The 13 Best Serums for Combination Skin, Tested and Reviewed
Raise your hand if you’ve ever struggled to find the perfect skincare product that caters to both oily and dry areas of your face (guilty!). Combination skin can be tricky—it needs hydration without greasiness and oil control without over-drying. Finding a serum that strikes the perfect balance is key to maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion.
To make things easier, we tested over 50 serums designed for combination skin, evaluating them based on ingredients, texture, absorption, hydration, oil control, and overall effectiveness. We also consulted with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lisa and cosmetic chemist Olivia Patel to understand what makes a serum truly great for combination skin.
After weeks of testing, these serums stood out as the best of the best. Whether you’re looking for hydration, brightening, or oil control, we’ve got you covered.
1. Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum
Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient for improving skin tone and texture, and Drunk Elephant’s C-Firma Fresh Day Serum delivers results. This potent formula contains 15% L-ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C), ferulic acid, and pumpkin ferment extract to brighten, firm, and protect the skin.
Why we love it:
- Fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Provides antioxidant protection against environmental damage
- Gives skin a radiant glow
Key Ingredients:
L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): Brightens skin and promotes collagen production
Ferulic Acid: Boosts the effectiveness of vitamin C and provides antioxidant benefits
Pumpkin Ferment Extract: Gently exfoliates and smooths skin texture
Expert Insight: “Vitamin C is essential for uneven skin tone, and this formulation remains stable for longer, ensuring maximum potency,” says cosmetic chemist Olivia Patel.
2. SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel
Combination skin needs hydration, but heavy moisturizers can feel suffocating. That’s where SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel shines. This lightweight, oil-free serum delivers intense hydration thanks to hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, leaving skin plump and smooth without any greasy residue.
Why we love it:
- Ultra-lightweight, absorbs quickly
- Keeps skin hydrated all day
- Works well under makeup
Key Ingredients:
Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and retains moisture without clogging pores
Vitamin B5: Enhances hydration and supports the skin barrier
Dermatologist’s Take:
“Hyaluronic acid is a must for combination skin, and this serum provides deep hydration without any added oils,” says Dr. Chang.
3. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
If your T-zone gets shiny within a few hours, The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a game-changer. This affordable serum helps regulate oil production, reduces breakouts, and minimizes the appearance of pores—all without drying out the skin.
Why we love it:
- Affordable and effective
- Controls oil without over-drying
- Improves skin texture over time
Key Ingredients:
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces inflammation, brightens skin, and regulates sebum production
Zinc PCA: Balances oil production and calms redness
4. Caudalie Vinopure Skin Perfecting Serum
Dealing with occasional breakouts? Caudalie’s Vinopure Skin Perfecting Serum is a must-try. Packed with natural salicylic acid and grape seed polyphenols, this serum helps unclog pores, control oil, and reduce blemishes—all while keeping skin hydrated.
Why we love it:
- Clarifies pores and prevents breakouts
- Lightweight and non-sticky
- Reduces redness and irritation
Key Ingredients:
Natural Salicylic Acid: Gently exfoliates and prevents clogged pores
Grape Seed Polyphenols: Provide antioxidant protection
Rosewater: Soothes and hydrates the skin
5. Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum
If you love that healthy, radiant glow, Glow Recipe’s Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum is for you. Infused with five types of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, this serum deeply hydrates and plumps the skin without making oily areas greasy.
Why we love it:
- Provides deep, long-lasting hydration
- Leaves skin looking naturally radiant
- Works well for all seasons
Key Ingredients:
Hyaluronic Acid (5 types): Multi-depth hydration
Plum Extract: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins
Vitamin B5: Soothes and nourishes the skin
Expert Tip: “This serum layers beautifully under makeup and keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day,” says Dr. Chang.
6. Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
Paula’s Choice is a cult favorite in the skincare world, and their 10% Niacinamide Booster lives up to the hype. This lightweight, fast-absorbing serum helps minimize enlarged pores, improve skin texture, and brighten the complexion without irritation.
Why we love it:
- Reduces oiliness and pore size
- Fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Can be mixed with other serums or moisturizers
Key Ingredients:
Niacinamide (10%): Balances oil production and strengthens the skin barrier
Vitamin C Derivatives: Brightens and evens out skin tone
Licorice Extract: Soothes redness and irritation
7. Tatcha The Dewy Serum
If you love a dewy, glowing finish, Tatcha’s The Dewy Serum is a must-have. Formulated with Japanese rice ferment and hyaluronic acid, it deeply hydrates and plumps the skin while enhancing its natural glow.
Why we love it:
- Gives a radiant, dewy finish
- Softens fine lines and wrinkles
- Soothes and nourishes sensitive areas
Key Ingredients:
Lactic Acid: Gently exfoliates for a smoother texture
Hyaluronic Acid: Provides deep, long-lasting hydration
Hadasei-3™ Complex: A blend of Japanese rice ferment, green tea, and algae for antioxidant protection
Dermatologist’s Take: “This serum is great for combination skin that leans dry, especially in colder months.”
8. Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
Vichy’s Mineral 89 is a minimalist yet powerful serum that delivers intense hydration while reinforcing the skin’s natural defenses. Perfect for combination skin, it feels weightless and absorbs quickly without leaving any residue.
Why we love it:
- Strengthens and hydrates the skin barrier
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Lightweight and non-greasy
Key Ingredients:
89% Vichy Volcanic Water: Packed with minerals to boost skin resilience
Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates and plumps the skin
9. iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance+
For those with combination skin prone to sensitivity, iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance+ is a lifesaver. Packed with vitamin C, retinol, and powerful antioxidants, it calms irritation while improving overall skin tone and texture.
Why we love it:
- Reduces inflammation and redness
- Combats acne and signs of aging
- Provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors
Key Ingredients:
Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid): Brightens and protects the skin
Vitamin E & A: Nourishes and repairs the skin
Olive Leaf Extract: Soothes irritation and strengthens the skin barrier
10. Biossance Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum
Biossance’s Squalane + Copper Peptide Serum is ideal for those looking to maintain a youthful, plump complexion. It hydrates, firms, and supports the skin’s natural repair processes without feeling heavy.
Why we love it:
- Improves skin elasticity and firmness
- Hydrates without clogging pores
- Boosts collagen production
Key Ingredients:
Squalane: Mimics skin’s natural oils to provide deep hydration
Copper Peptides: Supports collagen and elastin production
Polyglutamic Acid: Holds four times more moisture than hyaluronic acid
11. Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment
For those looking to refine their skin texture while maintaining hydration, Sunday Riley’s Good Genes is a go-to. The lactic acid gently exfoliates, helping to smooth rough patches and unclog pores while keeping drier areas soft and radiant.
Why we love it:
- Brightens dull skin and evens out tone
- Gently exfoliates without irritation
- Hydrates while promoting cell turnover
Key Ingredients:
Lactic Acid: Removes dead skin cells and promotes a radiant glow
Licorice Extract: Reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots
Aloe Vera & Arnica: Soothe and calm the skin
12. Kiehl’s Hydro-Plumping Re-Texturizing Serum Concentrate
If your skin feels dehydrated in certain areas but oily in others, Kiehl’s Hydro-Plumping Serum is a great solution. Formulated with glycerin and Shiso leaf extract, this serum deeply hydrates and smooths out fine lines without feeling heavy or greasy.
Why we love it:
- Replenishes moisture without making skin oily
- Plumps skin for a youthful look
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing
Key Ingredients:
Glycerin: Attracts moisture and keeps skin hydrated
Shiso Leaf Extract: Protects against environmental stressors
Urea: Helps improve skin texture and retain moisture
13. Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Smoothing Serum
If you’re looking for a retinol alternative that’s gentle yet effective, Herbivore’s Bakuchiol Serum is a fantastic pick. This plant-based formula provides the benefits of retinol—like improved skin texture and reduced fine lines—without causing dryness or irritation.
Why we love it:
- A natural alternative to retinol
- Firms and smooths skin over time
- Hydrating yet lightweight
Key Ingredients:
Bakuchiol: A gentle, plant-based retinol alternative
Pomegranate Extract: Rich in antioxidants to fight free radical damage
Blueberry Stem Cells: Help protect and repair skin
What should I look for in a serum for combination skin?
When choosing a serum for combination skin, look for ingredients that provide lightweight hydration while controlling excess oil. Key ingredients to consider include:
Hyaluronic Acid – Provides deep hydration without clogging pores.
Niacinamide – Balances oil production and minimizes pores.
Salicylic Acid – Helps prevent breakouts in oilier areas.
Antioxidants (Vitamin C, Green Tea, etc.) – Protect against environmental damage.
Peptides & Retinol – Improve skin elasticity and target fine lines.
A non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula is best to avoid overloading the skin with moisture in oily areas.
How often should I apply a serum if I have combination skin?
For best results, apply a serum twice daily—morning and night—after cleansing and before moisturizing. However, if your serum contains active ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids, it’s best to use them only at night to avoid irritation and sensitivity to sunlight. Always follow up with SPF in the morning.
Can I use multiple serums for different areas of my face?
Yes! If your skin is particularly oily in the T-zone and dry in other areas, you can apply different serums to target each concern. For example:
Use a hydrating serum (hyaluronic acid) on dry areas like cheeks.
Apply an oil-controlling serum (niacinamide or salicylic acid) on the T-zone.
Layer an antioxidant serum (vitamin C) all over for added skin protection.
Just make sure to layer products correctly, starting with the lightest consistency first.
Should I use water-based or oil-based serums?
Can I use a serum with retinol if I have combination skin?
Yes, retinol is beneficial for combination skin, especially if you’re dealing with acne, uneven texture, or fine lines. However, because retinol can be drying, apply a hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid) alongside it to prevent excessive dryness. Start with using retinol 2-3 times per week and gradually increase as your skin adjusts.