5 Affordable Serums That Deliver Real Results
Skincare doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be effective. There are plenty of budget-friendly serums that rival luxury options when it comes to brightening, calming, and hydrating your skin.
Below, I’m sharing 5 affordable serums that actually deliver—each one carefully chosen for ingredient integrity, performance, and accessibility. Whether you're looking to soothe sensitivity, even out tone, or boost hydration, these formulas prove that price doesn't always equal performance.
1. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Target: Oil control, acne scars, enlarged pores
This cult-favorite serum balances oil production, reduces breakouts, and fades post-acne marks—all for under $10.
Fragrance-free
Great for combo to oily skin
Best when layered with hydrating products
Around $7
2. Naturium Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum
Target: Dehydration, dullness, tightness
If your skin ever feels dry and oily at the same time, this hyaluronic acid serum brings balance fast. Lightweight but effective, and layered beautifully under moisturizer.
pH balanced
Fragrance- and essential oil–free
Available at Target
Around $16
3. Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum
Target: Hyperpigmentation, post-inflammatory marks
Formulated with tranexamic acid and niacinamide, this budget-friendly serum visibly fades dark spots without irritation. It’s also vegan and made with transparency around sourcing.
Great for sensitive skin
Lightweight and layers well
Fragrance-free
Around $12
4. Cocokind Vitamin C Glow Serum
Target: Uneven texture, dullness, barrier repair
A gentle serum packed with celery seed extract and peptides. It’s soothing, hydrating, and perfect for people who want smoother skin without any actives that sting.
Fragrance-free
Refillable and eco-conscious
Clean and EWG-verified
Around $20
5. Inkey List Polyglutamic Acid Serum
Target: Surface hydration + long-lasting glow
If you love hyaluronic acid, this is your upgrade. Polyglutamic acid holds even more moisture, giving you that just-had-a-facial look—without the facial price tag.
Lightweight, but visibly plumping
Fragrance- and cruelty-free
Layers well under makeup
Around $15
Final Thoughts:
You don’t need to spend $80+ on a serum to see real results. These picks prove that thoughtfully formulated, affordable skincare can hydrate, clarify, and glow you up—all without draining your wallet.
💡 Tip: Be consistent. Even the best serum won’t work overnight—but give it 4–6 weeks of daily use and watch your skin shift.