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Serums for skin brighteningHelping You Find the Best
mybest
Serums for skin brighteningHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Serums for Whitening in the Philippines 2025 | Cetaphil, COSRX, and More 1
  • 10 Best Serums for Whitening in the Philippines 2025 | Cetaphil, COSRX, and More 2
  • 10 Best Serums for Whitening in the Philippines 2025 | Cetaphil, COSRX, and More 3
  • 10 Best Serums for Whitening in the Philippines 2025 | Cetaphil, COSRX, and More 4
  • 10 Best Serums for Whitening in the Philippines 2025 | Cetaphil, COSRX, and More 5

10 Best Serums for Whitening in the Philippines 2025 | Cetaphil, COSRX, and More

Are you dealing with uneven skin tone, dark spots, or dullness? Whitening serums can help restore your glow, fade pigmentation, and even out your complexion, without the need for harsh treatments. However, with so many options available in the Philippines, finding one that matches your skin type, concerns, and budget can feel overwhelming.


In this guide, we’ll help you choose the best whitening serums in the Philippines—whether you're targeting acne marks, discoloration from sun exposure, or sensitive skin. From beginner-friendly options to antioxidant-rich formulas, we’ll walk you through what to look for and where to shop trusted products online, whether on Lazada, Shopee, or your favorite skincare site.

Last updated 06/20/2025

Quick List - Top Serums for Whitening

1

Cetaphil

Bright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum
Bright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum

Brighter, Even Skin for Sensitive Complexions

2

COSRX

The Niacinamide 15 Serum
The Niacinamide 15 Serum

Total Acne Care with 15% Niacinamide for Clearer Skin

3

Olay

White Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum
White Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum

Achieve A Radiant Glow with This Niacinamide and Vitamin C Blend

4

The Ordinary

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum

Balance Oil Control with High-Strength Niacinamide and Zinc

5

Paula's Choice

10% Niacinamide Booster
10% Niacinamide Booster

Visible Pore Refinement and Brightening with 10% Niacinamide

Sharrys Balane
Guide
Writer
Sharrys Balane

Sharrys is a writer for lifestyle and trendy articles, helping readers make smart choices. She is all about delivering high-quality content that keeps up with the latest trends. When she’s not researching her next write-up, you’ll find her reading a good book, binge-watching documentaries, or catching up on some much-needed sleep at home.

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Avoid Mixing Serums for Whitening With Strong Actives to Prevent Over-Exfoliation

Avoid Mixing Serums for Whitening With Strong Actives to Prevent Over-Exfoliation

Serums for whitening are packed with active ingredients like vitamin C, arbutin, or niacinamide that help fade dark spots and brighten the skin. However, mixing them with strong exfoliants such as AHAs, BHAs, or retinol in one routine can cause over-exfoliation. This can weaken your skin barrier, leading to irritation, dryness, and increased sensitivity—especially in the Philippines’ hot and humid climate. To prevent this, alternate these products on different days or apply them at separate times, such as using exfoliants at night and whitening serums in the morning.

How to Choose Serums for Whitening – Buying Guide

With so many whitening serums available, it’s important to know which ones suit your skin type and concerns. In this section, we’ll walk you through key factors to consider, like ingredients, formulation, and compatibility with your routine, so you can choose a serum that delivers visible results without irritation.

1

Choose Serum Ingredients That Match Your Skin Concern

When choosing a serum for whitening, focusing on ingredients directly targeting your skin’s specific issues is important. Identifying the right combination for your concern will help you achieve visible results without overwhelming your skin.

Actives Like Niacinamide, Arbutin, or Tranexamic Acid Effectively Lighten Dark Spots

Actives Like Niacinamide, Arbutin, or Tranexamic Acid Effectively Lighten Dark Spots

If you're dealing with dark spots or post-acne marks, ingredients like niacinamide, arbutin, and tranexamic acid are highly effective options. These ingredients reduce melanin production and block pigment transfer to skin cells, helping to fade discoloration over time. Niacinamide is also known to strengthen the skin barrier, making it a good choice for all skin types, even sensitive ones.

Glow-Boosting Ingredients Like Vitamin C, Ferulic Acid, or Green Tea Brighten and Protect

Glow-Boosting Ingredients Like Vitamin C, Ferulic Acid, or Green Tea Brighten and Protect

To boost skin radiance and defend against environmental stress, look for serums with glow-enhancing antioxidants like vitamin C, ferulic acid, and green tea. These ingredients brighten dull skin by neutralizing free radicals that can cause uneven tone and premature aging. Vitamin C, in particular, also promotes collagen production, helping the skin appear firmer and more youthful. These antioxidants work well in daytime routines, especially when paired with sunscreen for maximum protection.

Mild Exfoliators Like Fruit Acids, PHAs, or Azelaic Acid Smooth Out Skin Texture

Mild Exfoliators Like Fruit Acids, PHAs, or Azelaic Acid Smooth Out Skin Texture

For those struggling with rough patches, uneven texture, or clogged pores, gentle exfoliating ingredients like fruit acids (AHAs), polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), and azelaic acid can help. These actives remove dead skin cells on the surface, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath without the harsh effects of stronger acids. PHAs are especially suitable for sensitive skin as they offer hydration while exfoliating. 

Plant-Based Brighteners Like Licorice Root Gently Even Out Your Skin Tone

Plant-Based Brighteners Like Licorice Root Gently Even Out Your Skin Tone

Consider plant-based brighteners such as licorice root extract if you prefer a natural and gentle approach. Known for its anti-inflammatory and melanin-inhibiting properties, licorice root helps calm redness while gradually lightening hyperpigmentation. It’s a safe option for people with sensitive or reactive skin who want to brighten their complexion without irritation. Regular use can result in a more balanced, radiant tone with less risk of sensitivity.

2

Stick to Concentrations That Are Both Safe and Effective for Your Skin

Using the right concentration of active ingredients in a serum for whitening is key to getting results without triggering irritation. Too little may be ineffective, while too much can cause redness, dryness, or even breakouts, especially for sensitive skin.

For Beginners: Start With Lower Strengths to Avoid Redness or Breakouts

For Beginners: Start With Lower Strengths to Avoid Redness or Breakouts

If you're just starting with serums for whitening, it's best to begin with lower concentrations of active ingredients. This allows your skin to build tolerance gradually while minimizing the risk of irritation or purging. For example, choose niacinamide at 2–5% instead of jumping straight to 10%, or go for a gentle 5% vitamin C derivative instead of a potent 20% ascorbic acid. Starting slow gives your skin time to adjust and helps you monitor its response.

Follow the Recommended Ranges for Active Ingredients to Avoid Irritation

Follow the Recommended Ranges for Active Ingredients to Avoid Irritation
Each active ingredient has a recommended range that maximizes its benefits while keeping your skin safe. For instance, vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is often effective at 10–20%, arbutin works well at 1–2%, and tranexamic acid around 2–5%. Staying within these suggested levels reduces the chances of inflammation, dryness, or stinging, especially when layering other products. Always check the label or consult a dermatologist if you're unsure about what your skin can handle.
3

If You Have Reactive Skin, Choose Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free Serums

If You Have Reactive Skin, Choose Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free Serums

For sensitive or reactive skin, it's important to use serums that are gentle and non-irritating for whitening. Look for formulas labeled non-comedogenic to avoid clogging your pores, especially if you're prone to acne or bumps. Fragrance-free options are also safer, as artificial scents often trigger redness, itchiness, or flare-ups. Choosing simpler, hypoallergenic formulas helps reduce the risk of reactions while giving you the whitening benefits your skin needs.

4

Choose the Right Texture and Formula for Your Skin Type and Routine

Choose the Right Texture and Formula for Your Skin Type and Routine

A serum for whitening's texture and absorption rate can affect how well it fits into your skincare routine, especially when layering with other products. Choose a formulation that suits your skin type and lifestyle to get the best results:


  • Water-Based Serums: Lightweight and fast-absorbing, this formula makes them ideal for oily or acne-prone skin types. They don’t leave a greasy feeling and layer well under other products like sunscreen or makeup.

  • Gel or Milky Serums: With a smooth, hydrating texture, gel or milky serums are great for dry or sensitive skin. They help soothe and moisturize the skin while gently delivering active whitening ingredients.

  • Oil-Based Serums: Rich and nourishing, oil-based serums best suit dry or mature skin. They work well as a final step at night to lock in moisture and support overnight skin repair.


Choosing the right texture ensures your serum absorbs well and complements the rest of your routine. Whether you need lightweight hydration or rich nourishment, there’s a formula that fits both your skin type and daily habits.

5

Look for Serums for Whitening in Dark, Sealed Bottles to Keep Them Effective

Look for Serums for Whitening in Dark, Sealed Bottles to Keep Them Effective

Serums for whitening often contain active ingredients like vitamin C or plant extracts that are sensitive to light and air. These ingredients can degrade quickly when exposed, making the serum less effective over time. That’s why it’s best to choose products stored in dark or amber-colored bottles with airtight, sealed packaging. This helps maintain the serum’s stability and potency, allowing you to get the most out of each application.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Serums for Whitening 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
Filter

Products

Image

Click to purchase

Key features

Details

Brightening Ingredients

Ingredient Concentration

Non-Comedogenic

Fragrance-Free

Texture

Packaging Type

1

Cetaphil

Bright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum

Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum 1

Brighter, Even Skin for Sensitive Complexions

Niacinamide、Vitamin C、Sea Daffodil

Mild

Water-Based Serum

Pump Bottle

2

COSRX

The Niacinamide 15 Serum

COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum 1

Total Acne Care with 15% Niacinamide for Clearer Skin

Niacinamide、Acetyl Glucosamine

Strong

Water-Based Serum

Dark Bottle

3

Olay

White Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum

Olay White Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum 1

Achieve A Radiant Glow with This Niacinamide and Vitamin C Blend

Niacinamide、Vitamin C

Mild

Water-Based Serum

Pump Bottle

4

The Ordinary

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum 1

Balance Oil Control with High-Strength Niacinamide and Zinc

Niacinamide、Zinc PCA

Strong

Water-Based Serum

Dropper Bottle

5

Paula's Choice

10% Niacinamide Booster

Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster 1

Visible Pore Refinement and Brightening with 10% Niacinamide

Niacinamide、Licorice Root、Ascorbyl Glucoside

Strong

Water-Based Serum

Dropper Bottle

6

Innisfree

Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum

Innisfree Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum 	  	 1

Vitamin C Formula Backed by 7-Day Clinical Self-Assessment

Niacinamide、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Ferulic Acid、Hallabong Peel Extract

Mild

Water-Based Serum

Pump Bottle

7

Beauty of Joseon

Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide

Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide 1

Soothing Hydration and Brightening for Balanced Skin

Niacinamide、Propolis Extract

Mild

Water-Based Serum

Dropper Bottle

8

Clinique

Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum

Clinique  Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum 1

Advanced Brightening with Multi-Action Dark Spot Correction

Niacinamide、UP302 (proprietary molecule)、Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate、Ascorbyl Glucoside

Strong

Water-Based Serum

Pump Bottle

9

Kiehl's

Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution 1

Gentle Yet Effective Serum for Skin Radiance

3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Salicylic Acid、Peony Extract

Mild

Water-Based Serum

Dropper Bottle

10

SKINTIFIC

10% Niacinamide Brightening Serum

SKINTIFIC  10% Niacinamide Brightening Serum 1

Brightening Boost with Pure Niacinamide and Alpha Arbutin

Niacinamide、Alpha Arbutin、Ceramide、Centella Asiatica

Strong

Water-Based Serum

Dropper Bottle

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

Cetaphil
Bright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum

Bright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱1,995
Mid
Reference price
₱1,995
Mid

Brighter, Even Skin for Sensitive Complexions

Features and benefits:
  • Clinically proven to reduce dark spots for a more even skin tone in as fast as 14 days
  • Formulated with GentleBright Technology, Niacinamide, Vitamin C, and Sea Daffodil to brighten and protect the skin
  • Defends against 5 signs of skin sensitivity—dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness, and weakened barrier
  • Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive and oily skin types

Reviews mention:

Users appreciate the serum’s lightweight, non-greasy texture and find it effective at making their skin look more radiant and even-toned after consistent use. Some mention that while dark spots lighten, results may be more noticeable when used with other products from the same range. A few reviewers note the price is on the higher side, suggesting waiting for sales to get better value.

Brightening IngredientsNiacinamide、Vitamin C、Sea Daffodil
Ingredient ConcentrationMild
Non-Comedogenic
Fragrance-Free
TextureWater-Based Serum
Packaging TypePump Bottle
View all
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

COSRX
The Niacinamide 15 Serum

Reference price
₱672
Low Mid

Total Acne Care with 15% Niacinamide for Clearer Skin

Features and benefits:

  • Highly concentrated 15% niacinamide helps control sebum production and reduce acne breakouts
  • Contains Acetyl Glucosamine to fade hyperpigmentation and smooth skin texture
  • Zinc PCA soothes inflammation and promotes skin recovery
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing serum suitable for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin

Reviews mention:

Users praise the serum for its effective acne control and ability to reduce excess oil without clogging pores. Many find it lightweight and non-sticky, making it easy to layer under other products. Some mention mild initial sensitivity but appreciate the overall improvement in skin texture and tone with regular use.

Brightening IngredientsNiacinamide、Acetyl Glucosamine
Ingredient ConcentrationStrong
Non-Comedogenic
Fragrance-Free
TextureWater-Based Serum
Packaging TypeDark Bottle
View all
No.3

Olay
White Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum

Reference price
₱2,207
Mid

Achieve A Radiant Glow with This Niacinamide and Vitamin C Blend

Features and benefits:

  • Contains 99% pure niacinamide and stable vitamin C to brighten and even skin tone
  • Penetrates 10 layers deep to reduce dark spots and improve skin texture within 28 days
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and non-greasy formula suitable for uneven skin tone
  • Free from parabens, sulphates, phthalates, petrolatum, and mineral oils for gentle use


Reviews mention:

Users highlight the serum’s quick absorption and non-sticky feel, noting visible improvements in skin brightness and smoothness after consistent use. Many appreciate the reduction in dark spots and more even complexion over time. A few mention the scent as noticeable but not overpowering, and some suggest pairing it with moisturizer for best results.

Brightening IngredientsNiacinamide、Vitamin C
Ingredient ConcentrationMild
Non-Comedogenic
Fragrance-Free
TextureWater-Based Serum
Packaging TypePump Bottle
View all
No.4

The Ordinary
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱420
Low Mid

Balance Oil Control with High-Strength Niacinamide and Zinc

Features and benefits:

  • Contains 10% niacinamide to brighten skin, reduce blemishes, and improve texture
  • Includes 1% zinc PCA to regulate sebum production and minimize shine
  • Lightweight, water-based serum absorbs quickly without clogging pores
  • Supports skin barrier function and reduces pore visibility for smoother complexion

Reviews mention:

Users consistently praise its effective oil control and ability to reduce breakouts and pore size. Many find it lightweight and non-irritating, suitable for daily use even on sensitive skin. Some note that it should not be combined with pure vitamin C products for best results, and a few mention slight initial sensitivity which subsides with continued use.

Brightening IngredientsNiacinamide、Zinc PCA
Ingredient ConcentrationStrong
Non-Comedogenic
Fragrance-Free
TextureWater-Based Serum
Packaging TypeDropper Bottle
View all
No.5

Paula's Choice
10% Niacinamide Booster

10% Niacinamide Booster 1
Reference price
₱3,150
High Mid
Reference price
₱3,150
High Mid

Visible Pore Refinement and Brightening with 10% Niacinamide

Features and benefits:
  • Contains 10% niacinamide to reduce enlarged pores and even out skin tone
  • Includes licorice root and allantoin to calm redness and soothe sensitive skin
  • Lightweight, ultra-light liquid formula that can be used alone or mixed with other products
  • Helps improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and promote a brighter, youthful complexion

Reviews mention:

Users value the booster’s versatility as it can be mixed with other skincare products or used alone for targeted benefits. Many report noticeable improvements in pore size and skin smoothness with regular use. Some mention the small bottle size means frequent repurchasing, but overall praise its effective brightening and soothing properties.

Brightening IngredientsNiacinamide、Licorice Root、Ascorbyl Glucoside
Ingredient ConcentrationStrong
Non-Comedogenic
Fragrance-Free
TextureWater-Based Serum
Packaging TypeDropper Bottle
View all
No.6

Innisfree
Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Serum

Reference price
₱2,800
High Mid

Vitamin C Formula Backed by 7-Day Clinical Self-Assessment

Features and Benefits:
  • Formulated with dual vitamin C derivatives for enhanced brightening and antioxidant protection
  • Contains Jeju Green Tea-derived enzyme to gently exfoliate and smooth skin texture
  • Includes niacinamide and hallabong peel extract to reduce dark spots and even out skin tone
  • Lightweight, hydrating serum suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin

Reviews mention:
Users like the serum’s gentle yet effective brightening action and its light, non-sticky texture. Many appreciate the improvement in skin clarity and texture over time without irritation. Some mention the scent is mild and pleasant, while a few suggest it works best when layered with moisturizer.
Brightening IngredientsNiacinamide、3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Ferulic Acid、Hallabong Peel Extract
Ingredient ConcentrationMild
Non-Comedogenic
Fragrance-Free
TextureWater-Based Serum
Packaging TypePump Bottle
View all
No.7

Beauty of Joseon
Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide

Reference price
₱815
Low Mid

Soothing Hydration and Brightening for Balanced Skin

Features and benefits:
  • Contains 60% propolis extract to hydrate, soothe, and calm sensitive or inflamed skin
  • Formulated with 2% niacinamide to regulate sebum, reduce pores, and brighten skin tone
  • Includes botanical extracts like turmeric, tea tree, and centella asiatica for anti-inflammatory benefits
  • Lightweight, honey-like serum with a quick-absorbing, dewy texture that balances oil and moisture

Reviews mention:

Users praise the serum for its hydrating and soothing effects especially on acne-prone and sensitive skin. Many notice reduced redness, smaller pores, and improved skin clarity after regular use. Some mention the texture is slightly sticky initially but absorbs well, and that it works well for balancing oily skin without dryness.

Brightening IngredientsNiacinamide、Propolis Extract
Ingredient ConcentrationMild
Non-Comedogenic
Fragrance-Free
TextureWater-Based Serum
Packaging TypeDropper Bottle
View all
No.8

Clinique
Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum

Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum 1
Reference price
₱5,245
High Mid
Reference price
₱5,245
High Mid

Advanced Brightening with Multi-Action Dark Spot Correction

Features and benefits:
  • Contains UP302, niacinamide, and vitamin C derivatives for powerful brightening and antioxidant protection
  • Includes salicylic acid and glucosamine to gently exfoliate and renew skin
  • Soothes skin with green tea and glycyrrhetinic acid to reduce irritation and discoloration
  • Clinically proven to reduce dark spots, dullness, and improve overall radiance

Reviews mention:

Users appreciate the serum’s effective reduction of stubborn dark spots and note a visible improvement in overall skin brightness after consistent use. Many find the texture lightweight and fast-absorbing, suitable for sensitive skin. Some mention the price is premium but justified by the results and quality of ingredients.

Brightening IngredientsNiacinamide、UP302 (proprietary molecule)、Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate、Ascorbyl Glucoside
Ingredient ConcentrationStrong
Non-Comedogenic
Fragrance-Free
TextureWater-Based Serum
Packaging TypePump Bottle
View all
No.9

Kiehl's
Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

Reference price
₱4,750
High Mid

Gentle Yet Effective Serum for Skin Radiance

Features and benefits:

  • Contains Activated C (stabilized vitamin C) for brightening and reducing uneven skin tone
  • Buffered salicylic acid gently exfoliates to renew skin texture and fade discoloration
  • Peony extract provides antioxidant protection and enhances skin clarity
  • Clinically proven to reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne marks for a radiant complexion

Reviews mention:

Users praise its visible reduction of dark spots and hyperpigmentation with regular use, noting a lighter, more even skin tone. Many find it gentle on sensitive skin and appreciate the lightweight, fast-absorbing texture. Some mention the price is on the higher side but worth it for the results.

Brightening Ingredients3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid、Salicylic Acid、Peony Extract
Ingredient ConcentrationMild
Non-Comedogenic
Fragrance-Free
TextureWater-Based Serum
Packaging TypeDropper Bottle
View all
No.10

SKINTIFIC
10% Niacinamide Brightening Serum

Reference price
₱499
Low Mid

Brightening Boost with Pure Niacinamide and Alpha Arbutin

Features and benefits:
  • Contains 10% Royal DSM Niacinamide for fast-absorbing brightening and skin barrier protection
  • Enhanced with Alpha Arbutin to boost brightening and reduce dark spots deeply
  • Includes ceramides and hyaluronic acid to nourish and maintain skin hydration
  • Formulated with Centella Asiatica to soothe and calm sensitive skin

Reviews mention:

Users praise its quick brightening effects within a week, noting improved skin clarity and reduced dark spots. Many find it gentle and suitable for sensitive skin, with a lightweight, water-based texture that absorbs quickly.

Brightening IngredientsNiacinamide、Alpha Arbutin、Ceramide、Centella Asiatica
Ingredient ConcentrationStrong
Non-Comedogenic
Fragrance-Free
TextureWater-Based Serum
Packaging TypeDropper Bottle
View all

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.

Do Serums for Whitening Expire Even if Unopened?

Yes, serums for whitening can still expire even if they remain unopened. Most formulations have a shelf life ranging from 12 to 24 months, depending on the stability of their active ingredients, such as vitamin C or arbutin. It’s important to check the product’s expiration date or manufacturing label, as exposure to heat, light, or humidity over time can still degrade the formula, even inside sealed packaging.

Can I Use Serums for Whitening While on Acne Medication?

Using serums for whitening while on acne medication is possible, but caution is required. Ingredients like niacinamide and vitamin C are generally safe. They can help reduce post-acne marks, but they should not be layered with strong actives like benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or exfoliating acids, as this may irritate. To avoid adverse reactions, consult your dermatologist to create a routine that safely combines serums for whitening with your prescribed treatments.

Do Serums for Whitening Thin the Skin Over Time?

No, most serums for whitening do not thin the skin when used properly. Non-exfoliating actives such as niacinamide, vitamin C, and licorice extract support skin barrier function and improve tone without causing thinning. However, frequent use of exfoliants like glycolic acid, lactic acid, or high-strength AHAs can disrupt the skin barrier if overused, so following usage guidelines and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is essential.

Will My Skin Darken Again If I Stop Using the Serum?

Yes, skin can darken again after stopping a serum for whitening, especially with continued sun exposure and no sun protection. Whitening ingredients work by slowing melanin production and reducing the appearance of existing pigmentation, but this effect is not permanent without consistent care. To maintain results, it’s crucial to continue using sunscreen with at least SPF 50, especially in the Philippine climate, where UV exposure is high year-round.

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

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.

Top 5 Serums for Whitening

No. 1: CetaphilBright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum

No. 2: COSRXThe Niacinamide 15 Serum

No. 3: OlayWhite Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum

No. 4: The OrdinaryNiacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum

No. 5: Paula's Choice10% Niacinamide Booster

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

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