10 Best Serums for Skin Brightening in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Applying a serum for skin brightening is one of the most effective ways to fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and light up your complexion. While serums generally target specific skin concerns, they also have other effects that your skin can benefit from!
However, picking one that would best suit your skin is not an easy task to accomplish. In this article, we will give you a list of 10 of the best skin brightening serums on the market, as well as a detailed buying guide, with insights and tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz, to walk you through choosing the right one.
Quick List - Top Serums for Skin Brightening
L'Oréal Paris
![Glycolic Bright 8% [Melasyl + Glycolic + Niacinamide] Serum](https://assets.ph.my-best.com/_next/static/media/loading-rectangle.dbd06764.png)
A Serum That Fade Spots and Unleashes Your Glow
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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How to Choose Serums for Skin Brightening - Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
- Pick a formula that suits your skin type.
- Look for skin brightening ingredients that will address your skin concerns.
- Select serums with other benefits for additional value.
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Pick a Formula That Suits Your Skin Type
Although the "one size fits all" approach to skincare may be effective for some individuals, it is best to select a brightening serum that is tailored to your skin type, especially if you do not have normal skin. This will not only help your skin look more radiant but also address issues particular to your skin type.
For Sensitive Skin, Choose Serums Without Harsh Ingredients
Serums without harsh formula are recommended if you are prone to rashes and skin irritation. This indicates that they are devoid of any components that usually cause allergic reactions or other adverse effects. Examples of ingredients to avoid are artificial fragrances, parabens, preservatives, and essential oils.
When it comes to predicting a reaction or irritation, there's no 100% foolproof way! Your best bet is still doing a patch test and observing over the next 48 to 72 hours if the coast is clear for you to add that product into your routine.
For Oily and Combination Skin, Opt for Lightweight Formulas
If left unsolved, excess oil or sebum on your skin can be problematic. Oily skin can also lead to acne breakouts along with a greasy feeling. Thus, consider looking for a lightweight formula serum that will not strip your skin’s vital moisture.
Moreover, if you’re looking for serums that contain vitamin C, it’s best to go for those that use the L-ascorbic acid form rather than the oil-soluble ascorbyl palmitate. This is because L-ascorbic acid is not only lightweight but also water-soluble.
One of the challenges for those with oily skin is to choose products that don't aggravate the oiliness of their skin and also don't consequently clog their pores. In general, lightweight, water-based formulations are a good fit.
For Dry Skin, Pick Hydrating Serums
Your skin may be dry and in need of sufficient moisture and hydration if it is tight, itchy, and scales frequently. To counter this, it is advised that you select serums with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides.
In addition to providing the skin with the ideal quantity of moisture, hyaluronic acid also prevents fine lines and wrinkles. On the other hand, glycerin draws moisture to the skin while enabling it to absorb and retain water. Meanwhile, ceramides hydrate and safeguard the skin's protective layer.
How to incorporate that hydrating serum? You can opt to apply it on damp skin, mix it in with other actives, or even use it before the moisturizer. Take your pick and do what works for you!
Look for Skin Brightening Ingredients That Will Address Your Skin Concerns
Whether you want your dark spots to disappear or treat skin pigmentation, there are specific ingredients that are just right for these concerns. Below are some of the skin brightening ingredients you should look for in your serum.
Niacinamide and Arbutin Reduce Dark Spots
Your skin might acquire dark spots for a variety of reasons, including acne scarring, UV damage, and hormone problems. Fortunately, you can pick serums with niacinamide or arbutin to reduce their appearance.
Vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide, offers many advantages for the skin. This includes brightening the skin tone, hydrating it, and fading dark spots. On the other hand, arbutin alleviates acne scars by removing unwanted pigments that darken the skin.
Fun fact! Arbutin is a naturally occurring compound derived from plants such as bearberry. It has been shown to fade hyperpigmentation. Warning, though! It is a derivative of hydroquinone, hence, it can cause rebound hyperpigmentation if used improperly. Thus, use it with guidance from your dermatologist.
Niacinamide, on the other hand, is the "jack of all trades." Aside from targeting dark spots, it strengthens the skin barrier and acts as an antioxidant too.
Vitamin C, Glutathione, and Red Algae Inhibit Melanin Production
Ingredients like red algae extracts, glutathione, and vitamin C will assist you in achieving brighter skin as they prevent the pigment cells in your skin from producing melanin. This will make your skin appear lighter and less likely to have dark spots.
Vitamin C is known as a skincare superstar because it has numerous advantages. This includes enhancing skin texture, providing hydration, and defense against free radicals and sun damage. On the other hand, glutathione is known for promoting skin elasticity, while red algae extract helps clarify and cleanse the skin.
Vitamin C is a great ingredient for brightening. But mind you, it comes in many different forms. L-ascorbic acid is a good choice in terms of its antioxidant and brightening effects. However, it can be irritating to some. A less irritating alternative is tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate.
Select Serums With Other Benefits for Additional Value
In addition to skin brightening, you might also want to address other skin issues that you might be experiencing. If so, you should look for brightening serums that also have extra advantages for the skin, like relaxing, nourishing, or protecting it from external stressors.
Aloe vera, blackberry extracts, and green tea extracts, among others, typically provide these benefits. Ingredients like zinc also have oil control properties, while sea buckthorn water and Centella Asiatica extract can hydrate and soothe the skin. You do not only gain extra advantages, but you are also confident that you are receiving your money's worth.
With so many serums available in the market, it's easy to find a multifunctional one suitable to one or more of your skin concerns. Choose one based on your identified skin concerns, and don't hesitate to check in with your dermatologist.
10 Best Serums for Skin Brightening to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Key Ingredients | Best For | Fragrance-Free | Net Weight | Non-Comedogenic | Ingredient Concentration | Packaging Type | Brightening Ingredients | |||||
1 | Face Republic Vita Capsule Luminous Serum | | Brighten Naturally, Glow Radiantly | Niacinamide | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin | 45 mL | Mild、Moderate | Bottle with dropper applicator. | Niacinamide | |||
2 | Garnier Bright Complete Vitamin C Serum | | Glow Bright, Fade Spots Fast – Powered by 30x Vitamin C | Niacinamide、Vitamin C、Yuja Extract | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin | 30 mL | Moderate、Strong | Bottle with dropper. | Niacinamide、Vitamin C、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Salicylic Acid | |||
3 | Klued 5% Niacinamide Serum | | Strengthen, Brighten, and Heal — Your Skin’s Daily Multi-Tasker | Niacinamide | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin | 30 mL | Moderate | Bottle with a dropper. | Niacinamide、Ceramide | |||
4 | L'Oréal Paris Glycolic Bright 8% [Melasyl + Glycolic + Niacinamide] Serum | | A Serum That Fade Spots and Unleashes Your Glow | Niacinamide、Melasyl、Glycolic | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin | 30 mL, 15 mL | Mild、Moderate | Bottle | Niacinamide、Ascorbyl Glucoside、Salicylic Acid | |||
5 | Mama's Choice Advanced Brightening Serum | | Brighten Naturally, Glow Confidently — Made Safe for Mamas | Niacinamide | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin | 30 mL | Mild、Moderate | Bottle | Niacinamide、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Ceramide、Peony Extract | |||
6 | Belo Essentials Vitamin C Ultra Bright Complex Serum | | Triple Antioxidant Power to Brighten, Even Tone, and Protect Your Skin | Vitamin C | Dry Skin、Normal Skin | 30 mL | Strong | Glass Bottle | Vitamin C、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid | |||
7 | Blk Cosmetics Skin Brightening & Soothing Supercharged Serum + Niacinamide | | Balanced. Bright. Better Skin – Supercharge Your Glow with Every Drop | Niacinamide、Alpha Arbutin | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin | 30 mL | Strong | Bottle with dropper. | Niacinamide、Zinc PCA、Alpha Arbutin | |||
8 | Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum | | 7x Power for Radiant, Even-Toned Skin in Just 14 Days | Niacinamide、Vitamin C | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin | 30 mL | Mild | Pump Bottle | Niacinamide、Vitamin C、Sea Daffodil、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid | |||
9 | Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution | | Brighten, Correct, Reveal Radiance | Vitamin C | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Normal Skin | 50 mL | Moderate | Clear bottle with a dropper. | Vitamin C、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Peony Extract、Salicylic Acid | |||
10 | SNAILWHITE Double Boosting Brightening Serum | | Double the Power, Double the Glow: Reveal Spotless, Radiant Skin | Vitamin C、Alpha Arbutin、Pure Ascorbic Acid、Niacinamide | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin | 40 mL + 40 mL | Mild、Moderate | Two-compartment packet or bottle. | Niacinamide、Vitamin C、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Alpha Arbutin | |||
Brighten Naturally, Glow Radiantly
Features and benefits:
- Brightens dull and uneven skin tone
- Nourishes and hydrates the skin
- Offers antioxidant, moisturizing, and soothing properties
- Helps with multiple skin concerns
- Absorbs quickly without stickiness
Reviews mention:
Most users praise the immediate brightening effect and glowing finish after use. The serum is reported to be lightweight, hydrating, and non-irritating, suitable for daily use. Some users with oily or sensitive skin noted that the serum could feel a bit heavy or oily due to the jojoba oil content and advised cautious use if prone to clogged pores or fungal acne.
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Best For | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 45 mL |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Ingredient Concentration | Mild、Moderate |
| Packaging Type | Bottle with dropper applicator. |
| Brightening Ingredients | Niacinamide |
Glow Bright, Fade Spots Fast – Powered by 30x Vitamin C
- Helps reduce dark spots, acne marks, and hyperpigmentation
- Lightweight, non-oily formula
- Absorbs quickly without residue
- Instantly gives a flash bright effect
- Evens out skin tone, and improves translucency
Reviews mention:
Many users reported glowing, smoother, and visibly brighter skin after just a few days of use; dark spots and pigmentation noticeably faded. The serum is appreciated for its gentle yet effective formulation that suits Asian skin types well. Some users might experience typical initial adjustment period reactions common to active serums such as mild tingling or sensitivity, especially if combined with other potent actives.
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Vitamin C、Yuja Extract |
|---|---|
| Best For | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Ingredient Concentration | Moderate、Strong |
| Packaging Type | Bottle with dropper. |
| Brightening Ingredients | Niacinamide、Vitamin C、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Salicylic Acid |
Strengthen, Brighten, and Heal — Your Skin’s Daily Multi-Tasker
- Includes antioxidant protection
- Contains 5% niacinamide, a potent form of vitamin B3
- Cruelty-free and reef safe formulation
- Effective for multiple skin concerns
- Doesn’t sting or irritate most skin types
Reviews mention:
Users praise its affordability, effectiveness on dark spots, and skin tone evening. Described as non-sticky and fragrance-free, suitable for sensitive skin without irritation. Some mention it can feel a bit sticky on the hands but absorb well on the face.
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Best For | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Ingredient Concentration | Moderate |
| Packaging Type | Bottle with a dropper. |
| Brightening Ingredients | Niacinamide、Ceramide |
L'Oréal Paris Glycolic Bright 8% [Melasyl + Glycolic + Niacinamide] Serum
A Serum That Fade Spots and Unleashes Your Glow
- Supports multi-targeted dark spot correction
- Immediate radiance; significant spot reduction
- Exfoliates and removes dull, dead skin cells
- Tackles multiple skin concerns
- Visibly reduces up to 77% of dark spots
Reviews mention:
Users praise noticeable fading of dark spots, improvement in glow, and even skin tone within 1–4 weeks of daily use. Many with sensitive and combination skin report no irritation; some see a clear reduction in post-acne marks. The serum contains fragrance and alcohol, which may not suit very sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Melasyl、Glycolic |
|---|---|
| Best For | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL, 15 mL |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Ingredient Concentration | Mild、Moderate |
| Packaging Type | Bottle |
| Brightening Ingredients | Niacinamide、Ascorbyl Glucoside、Salicylic Acid |
Brighten Naturally, Glow Confidently — Made Safe for Mamas
- Reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Boosts skin hydration, smoothness, and barrier strength
- Moisturizes deeply
- Specially formulated to be safe for sensitive skin
- Gentle on delicate skin
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate its effective brightening and dark spot reduction. Many mention it's a safe choice during pregnancy without harsh chemicals. Some users highlight the moisturizing effect and improved overall skin texture. No significant critical reviews or questions are currently noted, but some users may be cautious about fragrance presence.
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Best For | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Ingredient Concentration | Mild、Moderate |
| Packaging Type | Bottle |
| Brightening Ingredients | Niacinamide、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Ceramide、Peony Extract |
Triple Antioxidant Power to Brighten, Even Tone, and Protect Your Skin
- Delivers powerful brightening, hydration
- Brightens stubborn dark spots
- Helps improve skin firmness and elasticity
- Absorbs quickly into the skin
- Suitable for people with dark spots, uneven skin tone, and sun damage
Reviews mention:
Users report the serum helps with dark spots and evens out skin tone. Some customers praise it for being lightweight and quickly absorbed. No widespread criticism found; however, standard caution for external use and individual skin reactions applies.
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin C |
|---|---|
| Best For | Dry Skin、Normal Skin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Ingredient Concentration | Strong |
| Packaging Type | Glass Bottle |
| Brightening Ingredients | Vitamin C、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid |
Blk Cosmetics Skin Brightening & Soothing Supercharged Serum + Niacinamide
Balanced. Bright. Better Skin – Supercharge Your Glow with Every Drop
- Powerful, gentle brightening without irritation
- Includes a unique white bouquet complex
- Controls sebum and reduce blemishes
- Brightens and evens out skin tone
- Diminishes the appearance of pores
Reviews mention:
Customers appreciate the serum's lightweight, non-sticky feel and lack of fragrance, making it comfortable to wear daily. Users report visible improvements in skin brightness, diminished dark spots, and more even skin tone after regular use. Negative feedback mostly centers on the serum’s high niacinamide concentration possibly causing irritation for sensitive skins.
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Alpha Arbutin |
|---|---|
| Best For | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Ingredient Concentration | Strong |
| Packaging Type | Bottle with dropper. |
| Brightening Ingredients | Niacinamide、Zinc PCA、Alpha Arbutin |
CetaphilBright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum
7x Power for Radiant, Even-Toned Skin in Just 14 Days
- Formulated with GentleBright Technology, 7x Power
- Reduces dark spots caused by sun, aging, breakouts, and hormonal changes.
- Evens skin tone and boosts radiance
- Improves fine lines and skin hydration
- Defends against 5 signs of skin sensitivity
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate the serum's gentle formulation for sensitive skin without irritation. Rated highly for being non-irritating, lightweight, and effective in targeting dark spots and dullness. Some reviews note the serum's pleasant texture and ease of absorption. Criticism is minimal but may include expectations of faster or more dramatic results depending on individual skin conditions.
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide、Vitamin C |
|---|---|
| Best For | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Ingredient Concentration | Mild |
| Packaging Type | Pump Bottle |
| Brightening Ingredients | Niacinamide、Vitamin C、Sea Daffodil、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid |
Brighten, Correct, Reveal Radiance
- Effectively reduces dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne marks
- Brightens skin and improves clarity
- Breaks up discoloration and refines skin texture
- Formulated with natural antioxidants
- Helps visibly plump and smooth skin
Reviews mention:
Many users report noticeable brightening and fading of dark spots within weeks, with consistent use speeding up post-acne scar healing. Appreciated for being suitable for all skin types and gentle enough for sensitive skin. Some users desire faster results or find the serum less effective on deeper or long-standing pigmentation.
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin C |
|---|---|
| Best For | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Normal Skin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Ingredient Concentration | Moderate |
| Packaging Type | Clear bottle with a dropper. |
| Brightening Ingredients | Vitamin C、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Peony Extract、Salicylic Acid |
Double the Power, Double the Glow: Reveal Spotless, Radiant Skin
- 2-in-1 dual serum formula
- Powerful brightening actives
- Helps fade dark spots, minimize pores, and balance oil production
- Stimulates collagen production
- Antioxidant protection
Reviews mention:
Customer feedback generally praises the serum for its brightening effect, improving skin texture, and hydration. Criticisms are limited but sometimes include slower results on very stubborn hyperpigmentation or sensitivity in the early use phase due to active ingredients.
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin C、Alpha Arbutin、Pure Ascorbic Acid、Niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Best For | Oily Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 40 mL + 40 mL |
| Non-Comedogenic | |
| Ingredient Concentration | Mild、Moderate |
| Packaging Type | Two-compartment packet or bottle. |
| Brightening Ingredients | Niacinamide、Vitamin C、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Alpha Arbutin |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Katrina Luz
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Katrina.
How Many Drops of Serum Should I Use?
Will Skin Brighten Faster if Serum is Applied More Often?
Can You Use Different Serums at the Same Time?
Pamper Your Skin With These Skincare Essentials
Acne, dry skin, dark spots, and more skin issues can be quite unsettling, especially if you desire a clear, glass-looking complexion. If you're looking for products that will pamper and clarify your skin, check out these links below!
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Author: Kate Basa
Editor: R. Victoriano
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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.
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Top 5 Serums for Skin Brightening
No. 1: Face Republic｜Vita Capsule Luminous Serum
No. 2: Garnier｜Bright Complete Vitamin C Serum
No. 3: Klued｜5% Niacinamide Serum
No. 4: L'Oréal Paris ｜Glycolic Bright 8% [Melasyl + Glycolic + Niacinamide] Serum
No. 5: Mama's Choice ｜Advanced Brightening Serum
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.