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Best skin brightening serums in 2025: Boost your radiance with these 10 top choices

Nov 14, 2024 04:58 PM IST

Best skin brightening serums can give you a radiant glow. Check out the top picks that you may try in 2025!

Our Pick

FAQs

Our Picks

Product Rating Price

LOreal Paris Brightening Serum, 1% Glycolic Acid, 2% Niacinamide Serum, Visibly Minimizes Spots, Reveals Even Skin Tone, Glycolic Bright Skin, 15ml View Details checkDetails

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Minimalist Dull Skin, Dark Spots & Uneven Tone Treatment 10% Vitamin C Face Serum | Formulated & Tested for Sensitive Skin with Ethyl Ascorbic Acid & Pha | All Skin Types|For Men & Women | 30Ml View Details checkDetails

₹664

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Neutrogena Bright Boost Illuminating Serum | 3X Brightening Power | Amino Sugar & Turmeric Extract | Non-Comedogenic | For Men & Women30ml View Details checkDetails

₹1,070

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Garnier Skin Naturals, Bright Complete 30X Vitamin C Booster Face Serum, Increases Skins Glow Instantly and Reduces Spots Overtime, with 2% Niacinamide + 0.5% Salicylic Acid, for Men & Women, 30 ml View Details checkDetails

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Plum 15% Vitamin C Face Serum for Glowing Skin | Pigmentation & Dark Spot Removal | With Mandarin | Non-Irritating | Hydrating & Soothing | Beginner Friendly | for All Skin Types | Men & Women | 30ml View Details checkDetails

₹632

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AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum 50ml / 1.69 fl. oz | Brightening Serum | Korean Skincare, Dark Spot Treatment, Hyperpigmentation Treatment (Pack of 1) View Details checkDetails

₹1,199

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The Man Company 40% Vitamin C Face Serum With Hyaluronic Acid | Boosts Collagen | Glowing & Brightening Skin | Soft, Smooth & Supple | All Skin Types - 30ml View Details checkDetails

₹329

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CETAPHIL Bright Healthy Radiance Brightening |Glow Serum | 30ml | GentleBright Technology™ with Antioxidant C and Advanced Peptide | Removes Dark Spots & Dullness View Details checkDetails

₹1,839

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PILGRIM Korean 2% Alpha Arbutin & 3% Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum for glowing skin| Alpha arbutin face serum|All skin types | Men & Women| Korean Skin Care| Vegan & Cruelty-free | 30ml View Details checkDetails

₹569

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Regaliz Brilante Intense Brightening Serum | Advanced Dark Spot & Hyperpigmentation Treatment | Evens Skin Tone, Reduces Acne Scars, and Enhances Radiance | 50ml View Details checkDetails

₹705

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Ditch the highlighter and unlock a radiant, lit-from-within glow with the best skin-brightening serums! These lightweight skincare products are packed with powerhouse ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide that target uneven tone, pigmentation, and dullness. Unlike creams, skin-brightening serums for men and women penetrate deeper, working magic from the inside out. Say goodbye to dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and redness, and hello to glowing, plump skin that's hydrated and supple. With options for every skin type, discover the best skin brightening serums in India that you may try in 2025.

Add the best skin brightening serum in your skincare routine.(Adobe Stock)
Add the best skin brightening serum in your skincare routine.(Adobe Stock)

10 best skin brightening serums

Here is a list of the best serums for glowing skin that you may try:

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Anyone who is dealing with uneven skin tone will love the L'Oreal Paris Brightening Serum. Packed with the goodness of niacinamide, salicylic acid and glycolic acid, this skin-brightening serum promises to reduce 5 years of dark spots, and hyperpigmentation and reveal even skin tone by stimulating cell renewal. It may provide dermatological peeling treatment and claims to be highly effective yet gentle for daily use. The brand states that this serum is ideal for sensitive skin and is dermatologically tested.

Specifications of L'Oreal Paris Brightening Serum:

Skin type: All, including sensitive skin

Item form: Drop

Benefits: Reveals even skin tone

Reason to buy: This serum effectively reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation, revealing brighter skin. It's formulated with glycolic acid to stimulate cell renewal and is suitable for daily use.

Reason to avoid: Individual experiences with skincare vary. Some may find it not value for money or dislike the scent.

Why choose: Experience a visible reduction in dark spots in just four weeks with this dermatologically tested serum.

Customers reaction: Customers generally appreciate the serum's effectiveness in reducing pigmentation and brightening the skin. Many like the texture and how quickly it absorbs.

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Formulated and tested for sensitive skin, the Minimalist 10% Vitamin C Face Serum for Glowing Skin ensures an even glow. Enriched with the goodness of stable vitamin C derivative, 10% ethyl ascorbic acid and Centella water, this serum may help reduce melanin production, prevent dullness, and tanning and protect your skin from environmental stressors like pollution and sun damage. With its hydrating formula, this product may soothe and calm the skin. The brand claims that this product is free from fragrance, silicones, sulfates, parabens, essential oils, and dyes and is suitable for all skin types.

Specifications of Minimalist 10% Vitamin C Face Serum for Glowing Skin:

Skin type: All

Item form: Drop

Benefits: Brightening

Reason to buy: This potent Vitamin C serum with 10% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid effectively tackles dullness, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. It's formulated for sensitive skin and provides a subtle glow.

Reason to avoid: Individual skin reactions vary. Some may find it not suitable for their skin type or not value for money.

Why choose: Experience the brightening benefits of a stable and effective Vitamin C serum without the worry of oxidation or loss of efficacy.

Customers reaction: Customers find this serum effective in improving skin tone and reducing pigmentation. They appreciate its lightweight texture, pleasant scent, and high Vitamin C content.

Also Read: Best serums for oily skin: 10 top picks to control the shine

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No matter what your skin type is, Neutrogena Bright Boost Illuminating Serum works well for everyone. Formulated with neoglucosamine and turmeric extract, this serum may help to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It claims to provide visibly brighter skin in just one week. This serum is made with 3D care that works on exfoliation, skin tone and hydration to deliver smooth, even and translucent-looking skin.

Specifications of Neutrogena Bright Boost Illuminating Serum:

Skin type: All

Item form: Drop

Benefits: Brightening and illuminating

Reason to buy: This serum illuminates skin with its accelerated brightening complex featuring Amino Sugar and Turmeric Extract. It helps prevent hyperpigmentation and leaves skin feeling smooth.

Why avoid: While generally well-received, individual skin reactions may vary.

Why choose: Experience instant brightness and a smoother complexion with this Neutrogena serum.

Customers reaction: Customers are satisfied with this serum's ability to brighten skin and improve its overall appearance. They appreciate its lightweight texture, quick absorption, and pleasant fragrance.

ALSO READ: How to choose a face serum that suits your skin type: A guide you shouldn’t miss

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If you are looking for the best vitamin C serum for your face, try this one from Garnier Skin Naturals. This skin-brightening serum is suitable for all skin types. Enriched with the goodness of vitamin C, niacinamide and salicylic acid, this serum promises to provide brighter skin in 3 days. It may instantly combat a dull skin tone, reduce dark spots and promote brighter skin.

Specifications of Garnier Skin Naturals, Bright Complete 30X Vitamin C Booster Face Serum:

Skin type: All

Item form: Drop

Benefits: Brightening

Reason to buy: This serum instantly boosts skin glow and reduces dark spots over time. Enriched with lemon extracts and Vitamin C, it's suitable for all skin types.

Reason to avoid: Individual experiences may vary. Some may find it not value for money or may experience concerns with acne or sensitivity.

Why choose: Combat dullness and dark spots with this Vitamin C-powered serum for an instant glow.

Customers reaction: Customers generally find this serum effective in brightening skin and reducing dark spots. They appreciate its pleasant scent and Vitamin C content. However, some have mixed experiences regarding its suitability for their skin.

Also Read: Best sunscreen for oily skin: 10 options to prevent tanning and premature ageing

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With an impressive 15 per cent concentration of vitamin C, the Plum Face Serum for Glowing Skin may boost radiance. It also contains Japanese Mandarin and Kakadu Plum which may help to stimulate collagen production in the skin and fight against sun damage. This skin-illuminating serum may also hydrate and soothe your skin with betaine, rose extracts, propanediol and ethoxydiglycol. The brand also claims that this product is free from artificial colours, fragrances, paraben, phthalate and essential oils.

Specifications of Plump 15% Vitamin C Face Serum for Glowing Skin:

Skin type: All

Item form: Drop

Benefits: Glowing skin, collagen production, dark spot reduction

Reason to buy: This potent Vitamin C serum targets dark spots, wrinkles, and uneven tone while hydrating and soothing skin. It's formulated with Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Mandarin, and Kakadu Plum for maximum brightening benefits.

Why to avoid: Individual experiences may vary. Some may find it not suitable for their skin or not value for money.

Why choose: Achieve a brighter, more youthful complexion with this effective and beginner-friendly Vitamin C serum.

Customers reaction: Customers generally find this serum effective in brightening skin, reducing pigmentation, and improving overall skin tone. They appreciate its lightweight texture, quick absorption, and hydrating properties.

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Get rid of dark spots with the AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum. This Korean skin serum is specially formulated to effectively brighten the skin and help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. The brand claims that this skincare product is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Specifications of AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum:

Skin type: All

Item form: Serum

Benefits: Pump

Reason to buy: This lightweight serum effectively brightens skin and reduces the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Reason to avoid: Individual experiences may vary. Some may find it not value for money.

Why choose: Enhance your skin's natural glow with this fast-absorbing, non-greasy serum.

Customers reaction: Customers generally find this serum effective in reducing dark spots and improving skin tone. They appreciate its lightweight texture, soothing properties, and pleasant scent. However, some may find it not value for money.

ALSO READ: Best protein powders for muscle gain: 10 top choices to build lean muscles and boost performance

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The Man Company 40% Vitamin C face Serum promises to offer a brightening effect. Formulated with the goodness of vitamin C, this serum may help remove dark spots, improve skin texture, and minimise pores, breakouts and blackheads. It may even reduce the appearance of sunspots, redness and pigmentation. The presence of hyaluronic acid, moringa essential oil, gotu kola extract, liquorice extract, aloe vera extract and citric acid extract in this serum may help to deal with damaged skin, prevent premature ageing and lead to smoother and softer skin. It is free from harsh chemicals, which makes it safe for all skin types.

Specifications of The Man Company 40% Vitamin C Face Serum:

Skin type: All

Item form: Liquid

Benefits: Brightening

Reason to buy: This potent Vitamin C serum with 40% Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate effectively brightens and smooths skin while boosting collagen. It's a good value for money and leaves skin feeling fresh and hydrated.

Reason to avoid: Individual experiences may vary. Some may have concerns about its Vitamin C content or overall quality.

Why choose: Experience the brightening and collagen-boosting benefits of this stable and effective Vitamin C serum.

Customers reaction: Customers generally find this serum effective in brightening skin and improving its texture. They appreciate its smooth consistency and how it leaves skin feeling fresh and hydrated. However, some have mixed opinions on its overall quality.

ALSO READ: Best skincare brands: 10 top combo packs of beauty essentials for healthier skin

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Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Brightening Glow Serum may deliver 7x brightening power for radiant sensitive skin. It is a clinically proven serum that can help to reduce dark spots caused by the sun, ageing, breakouts and hormonal changes. This serum also promises to improve skin tone, and fine lines, boost radiance, improve hydration and illuminate complexion. Formulated with the goodness of niacinamide, sea daffodil, advanced peptide and antioxidant C, this serum claims to provide effective results in just 14 days. The brand also claims that it is free from fragrance, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.

Specifications of Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Brightening Glow Serum:

Skin type: Sensitive

Item form: Gel

Benefits: Brightening

Reason to buy: This powerful serum delivers 7x brightening power in just 14 days, effectively fading dark spots and dullness. It's suitable for sensitive skin and protects against pollution and blue light.

Reason to avoid: Some may find the initial price a bit high.

Why choose: Experience radiant, healthy-looking skin with this clinically proven serum that targets the root cause of dark spots.

Customers reaction: Customers appreciate the serum's effectiveness in fading dark spots and improving skin radiance. They find it suitable for sensitive skin and love the visible results within days of use. Some may find the initial price a bit high.

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Pilgrim Korean 2% Alpha Arbutin & 3 & Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum for Glowing Skin is suitable for all skin types. This facial serum promises to increase radiance and prevent signs of early ageing. It contains blueberry extracts that can resist fine lines, wrinkles and prevent the signs of ageing.

Specifications of Pilgrim Korean 2% Alpha Arbutin & 3% Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum for Glowing Skin:

Skin type: All

Item form: Drop

Benefits: Brightening

Reason to buy: This brightening serum with 2% Alpha Arbutin and 3% Vitamin C visibly improves skin tone, reduces the appearance of acne scars and large pores, and provides a healthy glow.

Reason to avoid: Individual experiences may vary. Some may find it not value for money.

Why choose: Experience brighter, healthier-looking skin with this effective serum that targets uneven skin tone and signs of aging.

Customers reaction: Customers generally find this serum effective in brightening skin and improving overall skin tone. They appreciate its ability to reduce the appearance of acne scars and large pores. Some may find it not value for money.

Also Read: Best collagen supplements: 10 top choices to boost skin, joint and overall health

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Regaliz Brilante Intense Brightening Serum promises to target dark spots and hyperpigmentation for a brighter and more even skin tone. It may help reduce the appearance of acne scars and help restore smooth skin texture. This product may even help in treating melasma and other skin discolourations. It is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that promotes a radiant and glowing complexion along with diminishing the signs of ageing.

Specifications of Regaliz Brilante Intense Brightening Serum:

Skin type: All

Item form: Drop

Benefits: Brightening

Reason to buy: This serum effectively targets dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars, leaving skin brighter and more even-toned. It's suitable for various skin types, including oily and sensitive skin.

Reason to avoid: Individual experiences may vary. Some may find it not value for money.

Why choose: Experience a brighter, more even complexion with this serum that tackles various skin concerns, from dark spots to acne scars.

Customers reaction: Customers generally find this serum effective in reducing pigmentation and improving skin tone. They appreciate its suitability for various skin types and its ability to brighten skin and remove tan. Some may find it not value for money.

Best Overall Product

CETAPHIL Bright Healthy Radiance Brightening Serum is a product that stands out for its clinically proven results, gentle formula, and suitability for sensitive skin. It targets dark spots, and dullness, and provides antioxidant protection. Although it's one of the pricier options, its effectiveness and quality ingredients make it the best overall product.

Best Budget-Friendly Product

L'Oreal Paris Glycolic Bright 8% Face Serum is a product that offers excellent value for its price. It contains glycolic acid, which helps reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Customers have reported positive results, and it is suitable for all skin types. While it may not be as potent as some other options, its affordability and effectiveness make it the best budget-friendly choice.

ALSO READ: Best skincare products for dry skin: From body lotions to moisturisers, 10 top winter care essentials for soft skin

How to choose the best skin-brightening serum?

1. Skin concerns: Before choosing the best skin brightening serum for oily skin, dry skin or any other skin type, identify your skin concern. This will help you choose a serum that targets your needs effectively.

2. Ingredients: Pay attention to the ingredients list of the product. Ensure that the product you choose contains vitamin C, niacinamide, alpha arbutin, hyaluronic acid, liquorice extract and more. These ingredients may help reduce dark spots, protect your skin against environmental damage, enhance moisture retention and brighten the skin.

3. Skin type: When buying the best face serum for women, make sure to consider your skin type. For oily skin, opt for a lightweight and non-comedogenic serum. In the case of dry skin, choose a serum with added hydrating ingredients to maintain moisture balance.

4. Added benefits: Besides skin brightening effects, make sure to look at the added benefits provided by the best vitamin C serum. Assess whether these additional benefits align with your skincare goals.

5. Review: Examine the formulation of the product and make sure that it does not contain any harmful ingredients. Read online reviews to get valuable insights into the effectiveness and potential side effects of the serum.

6. Price: Evaluate the brand reputation and price of the product, Opt for brands that are known for their quality and transparency. Make sure that the product offers the best value for your money.

What are skin brightening serums?

Skin brightening serums are concentrated formulas, which are designed to improve skin tone and radiance. They typically contain active ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and alpha arbutin, which work to inhibit melanin production, reduce dark spots, and promote an even skin tone. They also neutralise free radicals that cause oxidative damage and reduce discolouration by slowing down melanin transfer to skin cells. These serums penetrate deeply into the skin to deliver targeted treatment that can enhance brightness, clear pigmentation, and boost skin luminosity.

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Do brightening serums work?

Yes, brightening serums can work effectively to improve skin tone and radiance. Most products contain active ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, alpha arbutin, and liquorice extract, which may address dullness and uneven pigmentation. The best serums for oily skin can also inhibit melanin production, which can reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Studies show that daily use of vitamin C serum can improve skin radiance and overall tone within 4-6 weeks.

Can skin brightening serums treat hyperpigmentation?

Yes, many skin-brightening serums are effective in treating hyperpigmentation. They use ingredients like vitamin C and alpha arbutin that are known to reduce melanin production, which is responsible for dark spots. Clinical studies have shown that the best serums for dry skin can significantly lighten pigmentation, including age spots and acne scars, by reducing the synthesis of melanin. These products can also decrease skin discolouration by inhibiting melanin transfer to skin cells. A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that alpha-arbutin effectively reduces hyperpigmentation over time. Regular use of a serum containing these ingredients can lead to noticeable improvement in skin tone and texture, reducing dark spots and promoting an even complexion.

ALSO READ: Best serums for sensitive skin: 10 top choices to calm irritation and reduce redness

Can I use skin brightening serum under makeup?

Yes, you can use a skin-brightening serum under makeup. The best serums for skin brightening can help provide a glowing base for your makeup. Most brightening serums are lightweight and fast-absorbing, so they won't interfere with makeup application. They may not only brighten the skin but also provide antioxidant protection, helping your makeup last longer. The presence of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid in serums may also offer hydration and smoothness, making them excellent primers before makeup.

Which serum is best for glowing skin?

The best serum for glowing skin depends on your skin type and concerns, but some key ingredients are universally beneficial. Vitamin C serums are excellent for boosting radiance and brightening dull skin. Studies have shown that vitamin C can reduce oxidative stress and pigmentation, leading to a more even, glowing complexion. For dry or sensitive skin, a niacinamide serum can improve texture, reduce redness, and promote an even skin tone without irritation. Hyaluronic acid is another important ingredient for boosting hydration, which is essential for a glowing complexion.

ALSO READ: Best nebulizer machines: 10 top picks to ease breathing in rising air pollution

Top three features of the best skin brightening serums:

Best skin brightening serums

Price

Quantity

Material feature

L'Oreal Paris Brightening Serum

271

15 ml

Natural

Minimalist 10% Vitamin C Face Serum for Glowing Skin

664

30 ml

Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic

Neutrogena Bright Boost Illuminating Serum

1,048

30 ml

Natural

Garnier Skin Naturals, Bright Complete 30X Vitamin C Booster Face Serum

371

30 ml

Natural

Plum 15% Vitamin C Face Serum For Glowing Skin

671

30 ml

Fragrance-free, cruelty-free, vegan

AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum

1,499

50 ml

Natural

The Man Company 40% Vitamin C Face Serum

329

30 ml

Non-toxic, cruelty-free, paraben-free

CETAPHIL Bright Healthy Radiance Brightening

2000

30 ml

Fragrance-free

PILGRIM Korean 2% Alpha Arbutin & 3% Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum 

491

30 ml

Natural

Regaliz Brilante Intense Brightening Serum

699

50 ml

Paraben-free

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

  • What are the benefits of skin brightening serum?

    The best skin brightening serum may help to enhance your complexion by reducing dark spots, uneven tone and dullness. Enriched with the goodness of ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide, these serums may help to boost radiance, fight pigmentation and even out skin tone. Regular use of these serums may lead to a more vibrant, luminous and healthier-looking skin.

  • How to use the best skin-brightening serum?

    To use a skin-brightening serum, start by cleansing your face. Then apply a toner if you want, followed by the serum. Take a few drops of the serum and apply it over your face, focus on areas with uneven tone or dark spots. Pat the serum until fully absorbed and then continue with your daily skincare routine.

  • Which is the best skin-brightening serum?

    The best skin brightening serum depends on personal needs. But top choices include those that contain vitamin C along with niacinamide and retinol. Serums like L'Oreal Paris Brightening Serum, Garnier Skin Naturals and more may work the best.

  • How often should I use skin-brightening serums?

    You can use it once or twice daily, depending on the product's instructions and your skin's sensitivity and needs. Apply it in the morning or evening after cleansing. You may also consult your dermatologist for better guidance.

  • Can skin brightening serums be used on sensitive skin?

    Yes, many brightening serums are formulated to be gentle enough for sensitive skin, but it is important to choose products that contain soothing ingredients. Look for fragrance-free formulas and avoid harsh exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids in brightening serums if you have sensitive skin. 

Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

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