hydrating serum-oil hybrid effortlessly nourishes dry, dull or pigmented skin with essential ceramides, Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. We like the innovative fusion of serum and face oil that tackles lackluster skin, signs of aging, dryness and irritation in one quick step while still feeling lightweight enough for daytime use too. Absorbs well without greasy residue. Great for achieving that coveted ‘glass skin’ look.
Powerful brightening face serum from Lakmé comprising 98% pure Vitamin C complex that combats dullness and early signs of aging for youthful, glowing skin. With skin-plumping hyaluronic acid.
A well-formulated vitamin C serum from Lakmé that shows visible results. We like that it uses multiple derivatives of pure vitamin C at different molecular weights for deeper penetration and absorption instead of just one derivative. This multi-faceted approach ensures all-round brightening, anti-aging action. Lightweight serum boosts glow while tackling signs of aging and sun damage effectively with regular use without irritating.
This lightweight serum combines hyaluronic acid with PGA (polyglutamic acid) for intense, long-lasting hydration that plumps and smoothens skin. Oil-free formula suitable for all skin types.
Impressive hydrating serum with a combination of hyaluronic acid and PGA that provides both instant and long term hydration for dewier, youthful looking skin. We like that Minimalist has used both low and high molecular weight HA for multi-depth hydration. Works beautifully for dry, dehydrated skin by increasing skin water retention capacity. Affordably priced serum that smoothens and plumps skin effectively minus irritation.
Product | Key Features |
---|---|
Minimalist 5%… | Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, reduces dullness |
Minimalist 10%… | 10% vitamin C derivative, brightens skin tone |
FoxTale 15%… | 15% L-ascorbic acid, minimizes dark spots |
Garnier Skin Naturals… | 2% vitamin C, gently boosts radiance |
Plum 15%… | 15% vitamin C derivative, citrus extracts |
L’Oreal Paris Brightening… | 1% glycolic acid, 2% niacinamide |
Dot & Key 10%… | 10% vitamin C, 5% vitamin E, 5% niacinamide |
The Derma Co 10%… | 10% vitamin C, 5% niacinamide, hyaluronic acid |
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift… | 1.5% hyaluronic acid, anti-aging |
Plum 10%… | 10% niacinamide, rice water, reduces blemishes |
Mamaearth Rice… | Niacinamide, rice water, ceramides, glass skin |
Minimalist 16%… | 16% vitamin C derivative, brightens skin tone |
PILGRIM Korean 5%… | 5% vitamin C, face oil, hyaluronic acid |
LAKMÉ 9… | 98% vitamin C complex, skin brightening |
Minimalist 2%… | 2% hyaluronic acid + PGA, hydration |
With the wide array of specialized serums targeting various skin concerns like pigmentation, dullness, acne, aging etc choosing the right one suited for your skin can get confusing. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind when choosing a serum for glowing, healthy skin.
1. Identify Your Skin Goals
Determine what skin issues you primarily want to target – is it tackling pigmentation and uneven tone or boosting collagen for anti-aging or just basic nourishment? Setting skin goals will help narrow down serum options.
2. Check The Hero Ingredients
Serums use active concentrated ingredients for targeted skin treatment. Check what the primary active ingredients are and ensure they align to your skin goals. Key glow boosting ingredients are vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid etc
3. Consider Your Skin Type
Opt for gel-based serums with chemical exfoliants like AHAs for oily, acne-prone skin and hydrating formulas with HA or oils for dry skin types. Combination skin can opt for ones with antioxidant vitamins A,C,E.
4. Read Reviews & Ratings
Checking genuine user reviews gives clear understanding of real results that can be expected from the serum. This narrows your search to ones that actually deliver great skin.
5. Understand Correct Application
Serums work best on clean bare skin. Apply just 2-4 drops & follow with creams. Use consistently for at least 4 weeks for visible glow. Sunscreen is must for daytime.
With myriad options available, we break down some of the most popular categories of serums that specifically target dull, uneven complexion by providing glow enhancing skin treatment.
Formulas infused with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and its derivatives are designed to tackle uneven skin tone, pigmentation, early signs of aging and brighten complexion. Often packaged in opaque bottles for stability.
Serums with highest concentration (5-10%) of vitamin B3 compound niacinamide primarily target acne, spots, pores and balance oiliness while improving skin radiance. Often combined with zinc.
AHAs like glycolic acid or BHAs like salicylic acid are used in these serums to remove dead skin cells & reveal brighter, youthful skin by increasing cell turnover and collagen. Tackle pigmentation, acne too.
Contain humectant and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides that draw moisture into skin, tackle dryness & lines making complexion appear healthy and dewy. Usage spans all seasons.
To make the most of your glow boosting serum and ensure maximum results, keep these best practices in mind during usage, storage and overall care.
1. Start slow: Introduce serum twice or thrice a week at start and slowly build upto daily usage to minimize risk of reaction while skin gets conditioned.
2. Apply on clean bare skin: For optimum absorption and performance, use serum directly after cleansing, before using any other skincare product like moisturizer or cream.
3. Use only few drops: About 2-4 drops is sufficient for entire face. Using excess won’t boost efficacy but only waste product. Spread evenly across face and neck.
4. Store properly: Once opened, store serum in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity to prevent contamination and oxidisation.
5. Shelf life matters: Once opened, vitamin C and retinol serums last about 6 months while others can go upto a year with proper storage. Discard if change in colour or odor is noted even before expiry.
6. Apply SPF daytime: When using potent serums like vitamin C, AHAs etc religious usage of broad spectrum sunscreen is highly recommended for daytime to avoid sun sensitivity.
By following these usage tips and opting for a serum targeted to your skin type and concern, you are sure to achieve healthy, glowing skin easily at home. Don’t forget to consistently use the serum for atleast 6 weeks for best results. Skincare works when it is simple, fuss-free and focused.
The best serum for glowing skin available in India is the Minimalist 5% Niacinamide Face Serum. It contains 5% niacinamide along with hyaluronic acid to tackle dullness, pigmentation and hydrate skin while giving it a radiant glow. The oil-free, lightweight formula is great for all skin types without causing any irritation or dryness.
The Minimalist 10% Vitamin C Face Serum is considered one of the best serums from Minimalist for glowing skin. It contains 10% ethyl ascorbic acid, a stable vitamin C derivative that brightens dull skin tone, evens out texture and minimizes appearance of spots and marks. The gentle formula is suitable for first time vitamin C users too without any risk of irritation.
To use face serum for glowing skin, cleanse your face and pat it dry. Take 2-4 drops of serum on your fingertips and gently massage it all over your face and neck. Allow it to absorb completely before applying any other skincare product over it. Use serum consistently both morning and night.
The L’Oreal Paris Brightening Serum with 1% glycolic acid & 2% niacinamide is one of the best glow boosting serums for oily skin. The chemical exfoliator tackle pores, dullness & blemishes while niacinamide controls sebum & improves radiance without greasiness. Lightweight, oil-free texture.
To apply face serum correctly, start with clean, dry skin. Take 2-4 drops of serum on fingertips & gently dab it all over face including under eyes, lips & neck allowing it to fully absorb. Do not rub. Follow with creams if required. Use twice daily for best results.
Some of the best glow boosting ingredients to check for in face serums are:
Serums have a higher concentration of active ingredients that target specific skin concerns like aging or acne as opposed to moisturizers that just hydrate and nourish the skin surface. Serums are lighter formulations designed to penetrate deeper into skin.
Always apply serum on freshly cleansed skin before slathering any kind of moisturizer or cream. As serums are made of smaller molecules designed to penetrate deeper, applying them first maximizes absorption.
Yes absolutely. Follow up your serum application with a nourishing night cream post cleansing for boosted hydration and treatment. Serums focus on targeted skin issues while creams replenish general moisturization needs.
With consistent usage almost daily, results from treatment serums become consistently visible starting from 3-4 weeks. However skin may start feeling smoother and healthier before you notice a visible “glow”. Ensure to use for at least 6 weeks before changing products.
And there you have it – our curated list of the fifteen best serums available in India for achieving bright, healthy, glowing skin. These cover key skin types and all the major glow concerns like acne marks, dull tone, pigmentation, fine lines etc much better than multipurpose moisturizers.
We have also discussed how you can pick your ideal glow boosting serum based on your skin type, concern areas and application method along with busting common serum usage myths. Follow these guidelines to find your skin best-friend serum and achieve #glass skin goals affordably while managing expectations realistically! Both Men and Women can incorporate such treatment serums easily to notice a visible improvement in skin radiance and texture with consistent usage over time of course.
Do bookmark this blog for reference to upgrade your skin health regimen with a targeted serum. Happy Glowing!
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