The best Facial Serums: Reddit reviews

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Azelaic acid and tretinoin are the things that worked for me, with 0.1% A-Ret tretinoin gel being what cleared my skin entirely. Azelaic acid was freaking amazing, but I dropped it when I moved up tretinoin strength and... haven't needed it since.

Tretinoin is a big commitment to make for newbies though, so it's not for everyone. Azelaic acid is much more accessible and new user friendly. And on that note, I really, really love and recommend Cos De BAHA 10% azelaic acid serum, available on Amazon for less than $13 with free shipping and free returns in the US. I was one of the first people to ever find it and try it and it experienced a big surge in popularity, for good reason. 10% azelaic acid, no acne trigger ingredients, with a pleasant serum texture and first ingredient skin soothing aloe extract. Highlyyy recommend. It's amazing for skin redness and it's even more amazing for breakouts. I swear, azelaic acid is one of the few legitimate miracle ingredients out there as far as very rapid, visible results.

Going to mention an AB product as per sub rules and say that Cosrx's AHA 7% glycolic acid didn't do much for me. In general, AHAs aren't really that helpful for breakouts in my experience. BHAs are even less effectual. Tretinoin number one for me, but azelaic acid a close second that I think everyone should try if they haven't yet!

Hey - have you been checked by a doctor for eczema at all? Mine started on my hands around the time I first started in care (washing hands/bacterial gel etc).

I got a prescription cream from my GP to help with the open wounds but when it's not flared up I use a hyaluronic serum followed with a good hand cream (I love stuff from The Body Shop).

Link below to Amazon for the serum I use:

https://www.amazon.com/Hadalabo-Skin-Institute-hyaluronic-solution/dp/B013HHJV0C/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=premium+hyaluronic+solution&qid=1577833602&sr=8-4

This has really helped my hands, winter makes the dry and soreness so much worse but I've found this reduces the pain and cracked skin significantly.

I love it. I don't know if it's HG worthy though, This elf product is an HG. It's also cheaper and I'm kinda trying to find the best stuff that also happens to be cheap. Snail products, if done correctly and not stressing the animal out, will be more expensive and at this point, I want the best at college student prices. Even when I graduate I want the best and sometimes spending less you get more.

I’ve used this one for a while now, and haven’t noticed a smell: TruSkin Vitamin C Serum for Face with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, Witch Hazel, 1 fl oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_TsjGxtXHknO3K

I used the Banish Acne Kit, it's $75. Since that is pretty expensive, I started looking for alternatives. I'm about to buy this Vitamin C serum that has been recommended many times in this sub and a derma roller, both from Amazon. Make sure you have a little tub or cup filled with rubbing alcohol to sanitize the roller before and after every use.

Serum: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_17K-Bb9D6M3FH

Roller: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B073CFR8R4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_M.K-Bb927EMBK

So I had no idea SCA was all about TO/SkinCeuticals/Paula's Choice... I ended up scouring Amazon and got TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C. It's been working great for me, without any negative reactions!

(TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum for Face, Organic Anti-Aging Topical Facial Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, 1 fl oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4vKEAb0797T1J)

You can order it from amazon.

Here’s the link https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hadalabo-Institute-Gokujun-hyaluronic-solution/dp/B013HHJV0C/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=hada+labo&qid=1557313179&s=gateway&sr=8-4

I’ve never used the beauty samples and I didn’t know you could choose. I’m pretty sure it’s random. Sorry if I couldn’t help.

I finally introduced Vitamin C into my skincare regimen, and it's been life changing. I have dry, acne-prone skin (which has gotten world better thanks to Reddit and prescription topicals). On a recommendation from a friend, I bought Tru Skin Naturals Vitamin C with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E for $20 on Amazon. I put it on in the morning and let it sit for a few minutes (I'll usually brush my teeth or putter around) and then apply my moisturizer, sunscreen, makeup, etc.

It has really helped fade my PIH and I haven't had any bad break outs since. Would recommend. My night routine is unchanged -- I use a makeup wipe, then wash with Cerave Hydrating Cleanser, tone with MUAC mandelic acid toner, apply tretinoin 30 mins after wash, and top with Cerave PM moisturizer & sometimes some argan oil. I do a peel once a week, lately the MUAC 40% lactic acid peel, and of course don't use the retinoid or toner that day.

If anyone has an other Vitamin C recs other than this one, or tips, lmk :)

I posted this to someone's question :)...

So I had no idea SCA was all about TO/SkinCeuticals/Paula's Choice... I ended up scouring Amazon and got TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C. It's been working great for me, without any negative reactions!

(TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum for Face, Organic Anti-Aging Topical Facial Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, 1 fl oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4vKEAb0797T1J)

I used the Glossier Hyaluronic acid but switched back to my standard Cosmedica Hyaluronic acid from Amazon. 🤷 Plays well with everything.

Sure it was this serum that’s supposed to be a dupe for the $100+ skinceuticles serum

I liked it, but I’m trying to finish up my SR ceo moisturizer right now and then when the Sephora VIB sale happens I want to buy the TO Ascorbyl tet solution. Don’t really like the SR cream and if I don’t like TO solution either I’ll go back to the amazon serum

Dr. Brenner Vitamin C Serum 20% Pure L-Ascorbic Acid, Ferulic Acid, Vitamin E and Hyaluronic Acid. Buy on Amazon, $19.99 for 1 oz.

I was a devoted Skinceuticals Vitamin C user and switched to this. Love it. I did buy a refillable airless pump bottle to transfer the serum into so it stays as fresh as possible.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071GZPPQ4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_N0YGF5E2NCVMYK440END

Hado labo is inexpensive and wonderful. I have noticed significant changes in my skin using hyaluronic acid. I have dry dehydrated skin. Hyaluronic acid has helped to decrease my dryness when used after seven skins and before an oil and occlusive moisturizer.

Edit (to add): don't feel like you have to spend a lot to get quality. Hada labo is $ 10-15

hada labo (buy from Amazon . . . not this site. . . it's like $11 on Amazon) - thinner consistency with 3 forms of hyaluronic acid

hado labo - thicker consistency with 5 forms of hyaluronic acid

I actually use both with a mist before, between, and after.

Is it this serum? If it is, it also has retinol, niacinamide, and salicylic acid, which can all dry out your skin! Vitamin C on its own can be irritating, as well, and some people have to build tolerance. The Vitamin C in that serum is 20%, which is pretty strong. If you don’t want the other ingredients, Timeless makes a great vitamin c. It’s 20%, but you can start every few days to build up tolerance if need be.

You might be having more breakouts because your skin is dehydrated and is producing more sebum to compensate. Leading to more clogged pores.

There's nothing super special about the ordinary. You can go to Marshalls or TJ Maxx and get a great HA serum for 5.99

I personally use the HadaLabo Hyaluronic Acid serum because it will last me for a good year: https://www.amazon.com/Hadalabo-Skin-Institute-hyaluronic-solution/dp/B013HHJV0C

The extra lotion treatment?

I LOVE the hado labo premium lotion.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013HHJV0C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_b8P8Fb0Q2WFBQ

It is a base for all my hydration needs.

All the details on the bobbi body seem to fit what I describe the hado labo. It's a major hit on skincare addiction and it's been a staple for me for 4 years.

From Amazon: Nufountain C20+Ferulic and Timeless Skincare are both good ones.

Hiii! this is not a dupe of drunk elephant's C serum, but it's one for Skinceuticals C E Ferulic: https://www.amazon.com/NuFountain®-Ferulic-Vitamin-Ordered-Shipping/dp/B0039LZW78

amazon, 20 bucks, I've gone through 3 bottles already. just store it in the fridge, in the box, and it lasts a really long time.

I'm not a Hada Labo expert, but isn't this it (Amazon prime)?

You're welcome! Sorry I couldn't get back to you sooner--the life of a toddler mum.

Not sure if you are familiar, but the Japanese and South Korean toners are great for adding moisture. Amazon carries some of the more popular ones like

Hada Labo Premium Etude House Soon Jung Relief Toner

But if those don't appeal to you, the best way to choose one is to look for something that contains ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid (or sodium hylauronate), or urea, and avoid anything with alcohol (or ethanol) and/or fragrance.

Try this Vitamin C serum + mineral sunscreen spf 30+ swear on it!!!

Vitamin C Serum Plus 2% Retinol, 3.5% Niacinamide, 5% Hyaluronic Acid, 2% Salicylic Acid, 10% MSM, 20% Vitamin C - Skin Clearing Serum - Anti-Aging Skin Repair, Supercharged Face Serum (1 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BT02Q88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iNIgFb9BEMAWQ

yup! I used to have a different serum that worked, but now I used the Hada Labo premium which is PERFECT (the non premium one broke me out :( )

https://www.amazon.com/NuFountain%C2%AE-Ferulic-Vitamin-Ordered-Shipping/dp/B0039LZW78

I’ve used that product and it’s worked wonders for me. My acne scars have disappeared/are disappearing so quickly! Beware though - it can cause a purge period. I usually put it on on top of my moisturizer in the morning; It seems perfectly compatible with my moisturizer and sunscreen, but I’m not sure if it’s going to have any adverse reaction with the stuff you’ve been using.

Hope this helps! Happy thanksgiving!! Thankful for this subreddit – it was actually someone else on here who told me to use that product.

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 3.38 fl.oz / 100ml | Snail Secretion Filtrate 96% | Skin Repair Serum | Korean Skin Care, Cruelty Free, Paraben Free, Alcohol Free https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PBX3L7K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AS1B2CC9RRB5ZPQH47XX is it this one?

I would’ve use the glycolic acid from the ordinary 2 times a week and add Azelaic acid. Amazon sale a very good serum with a very affordable price

Azelaic Acid 10% Facial Serum with Niacinamide - Fast Rosacea Skin Care Product + Reduce Cystic Acne Scar + Redness Relief Face + Pimple Pigmentation Blackhead, Alcohol Free, 1oz (30ml) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QM5KGDK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_Z9CHPNYXCR08NMHVWZSV

You can add it to your routine slowly until your skin get use to it. Preferably with your PM routine.

I use this from Amazon. I think I picked it after browsing through r/SkincareAddiction recommendations and getting some advice from a friend who is way more knowledgeable about skincare than me. A drop or two just rubbed into the affected area after washing my face and before putting moisturizer on. I am def not an expert but anecdotally it has been good for me.

I’m sensitive to vit c but I found this one I really like, it’s supposed to be a doup for the skinscuticles ce-ferulic. Oddly enough it smells exactly the same as the expensive stuff and my skin does well with it

Vitamin C Serum 20% Pure... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071GZPPQ4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Thanks! I've heard lots of people say Vitamin C does wonders. Would a combo serum like this be good to use at night? Maybe combine with hydroquinone?

Are you sure it’s dryness and not eczema? I have both on my face. My eczema will flare up when I’m stressed or from a product my skin doesn’t like. I have an rx for a cream that is safe for the eye area (where it’s the worst for me). Def something to talk to a dermatologist about.

Dry skin- I like this one for my everyday and I like the r+f like - the sensitive skin steps 2+3 plus the active hydration serum. It’s annoying because I hate buying from an mlm/I find r+f salespeople very annoying but I’ve looked for dupes and haven’t found anything I like nearly as well.

When I fly overnight I use aquaphor (like vaseline on steriods) as a face mask. I’ll use it sometimes at home as well.

It's on Amazon Prime for $15 here.