THE REALIST
R o a d Te s t
Serums IT’S THE MOST POTENT STEP IN A SKIN-CARE RO U T I N E ( A P P LY A F T E R C L E A N S I N G , BEFORE MOISTURIZING). THE SE SIX SERUMS L E F T O U R S K I N N O T I C E A B LY B E T T E R . By Lisa D eSantis
BEST BRIGHTENER
SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense If brown spots bug you, try this triple-acid and enzyme cocktail, which helps break up melanin clusters so skin looks even. It works on acne scars too. TO BUY: $98; skinceuticals.com. BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Monastery Gold Healing Serum
B E S T A N T I OX I DA N T
Hand-blended in San Francisco, this mix of raspberry seed, evening primrose, and avocado oils soothes redness. TO BUY: $136; monasterymade.com.
realsimple ROAD TE ST
B E S T A N T I -A G E R
Derms agree that the best way to prevent brown spots and broken blood vessels is to layer an antioxidant under your SPF in the a.m. With 15 percent stabilized vitamin C, this one is a smart choice. TO BUY: $28.50; vichyusa.com.
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
Caudalie Premier Cru The Serum Yes, it costs an arm and a leg, but this linesoftening, skin-brightening gel-to-water formula was five years in the making and was developed with Harvard scientists. The powerful combo of betaine (an anti-inflammatory plant extract) and the company’s Vine Resveratrol (a firming ingredient from grapevine stalks) helps increase collagen production, resulting in a refreshed complexion. TO BUY: $150; caudalie.com.
Want to know more about serums? Check out dermatologists’ tips at realsimple.com/serum.
48 REAL SIMPLE APRIL 2018
BEST ACNE FIGHTER
B E S T H Y D R AT O R
Skin Inc Hyaluronic Acid Serum Dry, dehydrated skin will drink this hyaluronic acid gel right up, plumping your complexion. Wear alone or add a drop to moisturizer when your skin is extra thirsty. TO BUY: $35; sephora.com.
Don’t let the bargain price tag fool you. This serum exfoliates pores to help heal existing zits and stave off future ones. Spot-treat or apply all over for clearer skin. TO BUY: $5; sephora.com.
S M E A R : B R I A N H E N N ; P R O D U CT I M AG E S C O U RT E SY O F M A N U FACT U R E R S
Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum
