Super Serums

Packed with powerful ingredients and formulated with smaller molecules than moisturizers-which allow them to be easily absorbed-beauty serums are able to deeply penetrate the skin. Also unlike moisturizers, which sit on the surface comforting and protecting against the elements, serums are quickly absorbed. In fact, a few drops of serum applied 3-5 minutes before a moisturizer actually improves the absorption of the moisturizer.

Formulas vary, but most serums are designed to smooth, soften, and hydrate the skin, which diminish wrinkles and fine lines. They may also brighten your skin tone and fade discoloration. And some can firm skin, boost collagen, soothe irritation, or stimulate circulation for a natural glow.

Stimulate collagen production, brighten, moisturize, and protect your skin from environmental stress with Sibu BeautySea Buckthorn Hydrating Serum. The resilient sea buckthorn berry is a wonder ingredient, thriving in the harsh conditions of the Tibetan Himalayas with the help of the elusive omega-7 fatty acid and an abundance of powerful antioxidants. The light, non-oily serum eliminates dryness almost instantly.

Calm sensitive skin, balance oil production, and nourish your skin with Organix South Theraneem NaturalsFacial Oil Serum Balancing Therapé. Created for oily and blemish-prone skin, this rich oil blends neem, a respected ayurvedic antimicrobial herb, with hydrating sea buckthorn and tamanu oils, and an exclusive adaptogen blend of antioxidant botanicals, including holy basil and ashwagandha, to protect your skin. Use with or instead of a night cream, or to enhance your daytime moisturizer.

Firm and lift facial contours while plumping up lines and wrinkles with MyChelle DermaceuticalsSerious Hyaluronic Firming Serum. Copper helps tighten skin, improve elasticity, and stimulate collagen synthesis. Sea buckthorn improves moisture retention and provides environmental protection. Superoxide dismutase inhibits the free radical reaction that causes cell damage. And hyaluronic acid replenishes the skin’s moisture reserves. The light gel leaves a fresh scent.

Tighten skin and smooth fine lines and wrinkles with HyalogicEpisilk Instant Facelift Serum. This award-winning product features a combination of hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and Pepha-Tight, an algae extract known for instantly tightening the skin. Pepha-Tight also helps shield the skin against oxidative stress.

Bring back radiance to dull, discolored skin with Derma EEvenly Radiant Serum. Use day or night on normal-to-oily or blemish-prone skin to brighten skin tone and lighten uneven pigmentation, or as a treatment underneath your favorite moisturizer to boost hydration. The citrus-scented formula fades dark spots with Madonna lily, bearberry, licorice, and niacinamide. Antioxidant green tea and vitamin C help repair and prevent sun damage.

Sherrie Strausfogel is the author of Hawaii’s Spa Experience: Rejuvenating Secrets of the Islands. Writing about beauty, spas, health, cuisine, and travel, Strausfogel’s work has appeared in more than 100 magazines, newspapers, guidebooks, and websites. She is based in Honolulu.