Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.

If you select links we provide, we may receive compensation.

A fresh glow right this way.

collage of three popular brightening serums from Green Tangerine, SkinCeuticals, and Ole Henriksen against a cream background

Byrdie / Kristin Kempa

We all know (and love) what strategically placedhighlighteror a touch ofbronzercan do.

That lit-from-within glow has been the focus of many articles and makeup linesand for good reason.

But what if instead of creating that glow with makeup, you could wake up with naturally radiant skin?

OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Serum

PHOTO: Sephora

Radiance-boosting serums are key to getting the perfectly luminous, even-looking skin we all dream about.

Almost anyone can benefit from this multitasking formula that addresses a variety of complexion concerns.

It isnt sticky or tacky and layers really nicely under other skincare products.

Two closeups of a person’s face labeled before and after

PHOTO: Byrdie / Alex Jiang

Just take note that it may cause a bit of irritation if you have sensitive skin.

We found it to be a game-changer, especially when used as part of a cohesive skincare routine.

We have sung its praises time and again.

OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Serum on the back of a hand

(and yes that includes smoothing outfine lines and wrinkles).

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.

Two closeups of a person’s face labeled before and after

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.

OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright 15% Vitamin C Serum on the back of a hand

Its fast-absorbing but still leaves skin super glowy.

However, since this is an oil, it’s not ideal for oily or acne-prone skin types.

Usually, you’ve got the option to.

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

PHOTO: Sephora

Many radiance-boosting serums work well under makeup.

Radiance-boosting serums that dont contain any exfoliants should be safe for most, if not all, skin types.

Many of theseserums also address signs of aging.

Before and after comparison of a person using The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA on their skin

PHOTO: Byrdie / Bianca Lambert

During the summer of 2017, she interned for Byrdie and wrote several pieces on health and wellness.

Sarkar R, Arora P, Garg KV.Cosmeceuticals for Hyperpigmentation: What is Available?J Cutan Aesthet Surg.

78,1 (2016): 27-33. doi:10.4103/0250-474x.180247

the ordinary alpha arbutin 2% + HA spread on the back of a hand

Before and after comparison of a person using The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA on their skin

the ordinary alpha arbutin 2% + HA spread on the back of a hand

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

PHOTO: Bluemercury

Person’s face before and after using SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

PHOTO: Byrdie / Jenna Igneri

Closeup of SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic on back of hand

Person’s face before and after using SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

Closeup of SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic on back of hand

Goodal Green Tangerine Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum+

PHOTO: Amazon

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

Byrdie / Lauren Coughlin

L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Face Serum

PHOTO: Target

A person smiling

PHOTO: Byrdie / Samantha Jones

Hand holding L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Face Serum

A person smiling

Hand holding L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Face Serum

Yes To Grapefruit Daily Brightening Serum

PHOTO: Amazon

Two closeups of a person’s smiling face labeled before and after

Byrdie / Allison Vancura

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Firming Oil

PHOTO: Sephora

Klur Brilliant Light Repair Serum

PHOTO: Klur

Person rubbing serum into their forehead

PHOTO: Byrdie / Nellah Mcgough

Dollop of Klur Brilliant Light Multi-Correctional Repair Serum in the palm of a hand

Person rubbing serum into their forehead

Dollop of Klur Brilliant Light Multi-Correctional Repair Serum in the palm of a hand