15 Face Serums That Do the Most But Don't Cost More Than £38

Face serums are beloved because they’re so lightweight but pack a big punch when it comes to skincare benefits. They serve a variety of skin needs. Do you have totally dehydrated, flaky skin? There’s a serum for that. Or what if you want something that has a little bit of exfoliating action to get rid of dead skin cells and dirt? There’s one for that, too. And what about something with anti-ageing benefits? Oh, there’s definitely an option for you.

So yeah, face serums can do so much and are a great skincare product, but there’s a downside to them—they can get pretty pricey. I definitely splurge every few months on my favourite vitamin C serum that just so happens to cost £110, but to me, it’s totally worth it because my skin always looks brighter and healthier when I use it. That doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate an affordable drugstore buy as well.

CeraVe

Resurfacing Retinol Serum

£31

For a retinol formula, try this resurfacing serum that works to minimise the appearance of acne scars, marks and enlarged pores. It also contains three essential ceramides, licorice root extract and niacinamide to nourish the skin.

What a reviewer says: “This product has slightly reduced the visibility of my acne scarring. Surprisingly, since I started using it, my acne has cleared up completely. Adding this product at night is the only change I made to my routine. My face no longer feels dry during the day. Overall, this product has helped balance my skin far more than anticipated.”

L’Oréal

Revitalift Night Serum With Pure Retinol

~~£25~~
£20

This nighttime serum contains 0.3% pure retinol to reduce wrinkles and smooth texture. It also deeply hydrates the skin thanks to ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.

What a reviewer says: “I love how easy this serum is to use—[it] absorbs quickly, feels soft on the skin, and didn’t irritate my sensitive skin at all. The formula is milky unlike other clear serums I have used which adds to the ease of spreading. Also a great value. They recommend two drops—this bottle is going to last!”

Neutrogena

Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Face Serum

£25

Neutrogena’s lightweight serum contains both retinol and hyaluronic acid for anti-aging and hydrating benefits. It targets fine lines and wrinkles, uneven texture and dull skin.

What a reviewer says: “Within days (yes, days), the deepest crease above one eye is gone, not diminished or better but gone. My forehead lines look like they did in my 30s, and my smile lines are diminishing daily. I cannot promise it will work for you (I have overall pretty good skin thanks to genetics—my mom did too), but I swear it has done wonders for me—at such a great price.”

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