A serum can tend to be rather pricey, but when all you need is a pea-sized amount, those concentrated formulas will last a long time. Think of them as the holy grail to skincare; they target damage and can fight certain skincare issues such as acne, sun damage, ageing or dehydration. The smaller molecules found in them are absorbed by the skin faster and deeper than a moisturiser, and they contain fewer thickening agents, such as nut or seed oils. Most serums are water-based, eliminating oils altogether, leaving your skin feeling nourished and ready to face the day. For best use, apply after toning, wait to dry and then moisturise.

We’ve searched high and low, testing products to give you four of the best serums on the market for all your skincare needs.

Codage Serum N°2 Mattifying and Repairing, £64, selfridges.com & This Works Skin Deep Youth Elixir, £38, thisworks.com

Verso Super Facial Serum, £95, goodhoodstore.com & Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Serum, £45, aesop.com

Tags: Aesop, Codage, Serums, Skincare, This Works, Verso