20 Best Anti-Aging Serums of 2023, Including Oprah’s Favorite Pick

If you think a face serum is just an extra step you can skip in your skincare routine, think again. Meant to be applied after you wash your face and before your favorite moisturizer or go-to cream, the best anti-aging serums are lightweight, water-based products that quickly and seamlessly penetrate skin, delivering a highly concentrated dose of potent active ingredients (think: scientifically proven retinol, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C). That’s exactly why many dermatologists believe face serums are one of the most effective anti-aging treatments—no matter your age. “Serums are a great way to boost a basic skincare routine,” says Harvard-trained, board-certified dermatologist Anar Mikailov, MD, co-founder of . “Serums are a great vehicle to provide active ingredients to the epidermis due to their great absorption properties. They are also easy to customize based on your skin needs and are easy to layer or cocktail.”

For those in their 20s or 30s, think of anti-aging serum as a proactive way to prevent wrinkles, brighten your complexion, and even texture. If you’re in your 40s, 50s, and beyond, vitamin-packed, collagen-boosting, antioxidant-spiked serums can help with wrinkles and fine lines, as well as skin’s firmness and elasticity. Even better? There’s an anti-aging serum designed for every skin type—whether you have oily, acne-prone, dry, combination, or sensitive skin.

Ahead, we asked expert dermatologists to recommend the best anti-aging serums on the market, including highly effective, budget-friendly buys, splurge-worthy luxury picks, and more.