Subtle signs of ageing, like fine lines, wrinkles and loose skin, is often most evident on our face and this is why taking care of the skin and muscles on our face is important to maintain a youthful appearance. Investing in the best serum for mature skin that works for your skin type and incorporating it as part of your regular skincare routine will work wonders to keep your skin looking rejuvenated and flawless.
While the best moisturisers for mature skin, the best night creams and other products that go on the surface of your skin will keep it moisturised by creating a protective barrier, ageing skin that is more prone to dryness often requires a deeper level of care and nourishment. This is where serums for specific concerns and targeted care helps mature skin. Here are some of our top picks so you can decide which is best for your skin types and needs.
Best serums for mature skin at a glance
What is a face serum?
Face serums are usually formulated with high concentrations of ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinol, niacinamide or other similar components. What makes it different from creams and moisturisers is that serums are usually thinner and lighter in texture although the active ingredients are present in much higher concentrations.
Here’s what serum does for your face
Due to the lighter and thinner formula of serums, they are easily absorbed into the skin, penetrating more deeper than moisturisers or creams do. For instance, using the best eye creams will be more effective when paired with a good under eye serum that works at a deeper level of your skin to make your eyes look brighter. This is why it is recommended to apply serums right after cleansing your face, before any moisturisers or creams so the serums can be absorbed completely by your skin.
We spoke to a skin expert, Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme who is the founder of ZKIN and the Adonia Medical Clinic for more insight about the best serums for mature skin and guidance on choosing the right one for your skin type.
Expert advice on taking care of mature skin
According to Dr Ifeoma, the main skincare issues faced by mature women are dryness and sensitiveness. Her advice is to review your skincare products and switch to a routine that focuses on supporting specific concerns and issues your skin faces.
“Use a gentle cleanser, reduce exfoliation, increase hydration with ingredients such as squalane, ceramides, and glycerine, and ensure your skin is protected with SPF,” she says.
What kind of serums benefit mature skin?
Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme recommends serums with antioxidants to reduce free radical damage, such as resveratrol and the best vitamin C serums, which are great for treating acne, uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
It is also worth including hydrating serums that contain glycerine and hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine. For instance, hyaluronic acid is very good at retaining water, which is why it is used in the best under eye creams and moisturisers. It helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
You can also consider serums with added collagen and retinol to increase your skin’s elasticity, suppleness and youthful look. Whether you are looking for the best eyelash serums or a skincare addition to tackle wrinkles and fine lines, here are some of the best serums for mature skin to help nourish your skin.
How we tested these serums for mature skin
The serums for mature skin listed in this article have been tested and reviewed by women aged 40 and above, taking a list of factors into consideration. While testing these products, our reviewers have looked at how effective they are in reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and loose skin, if they reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation, if they tightening and add firmness to skin, how effectively they moisturise and hydrate and if they help improve brightness. We also considered factors like affordability and how well each serum helps to improve the skin issue they claim to tackle.
Best serums for mature skin
The L'Oréal Paris 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Revitalift Filler Serum tops our list of the best serums for mature skin as it is a product that targets hydration – what our skin expert cited as the main issue for mature skin. As a product that works wonders for mature skin, celebrities like Helen Mirren have had this serum as part of their skincare for years.
This hyaluronic acid serum is formulated for powerful moisture-binding that works across multiple layers of the skin. Locking in intense hydration, this serum helps your skin to look plumper, more even-toned and smoother, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
This serum was tested and reviewed by Selin Thomas, age 60 and she said:
“My skin does not feel as dry during the day, since I started using this serum before applying my sunscreen and makeup. It has made my skin feel really soft and supple too.
"It is a really easy step to add to your skincare routine as well - right after cleansing and before your moisturiser.
“The serum is absorbed quickly, and I feel it has really reduced the appearance of some of the fine lines on my face, especially around my mouth area,” she added.
Pros
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- It is absorbed quickly by the skin
- Makes your skin feel soft and supple
- Makes your skin look plumper and smoother
Cons
- Falls in a slightly higher price range compared to other similar products
Best anti wrinkle serum
www.marksandspencer.com
Lumene's Vegan Collagen Essence is great if you are looking for a product to reduce the appearance of wrinkles on your face. This serum was tested and reviewed by Rebecca Lancaster, 42, digital writer for Mother&Baby and she said:
“This is going to be one of the few products that I buy on repeat. It has a refreshing jelly-like consistency that promises to reduce wrinkles and hydrate skin. It is hydrating on its own and great if you have dry skin.”
The serum is enriched with plant based vegan collagen, nordic lingonberry water and three types of hyaluronic acid. Our reviewer shared that she has been using it, followed by a moisturiser and it adds an incredible glow to her skin. “I look healthier, my skin feels plumper, and I think it may actually have reduced my wrinkles a little,” she added.
It is recommended to use it twice a day for improving your skin elasticity and restoring a youthful look.
Pros
- Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
- Hydrates well, perfect for those with dry skin
- It is enriched with plant based vegan collagen, nordic lingonberry water and three types of hyaluronic acid
- Makes skin feel plumper
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
Best vitamin C serum for mature skin
Hannah CarrollThe COSRX Pure Vitamin C 23% Serum is a brilliant product to brighten and restore the glow back to your skin. This serum was tested and reviewed by Hannah Carroll, senior writer for Mother&Baby and she said:
“The vitamin C brightens up my complexion and leaves my skin looking fresh and glowing, like I’ve just had the best night's sleep of my life (even though as a mum of three young children, that is rarely the case).”
The formula is designed for quick absorption and doesn’t leave a greasy residue. It is enriched with vitamin E to reduce visible signs of aging and slow down skin damage. Added hyaluronic acid also ensures rich moisturisation to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
“The serum also packs a punch when it comes to fading dark spots and giving my skin a much-needed radiance boost. My skin feels smoother and more even toned every day. I’m genuinely impressed by how well it fits into my routine, and the results are obvious,” she added.
However, the reviewer said, “If I had to nitpick, the scent isn't exactly my favourite. But honestly, it dissipates so quickly that it’s hardly a dealbreaker in my opinion.” Overall it is perfect for anyone battling dullness or pigmentation.
Pros
- Vitamin C brightens up complexion
- Formula is designed for quick absorption
- Enriched with vitamin E to reduce visible signs of aging
- Added hyaluronic acid ensures rich moisturisation
- Helps in fading dark spots, making skin look even toned
- Notable difference a week after using
Cons
- It is quite potent and has a strong scent intially
Best budget serum for mature skin
Bootswww.boots.com
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum is a must-have if you are looking for an easy product that works effectively to restore the glow back to your skin and restore a damaged skin barrier. The formula is enriched with 10% Niacinamide and 1% Zinc to create a potent serum that is equipped to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone and prevent dark spots and blemishes. Reviewers have shared that using this serum regularly has made their complexion clearer, improved the texture of their skin and prevents breakouts. For those with sensitive skin, it might cause some irritation initially due to the high concentration of niacinamide. Diluting it with moisturiser or another mild facial oil will help or start off gently with a lower percentage of niacinamide and not using it every day.
Pros
- Helps restore a damaged skin barrier
- Reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone and prevent dark spots
- Makes complexion clearer, improves the texture of skin and prevents breakouts
Cons
- For those with sensitive skin, it might cause some irritation initially due to the high concentration of niacinamide
The No7 Laboratories Firming Booster Serum will be a brilliant addition to your skincare routine if you are looking to enhance firmness and tightness of your skin. This serum was tested and reviewed by Selin Thomas, 60 who said she has noticed considerable difference in the way her skin feels since using this product.
“I have been using this serum for about 3 weeks now and my skin feels slightly firmer, especially around my smile lines,” she said.
It is a concentrated firming serum that is enriched with Matrixyl 3000+ ™ - No7’s powerful anti-wrinkle peptide technology, added hibiscus that is rich in amino acids to boost collagen production and hyaluronic acid to add moisture and plump your skin.
“My skin feels more hydrated and does not dry out very fast after applying this serum. It is almost like it makes my moisturiser last longer which in turn makes my skin feel softer and more supple,” our reviewer added.
It is designed to target areas that are prone to sagging, the jawline and neck. Our reviewer mentioned that if you do use the cream according to the instructions on face, neck and jawline, it does run out quite quickly. But she feels it definitely delivers good results.
Pros
- Makes skin feel firmer and reduces fine lines
- Enriched with Matrixyl 3000+ ™ - No7’s powerful anti-wrinkle peptide technology
- Added hibiscus that is rich in amino acids to boost collagen production
- Added hyaluronic acid to add long-lasting moisture
Cons
- Our reviewer felt that if you do use the cream according to the instructions on face, neck and jawline, it does run out quite quickly
Best natural serum for mature skin
Hannah Carollwww.counterculturestore.co.uk
The BYROE New York Tomato Firming Serum is perfect if you are looking for a product with an all-natural ingredient list. This serum was tested and reviewed by Hannah Carroll, senior writer for Mother&Baby and she said:
“I was immediately intrigued by the ingredient list of the BYROE New York Tomato Firming Serum, and it does not disappoint. Packed with powerful ingredients like green tomato extract and Vitamin C, this serum feels like a little miracle for my skin.” The formula is lightweight yet deeply hydrating, leaving your skin feeling smooth and firm, with a noticeable lift and radiance.
It is formulated to target multiple signs of ageing, like loss of firmness, sagging, fine lines, and deep wrinkles. “The unique tomato extract gives it a refreshing and slightly tangy feel, and I can visibly see my skin looking more even and plump after each use (I have been using it for 4 months now and can notice the difference),” she added. It absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue, and you get a beautiful, fresh glow.
Pros
- Really gentle on the skin
- Natural ingredients like green tomato extract and Vitamin C
- The formula is lightweight yet deeply hydrating
- Targets multiple signs of ageing, like loss of firmness, sagging, fine lines, and deep wrinkles
- Absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue
Cons
- The difference takes a little bit of time to notice but it's definitely improved my skin
The Teoxane RHA Vit C Serum is perfect to boost your skin’s radiance and glow. This serum was tested and reviewed by Rebecca Lancaster, digital writer for Mother&Baby and she said:
“As a 42-year-old mum with two young children and a full time job, the lack of sleep, long days and early mornings are starting to take their toll on my skin. Recently it’s been feeling particularly lacklustre, and my wrinkles are becoming more pronounced. With that in mind, the Teoxane RHA Vit C serum’s claim to brighten, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, firm the complexion and add radiance is certainly appealing.”
Her first impressions were that it feels like a premium product and the dispenser is easy to use. Because Vitamin C can’t be exposed to light the bottle is opaque, but this does make it hard to see how much is left in the bottle. “It has the consistency of a lightweight cream/moisturiser rather than the clear/liquid serums I’m used to, but goes on smoothly and sinks in well. It layers well with my moisturiser, and I can apply the moisturiser almost immediately rather than feeling like I need to wait for the serum to dry or be absorbed,” she said.
Our reviewer has relatively sensitive skin but hasn’t had any kind of reaction to the Teoxane RHA Vit C serum. She has been using it every day for over a month now and her feelings are mixed. “I wasn’t expecting miracles, but my skin does feel smoother and has more glow to it which does make my frown lines less prominent,” she said.
"As the serum comes with a premium price tag, I’m not sure I would be persuaded to save up and invest in it again but if money wasn’t a concern I’d certainly add it to my skincare routine," she added.
Pros
- Premium product with packaging to match
- Layers well and absorbs quickly
- Can be used by those with sensitive skin
- Skin feels smoother
- Adds more glow which makes frown lines less prominent
Cons
- Higher price point
- The bottle is opaque which makes it hard to see how much is left in the bottle
LookFantasticwww.lookfantastic.com
This VICHY Minéral 89 Eye Brightening Serum is perfect for brightening those under eyes and rejuvenating the skin around the area. It helps reduce the appearance of eye bags, dark circles, and fine lines. The formula is infused with caffeine that energises and reduces the appearance of eye bags and tiredness. Added hyaluronic acid, Adenosine and 89% Vichy Thermal Mineralising Water helps to protect the skin’s barrier function and prevent dryness. It works to brighten, plump and hydrate your under-eye area.
Pros
- Helps reduce the appearance of eye bags, dark circles, and fine lines
- Formula is infused with caffeine that energises
- Added hyaluronic acid helps to protect the skin’s barrier function
- Prevents dryness
- Helps to brighten, plump and hydrate
Cons
- Might take some time to see any visible difference in dark circles although it does make your eyes look brighter
FAQs
What serum should I use?
Serums are potent formulas with concentrated components that can help improve your skin, reduce signs of ageing and restore the glow back to your face. This is why choosing the right serum that targets specific skin concerns you wish to address is important. If you are struggling with dryness and lack of hydration, choosing a hyaluronic acid serum would be beneficial. Similarly, opting for vitamin c serums or niacinamide ones would be good if you are looking for skin brightening or evening your skin tone. We have listed several serums for different kinds of skin concerns to make it easier to choose the right serum that would benefit your skin.
Do collagen serums work?
According to skin expert Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, it depends on why you are using them. While these serums might not stimulate collagen production in the skin, but as large molecules, they can help with hydration which would improve elasticity and make your skin appear more plump, just as natural collagen would.
Which is better for mature skin, retinol or hyaluronic acid?
Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme believes that this depends on your skin goals. If your skin feels dry, a humectant such as hyaluronic acid will help with hydration. If fine lines are a concern, retinoids can be very effective over time in smoothing the skin’s appearance.
Which is better for mature skin, vitamin C or hyaluronic acid?
Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme explains that vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serve different purposes. Hyaluronic acid provides instant hydration, while the right vitamin C serum can amplify sun protection up to seven times when used with sunscreen. It also helps prevent future skin damage and plays an essential role in collagen formation. The choice depends on your skin’s needs.
Akhila Thomas is a digital writer at Yours.co.uk and her areas of interest are beauty, fashion, food, wellness and lifestyle. She has previously written for magazines like Leftlion, Women’s Health and t’Art and worked extensively with art, culture, fashion and social media trends. She also likes to travel and explore new cultures and cuisines.