(Skin)

The Only Serums You Need In Your Skin-Care Rotation This Season

by Deanna Pai
Look Studio/Shutterstock

Your skin isn’t one-size-fits-all. But short of committing to a 20-step routine, it can be tough to give it all the things it needs, be it antioxidant protection or added hydration. That’s where a custom routine can come in handy. With targeted formulas, you can make your current lineup perfectly tailored without having to swap out products you already love or wake up ten minutes earlier. It might sound too good to be true, but Olay’s new Booster Serums, now available at Walmart, make it a reality.

These straightforward, minimal-ingredient formulas add potent actives to your usual regimen with a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture, so you can pair your treatment of choice with your go-to moisturizer for personalized results. Plus, they’re free of parabens, phthalates, and dyes, so you can slather them on in confidence. The only hard part? Trying to pick just one. Ahead, learn more about the only five serums you need in your skin-care routine.

The Goal: Brightness

Dark spots and discoloration don’t stand a chance against Olay’s AHA Booster Serum: a weightless, water-based elixir that works to even out skin tone and create a glow. Two of its 10 ingredients are alpha hydroxy acid and niacinamide, which allow it to take a smart, strategic approach to addressing hyperpigmentation. Alpha hydroxy acid sloughs off dull, potentially pigmented cells from the skin’s surface, while niacinamide — also known as vitamin B3 — works from within to regulate pigment production, soothe, and moisturize. Together in this formula (and topped with sunscreen during the day, of course), they deliver a smoother, more radiant complexion.

The Goal: Barrier Repair

With just two ingredients total (not a typo), Olay’s Vitamin E Booster Serum is the epitome of quality over quantity. It aims the spotlight on vitamin E, a wonder ingredient that’s known for its ability to soothe inflammation and support the skin barrier thanks to its lipid-soluble nature. It’s also a potent antioxidant, meaning it can repair and prevent damage caused by free radicals — which may explain why research has shown it to mitigate signs of sun damage. But wait, there’s more: Yet another study found that it may help with collagen synthesis, too, making it one of the most compelling and research-backed ingredients on the market.

The Goal: Exfoliation

Be it bumps or blemishes, uneven skin texture is no match for a regular exfoliation routine. Olay’s Salicylic Acid Booster contains — you guessed it — salicylic acid, a gentle exfoliant that dissolves dead skin cells and helps keep pores clear. Housed in this liquid formula, it works alongside hydrating glycerin to lightly resurface skin, leaving it smooth and radiant. Bonus: In clearing dead cells, the moisturizer you apply afterwards may be able to penetrate that much better.

The Goal: Antioxidant Power

Olay’s Coconut Oil Booster uses just two ingredients to work its multitasking magic on skin. The hero here is coconut oil, which research has found has potent anti-inflammatory properties, meaning it can calm stressed-out skin. Not only that, but it’s an antioxidant powerhouse, too. Like vitamin E, it can also increase the antioxidant content in skin, allowing it to counteract any damage inflicted by sun exposure and pollution.

The Goal: Balanced Moisture

If you’re looking for balance, you’re in the right place. Olay’s Jojoba Oil Booster is powered by jojoba oil, which research has found to be nearly identical in structure to sebum, skin’s built-in moisturizer. That means it’s not only well-absorbed, but it can also help bolster the skin barrier to lock in hydration. Another advantage of jojoba oil: It’s particularly helpful for those prone to breakouts, since it won’t clog pores. That makes this lightweight serum a perfect match for all skin types.