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Affordable serumsHelping You Find the Best
mybest
Affordable serumsHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Affordable Serums in the Philippines 2025 | COSRX, Garnier, and More 1
  • 10 Best Affordable Serums in the Philippines 2025 | COSRX, Garnier, and More 2
  • 10 Best Affordable Serums in the Philippines 2025 | COSRX, Garnier, and More 3
  • 10 Best Affordable Serums in the Philippines 2025 | COSRX, Garnier, and More 4
  • 10 Best Affordable Serums in the Philippines 2025 | COSRX, Garnier, and More 5

10 Best Affordable Serums in the Philippines 2025 | COSRX, Garnier, and More

Skincare doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective, and there are products like affordable serums to help address your skin concerns. Serums deliver increased doses of active ingredients to help you achieve your skin goals faster. They’ve become increasingly popular and have found their way into many people’s skincare regimens.


Because of the many options out there, we have prepared a buying guide, reviewed by Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang, to teach you all that you need to know when choosing the best budget-friendly serum. We also curated a list of the ten best affordable serums you can order online to make your skin dreams come true.

Last updated 06/16/2025

Quick List - Top Affordable Serums

1

COSRX

Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Soothe, Heal, and Moisturize Your Skin With Snail Mucin

2

Garnier

Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum
Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum

Targets Stubborn Spots for a Clearer, More Even Skin Tone

3

Good Molecules

Niacinamide Serum
Niacinamide Serum

Clearer Skin, Brighter Confidence

4

SKIN1004

Madagascar Centella Ampoule
Madagascar Centella Ampoule

A Great Serum for Sensitive Skin

5

FRESH Skinlab

Tomato Glass Skin 3-in-1 Vitamin C Brightening Serum
Tomato Glass Skin 3-in-1 Vitamin C Brightening Serum

Reveal Glass-Like Radiance with This Multitasking Vitamin C Serum

Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Expert
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang

Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang, MD, DPDS is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila, and achieving healthy skin is her goal in every skin journey she has with her patients. She also aims to raise awareness on healthy skin facts and skincare habits. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and is currently offering online consults for any skin, hair, and nail concerns. You can follow her on her Instagram and Facebook page to know more details about her practice!

Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang's Profile
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How to Choose an Affordable Serum - Buying Guide

Whether you're a skincare enthusiast on a budget or simply seeking cost-effective options without compromising quality, we've got you covered. Dive into our curated selection of budget-friendly serums that deliver results without breaking the bank! For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

1

Look for Active Ingredients That Are Suitable for Your Skin Type

The active ingredients that your serum has are the star of the show. Make sure that they’re going to address the skin concerns that you have, so you can maximize the benefits and value of your chosen product. Here are some common ingredients that you will encounter.

Tea Tree and Vitamin C Are Beneficial for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

Tea Tree and Vitamin C Are Beneficial for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

Tea tree is a popular ingredient used to dry out acne. It’s anti-inflammatory and has anti-microbial properties, too, so it will help calm your skin and avoid future breakouts, making it helpful if you have oily and acne-prone skin. 


Meanwhile, vitamin C helps brighten the skin, treating hyperpigmentation marks and scars left by acne. Zinc also has the same effect of reducing the appearance of blemishes. Some other ingredients that are usually paired with these are glutathione and peptides.

Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that prevents early signs of skin aging as well. It is recommended to be applied in the morning as it works synergistically with sunscreen to prevent skin damage. 

AHAs and BHAs Are Effective for Oily Skin

AHAs and BHAs Are Effective for Oily Skin

BHAs are one of the commonly known exfoliators, which is very helpful in combatting oiliness. BHAs, like salicylic acid, penetrate the deeper layers of your skin to break down impurities that have clogged your pores. They are also useful in preventing the formation of blackheads. 


Meanwhile, AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid gently exfoliate the surface of your skin, which helps get rid of dead skin cells, gunk, and excess sebum. That way, you can get rid of dull skin and reveal smoother, brighter-looking skin without experiencing dryness or irritation. 

Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
AHA and BHA are chemical exfoliants. I prefer using this type of exfoliation rather than physical exfoliants (scrubs) to prevent unnecessary skin irritation. AHA is recommended for dry and mature skin as it has humectant properties that help hydrate the skin. BHA is recommended for acne-prone and oily skin because it lessens oil production. 

Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and PHAs Are Great for Dry Skin

Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and PHAs Are Great for Dry Skin

If you suffer from dry and dull skin, hyaluronic acid is a good ingredient to have in your serum. It provides hydration to your skin, making it look supple and youthful. On the other hand, niacinamide helps retain moisture and strengthens your skin’s barrier, so your skin stays nourished all day. 


PHAs are also another ingredient that helps provide hydration to your skin and support skin cell regeneration, all while gently exfoliating your skin. This way, aside from helping you get softer and smoother skin, it also reduces the appearance of fine lines and other signs of aging.

Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
PHA is a new class of hydroxyacid and is a chemical exfoliant. It is known to be the mildest/ most gentle hydroxyacid. It is preferred for people with sensitive skin and for beginners who just started using chemical exfoliants.

Niacinamide is a brightening ingredient that fades away dark spots. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a humectant that hydrates the skin from within. HA can either be low molecular or high molecular weight. Low molecular HA, such as sodium hyaluronate, can penetrate the skin deeper. 

2

Avoid Serums With Alcohol, Fragrances, or Parabens if You Have Sensitive Skin

Avoid Serums With Alcohol, Fragrances, or Parabens if You Have Sensitive Skin

Some serums may be formulated with alcohol, fragrances, or parabens, which can irritate your skin, especially if it tends to be sensitive. Even though these ingredients aren’t necessarily harmful, they each have traits that may cause adverse reactions. For instance, some alcohols like ethyl alcohol and benzyl alcohol are drying to the skin.


Meanwhile, artificial fragrances may cause redness, irritation, or allergic reactions. Lastly, parabens can cause irritation for some people, so it’s better to avoid them altogether. As a precaution, opt for a serum with none of these ingredients; it would actually be good to get one with as few ingredients as possible

3

Check the Concentration of the Ingredients in the Serum

Check the Concentration of the Ingredients in the Serum

Some ingredients, like vitamin C and niacinamide, are only effective when used in certain concentrations. A good rule of thumb in figuring out the right concentration is that if you’re new to using a certain ingredient in your skincare routine, it is best to start with a lower dose.


For example, vitamin C is best used from a concentration of 5% to 20%. If you’re new to it or have sensitive skin, then go for one with a lower dose of 5% to 8%. Meanwhile, niacinamide is effective at concentrations of 2% to 10%. Similarly, start with 2% and work your way up. 

Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang

For the percent concentration of a particular ingredient, it is important to remember that it is not always the higher percent, the better. One has to take into consideration skin concerns, skin types, and also other skincare ingredients in one's routine. A pro tip for beginners is to start low and slowーlow percentage, and slowly introducing it to your skin.

4

Go for a Serum From a Trusted Brand and Read Feedback From Customers

Go for a Serum From a Trusted Brand and Read Feedback From Customers

Even though you’re looking for an affordable serum, it’s still important to get one from a trusted brand. Many established skincare companies have budget-friendly options, so it’s best to go for those since you can ensure that they’re safe and effective. 


It’s best to read feedback from customers, too, so you can manage your expectations and know whether or not you’re getting value for your money. A tip is to look for reviews from customers who have the same skin type as you do, so you can learn and get some insights from their experience.

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10 Best Affordable Serums to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
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Products

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Key features

Details

Serum Type

Best For

Key Ingredients

Concentration

Alcohol-Free

Fragrance-Free

Paraben-Free

Net Weight

1

COSRX

Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 1

Soothe, Heal, and Moisturize Your Skin With Snail Mucin

Brightening

All Skin Types

Snail Mucin

96% Snail Secretion Filtrate

100mL

2

Garnier

Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum

Garnier Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum 1

Targets Stubborn Spots for a Clearer, More Even Skin Tone

Brightening

All Skin Type, including Acne-Prone, Normal, Dry, Combination, Sensitive

Vitamin C, Niacinamide

3.5% Vitamin C

30mL

3

Good Molecules

Niacinamide Serum

Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum 1

Clearer Skin, Brighter Confidence

Brightening、Oil-Control

Acne-Prone, Sensitive, Oily

Niacinamide

10% Niacinamide

30mL

4

SKIN1004

Madagascar Centella Ampoule

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 1

A Great Serum for Sensitive Skin

Soothing、Skin-Repairing

Sensitive、Acne-Prone

Centella Asiatica

100% Centella Asiatica

100mL

5

FRESH Skinlab

Tomato Glass Skin 3-in-1 Vitamin C Brightening Serum

FRESH Skinlab Tomato Glass Skin 3-in-1 Vitamin C Brightening Serum 1

Reveal Glass-Like Radiance with This Multitasking Vitamin C Serum

Brightening

All Skin Types

Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Tomato Extract

Not Specified

30mL

6

Klued

Vit C 15% Serum

Klued Vit C 15% Serum 1

Infused With Polyglutamic Acid to Keep Your Skin Radiant and Plump

Brightening

All Skin Types

L-Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, Polyglutamic Acid

15% Vitamin C

30mL

7

Face Republic

Calming Tea Tree Madecassoside Serum

Face Republic Calming Tea Tree Madecassoside Serum 1

Calm, Clear, and Comfort

Soothing、Hydrating Serum、Anti-Acne

Acne-Prone, Sensitive, Oily

Madecassoside, Tea-Tree Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract

Not Specified

45mL

8

AXIS-Y

Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum

AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum 1

Your Daily Fix for Dullness, Dark Spots, and Uneven Tone

Brightening、Anti-Acne

All Skin Types

Niacinamide, Squalane

5% Niacinamide

50mL

9

Oxecure

Acne Defense Prebio Serum

Oxecure Acne Defense Prebio Serum 1

Fade Post-Acne Marks Faster With a Gentle Serum

Anti-Acne、Barrier Care

Acne-Prone, Sensitive, Oily

Prebiotics, Zinc PCA

Not Specified

30mL

10

Belo

AHA BHA Skin Renewing Serum

Belo AHA BHA Skin Renewing Serum 1

Smooth and Refine Rough Skin Texture with This Exfoliating Serum

Exfoliating、Anti-Acne

Oily、Acne-Prone

AHA, BHA

Not Specified

30mL

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

COSRX
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 1
Source:cosrx.com
Reference price
₱495
Mid
Reference price
₱495
Mid

Soothe, Heal, and Moisturize Your Skin With Snail Mucin

Features and benefits:
  • Hydrates and nourishes skin with 96.3% snail secretion filtrate
  • Repairs damaged skin and improves texture
  • Lightweight and fast-absorbing for all skin types
  • Minimizes fine lines and boosts elasticity

Reviews mention:
Users rave about the visible improvement in skin hydration and glow after regular use. Many note that the essence helps calm redness, heal post-acne marks, and leaves skin feeling soft and supple. Several reviewers appreciate its non-sticky texture and how well it layers under other skincare products. Those with sensitive or breakout-prone skin often highlight its soothing, non-irritating formula.
Serum TypeBrightening
Best ForAll Skin Types
Key IngredientsSnail Mucin
Concentration96% Snail Secretion Filtrate
Alcohol-Free
Fragrance-Free
Paraben-Free
Net Weight100mL
View all
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No.2

Garnier
Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum

Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱269
Low Mid

Targets Stubborn Spots for a Clearer, More Even Skin Tone

Features and benefits:
  • Brightens skin and fades dark spots with concentrated vitamin C
  • Controls oil and prevents breakouts with salicylic acid
  • Soothes and minimizes pores with niacinamide
  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula suitable for daily use

Reviews mention:
Many users praise this serum for quickly brightening skin and fading dark spots and post-acne marks within days to weeks. Its lightweight, non-sticky texture leaves skin fresh and radiant. It suits oily and acne-prone skin, though those with very sensitive skin should introduce it gradually to avoid irritation.
Serum TypeBrightening
Best ForAll Skin Type, including Acne-Prone, Normal, Dry, Combination, Sensitive
Key IngredientsVitamin C, Niacinamide
Concentration3.5% Vitamin C
Alcohol-Free
Fragrance-Free
Paraben-Free
Net Weight30mL
View all
No.3

Good Molecules
Niacinamide Serum

Reference price
₱395
Mid

Clearer Skin, Brighter Confidence

Features and benefits:
  • High concentration for effective improvement
  • Helps reduce the look of enlarged pores
  • Absorbs quickly and layers seamlessly
  • Particularly beneficial for oily and combination skin
  • Focuses on efficacy and tolerability

Reviews mention:
Many users are impressed by the serum’s effectiveness in refining skin tone, texture, and minimizing pores. The serum stands out for its potency and soothing formula. The niacinamide concentration may be too strong for beginners or those prone to flushing or sensitivity, potentially causing irritation.
Serum TypeBrightening、Oil-Control
Best ForAcne-Prone, Sensitive, Oily
Key IngredientsNiacinamide
Concentration10% Niacinamide
Alcohol-Free
Fragrance-Free
Paraben-Free
Net Weight30mL
View all
No.4

SKIN1004
Madagascar Centella Ampoule

Reference price
₱799
High

A Great Serum for Sensitive Skin

Features and benefits:

  • Made with 100% Madagascar Centella Asiatica for ultimate soothing

  • Specifically targets sensitive, irritated, or stressed-out skin

  • Lightweight formula—perfect for layering with the rest of your skincare


Reviews mention:

If your oily skin tends to act up, this might be your new go-to! A lot of people say it’s super calming and sinks in fast without causing any irritation. Many have noticed their skin looking more glowy and feeling extra soft after using it. Some even love it so much they’ve been using it for weeks—and are already planning to recommend it to friends!

Serum TypeSoothing、Skin-Repairing
Best ForSensitive、Acne-Prone
Key IngredientsCentella Asiatica
Concentration100% Centella Asiatica
Alcohol-Free
Fragrance-Free
Paraben-Free
Net Weight100mL
View all
No.5

FRESH Skinlab
Tomato Glass Skin 3-in-1 Vitamin C Brightening Serum

Reference price
₱380
Mid

Reveal Glass-Like Radiance with This Multitasking Vitamin C Serum

Features and benefits:
  • Brightens dull skin and fades dark spots with tomato extract and Vitamin C
  • Hydrates and evens out skin tone for a glass skin effect
  • Lightweight and fast-absorbing formula
  • Suitable for daily use on all skin types

Reviews mention:
Users love the instant hydration and fresh glow this serum delivers, noting that their skin looks visibly brighter and smoother after just a few uses. Many reviewers highlight its pleasant, non-sticky texture and how it helps fade dark spots and acne marks over time. Several also appreciate its gentle formula, making it a great choice for those new to Vitamin C serums or looking for a daily brightening boost.
Serum TypeBrightening
Best ForAll Skin Types
Key IngredientsVitamin C, Niacinamide, Tomato Extract
ConcentrationNot Specified
Alcohol-Free
Fragrance-Free
Paraben-Free
Net Weight30mL
View all
No.6

Klued
Vit C 15% Serum

Reference price
₱226
Low

Infused With Polyglutamic Acid to Keep Your Skin Radiant and Plump

Features and benefits:
  • 15% pure L-ascorbic acid brightens skin
  • Ferulic acid and vitamin E provide antioxidant protection
  • Polyglutamic acid hydrates and plumps the skin
  • Light formula absorbs quickly without clogging pores
  • Dark bottle with dropper prevents product degradation

Reviews mention:

Users praise this serum for noticeably brightening their skin, leaving a healthy glow. While slightly sticky upon application, it absorbs quickly and fits seamlessly into daily routines. Consequently, it remains a favorite for those seeking consistent results with minimal effort.

Serum TypeBrightening
Best ForAll Skin Types
Key Ingredients L-Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, Polyglutamic Acid
Concentration15% Vitamin C
Alcohol-Free
Fragrance-Free
Paraben-Free
Net Weight30mL
View all
No.7

Face Republic
Calming Tea Tree Madecassoside Serum

Calming Tea Tree Madecassoside Serum 1
Source:shopee.ph
Calming Tea Tree Madecassoside Serum 2
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱534
High Mid

Calm, Clear, and Comfort

Features and benefits:

  • Calms textured and sensitive skin
  • Provides anti-inflammatory effects
  • Helps regulate sebum production
  • Ideal for acne-prone and oily skin types
  • Contains moisturizing agents

Reviews mention:
One user described it as a "holy grail" product that restored their confidence after a breakout. The serum’s lightweight, milky texture absorbs quickly, making it comfortable for daily use even in hot and humid weather. Some users felt the serum was not as effective as advertised, with a few reporting little to no improvement.

Serum TypeSoothing、Hydrating Serum、Anti-Acne
Best ForAcne-Prone, Sensitive, Oily
Key IngredientsMadecassoside, Tea-Tree Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract
ConcentrationNot Specified
Alcohol-Free
Fragrance-Free
Paraben-Free
Net Weight45mL
View all
No.8

AXIS-Y
Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum

Reference price
₱535
High Mid

Your Daily Fix for Dullness, Dark Spots, and Uneven Tone

Features and benefits:
  • Fades dark spots and evens out skin tone with 5% niacinamide
  • Hydrates and soothes skin with plant extracts
  • Lightweight, gel-like texture absorbs quickly
  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin

Reviews mention:
Users love how effectively this serum brightens their complexion and reduces dark spots without irritation. Many highlight its lightweight texture and how well it layers under moisturizers. Several reviewers with sensitive skin appreciate its gentle formula that doesn’t cause redness or dryness when used consistently.
Serum TypeBrightening、Anti-Acne
Best ForAll Skin Types
Key IngredientsNiacinamide, Squalane
Concentration5% Niacinamide
Alcohol-Free
Fragrance-Free
Paraben-Free
Net Weight50mL
View all
No.9

Oxecure
Acne Defense Prebio Serum

Reference price
₱499
Mid

Fade Post-Acne Marks Faster With a Gentle Serum

Features and benefits:

  • Fights acne and soothes inflammation with prebiotics and active ingredients
  • Helps control oil and prevent future breakouts
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula for daily use
  • Suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin

Reviews mention:
Users praise this serum for quickly calming active breakouts and reducing redness. Many note clearer, less oily skin after consistent use, and appreciate its gentle, non-sticky feel. Reviewers with sensitive skin highlight that it doesn’t cause irritation or dryness, making it easy to add to any routine.
Serum TypeAnti-Acne、Barrier Care
Best ForAcne-Prone, Sensitive, Oily
Key IngredientsPrebiotics, Zinc PCA
ConcentrationNot Specified
Alcohol-Free
Fragrance-Free
Paraben-Free
Net Weight30mL
View all
No.10

Belo
AHA BHA Skin Renewing Serum

Reference price
₱512
Mid

Smooth and Refine Rough Skin Texture with This Exfoliating Serum

Features and benefits:
  • Exfoliates dead skin cells and unclogs pores with AHA and BHA
  • Helps fade dark spots and smoothen rough texture
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula for daily or nightly use
  • Suitable for oily, acne-prone, and dull skin
  • Since it contains AHA and BHA, it recommended to patch test this formula to prevent irritation

Reviews mention:
Users love how this serum leaves their skin feeling smoother and looking brighter after just a few uses. Many highlight reduced breakouts and minimized pores, with no harsh dryness or irritation. Reviewers appreciate its gentle exfoliating effect and how easily it fits into their skincare routine.
Serum TypeExfoliating、Anti-Acne
Best ForOily、Acne-Prone
Key IngredientsAHA, BHA
ConcentrationNot Specified
Alcohol-Free
Fragrance-Free
Paraben-Free
Net Weight30mL
View all

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang

Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by dermatologist Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang.

What’s the Best Affordable Vitamin C Serum?

Affordability will depend on one's definition of what amount is reasonable. This will really depend on one's budget. Additionally, the best serum is one that will fit your skin type and concerns, so there's no one answer to this 

How Many Times Should I Apply Serum?

The frequency of serum application depends on the active ingredients incorporated. Serums can be applied twice a day if they contain hydrating ingredients (hyaluronic acid) or brightening ingredients (arbutin, niacinamide). Exfoliating serums that contain AHA, BHA, and even retinol are recommended to be applied only once a day.

Can You Layer Different Serums?

Layering can be done on different serums as long as the ingredients are not irritating when applied at the same time. For people with sensitive skin, it is recommended to stick to one serum type when applied. 


Some examples of ingredients that must not be layered together include vitamin C and retinoids, AHA, BHA, and retinoids.

Author: Bianca Angela Dela Cruz

Editor: J. Cuizon

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. 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.

Top 5 Affordable Serums

No. 1: COSRXAdvanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

No. 2: GarnierBright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum

No. 3: Good MoleculesNiacinamide Serum

No. 4: SKIN1004Madagascar Centella Ampoule

No. 5: FRESH SkinlabTomato Glass Skin 3-in-1 Vitamin C Brightening Serum

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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