As the temperature rises and the sun shines brighter, it’s important to adjust your skincare routine to the needs of the summer season. Serums are lightweight and highly concentrated, making them an ideal addition to your summer skincare regimen. In this guide, we will explore the best serums that can help protect, hydrate, and rejuvenate your skin during the summer months.

1. Antioxidant Serum:

During summer, our skin is exposed to increased environmental aggressors like UV rays and pollution. An antioxidant serum, rich in vitamins C and E or botanical extracts like green tea or resveratrol, can help protect your skin from free radicals and oxidative stress. These serums not only provide antioxidant benefits but also brighten the complexion and promote a more even skin tone.
EDITOR’S PICK: FRESH- Vitamin Nectar Glow Juice Antioxidant Face Serum

2. Hyaluronic Acid Serum:

Hydration is key during the summer, and a hyaluronic acid serum can work wonders for your skin. Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, helping to keep your skin plump, supple, and hydrated. Look for lightweight serums with a low molecular weight to ensure optimal absorption and a non-greasy feel. Applying hyaluronic acid serum before moisturizer can provide an extra boost of hydration.
EDITOR’S PICK: DRUNK ELEPHANT B-Hydra™ Intensive Hydration Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

3. Lightweight Retinol Serum:

Retinol is a game-changer for many skincare routines, but in the summer, it’s best to opt for a lightweight formula that is less likely to cause sensitivity or increased sun sensitivity. Look for a low concentration retinol serum (around 0.1% to 0.3%) or consider retinol alternatives like bakuchiol. These ingredients help promote cell turnover, improve skin texture, and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while being more gentle on the skin during sun exposure.
EDITOR’S PICK: KORA ORGANICS-Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Serum

4. Vitamin C Serum:

Vitamin C serums are not only great for their brightening effects but also for their ability to protect the skin from sun damage. They can help reduce the appearance of sunspots and provide a more radiant complexion. Look for serums with stable forms of vitamin C, such as L-ascorbic acid or tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, to ensure potency and effectiveness.
EDITOR’S PICK: SUNDAY RILEY C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum

5. Exfoliating Serum:

Summer can lead to a buildup of dead skin cells, especially if you’re spending more time outdoors. Incorporating an exfoliating serum with gentle AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) can help promote cell turnover, unclog pores, and reveal a smoother and brighter complexion. However, be cautious with sun exposure when using exfoliating serums and always apply sunscreen afterward.
EDITOR’S PICK: GLOW RECIPE Strawberry Smooth BHA + AHA Salicylic Acid Serum

6. Calming and Soothing Serum:

If your skin tends to become irritated or sensitive due to sun exposure or environmental factors, a calming and soothing serum can provide relief. Look for serums containing ingredients like aloe vera, ceramides, or centella asiatica (also known as cica or tiger grass), which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce redness and soothe the skin.
EDITOR’S PICK: DR. JART+ Ceramidin™ Skin Barrier Serum Toner

7. Oil-Control Serum:

For those with oily or combination skin that becomes more prone to shine during the summer, an oil-control serum can be beneficial. These serums often contain ingredients like niacinamide or salicylic acid, which help regulate sebum production, minimize the appearance of pores, and reduce excess oiliness without stripping the skin.
EDITOR’S PICK: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Oil Control Serum

All products featured on MuSA are independently selected by our editors.