13 Best Serums To Get Even Skin Tone, As Per A Cosmetologist – 2024
Pamper yourself with the right skin elixirs to get healthy, illuminated skin.
The market is filled with makeup products that can blur or hide your blemishes, but now with the best serums to even skin tone, you can ace your no-foundation look like pro. UV rays are the primary cause of multiple dark spots on the skin. Moreover, fluctuations in the level of estrogen can also cause melanin to rush to your skin surface and form dark patches. Hyperpigmentation, deep acne scars, and redness, if you are struggling with any of the following skin issues, you must include serums to improve your skin condition. A serum for uneven skin tone checks your complexion needs and heals the dark areas naturally from within, provided you pick a formula that suits your skin type and use it daily. We have compiled detailed reviews of the time-tested and best serums to even out your pigmented skin and boost its radiance.
In This Article
13 Best Serums To Even Skin Tone – 2024 Reviews With A Complete Guide
1. Best Lightweight Serum:Neutrogena Bright Boost Illuminating Serum
The Neutrogena Bright Boost Illuminating Serum hydrates dull skin and rebuilds healthy skin cells. This lightweight formula is blended with naturally derived turmeric extract that plays a pivotal role in reducing fine lines and wrinkles and also improves your skin’s overall texture. The neoglucosaminein the formula plumps the skin, exfoliates pigmented spots, and reveals brighter skin. Daily usage of the product enables you to achieve visibly brighter and even skin in just a week. In addition, this oil-free serum is gentle on your skin and do not clog pores, thus allowing your skin to breathe freely. Check out a reviewer testing the serum in this video to get an unbiased review of the product.
Key Ingredients: Neoglucosamine, Hyaluronic Acid, and Turmeric Extract
Pros
- Lightweight
- Minimizes your pores
- Oil-freeNon-comedogenic
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
2. Best All-Natural Ingredients:Noche YDia Pure Vitamin Anti-Ox Revitalizing Concentrate
The Noche Y Dia Pure Vitamin Anti-Ox Revitalizing Concentrate is the best option if you are struggling with clogged pores. It is an essential spot corrector that also clears and diminishes clogged pores, acne, and blackheads. The formula is blended well with antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, bitter orange, lemon, and kiwi seed oil, that aid healthy collagen production and reduce aging signs. The kiwi seed oil in the serum contains omega-3 acids that strengthen the skin barrier and locks in moisture. In addition, the vitamin E-rich kiwi oil improves skin elasticity and reduces wrinkles. The lemon oil in the formula has antiseptic properties that reduce acne and excess oil production, while the bitter orange peel detoxifies and reduces inflammation, leaves your skin revitalized and balanced, and acts as a skin brightening serum. Ascorbic acid, the purest form of Vitamin C, plays a vital role in firming your skin texture while alleviating any signs of inflammation.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Bitter Orange Peel, Lemon Oil, Kiwi Seed Oil, and Ascorbic Acid
Pros
- All-natural ingredients
- Reduces aging signs
- Brightens the skin
- Color balance
- Pleasant smell
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Vegan
- Esthetician recommended
Cons
- Greasy texture
3. Best Vitamin-C Serum:Advanced Clinicals Vitamin C Anti-Aging Serum
If you want a serum to brighten your dull skin instantly and also fight aging signs the Advanced ClinicalsVitamin C Anti-Aging Serum is what you need. It is enriched with antioxidant Vitamin C, which reduces dark pigments and builds even-looking skin. In addition, the antioxidants also combat environmental pollutants and gradually reduce age and sun spots. The concentrated Vitamin C also provides you with a healthier complexion. This clinically-tested serum also contains ferulic acid that boosts youthful radiance and aloe vera that hydrates your skin and reduces irritations. Check out a tester’s experience in this video to find out how this product works.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Glycolic Acid, Aloe Vera, and Ferulic acid
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- It can be used on the neck and hands
- Reduces aging signs
- Moisturizing
- Reduces acne
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Allergy-tested
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
- The skin might feel sticky
Keep a gap of at least three minutes between two skin care products. This will prevent the mixing up of the products and ensure proper absorption.
Neutrogena Bright Boost Illuminating Serum Best Lightweight Serum | Noche YDia Pure Vitamin Anti-Ox Revitalizing Concentrate Best All-Natural Ingredients | Advanced Clinicals Vitamin C Anti-Aging Serum Best Vitamin-C Serum | |
---|---|---|---|
Skin Type | Sensitive | All, Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | All, Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Normal |
Dimensions | 1.63 x 3 x 3.88 inches | - | 5.5 x 2.6 x 1.9 inches |
Weight | 3.52 Ounces. | - | 0.63 Ounces |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 13,508 | 8,560 | 17,549 |
Price | $16.68 | $35 | $9.99 |
4. Best For Dark Spots:OZNaturals Vitamin C Facial Serum
The OZNaturals Vitamin C Facial Serum is formulated without any heat or petrochemicals to retain the effectiveness of its ingredients. The serum is enriched with botanical hyaluronic acid that boosts the moisture content in your skin. Hyaluronic acid contains anti-aging benefits that increase your skin’s elasticity and firm it. The antioxidant-rich rose hip extracts in the formula detoxify and protect your skin from irritants. The serum also contains vitamin E that regenerates and restores skin elasticity, while the potent vitamin C reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Other than these, the effective formula also contains the goodness grapefruit peeling oil that cleanses dirt, Matricaria flower that soothes the skin from within, and witch hazel that reduces inflammation. With regular use the serum promotes collagen production, brightens yourcomplexion, and fights against any stubborn blemishes.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid, and Rosehip extracts
Pros
- Promotes collagen production
- Provides anti-aging benefits
- Does not clog pores
- Non-sticky
- Hydrating
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- No synthetic fragrances
- Petrochemical-free
- No synthetic colors
- Benzyl alcohol-free
- Phthalates-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Triclosan-free
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
- Might turn your skin yellowish
- Thick consistency
5. Best Niacinamide Acid Serum:Cos De Baha Niacinamide 10 Serum
The Cos De BahaNiacinamide 10 Serum offers a host of benefits to your skin. It is packed with 10% Vitamin B3 or niacinamide that nourishes the skin, minimizes red patchesand hyperpigmented spots, and tightens open pores. In addition, Niacinamide improves skin elasticity and fixes aging signs such as wrinkles, fine lines, and sagginess. This premium quality serum is extremely gentle on your skin and is safe for daily use. It strengthens the skin barrier and prevents acne and breakouts, delivering visible results. With regular use of the serum, the skin regains its plump glow once again.
Key Ingredient: Niacinamide
Pros
- Relieves skin irritation
- Reduces acne and breakouts
- Eliminates scarring
- Reduces aging signs
- Diminishes pores
- Non-greasy
- Paraben-free
- Colorant-free
- Alcohol-free
- Fragrance-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
- May cause allergic reactions
6. Best For All Skin Types:Its SKIN Blemish Catcher 10
Give your skin the care it deserves with the It’s SKIN Blemish Catcher 10. This serum is formulated using Power Effect 100TM to suit every skin type and prevent any itchy sensations. It reduces melanin production and brightens the skin with regular use. The potent formula is enriched with plant-based vitamin C that reduces the appearance of freckles, blemishes, and spots on your skin. The green tea extract in the hypoallergenic formula tightens pores and offers a radiant complexion. This facial serum does not contain any harmful ingredients or artificial colors, making it safe for sensitive skin. Check out a reviewer’s experience in this video to learn about the benefits of the serum.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin Cand Green Tea Extract
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Reduces the appearance of freckles
- Relieve skin irritation
- Moisturizing
- Hypoallergenic
- Easy to use
- Wears well under makeup
- Non-sticky
- Brightens your skin
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
- No harsh chemicals
Cons
- Runny consistency
7. Best For Even Skin Tone:Kiehls Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution
The Kiehls Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution Serum boosts skin’s radiance and gives an even-toned skin. Infused with the activated form of vitamin C, peony extracts, and salicylic acid, it helps to reduce skin discolorations such as dark spots, post-acne marks, and hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C in the formula helps to protect the skin from free radical damage and makes it appear clear and healthy. Many reviewers have testified that this potent serum can be used alone as a spot treatment or on the entire face, hands, and neck. Apply it morning and night, before moisturizing to see visible results.
Key Ingredients:Salicylic Acid, Vitamin C, and Peony Extracts
Pros
- Brightens skin
- Reduces hyperpigmentation
- Suitable for all skin types
- Recyclable packaging
- Highly potent
Cons
- None
Mix your favorite facial oil with serum in a 1:1 ratio for a simpler yet effective skin care routine.
8. Best Non-Comedogenic:Loreal Paris Youth Code Serum Concentrate
The Loreal Paris Youth Code Serum works effectively on the skin surface to correct and fade dark spots. Daily UV exposure results in dullness, skin discoloration, uneven texture, and skin tone. The scientifically formulated serum hydrates the skin from within and improves its texture and skin tone correction. Many reviewers agree that this fast-absorbing facial serum adds instant luminosity to your appearance. It smoothes and refines the skin and also reduces all kinds of dark spots, acne marks, or sun spots in just four weeks of regular use. In addition, this non-greasy formula is non-comedogenic and safe for all skin types.
Key Ingredient: Niacinamide
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Non-greasy
- Reduces dark circles
- Diminishes wrinkles
- 24 hours hydration
- Diminishes dark spots
- Smoothens the skin
- Absorbs easily
- Clinically tested
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- Strong Fragrance
9. Best For Pore Minimizing: Clarins Pore Control Serum
Clarins Pore Control Serum helps to tighten the pores, refine skin texture and make the skin look radiant. It is infused with organic strawberry extracts, vine flowers, and naturally exfoliating tamarind acid pulp, which helps decongest pores and smoothen out the skin texture. It delivers visible results, giving a stunning blur effect to the skin and controls excess shine. This oil-free, matte finish serum is suitable for all skin types and makes skin fresh, glowy, and impossibly smooth.
Key Ingredients:Organic Strawberry Tea Fruit Extracts and Vine Flower Cells
Pros
- Mattifies the skin
- Refines skin texture
- Boosts the radiance
- Naturally exfoliating
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- None
10. Best Anti-aging Serum:Skin & Lab Vitamin C Brightening Serum
The Skin & Lab Vitamin C Brightening Serum is packed with antioxidants and hydrating complex. This lightweight formula brightens and evens your skin tone and provides a youthful glow. It is formulated with 15-vitamin blends, hydrolyzed collagen, and Matrixyl 3000, which make your skin vibrant and clear. It is also enriched with a blend of pure and synthetic vitamin C that plays an integral role in fading dark spots and diminishing hyperpigmentation. The collagen fights against the signs of aging, while the 5-hyaluronic acid and panthenol effectively locks in the moisture and keeps your skin hydrated all day long. The dermatologist-tested serum effectively tightens your dull skin and protects the skin barrier from external damage. The non-greasy and light texture allows it to seep quickly into your skin without causing any irritation.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and Panthenol
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Lightweight
- Provides hydration
- Easy application
- Reduces aging signs
- Affordable
- Non-greasy
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- May cause fungal acne
11. Best Antioxidant Serum:Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Power Serum
The Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Power Serum is highly effective in improving your natural skin tone and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It is formulated with 20% THD Ascorbate, 3% Vitamin E, and 2% Ferulic Acid, In addition, the serum improves your skin’s overall texture and moisture content. THD Ascorbate is an ultra-stable ingredient that is 50x more powerful than the usual vitamin C. It aids the serum to doubly brighten your skin from within. In addition, the serum’s performance is boosted by two powerful antioxidants (Vitamin E and ferulic acid) that allow the product to meet the aging, firming, and brightening concerns. According to the reviews, this luxurious serum is gentle and leaves your otherwise dull skin shiny and hydrated. Apply the product twice daily on your face and neck for best results.
Key Ingredients: THD Ascorbate, Vitamin E, and Ferulic Acid
Pros
- Hydrates the skin
- Firms the skin
- Provides antioxidant benefits
- Reduces aging signs
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Greasy
- Expensive
12. Best Skin Smoothening:The Ordinary Buffet Serum
The Ordinary Buffet Serum helps to firm, smooth, and even out the skin texture. It is formulated using peptide technology, hyaluronic acid complexes, and amino acids that improve overall skin tone. The serum addresses dryness, crow’s feet, fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. It has received many positive reviews on Amazon as this water-based serum leaves the skin hydrated, soft, and youthful-looking. You can use it safely in your morning and nighttime skincare routine with other skincare products.
Key Ingredients: Peptides and Amino Acids
Pros
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Improves the skin’s elasticity
- Suitable for all skin types
- Hydrating
- Lightweight
- Suits all skin types
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
13. Best Non-Sticky Formula:Mele Even Dark Spot Control Serum
The professional-grade Mele Even Dark Spot Control Serum is designed to even out your skin tone. It contains 3% niacinamide and pro-retinol which help with dark spots reduction on your skin caused by UV rays and enhance your skin’s natural complexion. It also takes care of excessive acne problems and heals the damage caused by them. The lightweight retinol serum also combats the aging signs and actively diminishes fine line and wrinkles. It is enriched with Hexylresorcinol, which removes dead skin cells and ensures new, smooth and plump skin. In addition, this non-sticky serum is suitable for all skin types.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Pro-Retinol, Hexylresorcinol, and Vitamin E
Pros
- Lightweight
- Combats aging signs
- Leaves no residue
- Non-sticky
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Phthalates-free
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
- Unpleasant smell
Whether battling blackheads, fighting aging signs, or struggling with hyperpigmentation, even skin tone serums should be the first things in your skincare shopping cart. However, not every serum will suit your skin type and be beneficial to your skin in the long run. Read on to choose the best serum to even your skin.
How To Choose The Best Serums To Even Skin Tone
If you wish to clarify and refine your facial skin, you must look for the ingredients that provide such benefits. The following expert-recommended ingredients are great for neutralizing pigmentation.
- Vitamin C- Serums with vitamin C brighten your dull complexion, deflect the pollutants and combat the rogue free radicals that essentially harm your skin. It also reduces age spots, brown spots, brown patches, and uneven patches on the skin and reduces the appearance of tired skin.
- Retinol- It is almost a magic ingredient that effectively improves the overall skin quality. It reduces the appearance of enlarged pores and promotes overall skin health.
- AHAs and BHAs- Serums with AHAs and BHAs, remove the dead skin cells that clog your pores and offer smooth skin
- Hyaluronic Acid- Hyaluronic acid boosts moisture levels in your skin, leaving it plumper. It also rejuvenates the skin from within while diminishing the dark spots gradually and enhancing the appearance of the skin.
- Salicylic Acid- This ingredient works wonders for skin congested with dirt and debris. Salicylic acid gently exfoliates and removes the debris to offer clearer skin.
Investing in serums that contain natural ingredients such as green tea and birch bark is great. These natural substitutes work amazingly well to clarify and brighten your skin and also work as uneven skin tone treatments.
Since your skin deserves the best, avoiding certain harmful ingredients and chemicals is essential. For example, pick serums that do not contain parabens, sulfates, and alcohol, as these ingredients gradually deteriorate your skin’s texture and leave it dull and dehydrated.
Note: Consider trusted brands that are known for using clinically proven and dermatologically-approved ingredients to avoid allergic reactions. Also, pick serums that have been through rigorous testing to ensure skin safety and efficacy.
Spending too much time under the sun can affect your skin texture drastically. The harmful UVA and UVB rays can leave your skin dry and wrinkled. In addition, issues like hyperpigmentation and sun spots are common results of sun damage. If you are wondering how to get rid of these damages from your skin, go through the following section.
How To Even Skin Tone From Sun Damage
Skin damaged by the harmful sun rays can be eventually healed with the help of tone correcting serums. Be mindful of the ingredients before buying any sun damage repair serum. If you are struggling with sun spots and damage, pick out a serum containing ceramides to plump your skin. Serums that have fruit extracts, calm down your stressed out skin. Another great ingredient is fatty acids. They soothe your damaged skin and balance the nutrient contents in it.
In addition to a good serum, you can even your skin tone and enjoy a brighter complexion with an overnight face mask. Invest in a gently foaming cleanser with alpha-hydroxy acids and a suitable skin complexion enhancer for better results, and ace radiant and youthfu skin even in your 40s. Using a sunblock with broad-specturm SPF is necessary to prevent further sun damage.
For severe sun-damaged skin, three primary treatments are helpful. These take care of the hyperpigmented skin and relieve the irritated areas. –
- Laser Therapy- It is a non-invasive treatment that revitalizes and restores the natural skin tone of your skin. The treatment is highly effective in reducing wrinkles, promoting an even skin tone, and getting radiant skin.
- Broad Band Light- BBD treatment uses broad-spectrum light to destroy sun spots and brightens your complexion. In addition, this cosmetic dermatology treatment rejuvenates and naturally hydrates your skin tissues.
- Chemical Peels- If you want to get rid of aging signs from the skin, chemical peels are ideal. These chemical solutions peel away the outer layer of your skin and expose a smooth, bright complexion.
Infographic: How To Buy The Best Serum To Even Out The Skin Tone
A serum for uneven skin tone repairs dark spots organically from the inside. Whether you are dealing with blackheads, age signs, or hyperpigmentation, an even-toning serum must be the first step of your skin care regimen. The infographic below will help you understand the factors to look out for. Check it out!
The Bottom Line
Skin issues such as hyperpigmentation and sun spots are common. But, nothing beats the results produced by the best serums for even skin tone. A good serum that suits your skin type is the need of the hour. The Neutrogena Bright Boost Illuminating Serum is ideal for dull and damaged skin, while the Noche YDia Pure Vitamin Anti-Ox Revitalizing Concentrate is perfect for oily skin care concerns and acne-prone skin. If you are struggling with dry, dehydrated skin, The Ordinary Buffet Serum helps you keep it moisturized. It will not only reduce the appearance of dark patches but also help your skin regain its natural, silky, and smooth texture. Serums containing active ingredients, such as Vitamin C, Retinol, and hyaluronic acid, should be included in the daily skincare routine as they are dermatologist approved to treat sun-damaged skin. These serums gradually heal the affected areas while maintaining the necessary moisture levels in the skin cells. But, simply using a serum will not provide you with long-lasting results. Building a healthy skincare regime and religiously following it is necessary. Investing in a good sunblock, toner, and moisturizer is equally important to retain a clearer complexion even when you enter the mature years of your life. Be patient with your serum and use it daily to achieve an even complexion within weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does vitamin C serum even skin tone?
Yes. Vitamin C serum evens the skin tone. It prohibits abnormal melanin production and the anti-inflammatory properties of Vitamin C reduce redness and dark spots and gradually clears the complexion.
Does hyaluronic acid help with uneven skin tone?
Yes. Hyaluronic acid boosts moisture retention in the skin. It also plumps and firms the skin and promotes healthy-looking, even skin tone.
How to even out skin tone and texture?
You must follow a fixed skincare routine to even out your complexion and improve the texture of your skin. An ideal skincare routine must include:
• Exfoliation- gentle exfoliation is an effective way of removing the dead upper layer cells of the skin.
• Toning – use a good toner to maintain a balance of nutrients in the skin.
• Serum – use a serum containing vitamin C and retinol to diminish the dark spots on your skin gradually.
• Moisturizing- make sure to moisturize your skin daily with a nourishing moisturizer to keep it plump and healthy.
• Sunscreen – wear sunscreens daily, even when you are inside the house.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Krati Darak, a certified skincare expert, is the article’s writer. She has gone through several review sites researching the individual serums and has listed their pros and cons separately, thus making it easy for you to select a serum that meets your skin needs. She has also provided her expert advice on how to repair and heal sun-damaged skin and listed the main ingredients to look for while buying a serum for your uneven skin.
Read full bio of Georgia Smith
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Shatabdi Bhattacharya
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.