Serums have become a staple in many skincare routines, promising everything from hydration to anti-aging benefits. With countless brands vying for attention, it can be a daunting task to choose the right one for your needs. From luxury names renowned for their innovative formulations to budget-friendly options that deliver impressive results, the variety is extensive. To help navigate this diverse market, explore our curated list of the best serum brands below.
Illustration of serum
Best brands of serum in 2025
Estée Lauder
Estee Lauder, a renowned leader in the skincare serum market, is known for its high-quality and innovative products. The company, founded in 1946, boasts a diverse portfolio of brands including Clinique, MAC, and La Mer, with a global presence in over 150 countries. In 2023, Estee Lauder generated nearly $16 billion in sales, with skincare and makeup being the most profitable categories, accounting for a significant portion of their net sales. The company's commitment to innovation and sustainability, such as its Green Chemistry program, enhances the efficacy and appeal of its serums. Estee Lauder's brand awareness is exceptionally high, with Clinique ranking among the top personal care brands worldwide.
Skinceuticals
SkinCeuticals is renowned as one of the top producers of skincare serums, particularly noted for its scientifically-backed and clinically proven products. The brand's C E Ferulic Vitamin C Serum, for example, is dermatologist-recommended and has been shown to increase skin firmness by 37%. This serum combines ferulic acid with pure vitamins C and E to provide advanced antioxidant protection against environmental damage. SkinCeuticals products are designed to address various skin concerns, including anti-aging, hydration, and brightness, making them a favorite among consumers seeking effective skincare solutions. The brand's commitment to thorough testing and using the right amounts of high-quality ingredients sets it apart in the skincare industry. For more detailed insights about SkinCeuticals, visit their official landing page.
Drunk Elephant
Drunk Elephant is renowned as one of the top producers of serums in the skincare industry, known for its commitment to clean and effective formulations. The brand's C-Firma Day Serum, for example, is a highly popular product that contains 15% vitamin C and is free from the "Suspicious 6" ingredients, contributing to its strong brand awareness of 39% among U.S. face care users. In 2019, Drunk Elephant achieved global net sales of $120 million, with a significant 61% increase from 2018, and it is ranked as the No. 1 or No. 2 skincare brand at all its retail partners, including Sephora.
La Roche-Posay
La Roche-Posay is renowned as one of the best producers of skincare serums, having been recognized as the fastest-growing skincare brand in both 2022 and 2023, with significant growth rates of 46% and 48% in dollar and unit sales, respectively, according to NielsenIQ. Recommended by over 90,000 dermatologists worldwide, La Roche-Posay's products, such as the Vitamin C Face Serum, are formulated with high concentrations of active ingredients like 10% pure vitamin C, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid, making them highly effective for various skin types, including sensitive skin.
Vichy
Vichy, a renowned French skincare brand under the L'Oreal family, is highly acclaimed for its effective and clinically-tested serums. The brand reported its best growth in 18 years, highlighting its increasing popularity. Products like Vichy Mineral 89 Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum and Vichy Liftactiv Specialist B3 Serum are favorites among dermatologists and consumers, known for their simple, fragrance-free formulations and significant benefits in hydrating and improving skin texture. These serums often contain key ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and volcanic water, which contribute to their efficacy. Vichy's products are recognized by the National Eczema Foundation and are widely recommended for their ability to plump the skin, improve hydration, and combat signs of aging. For an in-depth look at Vichy's skincare solutions, you can watch this informative video.
CeraVe
CeraVe has established itself as a leading skincare brand, particularly notable for its clinically effective and dermatologist-developed formulations. In 2021, CeraVe achieved $1 billion in sales, marking a 75% year-over-year growth and securing its position as the No. 3 brand in the dermocosmetics market. The brand's success is attributed to its unique blend of three essential ceramides and patented MultiVesicular Emulsion Technology (MVE), which provides long-lasting hydration and skin barrier restoration. CeraVe's influencer marketing strategy has also been highly effective, resulting in a 64% increase in earned media value and billions of views on TikTok for the hashtag #cerave. With 76% brand awareness and 29% usage share among U.S. face care users, CeraVe remains a favored choice for skincare needs. You can learn more about their commitment to skincare on their official website.
The Ordinary
The Ordinary is renowned as one of the best producers of serums, driven by its commitment to transparency, simplicity, and affordability. Founded in 2016, the brand has rapidly grown, with Deciem's net sales soaring to $460 million in 2021, largely driven by The Ordinary's popularity. Its product line, including serums like Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, has demystified skincare for consumers, offering high-quality formulations at prices between PS4.40 and $28.90. The brand's viral success on TikTok, particularly with products like the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, has generated significant sales and user engagement. With a brand awareness of 40% in the United States and 46% in the UK, The Ordinary has become a dominant player in the skincare market. For a deeper understanding of their offerings, visit their product guide.
Paula's Choice
Paula's Choice is renowned for its scientifically backed skincare products, particularly its serums, which have garnered a cult following since the brand's inception in 1995. The 10% Niacinamide Booster, for instance, is highly praised for improving uneven skin texture, reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines, and providing visibly calmer, moisturized, and more radiant skin. Another standout product is the C15 Super Booster, a vitamin C serum that enhances skin radiance. The brand's commitment to transparency and the absence of nonsensical ingredients have made it a favorite among skincare enthusiasts. With a strong online presence, Paula's Choice generated $94.3 million in eCommerce net sales in 2023. For more insights, you can read a detailed review on Paula's Choice skincare.
Kiehl's
Kiehl's is renowned as one of the top producers of serums, boasting a brand awareness of 42% among male cosmetics users in the United States. The brand's Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate, for instance, contains 12.5% vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, providing powerful anti-aging benefits and hydration. With a strong customer base, 39% of Kiehl's overall sales come from male consumers, and the brand's loyalty rate stands at 78% among its users. Kiehl's products, such as the Daily Reviving Concentrate and Midnight Recovery Concentrate, are highly praised for their hydrating and antioxidant properties. The brand's commitment to quality and research-driven products has solidified its position in the skincare market.
Sunday Riley
Sunday Riley is a renowned skincare brand, established in 2009, known for its cutting-edge, clinically formulated products that combine science and botanicals for effective and noticeable results. The brand is particularly celebrated for its serums, such as the award-winning Good Genes glycolic acid-based serum and the A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum, which tackle various skin concerns like fine wrinkles and skin clarity. With an estimated annual revenue of $35 million and a workforce of 331 employees, Sunday Riley has demonstrated significant growth, including a 10% increase in employee count last year. The brand's products are favored by celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Drew Barrymore, and its e-commerce platform shows a conversion rate of 1.50-2.00% and an average order value of $150 to $175. Sunday Riley's commitment to high-quality ingredients and innovative formulas has solidified its position as a leader in the skincare industry. You can explore more about Sunday Riley's skincare solutions.
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