Dubbed as one of the 'holy grails' in the skincare world, serums have created a buzz for having tons of useful and active ingredients that can penetrate deeply into our skin. But aside from combatting our usual skin woes, some serums are specially made to fight the signs of aging. With these wonder products called anti-aging serums, we can bid goodbye to fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots!
Below, we put together a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best anti-aging serum, with some comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison. We also made a list of our favorite products from The Ordinary, Garnier, and more! Continue scrolling to start reading.
Quick List - Top Anti-Aging Serums
Dear Klairs
Restore Skin Elasticity With This Collagen-Replenishing Serum
Céleteque
Hypoallergenic, Non-comedogenic Retinol Serum to Brighten Dull, Mature Skin
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and saggy skin start to appear as we get older. And that’s where anti-aging serums come in. Anti-aging serums are highly concentrated formulations that are designed to target different signs of aging. But you might be actually wondering how these little bottles of gel-like liquid could do such a thing.
These skincare wonders are loaded with antioxidants responsible for regenerating skin cells to the surface and improving collagen production. With those functions, they eventually delay skin aging by keeping wrinkles at bay and improving the radiance, firmness, and texture of the skin.
Serums are highly concentrated formulations meant to be applied in smaller amounts on the skin (a few drops on the whole face). They can either be water or oil-based. Anti-aging serums can help prevent our skin from aging, especially if they contain retinoids, vitamin C, or peptides that stimulate collagen production.
Antioxidants like Vitamin C, green tea, ferulic acid, and resveratrol can also fight free radicals from UV rays and pollution. Antioxidants enhance the effects of sunscreen if they are used together.
When choosing anti-aging serums, consider looking for ingredients that can address your specific skin concerns, opting for a lightweight serum for daytime use, choosing one that fits your budget, and prioritizing cruelty-free serums free from harmful ingredients. For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all when it comes to skincare since everyone’s skin is different. Certain anti-aging serums could contain an ingredient that will not work with an underlying skin condition that you have. Thus, it’s best to pick the one made for your skin type.
If you’re the type to get breakouts from trying out new skincare products, the best anti-aging serums to look for are those with an ample amount of retinol and salicylic acid. Retinol is known as the gold standard of anti-aging products, but it is also good for reducing breakouts.
On the other hand, salicylic acid is one ingredient that you would often see on different anti-acne products for its ability to unclog pores. With the right anti-aging serum, there’s no need to worry about your acne-prone skin type, as you can hit two birds with one stone, or more like tackle two different skin issues with one serum.
Retinols in serums can help unclog pores which can lead to the improvement of acne. With continued use, they can also improve fine lines and wrinkles and minimize the appearance of pores.
Salicylic acid is great for oily and acne-prone skin. It can also unclog pores and minimize their appearance. It's best to start with the lowest concentration to avoid irritation because serums containing these ingredients tend to be more potent.
Hyaluronic acid is a great water-attracting substance, so having this on your serum would pull water from the innermost part of your skin to supply it to the surface, leaving you with a dewy and fresh finish. You can easily remember it as a quencher for your dehydrated skin.
Vitamin E is another good antioxidant that could help keep your skin conditioned and prevent further dryness. This ingredient could also be useful to lock in the skin’s moisture that is usually stripped off when in a dry or hot area like the Philippines.
For those with dry skin, you can look for serums with hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid functions as a humectant that draws in moisture from the environment and makes our skin supple and moist. Make sure to apply the serum on slightly damp skin to lock in the moisture.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in our skin that would otherwise contribute to aging. It also functions as an emollient by filling in the spaces between skin cells to make our skin appear smoother.
Green tea, in general, is another effective hydrating substance— it not just moisturizes but also nourishes your skin. If you want to give your skin some more radiance and brightness, this kind of serum might do the job for you.
Green tea contains compounds (Epigallocatechin-3-gallate or EGCG) that function as antioxidants that neutralize free radicals from UV rays and pollution. It also has anti-inflammatory benefits that lead to a reduction of skin redness and irritation.
An anti-aging serum can be applied twice daily, during the day, and then as a part of your nighttime skincare routine. However, using a thick serum during the day could leave your face feeling sticky and uncomfortable. Serums with a thicker consistency are best used at night to hydrate your skin as you sleep.
On the other hand, a lightweight serum can be a good primer under your makeup. It can smoothen the skin’s imperfections and allow the foundation to glide and stick well to your skin. The best thing? You do not have to worry about your foundation looking cakey, helping you achieve that glowing and dewy finish.
Lightweight serums that are water-based can be used during the day since they can be spread and absorbed easily. These will not leave your skin feeling sticky and can be layered under sunscreen and light makeup.
We know that religiously committing to a skincare routine can cost you some money. Serums are known to be high-quality skincare formulations, so expect that they're not going to be that cheap.
On top of that, skincare gurus say that serums should be applied twice daily and must also be put on your entire face and neck for best results. This means that they're almost a daily necessity; hence, you've got to make sure that the anti-aging serum you’re eyeing fits your budget for frequent use.
There are now plenty of affordable serums available depending on your budget and skin concern. Make sure to buy only from reputable sellers (whether online or in physical stores). Consult a board-certified dermatologist for guidance in choosing the right serum for you.
Cruelty-free skincare products are generally milder and cleaner, which means they are a lot safer for your precious skin.
These products were not in any way tested on animals, which also implies that if you opt for these, the serum that you will put on your face is most likely free from harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, or synthetic fragrances.
If you opt for cruelty-free brands, make sure to consult your dermatologist first to guide you if the serum you'll be using would address your skin concern and if it's safe to be applied on your skin.
Although it might seem that the bottles are just there for aesthetic purposes, it is actually more than that. If you opt for a serum containing vitamin C or retinol, make sure to get one that comes in a darker bottle to improve its shelf-life. Some products come with a dropper. These droppers are useful for formulas that you usually just dab on your skin using your fingertips.
However, this kind of packaging can actually cause the formulation to expire quickly because it does not give much protection from contaminants. On the other hand, there are also serums that come with airtight pumps. These pumps are very effective for formulas with more sensitive ingredients because they can prevent environmental irritants from contaminating them.
Serums are stored in dark bottles to prevent oxidation from exposure to light. Avoid touching the dropper directly on the skin because it can lead to contamination. Airtight pumps are great to keep the product from getting exposed to light or air. You can also control the amount of product to be dispensed from the pump.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Skin Type | Key Ingredients | Cruelty-Free | Free From | AM or PM | Net Weight | |||||
1 | The Ordinary Buffet | ![]() | A Multi-Peptide Serum That Targets Multiple Signs of Aging | All Skin Types | Multi-Peptide (Syn-Ake, Matrixyl Synthe-6, Matrixyl 3000, Argirelox, Hyaluronic Acid, Amino Acids, and Bio-Derivatives) | Fragrances, Parabens, Alcohol, Silicones, Gluten | AM and PM | 30 mL | ||
2 | Dear Klairs Midnight Blue Youth Activating Drop | ![]() | Restore Skin Elasticity With This Collagen-Replenishing Serum | All Skin Types | Peptides, Blueberry Fruit Extract, Guaiazulene | Fragrances, Parabens, Alcohol | PM | 20 mL | ||
3 | Garnier Bright Complete Vitamin C Serum | ![]() | Eliminate Age Spots With Vitamin C and Lemon Extract | All Skin Types | Vitamin C, Lemon Extracts, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid | Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones, Mineral Oil, Synthetic Dyes | AM and PM | 30 mL | ||
4 | Céleteque Advanced Anti-Aging Age Spot Erasing Serum with Retinol | ![]() | Hypoallergenic, Non-comedogenic Retinol Serum to Brighten Dull, Mature Skin | Acne-Prone, Dry Skin | Retinol, Artemisia capillaris Extract, Rose Hip Seed Oil, Grape Fruit Extract, Vitamin E | Parabens, Sulfates, Silicone, Soy, Gluten | PM | 30 mL | ||
5 | SNAILWHITE Double Boosting Anti-Aging Serum | ![]() | 2-in-1 Boosting Serum for Smoother and Younger-Looking Skin | All Skin Types | Hydrolyzed Collagen, Snail Mucin, Red Algae Extract, Ceramosides HP, Fullerene, Hyaluronic Acid | unknown | Fragrances, Parabens, Alcohol, Sulfates, Silicones | AM and PM | 80 mL (40 mL Serum, 40 mL Booster) | |
6 | L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum | ![]() | Infused With 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid for Plump and Hydrated Skin | All Skin Types | Hyaluronic Acid, Rye Seed Extract | unknown | Fragrances, Parabens, Mineral Oils, Synthetic Dyes | AM and PM | 30 mL | |
7 | Bioten Multi-Collagen Face Serum | ![]() | Award-Winning Collagen Serum With 97% Natural Ingredients | All Skin Types | Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin E | Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones | AM and PM | 30 mL | ||
8 | Some by Mi Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum | ![]() | Combines Retinol and Retinal for Enhanced Skin Texture and Wrinkle Reduction | All Skin Types | Retinol, Retinal, Bakuchiol, Ceramide, Niacinamide, Cica | Parabens, Sulfates | PM | 30 mL | ||
9 | Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum | ![]() | Nourish Your Skin With Green Tea Extract for a Youthful Complexion | Normal, Acne-Prone, Dry, Dull Skin | Camellia sinensis Leaf Extract, Camellia sinensis Seed Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate | Parabens, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Artificial Colors | AM and PM | 80 mL | ||
10 | Nacific Origin Red Salicylic Acid Serum | ![]() | A Wash-Off Serum Infused With White Rice Extract for Excessive Sebum and Dead Skin Cells | Acne-Prone Skin | Salicylic Acid, Cica, Red Tea Tree Leaf Extract, Houttuynia cordata, AHA, BHA, PHA, Hyaluronic Acid | Fragrances, Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones | AM and PM | 50 mL |
This anti-aging serum really does live up to its “buffet” name, for it is loaded with multiple peptide complexes that simultaneously target multiple signs of aging. It promises to smoothen out wrinkles, plump up the skin, and reduce pores.
It also features a vegan and alcohol-free formula and a pH level of 4.50-5.50, making it a great option for any skin type. The only things that might not make this product suited to other users are its consistency and scent. Some find the sticky feeling to be unpleasant, especially during the daytime. Due to this, it is best applied during your nighttime routine.
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Multi-Peptide (Syn-Ake, Matrixyl Synthe-6, Matrixyl 3000, Argirelox, Hyaluronic Acid, Amino Acids, and Bio-Derivatives) |
Cruelty-Free | |
Free From | Fragrances, Parabens, Alcohol, Silicones, Gluten |
AM or PM | AM and PM |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
If you're looking for a night serum that's effective, easy to use, and won't leave your skin feeling oily or heavy, the Midnight Blue Youth Activating Drop is a great option. It's a highly concentrated serum that helps delay the skin's aging process by boosting collagen production and improving elasticity.
The serum also contains guaiazulene, a natural ingredient with anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin. Its high concentration of peptides and other natural ingredients makes it a powerful yet gentle product that's suitable for all skin types, including users with sensitive skin.
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Peptides, Blueberry Fruit Extract, Guaiazulene |
Cruelty-Free | |
Free From | Fragrances, Parabens, Alcohol |
AM or PM | PM |
Net Weight | 20 mL |
The Garnier Bright Complete Vitamin C Serum is a great addition to your skincare routine if you're looking for a product to help reduce dark spots. These are also known as age spots, a common sign of skin aging caused by increased melanin production.
With vitamin C and lemon extract, this antioxidant-rich face serum brightens the skin from the first application and improves the appearance of dark spots and acne marks. It's lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it glowing and hydrated. Reviewers have given the product positive reviews, noting visible results in just a few days of use.
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Vitamin C, Lemon Extracts, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid |
Cruelty-Free | |
Free From | Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones, Mineral Oil, Synthetic Dyes |
AM or PM | AM and PM |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
Skin Type | Acne-Prone, Dry Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Retinol, Artemisia capillaris Extract, Rose Hip Seed Oil, Grape Fruit Extract, Vitamin E |
Cruelty-Free | |
Free From | Parabens, Sulfates, Silicone, Soy, Gluten |
AM or PM | PM |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
This two-in-one serum contains a serum and a booster enriched with anti-aging ingredients and antioxidants to reveal visibly smoother, brighter, and younger-looking skin. The product is perfect for users who want to smoothen fine lines and wrinkles, firm up the skin, reduce hyperpigmentation, and even out their skin tone.
The serum contains hydrolyzed collagen, micro-algae, snail mucin, and ceramosides HP, while the booster contains fullerene and hyaluronic acid, which work together to moisturize, nourish, and brighten mature skin. They are designed to be mixed together before application, ensuring maximum effectivity.
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Hydrolyzed Collagen, Snail Mucin, Red Algae Extract, Ceramosides HP, Fullerene, Hyaluronic Acid |
Cruelty-Free | unknown |
Free From | Fragrances, Parabens, Alcohol, Sulfates, Silicones |
AM or PM | AM and PM |
Net Weight | 80 mL (40 mL Serum, 40 mL Booster) |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
If you're serious about your anti-aging routine but don't want to break the bank, a lot of people swear this hyaluronic acid serum is a total steal! It's super lightweight, soaks in fast, and leaves your skin feeling so soft and plump – some even say it really helps with those fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, it can make your pores look smaller, and for many, it's become a holy grail product they keep repurchasing in the bigger size!
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Rye Seed Extract |
Cruelty-Free | unknown |
Free From | Fragrances, Parabens, Mineral Oils, Synthetic Dyes |
AM or PM | AM and PM |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin E |
Cruelty-Free | |
Free From | Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones |
AM or PM | AM and PM |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Retinol, Retinal, Bakuchiol, Ceramide, Niacinamide, Cica |
Cruelty-Free | |
Free From | Parabens, Sulfates |
AM or PM | PM |
Net Weight | 30 mL |
One of the most important ways to keep your skin looking young is to keep it moisturized, and that's exactly what this serum does. Formulated with a new ingredient called green tea biome, which contains a tri-biotic complex, it helps hydrate the skin and strengthen the moisture barrier. It also contains Jeju green tea extract and hyaluronic acid to maintain oil balance and retain moisture without the greasy feeling.
As a result, you get a healthy, glowing, and youthful complexion! This serum is lightweight as well, making it easier to seep into your skin—also great to wear under your makeup! According to users, if you have a damaged skin barrier or acne-prone skin, this serum is a great option to consider. It is gentle and effective, and it can help improve your skin's overall health and appearance.
Skin Type | Normal, Acne-Prone, Dry, Dull Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Camellia sinensis Leaf Extract, Camellia sinensis Seed Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate |
Cruelty-Free | |
Free From | Parabens, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Artificial Colors |
AM or PM | AM and PM |
Net Weight | 80 mL |
Nacific's Origin Red Salicylic Acid Serum is a wash-off serum that addresses skin issues by unclogging the pores and removing excess sebum. Its non-comedogenic formula is ideal for acne-prone skin as it gently removes dead skin cells while calming the skin.
It also features the patented ingredient DERMA-CLERA™ derived from white rice extract, renowned for its skin-soothing properties, making sure that you can exfoliate without irritating your skin. This serum washes away your skin concerns for a softer and smoother complexion.
Skin Type | Acne-Prone Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Cica, Red Tea Tree Leaf Extract, Houttuynia cordata, AHA, BHA, PHA, Hyaluronic Acid |
Cruelty-Free | |
Free From | Fragrances, Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones |
AM or PM | AM and PM |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
You may have the best anti-aging serum for you, but are you using it right? Here are some tips you should keep in mind to get the most out of your anti-aging serum.
Serums are considered as the amplifiers of your skincare routine. Hence, there is a proper spot or place in your routine to incorporate your serum. According to most experts, serums should be applied twice daily.
The serum should come after cleansing and exfoliating your skin, but you have to make sure that it comes before your moisturizer to get the most benefits out of it. The moisturizer should follow quickly after the serum, while the skin is still damp so that it can lock in the nourishment and hydration from your serum.
Do not forget to finish off your daytime skincare routine with some sunscreen. This practice is said to be the best way to prevent skin aging. If you skip sunscreen, all your other skincare products will be for naught since the sun's harsh rays can reverse the positive effects done by other products.
Serums can be used once or twice a day. Retinol serums are best used at night since exposure to sunlight makes them less effective.
It is also important to pay attention to where you place your serums. For serums infused with Vitamin C, make sure that they are kept away from direct sunlight, or else they will oxidize fast. Products with a shorter shelf life can benefit from the cool temperature that your fridge can provide.
Meanwhile, you should never attempt to put your oil-based serums in your fridge because oil-based products like this can turn cloudy when placed in extremely cold or hot spots. It would be best to keep them in a well-ventilated and dry place.
Serums in dark bottles should be kept in a cool, dry place because exposure to air and light would cause the product to oxidize more quickly. Also, make sure that the cap is tightly closed when the product is not in use.
Skincare is a series of trials and errors to find a product that will work and produce the best effects on your skin. To be more informed, Dr. Meg Sison answers the most asked questions on the web below!
Retinol serums are best applied at night because UV rays can degrade retinol during the daytime and make them less effective. Serums containing vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea, and hyaluronic acid can be applied either during the day or at night.
When using anti-aging serums, long-term use (at least 6 months) is recommended to see improvement in fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, the use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is highly recommended to protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays (photoaging, sunburn, and skin cancer).
Anti-aging serums can be started as early as your mid-20s to reap their benefits. Consult a board-certified dermatologist for individualized treatment of signs of aging like wrinkles, as additional in-office procedures may be needed.
Now that you know more about these must-have anti-aging serums, why not revamp your overall skincare routine for healthier and younger-looking skin? We've listed down some of the best skincare products that you can pair along with your new anti-aging serum. Check them out below!
10 Best Anti-Aging Facial Washes in the Philippines 2025| Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Anti-Aging Creams in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
34 Best Sunscreens for Face in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Retinol Products in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Author: R. Victoriano
Re-editor: Danielle O. Trinidad
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: The Ordinary| Buffet
No. 2: Dear Klairs|Midnight Blue Youth Activating Drop
No. 3: Garnier|Bright Complete Vitamin C Serum
No. 4: Céleteque|Advanced Anti-Aging Age Spot Erasing Serum with Retinol
No. 5: SNAILWHITE|Double Boosting Anti-Aging Serum
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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