The 8 Best Brightening Serums, Tested and Reviewed

collage of three popular brightening serums: Green Tangerine, SkinCeuticals, and Ole Henriksen — Byrdie / Kristin Kempa

TL;DR

Our favorite radiance-boosting, illuminating serum is the derm-beloved Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum 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 yet quite effective pick.

We all know (and love) what strategically placed highlighter or a touch of bronzer can do. That lit-from-within glow 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 got a full night of sleep. But what if instead of creating that glow with makeup, you could wake up with naturally radiant skin? Radiance-boosting serums are key to getting the perfectly luminous, even-looking skin we all dream about. These formulas (which often contain potent antioxidants like vitamin C) can help diminish dark spots, refine skin texture, and create a brighter complexion. By adding this one step to your routine, you won't have to rely on makeup for flawless-looking skin.

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

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum at Sephora $68

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Best Budget:

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

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Best Vitamin C Serum:

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic at Amazon $155

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Best for Hyperpigmentation:

Goodal Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum+ at Amazon $21

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Best Anti-Aging:

SALE

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Vitamin C Face Serum at Amazon ~~$36~~ $25

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Best Quick Fix:

Yes To Grapefruit Brightening Serum at QVC $15

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Most Hydrating:

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil at Amazon $74

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Best With Antioxidants :

Klur Brilliant Light Repair Serum at Klur.co

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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 to Consider

May irritate 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

It may be the eye cream from this Banana Bright line that gets all the attention, but don’t sleep on this serum. Almost anyone can benefit from this multitasking formula that addresses a variety of complexion concerns. Along with a potent amount of illuminating vitamin C, it contains gently exfoliating PHAs (polyhydroxy acid) and hydrating and plumping hyaluronic acid.

We were big fans of the pump top bottle that dispensed the perfect amount and how well it hydrated our skin while imparting plenty of glow. It isn’t sticky or tacky and layers really nicely under other skincare products. Just take note that it may cause a bit of irritation if you have sensitive skin.

Byrdie / Alex Jiang
Byrdie / Alex Jiang

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

Best Budget

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

PHOTO: Sephora

$12 at Sephora $19 at Walmart $18 at Walmart

What We Like

Super affordable
Lightweight
Easy to apply
Great for sun damage

What to Consider

Has a sticky feel

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

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 Dr. 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.

Byrdie / Bianca Lambert
Byrdie / Bianca Lambert

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

Best Vitamin C Serum

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

PHOTO: Bluemercury

$155 at Amazon $182 at Dermstore $182 at Skinceuticals.com

What We Like

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

What to Consider

Has a bit of an unpleasant smell

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

There's a reason this pick from SkinCeuticals tops our Best Vitamin C Serums list. We have sung its praises time and again. As its moniker suggests, it's a magical blend of vitamins E and C, plus ferulic acid that helps transform and even skin tone 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 saw a noticeable change in our skin after using this for six weeks—it was not only more illuminated and more glowy, but our fine lines and wrinkles appeared less noticeable, too.

Byrdie / Jenna Igneri
Byrdie / Jenna Igneri

Best for Hyperpigmentation

Goodal Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum+

Goodal Green Tangerine Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum+

PHOTO: Amazon

$21 at Amazon $25 at Target $31 at Yesstyle.com

What We Like

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

What to Consider

Often out of stock

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

We love this pick for anyone dealing with serious dark spots since it relies on several skin tone-evening ingredients. There’s vitamin C—derived from green tangerines, per the name—but there’s also a high concentration of niacinamide (4%, 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.

Dollop of Goodal Green Tangerine Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum+ on a palm — 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

$25 at Amazon $26 at Target $30 at Walgreens

What We Like

Smooths fine lines and wrinkles
Fragrance-free
Unique, tube-like packaging makes it easy to dispense

What to Consider

Not cruelty-free

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

There’s an impressive 10% concentration of pure vitamin C in this formula, making it super effective for illuminating skin as well as delivering overall anti-aging benefits. (and yes that includes smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles). We really like that it came in a metal tube with a precise applicator, making it easy to dispense just the right amount. But that tube has another benefit; it protects that potent vitamin C from light and air so it doesn’t break down.

While we didn’t necessarily see instant results, it did leave the skin more luminous and firmer in the long run—so much so that we could even start wearing less makeup.

Byrdie / Samantha Jones
Byrdie / Samantha Jones

Best Quick Fix

Yes To Grapefruit Brightening Serum

Yes To Grapefruit Daily Brightening Serum

PHOTO: Amazon

$15 at QVC

What We Like

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

What to Consider

Contains a strong citrus fragrance

Benefits: Firm, plumps, reduces the appearance of dark spots | Skin Type: Oily, dry, combination, normal | Dosage: Once a day | Size: 0.95 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

We couldn’t get over how well this serum worked, especially considering the low price point. It left complexions glowy and hydrated right after the first use and improved texture after a day of wear. After a few weeks, we saw more even-looking skin and increased overall radiance. What more could you ask for? Credit the vitamin C and exfoliating PHAs in the formula. While we like the light grapefruit scent, it may not be everyone's cup of tea.

Byrdie / Allison Vancura
InStyle / Allison Vancura

Most Hydrating

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Firming Oil

PHOTO: Sephora

$74 at Amazon $40 at Sephora $35 at Walmart

What We Like

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

What to Consider

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

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

If you have dry skin (or just love a good skin oil) try this one. It’s fast-absorbing but still leaves skin super glowy. 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 (which is low-key more hydrating than hyaluronic acid) does the hydrating duties. However, since this is an oil, it's not ideal for oily or acne-prone skin types. And while the clear glass bottle is pretty, you'll need to keep it away from windows or the vitamin C may oxidize.

Best With Antioxidants

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
Sustainably manufactured in the United States of America

What to Consider

Bottle could be bigger, given the price point

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

No matter your skin type or tone, this pick from Klur is ideal for helping target hyperpigmentation and illuminate the skin. Vitamin C works synergistically with other antioxidants in the formula (vitamin E, rosehip seed oil) which provide corrective and protective benefits (aka if you work in a city, these ingredients will help shield your skin from environmental stressors such as pollution).

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. We just wish we got more product for the price

People / Nellah McGough
Byrdie / Nellah Mcgough
Byrdie / Nellah McGough

What to Look for in a Brightening Serum

Vitamin C: Dr. Rodney says this is one of the best illuminating ingredients out there. It’s a powerful protective antioxidant that also inhibits the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme needed for melanin (aka, pigment production).
Alpha and beta hydroxy acids: AHAs and BHAs are chemical exfoliants that help slough off dead, discolored skin cells, revealing healthy, more even-toned skin underneath, Dr. Rodney explains. You can also look for their slightly gentler counterpart, PHAs.
Kojic acid: Dr. Rodney also likes this natural ingredient, which helps reduce dark spots by slowing down melanin production in targeted 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 (and yes, this should include SPF especially if your serum includes vitamin C). 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. Many of these serums also address signs of aging.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has nearly 15 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, M.D., 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.

Updated by Ally Hirschlag

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.

Sarkar R, Arora P, Garg KV. Cosmeceuticals for Hyperpigmentation: What is Available? J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2013;6(1):4-11. doi:10.4103/0974-2077.110089
Zduńska K, Dana A, Kolodziejczak A, Rotsztejn H. Antioxidant Properties of Ferulic Acid and Its Possible Application. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2018;31(6):332-336. doi:10.1159/000491755
Ratz-Łyko, A et al. “Moisturizing and Antiinflammatory Properties of Cosmetic Formulations Containing Centella asiatica Extract.” Indian journal of pharmaceutical sciences vol. 78,1 (2016): 27-33. doi:10.4103/0250-474x.180247

In This Article

Best Overall

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum