The right targeted serum can help you minimize redness for a more even complexion. Here is our guide to the best serums for redness.
Our Recommendations
1. Niacinamide
The Inkey List Serum for Large Pores, Excess Oil, and Redness
The Inkey List Niacinamide
This affordable serum from The Inkey List uses the power of niacinamide to control sebum production, minimize redness, and more.
This lightweight serum contains a 10% concentration of niacinamide (vitamin B3), a multi-tasking skincare ingredient. It has been shown to control excess oil and minimize the appearance of large pores, so it is particularly great for those with oilier skin. Niacinamide also helps minimize redness and control blemishes for a clear and even complexion.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-toxic
Cons
- Some people can have a niacinamide sensitivity, which may cause irritation (patch test before using)
In addition to the niacinamide, this daily serum contains a 1% concentration of hyaluronic acid, which helps keep the skin hydrated.
Water (Aqua/ Eau), Niacinamide, Glycerin, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Squalane, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Hyaluronic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Phospholipids, Xanthan Gum, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract, Allantoin, Disodium Edta, Polysorbate 60, Panthenol, Glycolipids, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterol, Disodium Phosphate, Citric Acid, Sodium Phosphate
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"
Accessed Jan. 11, 2022.
2. Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum
Dr. Jart Serum for Soothing and minimizing redness
Dr. Jart Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum
This soothing serum is packed with ingredients that calm and minimize redness while strengthening the skin so that it can better defend itself against damage and irritation.
This is an excellent serum for those who need to calm and strengthen the skin while reducing redness. The formula is particularly great for sensitive and/or irritated skin. It is formulated with centella asiatica (AKA tiger grass) extract, which soothes inflammation and protects the skin. This gentle serum also contains Jartbiome, Dr. Jart’s microbiome complex that helps strengthen and balance while improving the skin’s ability to fight against irritation and damage. The company’s Cicabond blend (which contains proteins and minerals) repairs and rebuilds damaged skin.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Gentle
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Contains fragrant essential oils, which may irritate those with fragrance sensitivities
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this serum contains additional ingredients that calm, hydrate, and soothe redness, including niacinamide, glycerin, and panthenol.
Water/Eau, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Eryngium Maritimum Callus Culture Filtrate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Ilex Aquifolium (Holly) Leaf Extract, Achillea Millefolium Oil, Panthenol, Chondrus Crispus Extract, C12-14 Pareth-12, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract/Extrait de canne à sucre, Streptococcus Thermophilus Ferment, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Madecassoside, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, DNA, Disodium EDTA, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Asiaticoside, Dextrin, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Calcium Chloride, Centella Asiatica Extract, Magnesium Sulfate.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Centella asiatica in cosmetology"
Accessed Jan. 11, 2022.
3. Power 10 Formula LI Effector with Licorice
It’s Skin Serum for Brightening and Evening Skin Tone
It’s Skin Power 10 Formula LI Effector with Licorice
This affordable serum contains a high concentration of licorice extract, which works to brighten and promote a more even skin tone.
This Korean serum is perfect for those looking to even out their skin tone. Licorice (glycyrrhiza uralensi) extract is known to help fade hyperpigmentation and melasma, improve skin texture, soothe the skin, and reduce redness.
Pros
- Affordable
- Gentle
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
Cons
- None
This daily serum can also be combined with other It’s Skin Power 10 serums to target specific skin concerns you’re looking to address.
Water, Glycyrrhiza, Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin,Polyglutamic, Acid, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Methylparaben, Chlorphenesin, Disodium EDTA
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Cosmeceuticals for Hyperpigmentation: What is Available?"
Accessed Nov. 10, 2021.
4. Hydrium Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule
COSRX Serum for Soothing and hydrating
COSRX Hydrium Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule
This soothing and hydrating serum is packed with effective yet gentle ingredients that help soothe the skin. It is even suitable for calming current breakouts.
One of the key ingredients in this gentle serum is centella asiatica extract. This plant extract has been shown to effectively treat wounds and soothe inflammation in the skin. It also contains vitamin B5 (AKA panthenol), an anti-inflammatory ingredient that improves hydration and elasticity while soothing the skin.
Pros
- Lightweight and non-sticky
- Gentle
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- The lighter hydration may not be hydrating enough for very dry skin
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this Korean serum contains madecassoside, which has antioxidant benefits, and allantoin, which soothes.
Water, Centella Asiatica Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Betaine, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Octanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Madecassoside, Panthenol
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Centella asiatica in cosmetology"
Accessed Nov. 9, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Nov. 9, 2021.
5. Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
The Ordinary Serum for Fighting Acne and Evening Skin Tone
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
This product from The Ordinary hosts an impressive variety of benefits. Azelaic acid is a brightening skincare ingredient known for minimizing acne, lightening hyperpigmentation, and reducing redness.
This product contains a 10% concentration of azelaic acid, a gentle exfoliator that has antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The lightweight gel-cream helps to improve and brighten skin tone, as well as unclog pores and reduce blemishes for clear, smooth skin.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Some reviewers note that this product can be drying
In addition to its ability to fight acne, azelaic acid is often used to treat rosacea to promote a more even skin tone.
Aqua (Water), Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Dimethicone, Azelaic Acid, Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polysilicone-11, Isohexadecane, Tocopherol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Isoceteth-20, Polysorbate 60, Triethanolamine, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Azelaic acid"
Accessed Aug. 11, 2021.
6. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The Ordinary Serum for Minimizing Blemishes and Controlling Sebum Production
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
This multi-tasking product helps minimize blemishes and congestion while reducing redness and regulating the production of sebum.
Niacinamide is an excellent skincare ingredient that has been shown to control sebum production, reduce redness and inflammation, minimize fine lines, and even reduce hyperpigmentation. This product also contains zinc, which further balances sebum production and reduces inflammation.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May cause flushing in those sensitive to niacinamide (patch test prior to using)
This product is an excellent choice for acne-prone skin. However, those currently fighting acne will also want to introduce other acne-fighting ingredients into their routine, as niacinamide on its own is not an effective treatment for minimizing breakouts.
Aqua (Water), Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Zinc PCA, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum, Xanthan gum, Isoceteth-20, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The effect of 2% niacinamide on facial sebum production"
Accessed Aug. 9, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"
Accessed Aug. 9, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Zinc Therapy in Dermatology: A Review"
Accessed Aug. 9, 2021.
7. Redness Relief Repairing Serum
Paula's Choice Serum for Redness
Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief Repairing Serum
This calming, lightweight serum helps to reduce redness while also hydrating and fighting the signs of aging.
This is one of the best Paula’s Choice serums for soothing sensitive skin and reducing redness. It contains a potent blend of antioxidants and other skincare ingredients that hydrate and calm the skin. This serum is gentle on the skin, and even appropriate for skin prone to rosacea.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
- Lightweight
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
Some of the hydrating and soothing skincare ingredients in this serum include hyaluronic acid, sea whip extract, ceramides, licorice extract, and willow herb.
Water, Glycerin (skin replenishing), Hyaluronic Acid (hydration/skin replenishing), Beta-Glucan (skin-soothing/antioxidant), Sea Whip Extract (skin-soothing), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Ceramide NP (hydration/skin replenishing), Ceramide AP (hydration/skin replenishing), Ceramide EOP (hydration/skin replenishing), Cholesterol (skin replenishing), Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract (licorice extract/skin-soothing), Epilobium Angustifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract (willow herb/skin-soothing), Phytosphingosine (skin-renewing), Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids (skin replenishing), Chrysanthemum Parthenium Flower Extract (feverfew extracts/antioxidant/skin-soothing), Glycine Soja Seed Extract (soybean extract/skin-soothing), Ubiquinone (antioxidant), Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate (texture-enhancing), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (skin replenishing/emollient), Magnesium Aspartate (emollient), Potassium Aspartate (emollient), Sarcosine (emollient), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Carbomer (texture-enhancing), Polysorbate 20 (texture-enhancing), PEG/PPG-14/4 Dimethicone (texture-enhancing), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative)
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Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin's own natural moisturizing systems"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
8. 10% Niacinamide Booster
Paula's Choice Serum for Refining Pore Size and Improving Skin Tone
Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
This super light niacinamide product is one of the best Paula’s Choice serums. It delivers a multitude of benefits, including minimizing the appearance of pores, controlling sebum production, smoothing fine lines, reducing redness, and brightening.
Niacinamide is a powerful skincare ingredient that offers a wide variety of benefits, which makes this another great multipurpose serum. In addition to minimizing the appearance of pores, it has been shown to control sebum production, smooth fine lines, reduce redness, reduce hyperpigmentation, and brighten the skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Lightweight
Cons
- May cause flushing in those sensitive to niacinamide (patch test prior to using)
In addition to the 10% concentration of niacinamide, this booster contains allantoin and licorice extract, which calm the skin. It also contains vitamin C, which brightens. It’s important to note that users should patch test niacinamide first, because some people are sensitive to it, and it may make acne or flushing worse.
Water (Aqua), Niacinamide (vitamin B3, skin-restoring ), Acetyl Glucosamine (skin replenishing/antioxidant), Ascorbyl Glucoside (vitamin C/antioxidant), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Phospholipids (skin replenishing), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Allantoin (skin-soothing), Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract (skin-soothing), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (skin-soothing), Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract (licorice extract/skin-soothing), Ubiquinone (antioxidant), Epigallocatechin Gallate (antioxidant), Beta-Glucan (skin-soothing/antioxidant), Panthenol (skin replenishing), Carnosine (antioxidant), Genistein (antioxidant), Citric Acid (pH balancing), Sodium Citrate (pH balancing), Sodium Hydroxide (pH balancing), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative)
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The effect of 2% niacinamide on facial sebum production"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
9. 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
Paula's Choice Serum for Evening Tone and Texture
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
This booster combines azelaic acid with other brightening ingredients that work together to fade post-acne marks, minimize blemishes, brighten, and even out tone and texture.
This is a great multi-purpose serum to have on hand. If you have hyperpigmentation, this is a particularly excellent product for you, as azelaic acid has been shown to help fade dark marks. It’s also great for smoothing the skin for a more even texture.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Lightweight
Cons
- May irritate more sensitive skin types
This booster contains salicylic acid, a chemical exfoliator that further minimizes the appearance of blemishes and evens out skin texture and tone. It also contains licorice root, which calms redness and brightens.
Water (Aqua), Azelaic Acid (skin-brightening/tone-improving), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (emollient), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (skin-replenishing), Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate (emollient), Glycerin (skin-replenishing), Cetearyl Alcohol (texture enhancer), Glyceryl Stearate (texture enhancer), Dimethicone (hydration/texture enhancer), Salicylic Acid (exfoliant), Adenosine (skin-restoring), Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract (skin-soothing), Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract (skin-soothing), Allantoin (skin-soothing), Bisabolol (skin-soothing), Cyclopentasiloxane (texture enhancer), Xanthan Gum (stabilizer), Sclerotium Gum (stabilizer), Propanediol (hydration), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Phenoxyethanol (preservative)
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
FAQs
What serum is good for rosacea?
If you have rosacea, a great serum to try is the Paula’s Choice Calm Redness Relief Repairing Serum. This calming serum was specifically formulated with rosacea in mind, so it’s suitable for those dealing with this skin condition. This fragrance-free serum helps minimize redness while also hydrating and soothing the skin with ceramides, sea whip extract, hyaluronic acid, and more.
Is niacinamide good for redness?
Niacinamide is known to help minimize inflammation, which can help calm redness in the skin. It should be noted, however, that some people negatively react to niacinamide, and may actually experience increased redness and irritation when using skincare products with this ingredient. If you haven’t used niacinamide before, it’s a good idea to do a patch test first before using it on your face. Apply the product to a small, clean patch of skin (the forearm works great), and leave it there for 24 hours without washing it off. If you don’t experience any negative side effects after 24 hours, you can safely apply the product to your face.
Can hyaluronic acid calm redness?
Hyaluronic acid isn’t typically used to calm redness, but it likely won’t cause any redness. This ingredient works by attracting moisture to the skin and locking it in, so it is great for skin that needs extra hydration. Hyaluronic acid may help soothe by way of hydrating the skin, so it may have some positive effects on redness. This ingredient is typically considered to be safe for those with rosacea, but you should always do a patch test if you have more reactive skin. You’ll find hyaluronic acid in a few of the serums mentioned above.
The Bottom Line
If you deal with redness in the skin, the right serum can help soothe and eliminate redness for a more even complexion. People wanting to get rid of redness can consider using one of our recommended serums to help achieve their skin goals.