The Best Summer Serum for Your Skin Type, According to Our Editors

Serums should be a skin-care staple for any regimen. They’re concentrated formulas designed to target specific skin concerns and using one can make the difference between achieving your skin goals or not. But with so many serums available, how can you choose which one is right especially during the summer months? Considering your skin type is a great place to start. Here, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite serums — that are all lightweight and perfect for summer — for every skin type. 

If You Have Oily or Acne-Prone Skin…

Retinol boosts cellular turnover on skin’s surface, making it a key ingredient to look out for in a serum if your skincare goal is to minimize the appearance of  pores and excess oil. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum is formulated with retinol along with ceramides to help boost the skin’s moisture barrier (a healthy moisture barrier  keeps dehydration at bay and keeps acne-causing impurities from clogging pores). The formula is lightweight and fast-absorbing, so it won’t feel greasy or suffocating on skin.

If You Have Dry Skin…

Your skin may not be as dry in the summer as it is in the winter, but incorporating a hydrating serum into your routine can be beneficial year-round. The Vichy Aqualia Thermal Face Serum contains hyaluronic acid, a lightweight humectant that helps the skin retain moisture and plump the look of visible fine lines and wrinkles, as well as proprietary Vichy Volcanic Water that strengthens the skin barrier. The serum feels especially refreshing after spending time in the hot sun. 

If You Have Combination Skin...

Keep combination skin balanced with a formula that is designed to exfoliate and moisturize. The YSL Beauty Pure Shots Night Reboot Resurfacing Serum contains glycolic acid and argan oil, it is designed to remove dead surface skin cells that can clog pores and cause breakouts and keep your dry areas nourished. 

If You Have Sensitive Skin…

During summer, you may experience  sunburns or other heat-related skin sensitivities. Try incorporating a soothing serum like the SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel which is made with cucumber and thyme to offer a calming effect and reduce visible redness on skin’s surface.

If You Have Normal Skin...

If you’re not too dry or too oily, keep it that way with mild exfoliation and a burst of hydration. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA features lactic acid to keep skin looking smooth and hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture loss and plump skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

 

Read More:

Why You Need Vitamin C and Retinol in Your Anti-Aging Routine

Astringent vs. Toner: What’s the Difference

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