When should I use an illuminating serum?

Always check the label of your products to see what the manufacturer recommends. But depending on the type of illuminating serum you’re using, you can typically use it up to two times per day: in the morning and at night. That said, products that contain actives such as alpha hydroxy acids should typically be used only once per day or less often, as they can potentially over-dry and irritate the skin. If your radiance-boosting serum doesn’t contain any exfoliating or drying ingredients, it’s probably safe to apply twice per day.

Can I use an illuminating serum under makeup?

Usually, you can. Many radiance-boosting serums work well under makeup. You can use an illuminating serum as a primer , as some may help makeup apply more evenly and look smoother. And it goes without saying, but always apply your makeup after you have completed your entire skincare routine . But you might want to skip using an illuminating serum under makeup if your product contains potentially irritating ingredients that can cause initial redness.

Who should use an illuminating serum?

Radiance-boosting serums that don’t contain any exfoliants should be safe for most, if not all, skin types. With illuminating serums that do contain chemical exfoliants, you’ll first want to make sure that those ingredients are a fit for your skin type. All skin types can generally benefit from a radiance-boosting serum, as they’re designed to make skin appear smoother and more glowing. There are many serums that also address signs of aging .

The 9 Best Brightening Serums, Tested & Reviewed

Collage of the best brightening serums we recommend on a peach background — Byrdie / Kristin Kempa

We all know (and love) what strategically placed highlighter or a touch of bronzer can do. That lit-from-within glow that products can instantly provide has been the focus of many articles and makeup lines—and for good reason. It can transform you into an effervescent goddess, distract you from imperfections, and, perhaps most importantly, make it look like you really did get a full night of beauty sleep. But what if instead of creating that glow with makeup, you could wake up with naturally radiant skin?

Enter illuminating, radiance-boosting serums; your key to getting the perfectly toned, even skin that we all dream about. These formulas (which often contain potent antioxidants like vitamin C) can help diminish dark spots, refine skin texture, and create an overall luminous complexion. By adding this one step to your routine (after cleansing but before moisturizing), you'll never have to rely solely on makeup to hide imperfections and deliver the glow you want.

With claims like these, it's no wonder that almost every brand has a stake in the radiance-boosting realm. To help you choose which illuminating serum will be your new holy grail, we researched the best ones on the market, assessing their ingredients and claims. After consulting with Dr Ife J. Rodney, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Eternal Dermatology in Fulton, Maryland, and considering dozens of options, we landed on these top-rated choices.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum at Sephora ($68)

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA at Sephora ($12)

Jump to Review

Best Splurge:

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic at Dermstore ($182)

Jump to Review

Best for Even Skin Tone:

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum at Amazon ($82)

Jump to Review

Best for Hyperpigmentation:

Goodal Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum+ at Target ($27)

Jump to Review

Best Anti-Aging:

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Vitamin C Face Serum at Target ($26)

Jump to Review

Best Vegan:

Yes To Grapefruit Brightening Serum at Amazon ($15)

Jump to Review

Best Hydrating:

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil at Sephora ($40)

Jump to Review

Best for All Skin Types:

Klur Brilliant Light Repair Serum at Klur.co (See Price)

Jump to Review

Best Overall

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum

OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Serum

PHOTO:

Sephora

$68 at Sephora $68 at Ulta View on Olehenriksen.com

What We Like

Contains a high percentage of vitamin C
Also contains exfoliating PHAs
Pump bottle dispenses the perfect amount

What We Don't Like

May irritate sensitive skin

Read Full Review: Ole Henriksen’s Banana Bright Serum Gave Me a Younger-Looking Complexion in a Week

It may be the eye cream from this Banana Bright line that gets all the attention, but don’t sleep on this serum. Along with a potent amount of illuminating vitamin C, it contains exfoliating PHAs (polyhydroxy acid) and hydrating and plumping hyaluronic acid, too. We were big fans of the pump top bottle that dispensed the perfect amount and how well it hydrated our skin while also imparting plenty of glow. It also isn’t sticky or tacky and layers really nicely under other skincare products.

Who It’s For

Almost anyone can benefit from this multi-tasking formula, which actually addresses a variety of complexion concerns. Just take note that it may cause a bit of irritation if you have sensitive skin.

Benefits: Firm, plumps, reduces the appearance of dark spots | Skin Type: Oily, dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once a day | Size: 1 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie / Alex Jiang
Byrdie / Alex Jiang
Byrdie / Ivy Ford
Byrdie / Alex Jiang

Best Budget

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

PHOTO:

Sephora

$12 at Sephora $12 at Ulta $12 at Target

What We Like

Easy to apply
Lightweight application
Affordable
Great for sun damage

What We Don't Like

Has a sticky feel

Coming in as our best-budget buy, this serum packs a huge punch without breaking the bank. It's formulated with a 2% concentration of alpha arbutin, a powerful skin illuminator known for being gentler than its counterparts. “This is a naturally occurring skin-tone evener that blocks the enzymes responsible for melanin production,” explains Rodney. The ingredient is supported by hyaluronic acid and slowly releases for an enhanced delivery, which sets it apart from other illuminating serums. We found it to be a game-changer, especially when used as part of a cohesive skincare routine.

Who It’s For

This is a great choice for anyone on a budget, as well as if you have dry skin, as it's not as harsh as its counterparts, thanks to the use of alpha arbutin.

Benefits: Reduces the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Twice a day | Size: 1 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie / Bianca Lambert
Byrdie / Bianca Lambert

Read Full Review: I Tested The Ordinary's Alpha Arbutin Serum and My Skin Glowed

Best Splurge

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

PHOTO:

Bluemercury

$182 at Dermstore $272 at skinstore.com $182 at skinceuticals.com

What We Like

Good for sensitive skin
Remains effective for 72 hours
Adds a glow

What We Don't Like

Has a bit of an unpleasant smell

No list of our favorite serums would be complete without this offering from SkinCeuticals. We have sung its praises time and again. As its moniker suggests, it's a magical blend of vitamins C and E, plus ferulic acid that helps to transform and even skin tone both instantly and over time, leaving behind an impeccable glow. Dr. Rodney is a fan of this formula, too, lauding the brand’s unique formula that maximizes the stability and efficacy of vitamin C and yields “impressive results.” We agree, seeing a noticeable change in our skin after using this for six weeks—it was not only more illuminated and glowier, but our fine lines and wrinkles appeared less noticeable, too.

Who It’s For

If you’re looking for a splurge-worthy pick that’s guaranteed to deliver results and is dermatologist-approved, this is it.

Benefits: Protects against free radicals and aging | Skin Type: Dry, normal, sensitive | Dosage: Once a day | Size: 1 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No

Byrdie / Jenna Igneri
Byrdie / Jenna Igneri
Byrdie / Jenna Igneri
Byrdie / Jenna Igneri

Best for Even Skin Tone

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Dark Spot Serum

PHOTO:

Amazon

$82 at Amazon

What We Like

Long-lasting usage
Adds a glow
Evens out hyperpigmentation

What We Don't Like

Might not work fast enough for some

The secret to this beloved serum is its active ingredient, viniferine, which comes from grapevine sap and, according to the brand, is 62 times more effective than vitamin C when boosting radiance. This recipe also hydrates without feeling greasy, thanks to the ingredient olive squalane. Lightweight and great for evening skin tone, you can rest assured that it's not lacking at all in efficacy.

Who It’s For

For those who want to both target spots and enhance their overall glow, this is an excellent choice.

Benefits: Tackles uneven texture, dark spots, and dullness | Skin Type: Normal, combination | Dosage: Twice a day | Size: 1 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No

Byrdie / Gabrielle Dyer
Byrdie / Gabrielle Dyer

Read Full Review: Caudalie's Vinoperfect Radiance Serum Makes Sensitive Skin Glow

Best for Hyperpigmentation

Goodal Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum+

Goodal Green Tangerine Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum+

PHOTO:

Amazon

$27 at Target $31 at yesstyle.com

What We Like

Contains skin-soothing ingredients
Relies on vitamin C as well as other illuminating actives

What We Don't Like

Often out of stock

There’s vitamin C in this pick—derived from green tangerines, per the name—but there’s also a high concentration of niacinamide (four percent, to be exact). It’s also nice and hydrating and contains soothing centella asiatica, always a boon if you have sensitive skin. We noticed that our skin looked healthier, luminous, and generally more even after a few weeks—and saw an improvement in texture after just a few days.

Who It’s For

This is a nice pick for anyone with serious spots since it relies on several different skin-tone-evening ingredients.

Benefits: Hydrates, brightens soothes | Skin Type: Oily, dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once or twice a day | Size: 1 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie / Lauren Coughlin

Best Anti-Aging

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Vitamin C Face Serum

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Face Serum

PHOTO:

Target

$26 at Target $36 at Walgreens View on Lorealparisusa.com

What We Like

Unique, tube-like packaging makes it easy to dispense
Fragrance-free

What We Don't Like

Not cruelty-free

There’s an impressive 10 percent concentration of pure vitamin C in this formula, making it super effective both for illuminating skin as well as delivering overall anti-aging benefits; it helps to smooth out the look of fine lines and wrinkles, too. We really like that it came in a metal tube, making it easy to dispense just the right amount. But that tube has an added benefit; it also keeps that potent vitamin C from being exposed to light or air so that it doesn’t break down. While we didn’t necessarily see instant results, it did definitely leave our skin more luminous and firmer in the long run—so much so that we could even start wearing less makeup.

Who It’s For

This is a great choice for those on a budget, as well as those who have more mature skin and want a serum that delivers generally good anti-aging benefits.

Benefits: Evens skin tones, reduces wrinkles, boosts radiance | Skin Type: Oily, dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once a day | Size: 1 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No

Byrdie / Samantha Jones
Byrdie / Samantha Jones

Best Vegan

Yes To Grapefruit Brightening Serum

Yes To Grapefruit Daily Brightening Serum

PHOTO:

Amazon

$15 at Amazon $15 at QVC

What We Like

Has a pleasant, lightly citrusy scent
Leaves skin instantly glowy
Works quickly

What We Don't Like

Contains fragrance

We couldn’t get over both the price point and how well this serum worked. It left our complexion glowy and hydrated right away, improved texture after a day, evened out our skin tone, and boosted overall radiance after a few weeks. What more could you ask for? Credit the vitamin C and exfoliating PHAs in the formula. While we did like the light grapefruit scent, it does bear mentioning that this does contain fragrance.

Who It’s For

For those in the market for an affordable, vegan formula that delivers, this can’t be beat.

Benefits: Firm, plumps, reduces the appearance of dark spots | Skin Type: Oily, dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once a day | Size: .95 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie / Allison Vancura
Byrdie / Allison Vancura
Byrdie / Allison Vancura
Byrdie / Allison Vancura
Byrdie / Allison Vancura

Best Hydrating

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Firming Oil

PHOTO:

Sephora

$40 at Sephora View on Biossance.com $40 at kohls.com

What We Like

Oil formula is very moisturizing if you have dry skin
Packaging is recyclable

What We Don't Like

Oil texture may not be the top choice for certain skin types
Clear glass packaging means it’s important to keep this away from light to keep the vitamin C stabilized

If you have dry skin, try this oil. It’s fast-absorbing but still leaves our skin super glowy. So much so that we even skipped foundation on the days we used it, and we always got tons of compliments about how radiant our complexion was after using it. Vitamin C is responsible for that, while lightweight squalane does the hydrating duties.

Who It’s For

Those who have dryer skin and/or love skincare oils should try this winner.

Benefits: Brightens, firms, and hydrates | Skin Type: Dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once a day | Size: 1.01 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

A hand holding the Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Firming Oil dropper and the other hand holding the bottle — Byrdie / Madison Yauger

Best for All Skin Types

Klur Brilliant Light Repair Serum

PHOTO:

Klur

View on Klur.co $88 at Credo Beauty

What We Like

Contains several different types of antioxidants
A little bit goes a long way
Made without parabens, fragrance, phthalates, or dyes
Sustainably manufactured in the United States of America

What We Don't Like

Bottle could be bigger, given the price point

No matter your skin type or tone, this is ideal for helping to target hyperpigmentation and illuminate the skin. Vitamin C works synergistically with other antioxidants (Vitamin E, rosehip seed oil) for both corrective benefits and protective ones, too. We were big fans of how beautifully it absorbed into the skin, as well as how soft, smooth, and hydrated our complexion looked and felt after using it regularly.

Who It’s For

Great for all skin types, skin tones, and ages, this pick isn't harsh, and it makes a noticeable improvement in the texture and tone of the skin.

Benefits: Brightens, protects, corrects skin damage | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Once every other day | Size: 1 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie / Nellah Mcgough
Byrdie / Liz DeSousa
Byrdie / Liz DeSousa
Byrdie / Liz DeSousa
Byrdie / Liz DeSousa

Where We Stand

Overall, our favorite radiance-boosting, illuminating serum is the derm-beloved SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic thanks to its use of vitamin C. Alpha-arbutin is another great ingredient, and you can find it in The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% HA, a super affordable and effective pick.

How We Tested & Reviewed

To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best products on the market in this category, evaluating their key features in addition to reviews from customers and other trusted sources. We tested several options for days at a time and then collaborated with a board-certified dermatologist to ensure we made the best picks for all skin types and needs.

Attributes we evaluated each conditioner for curly hair on:

Ingredients that illuminate, even skin tone, exfoliate, and hydrate
Absorption and overall feel
Product value and price
Customer reviews
Brand promises
Overall results

What to Look For In a Radiance-Boosting Serum

Vitamin C: Rodney says this is one of the best illuminating ingredients out there. It’s both a powerful protective antioxidant but also works to inhibit the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme needed for melanin (aka, pigment production). Find it in many of our winning products, like the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Vitamin C Serum and Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil.
Alpha hydroxy acids: These help to slough off dead, discolored cells, revealing healthy, more even-toned skin underneath, Rodney explains. You can also look for their slightly gentler counterpart, PHAs, which are found in the OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Serum.
Kojic acid: Rodney also likes this natural ingredient, which helps reduce dark spots by slowing down melanin production in target areas.

FAQ

When should I use an illuminating serum?

Always check the label of your products to see what the manufacturer recommends. But depending on the type of illuminating serum you’re using, you can typically use it up to two times per day: in the morning and at night. That said, products that contain actives such as alpha hydroxy acids should typically be used only once per day or less often, as they can potentially over-dry and irritate the skin. If your radiance-boosting serum doesn’t contain any exfoliating or drying ingredients, it’s probably safe to apply twice per day.
Can I use an illuminating serum under makeup?

Usually, you can. Many radiance-boosting serums work well under makeup. You can use an illuminating serum as a primer, as some may help makeup apply more evenly and look smoother. And it goes without saying, but always apply your makeup after you have completed your entire skincare routine. But you might want to skip using an illuminating serum under makeup if your product contains potentially irritating ingredients that can cause initial redness.
Who should use an illuminating serum?

Radiance-boosting serums that don’t contain any exfoliants should be safe for most, if not all, skin types. With illuminating serums that do contain chemical exfoliants, you’ll first want to make sure that those ingredients are a fit for your skin type. All skin types can generally benefit from a radiance-boosting serum, as they’re designed to make skin appear smoother and more glowing. There are many serums that also address signs of aging.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has nearly fifteen years of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. She’s written for Byrdie since 2020, covering hair, makeup, skin, health, wellness, fashion, and more, and has been using an illuminating serum since she was in her early 20s.

Team Byrdie worked with an expert to best understand how to identify the top radiance-boosing serums:

Dr Ife J. Rodney, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Eternal Dermatology in Fulton, Maryland.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any radiance-boosting serums from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

Article Sources

Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.