10 Best Affordable Serums in the Philippines 2025
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.
Quick List - Top Affordable Serums
Face Republic
Madecassoside Plus Tea-Tree Leaf Extract Serum for Calming Blemishes
Klued
Gives Skin a Youthful Glow With Anti-Aging and Brightening Benefits
Pond's
Has a Unique Cream to Serum Formula That Brightens the Skin
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!
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
- Why You Can Trust Us
- How to Choose an Affordable Serum - Buying Guide
- Look for Active Ingredients That Are Suitable for Your Skin Type1
- Avoid Serums With Alcohol, Fragrances, or Parabens if You Have Sensitive Skin2
- Check the Concentration of the Ingredients in the Serum3
- Go for a Serum From a Trusted Brand and Read Feedback From Customers4
- 10 Best Affordable Serums to Buy Online
- No. 1Face Republic | Calming Blemish Madecassoside Serum
- No. 2Klued | 0.1% Retinol + 0.3% Bakuchiol Serum
- No. 3Luxe Organix | Cica Rescue Calming Serum
- No. 4Pond's | Bright Hydrating Serum Burst Cream
- No. 5Luxe Organix | Aqua Lock Plump Up Hydro Serum
- 5 more products
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
- What’s the Best Affordable Vitamin C Serum?
- How Many Times Should I Apply Serum?
- Can You Layer Different Serums?
- More Serums for Specific Skin Concerns
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
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.
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 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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
10 Best Affordable Serums to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type of Serum | Skin Type | Key Ingredients | Alochol-Free | Fragrance-Free | Paraben-Free | Concentration | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Face Republic Calming Blemish Madecassoside Serum | | Madecassoside Plus Tea-Tree Leaf Extract Serum for Calming Blemishes | Hydrating Serum | Acne-Prone, Sensitive, Oily | Madecassoside, Tea-Tree Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract | Madecassoside 1,000ppm (0.1%), Tea Tree Leaf Extract 5,000ppm (0.5%) | 45 mL | ||||
2 | Klued 0.1% Retinol + 0.3% Bakuchiol Serum | | Gives Skin a Youthful Glow With Anti-Aging and Brightening Benefits | Anti-Aging Serum | All Skin Type, including Combination, Normal, Sensitive | Retinol, Bakuchiol, Panthenol, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Sunflower Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Grape Seed Oil | 0.1% Retinol, 0.3% Bakuchiol | 30 mL | ||||
3 | Luxe Organix Cica Rescue Calming Serum | | An All-In-One Serum for a Hydrated, Brightened Skin | Hydrating Serum, Skin-Brightening Serum | All Skin Types, including Sensitive and Acne-Prone | Centella Asiatica, Madecassoside, Niacinamide | 30% Centella Asiatica | 30 mL | ||||
4 | Pond's Bright Hydrating Serum Burst Cream | | Has a Unique Cream to Serum Formula That Brightens the Skin | Skin-Brightening Serum, Hydrating Serum | Combination | Niasorcinol, Niacinamide, E-Resorcinol, Hyaluron | Not Specified | 20 g | ||||
5 | Luxe Organix Aqua Lock Plump Up Hydro Serum | | Budget-Friendly Without Skimping on the Quality | Hydrating Serum | All Skin Types, including Combination | Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), Ceramide | Not Specified | 30 mL | ||||
6 | Garnier Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum | | Targets Stubborn Spots for a Clearer, More Even Skin Tone | Skin-Brightening Serum | All Skin Type, including Acne-Prone, Normal, Dry, Combination, Sensitive | Vitamin C, Niacinamide | 30x Vitamin C | 15 mL | ||||
7 | Y.O.U. Radiance Glow Illuminating Serum | | The Ultimate Glow Solution for All Skin Types | Skin-Brightening Serum | All Skin Types, including Oily and Sensitive | Sakura Extract, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Bisabolol | 3X Vitamin C, 99.9% High-Purity Niacinamide | 20 mL | ||||
8 | Dermorepubliq 5% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid for Sensitive Skin Formula | | Combines Acne Control and Hydration With Skin Healing Ingredients | Hydrating Serum, Anti-Aging Serum | All Skin Type, including Combination, Sensitive, Oily | Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Cucumber Extract, Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, Allantoin | 5% Niacinamide | 30 mL | ||||
9 | Belo Essentials Vitamin C Ultra Bright Complex Serum | | Lightens Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots Using Vitamin C | Skin-Brightening Serum | Not Specified | Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Ferulic Peptide | 15% Vitamin C, 0.5% Vitamin E, 1% Ferulic Peptide | 30 mL | ||||
10 | Dr. Sensitive Tea Tree and Aloe Vera Pimple Relief Serum | | Tea Tree Serum for Banishing Pimples | Hydrating Serum | Acne-Prone | Tea Tree, Aloe Vera | Not Specified | 30 mL | ||||
Face RepublicCalming Blemish Madecassoside Serum
Madecassoside Plus Tea-Tree Leaf Extract Serum for Calming Blemishes
Specifically crafted for sensitive and troubled skin, Face Republic's Calming Blemish Madecassoside Serum offers gentle yet effective care to calm and nurture your complexion. Madecassoside is known for its soothing properties that help alleviate redness and irritation. Coupled with Tea-Tree Leaf Extract, known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits, this combination fights blemishes and promotes a clearer, healthier-looking complexion.
With a low pH formula, this serum maintains the skin's natural balance while providing daily hydration. Moreover, it is enriched with natural moisturizing ingredients, so it strengthens the skin's barrier function. This locks in moisture to keep your skin well-hydrated and supple.
| Type of Serum | Hydrating Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Acne-Prone, Sensitive, Oily |
| Key Ingredients | Madecassoside, Tea-Tree Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract |
| Alochol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Concentration | Madecassoside 1,000ppm (0.1%), Tea Tree Leaf Extract 5,000ppm (0.5%) |
| Net Weight | 45 mL |
Gives Skin a Youthful Glow With Anti-Aging and Brightening Benefits
This serum also features sunflower seed and grape seed oils to nourish and strengthen the skin barrier. These oils provide deep hydration, helping to fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage. Many users notice visible improvements after just a few uses, making it a go-to for brighter, healthier-looking skin.
| Type of Serum | Anti-Aging Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All Skin Type, including Combination, Normal, Sensitive |
| Key Ingredients | Retinol, Bakuchiol, Panthenol, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Sunflower Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Grape Seed Oil |
| Alochol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Concentration | 0.1% Retinol, 0.3% Bakuchiol |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
An All-In-One Serum for a Hydrated, Brightened Skin
This serum goes beyond just calming irritation. This gentle formula helps balance your skin's pH levels and regulate sebum production. Balanced pH and sebum levels mean calmer, less irritated skin. You'll be left with a refreshed and revitalized feeling.
| Type of Serum | Hydrating Serum, Skin-Brightening Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All Skin Types, including Sensitive and Acne-Prone |
| Key Ingredients | Centella Asiatica, Madecassoside, Niacinamide |
| Alochol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Concentration | 30% Centella Asiatica |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
Has a Unique Cream to Serum Formula That Brightens the Skin
Pond's serum is one of a kind with its unique cream-to-serum formula. It's a light cream that transforms into a potent serum when you apply it to your skin. It's formulated with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide (vitamin B3+), which attracts moisture to your skin and reduces dullness. As a result, you will get brighter-looking skin.
This product also has gluta-boost essence, which brightens your skin ten times more than vitamin C by boosting your skin's natural glutathione levels. This will help fade dark spots and marks from blemishes, giving you bright and even skin tone in no time. Join the thousands of happy customers and give this serum a shot!
| Type of Serum | Skin-Brightening Serum, Hydrating Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Combination |
| Key Ingredients | Niasorcinol, Niacinamide, E-Resorcinol, Hyaluron |
| Alochol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Concentration | Not Specified |
| Net Weight | 20 g |
Budget-Friendly Without Skimping on the Quality
Give your skin a healthy dose of hydration! Luxe Organix Aqua Lock Serum is a lightweight, non-sticky formula that nourishes your skin without feeling greasy. It absorbs quickly, making it perfect to use under makeup or moisturizer.
This fragrance-free and cruelty-free serum is packed with powerful ingredients. Hyaluronic acid plumps your skin for a radiant glow, while vitamin B5 and ceramide work together to lock in long-lasting hydration and nourishment. Enjoy the feeling of healthy, happy skin!
| Type of Serum | Hydrating Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All Skin Types, including Combination |
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), Ceramide |
| Alochol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Concentration | Not Specified |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
Targets Stubborn Spots for a Clearer, More Even Skin Tone
Garnier's booster serum brightens skin and shows noticeable results in just three days! Infused with 30x vitamin C, the serum neutralizes free radicals and boosts collagen to target dark spots and uneven tone. It inhibits melanin production to help lighten skin and enhance your natural glow.
The serum also features salicylic acid to exfoliate, while lemon extract works to brighten your complexion. Plus, it locks in moisture with glycerin and hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide helps soothe the skin. Reviews confirm it effectively fades dark spots, leaving skin looking clearer and healthier.
| Type of Serum | Skin-Brightening Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All Skin Type, including Acne-Prone, Normal, Dry, Combination, Sensitive |
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin C, Niacinamide |
| Alochol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Concentration | 30x Vitamin C |
| Net Weight | 15 mL |
The Ultimate Glow Solution for All Skin Types
Y.O.U. Radiance Glow Illuminating Serum is ideal for anyone seeking to enhance their natural beauty and achieve a radiant glow. Whether you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin, this serum caters to all skin types, delivering visible results you'll love!
| Type of Serum | Skin-Brightening Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All Skin Types, including Oily and Sensitive |
| Key Ingredients | Sakura Extract, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Bisabolol |
| Alochol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Concentration | 3X Vitamin C, 99.9% High-Purity Niacinamide |
| Net Weight | 20 mL |
Dermorepubliq5% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid for Sensitive Skin Formula
Combines Acne Control and Hydration With Skin Healing Ingredients
Looking for a serum that balances acne treatment with hydration? This Dermorepubliq serum combines ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and cucumber extract to target blemishes and deliver deep moisture. Niacinamide reduces inflammation and hyperpigmentation, while hyaluronic acid boosts hydration and smooths fine lines.
Aloe vera and snail secretion filtrate also soothe and heal, improving the skin's texture and appearance. Plus, it's free from sulfates, silicones, parabens, polymers, formaldehyde, artificial colorants, and artificial scents. Reviews highlight the serum's gentle yet effective formula that hydrates without irritation, improves skin tone, and reduces acne scars.
| Type of Serum | Hydrating Serum, Anti-Aging Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | All Skin Type, including Combination, Sensitive, Oily |
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Cucumber Extract, Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, Allantoin |
| Alochol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Concentration | 5% Niacinamide |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
Belo EssentialsVitamin C Ultra Bright Complex Serum
Lightens Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots Using Vitamin C
But that's not all! It also offers hydration, leaving your skin supple and moisturized throughout the day. Dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic, Belo Essentials Vitamin C Ultra Bright Complex Serum is a skincare essential you can trust to deliver visible results without clogging pores or causing irritation.
| Type of Serum | Skin-Brightening Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Not Specified |
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Ferulic Peptide |
| Alochol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Concentration | 15% Vitamin C, 0.5% Vitamin E, 1% Ferulic Peptide |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
Dr. SensitiveTea Tree and Aloe Vera Pimple Relief Serum
Tea Tree Serum for Banishing Pimples
Fight breakouts and achieve clearer skin with a natural solution! This Tea Tree Serum harnesses the power of tea tree oil, a well-known ingredient for fighting pimples. Its anti-microbial properties help clear blemishes and promote healing.
But that's not all! This gentle serum also contains soothing aloe vera to calm irritated skin. The lightweight formula feels comfortable under makeup and moisturizer, making it a great addition to your daily routine. Plus, users have reported seeing results within a month, including reduced redness and fewer breakouts. Give it a try for clearer, healthier skin!
| Type of Serum | Hydrating Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Acne-Prone |
| Key Ingredients | Tea Tree, Aloe Vera |
| Alochol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Concentration | Not Specified |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
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.
More Serums for Specific Skin Concerns
Serums are definitely the way to go if you want to address specific skin concerns, as they can help you achieve visible results in a shorter period of time. Check out our other articles below for more of our serum recommendations that can help you achieve your skin goals.
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: Face Republic｜Calming Blemish Madecassoside Serum
No. 2: Klued｜0.1% Retinol + 0.3% Bakuchiol Serum
No. 3: Luxe Organix｜Cica Rescue Calming Serum
No. 4: Pond's｜Bright Hydrating Serum Burst Cream
No. 5: Luxe Organix｜Aqua Lock Plump Up Hydro Serum
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Most ViewedFeatured Rankings Similar to Affordable serums
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