10 best face serums for mature skin, according to a skincare expert – tested and reviewed

Best serums for mature skin

by Akhila Thomas |
Updated on

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.

Senior woman applying cosmetic product on her skin
©New Africa/Shutterstock

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

Testers who reviewed the serums for mature skin with the products
©Yours

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

Best serum for mature skin overall

Selin Thomas

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

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

Tester holding the COSRX Pure Vitamin C 23% SerumHannah Carroll
Price: $19.81
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The 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

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. This product was tested and reviewed by Kafayat Mustapha, age 40 and she said, “I’m a working mum with combination, blemish-prone skin and I’ve been using the serum for four weeks. Just 2-3 drops were enough for my whole face and the smooth texture makes it easy to be absorbed quickly, leaving no residue. It layers well under moisturiser andmakeup too.”

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. “After regular use, I noticed fewer breakouts, tighter pores, and a smoother, more even-toned complexion. It worked especially well on oilier areas of my face and visibly reduced congestion around my chin and cheeks,” she added. 

The simplicity of the formula makes it easy to incorporate without irritation. It is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want a no-nonsense, high-performance product. It's fragrance-free, gentle on sensitive skin, and delivers visibleresults over time.

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
  • Visible results in texture and tone
  • Layers well with other products

Cons

  • For those with very sensitive skin, it might cause some irritation initially due to the high concentration of niacinamide

Best firming serum for mature skin

Selin Thomas
Price: $21.49

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

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

Best peptide serum for mature skin

Georgina Terry

The Trinny London Plump Up Mini Peptide HA Serum is perfect if you are looking to restore a youthful bounce and plumpness to your face. This serum was tested and reviewed by Georgina Terry who said, “I’ve heard great things about the range from Trinny London, so I was thrilled to be testing one of their serums. My usual skincare routine consisted of the basic steps - cleanse, tone and moisturize, and I started using serums almost a decade ago.”

While Trinny London’s Plump Up Mini is £27 for 10ml and falls on the pricey side of the serum spectrum, it does come packaged in a very stylish dusky pink pot
with a cool metallic lid. “I tested the product for ten days, using it in the morning under a Nivea moisturizer and atnight under an Olay retinol night cream. The instructions say you can layer it with other serums as well if you wish to. And the youth skincare influencers seem to apply many, many, layers of potions so perhaps I’m behind the times.”

This Trinny serum is very easy to apply, once you’ve worked out how to get it out of the pot, and according to our reviewer, some instructions would be useful here. You only need a small amount to cover your face, neck and decolletage. The formula is enriched with advanced peptides to promote your skin's collagen and elastin productionthat will help plump and reduce the appearance of fine lines on your skin. There is also added hyaluronic acid that deeply hydrates your skin and our testers shared that there’s no denying that it works!

“There is a visible difference in the before and after pics of the side of my face. Those smile lines around my eyes are smoothed out and it glides on easily with no discernible scent,” she added. Overall, it is a serum that gives you fast visible results, even though it is a bit on the pricier side.

Pros

  • Fast, visible results 
  • Glides on easily 
  • Has no discernible scent

Cons

  • It is on the pricier side
  • The mini pot is a bit odd to use and some instructions would be handy is a bit odd to use – would like instructions

Best serum for mature skin for dark spots and hyperpigmentation

Jennifer Reeves

The La Roche-Posay MelaB3 Serum Intense Anti-Dark Spot Serum is an intense anti-dark spot serum developed to tackle hyperpigmentation while improving skin tone, radiance, and texture. This product was tested and reviewed by Jennifer Reeves, a 44-year-old working mum of three and she said, “The formula promises powerful results with a simple daily step which is exactly what I need. I don’t wear a full face of makeup, just a touch of concealer, mascara, and lip gloss, so having skin that looks healthy and radiant on its own is really important to me. I have fair skin that shows sun damage, especially on my face, neck, chest, and hands.”

“I tested this serum specifically for its anti-dark spot and radiance-boosting claims. I applied it daily for several weeks to my face and neck, then extended it to my chest
and, most recently, to my hands where I’ve noticed sunspots developing. From the very first use, I loved the texture, slightly sticky for about 10–20 seconds but then quickly absorbed, leaving my skin feeling silky smooth. I didn’t even feel the need to apply a separate moisturiser, which is a big plus for someone who needs simplicity,” she said.

“After just a few days, I noticed my skin looked clearer, more even, and had a natural glow. It just looked healthy. I’ve already noticed a visible difference in the
appearance of sunspots,” she added. 

The dropper bottle is efficient and hygienic and two small drops easily covers the face. There’s no overpowering scent, no residue left on the skin, and it’s easy to store and
use daily. It delivers visible improvements in clarity, tone, and hydration and does so with minimal effort.

Pros

  • Visible results in days
  • Effective on face, neck, chest, and hands
  • Skin looks better without needing foundation
  • No need for additional moisturiser
  • Easy to use, absorbs quickly
  • Clears skin, improves skin tone, reduces the appearance of sunspots and hyperpigmentation 

Cons

  • Slight stickiness on initial application but it goes away quickly
  • While it’s not budget-priced, the results more than justify the spend

Best under eye serum for mature skin

LookFantastic

The Vichy Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid eye is a lightweight daily serum designed to lighten your eye area and achieve amoisturised, rested look by hydrating, smoothing and brightening. This product was tested and reviewed by Farah Bell, age 47 and she said, “As someone who lives in a coastal environment, my skin is regularly exposed to the elements, which can cause dryness and accelerate ageing. I have combination skin that becomes dry in colder months and aroundthe eyes, where I notice fine lines and tiredness the most.”

It has caffeine to tighten skin and fight puffiness, hyaluronic acid that plumps, hydrates and smooths skin, and alsoadenosine which firms and promotes skin healing. “I was pleased to see that after the second week, the fine lines aroundmy eyes were noticeably softer and my skin around the eyes felt more supple overall. It didn’t cause any irritation. What stood outmost was how smooth and hydrated my eyes felt throughout the day — no midday tightness or dryness,” she said.

“The product feels luxurious, with a smooth texture, no stickiness whilst drying, quick absorption, and no fragrance. Ihave been applying twice daily for just over 7 weeks,” she says. Overall, the VICHY Minéral 89 Eye Brightening Serumwith Hyaluronic Acid & Caffeine lives up to its reputation as a gentle yet effective hydrating serum, and I feel it’s aworthwhile investment for those with mature or sensitive skin. It’s priced slightly higher than some alternatives, but thequality of the formula, ease of use, and visible results justify the cost

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
  • Silky, lightweight texture that absorbs quickly
  • Helps to brighten, plump and hydrate
  • Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin

Cons

  • Glass bottle is not ideal for travel
  • More expensive than other hyaluronic acid eye serums

Best luxury serum for mature skin

Rebecca Lancaster

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

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.

Meet the expert:

Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme - She is the founder and medical director of Adonia Medical Clinic, where she put together a team of professionals with decades of experience in the field of facial aesthetics and medical treatments. With a specialisation in Head And Neck Surgery and a Masters in Aesthetic Medicine, she is also a senior lecturer training the best plastic surgeons, dermatologists, doctors and dentists on safe and effective aesthetic procedures. With her deep interest and understanding of skin, medical aesthetics and dermatology, she seeks to provide the latest, scientifically driven treatments that cater to all skin types.

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.

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