For anybody with rosacea, chances are that – like me – you’ll be well aware that finding serums for rosacea that actually calm skin (and work to reduce redness without sending it into a frenzy) can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. Between unwanted flushing that almost always appears out of nowhere, to annoying sensitivity and the endless stream of so-called miracle products, I know firsthand just how difficult it is to find something that actually works.
And that’s exactly where a good serum comes in: lightweight, potent and designed to target specific concerns, they’re often my first port of call when I can feel a flare-up coming. Alongside using a good rosacea cream, of course.
But, like most things, some serums are better than others, and if i’ve learnt anything since being diagnosed with rosacea a few years ago, it’s that the key to calming redness is to focus on products formulated with specific ingredients. Niacinamide, ceramides, and azelaic acid are heroes.
I've been a beauty journalist with rosacea for almost 15 years, so it’s fair to say I’ve tested my fair share of rosacea products. So, to help things feel a little less overwhelming, and to make navigating the best from the rest a whole lot easier, I’ve rounded up the rosacea serums I know that I can always rely on to soothe my complexion, as well as helping to strengthen and protect my skin barrier – both in times of need and every day.
Best rosacea serums, at a glance:
Meet the experts:
- Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist and founder of Self London
- Dr Sophie Shotter, on behalf of Allergan Aesthetics
All your rosacea serum FAQs, answered:
What causes rosacea?
As Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist and founder of Self London says, the exact causes of rosacea are unknown, but multiple trigger factors have been identified. “The most common triggers include heat, alcohol, spicy foods, stress and UV exposure,” she explains. “An overactive immune response, increased skin sensitivity and changes in the skin’s microbiome also play a role. It’s not something caused by poor hygiene or infection.”
Dr Shotter concurs, adding: “Over time, untreated rosacea can lead to persistent redness, skin thickening (particularly around the nose), and sensitivity. It most commonly affects adults with fair skin types, especially women aged 30–60, though it can occur in anyone.”
How to treat rosacea?
“Treatment depends on the severity, but usually involves prescription creams or gels to reduce inflammation,” says Dr Mahto.
“Oral antibiotics and low dose isotretinoin are used for more persistent cases. Some clinics, including Self London, have specific rosacea protocols which include laser therapy – something we’ve found to be extremely effective in targeting redness and visible blood vessels.”
Dr Shotter agrees, adding that LED light therapy – usually red/near infrared – can also help soothe inflammation, while some skin injectables can be helpful, too. “Skinvive by Juvéderm is a micro-droplet hyaluronic acid injectable that improves skin hydration, smoothness and barrier function, which can be helpful in some rosacea patients when used carefully by a clinician because hydrated, resilient skin tends to flush less and recover better.
So while it's not a rosacea medication, it can enhance skin quality and tolerance as part of an overall regimen. Holistic support is helpful too, so learning to manage stress, limiting alcohol and spicy foods, and supporting gut health may also help reduce flare-up frequency” she says.
Is rosacea itchy?
Rosacea tends to be more associated with burning, stinging or a sensation of heat rather than itchiness, explains Dr Mahto. “However, mild itch can occur, particularly if the skin barrier is dry or irritated by harsh products,” she says.
That’s why it’s particularly important to keep the skin well hydrated, using non-irritating cleansers can also help to reduce any discomfort. “A persistent itch may suggest another skin condition alongside rosacea, so it’s worth a professional review with a consultant dermatologist,” adds Dr Mahto.
What serums should I avoid with rosacea?
“Avoid facial serums containing alcohol, fragrance, menthol or strong exfoliating acids like glycolic or salicylic, which can all aggravate redness and sensitivity,” says Dr Mahto.
“High-strength retinol or vitamin C can also cause irritation in some individuals. Instead, choose soothing formulas with niacinamide, ceramides and peptides to strengthen the skin barrier and calm inflammation.” You can shop the best niacinamide serums, ceramide serums and peptide serums here.
Which is better for rosacea, niacinamide or vitamin C?
Niacinamide is generally better tolerated for rosacea. “It helps to reduce redness, strengthen the skin barrier and calm inflammation without causing irritation,” explains Dr Mahto.
“Vitamin C can be beneficial for brightening and protecting the skin, but strong formulations or acidic forms (like L-ascorbic acid) may sting or worsen flushing. If you’d like to try vitamin C, opt for a low-strength, stabilised version and patch-test first.”
Is hyaluronic acid bad for rosacea?
Generally speaking, hyaluronic acid serums are typically very safe and can be beneficial for rosacea-prone skin.
“It helps to hydrate and soothe without clogging pores or causing irritation. Using it after gentle cleansing and before a barrier-repairing moisturiser can help reduce dryness and flare-ups,” says Dr Mahto.
How I tested the best serums for rosacea
Having always suffered with redness in my skin, it wasn’t until 2019 that I was officially diagnosed with rosacea by a consultant dermatologist during an appointment. Some of the products listed below are fail-safe favourites that I’ve used over the years and know work on my rosacea-prone skin. They’re also serums that I will always recommend to people who’re having a flare-up and don’t know what to do for the best.
When I'm testing serums I always consider texture, ingredient line-up, how they feel on my skin and how they work with other products I layer either underneath or on top. I also like to consider the price point, as it's important to remember that expensive doesn't always equal better.
Why you can trust me
I have been a beauty journalist for almost 15 years, and in that time I have tested hundreds of products – and have written reviews for publications including Glamour, Cosmopolitan, British Vogue, Elle UK, Red and Stylist.
Since being diagnosed with rosacea by a consultant dermatologist in 2019, I have spent time researching and writing about ingredients specifically designed to help target redness and rosacea, learning what works best and what my skin responds well to.
1. Best Overall: Trinny London Naked Ambition Azelaic Acid Exosomes + Vitamin C Serum
Why we love it: The newest serum from Trinny London, this next gen azelaic acid and vitamin C combination works to target redness and even out skin without causing irritation. Azelaic acid is a derm-approved anti-inflammatory and antibacterial ingredient that’s as gentle as it is effective. Over time it’ll help shed dead skin cells for a brighter, smoother complexion, while vitamin C is a proven antioxidant that protects skin against environmental damage while also working to brighten skin.
“I’ve been so impressed with this serum in the short time I’ve been using it. It’s runnier than I expected – but then I’m used to using prescription-strength azelaic acid – and it absorbs so quickly. It leaves my skin smooth and doesn’t pill when I put sunscreen and makeup on top of it. It’s not cheap but stay consistent and the results will be good,” says Lucy Partington, Glamour contributor.
Save with the Trinny London Black Friday sale, or shop more of the best azelaic acid serums.
2. Best Under £20: KALME TeQ Serum
Why we love it: I featured the KALME Night Cream in my round-up of the best rosacea creams, before moving on to testing the brand's TeQ serum. ICYMI, KALME is a skincare brand entirely centred around helping those who suffer from redness and rosacea – and it's affordable, too. Everything is developed to reduce skin reactivity, redness, bumpiness and dryness using plant-based ingredients only.
While I'm still in the throws of testing this rosacea serum, first impressions are really good. The skin repairing prebiotic serum is super hydrating, and uses three hero ingredients: Prebiotic Agave Extract, Blue Agave extract and Pure Plant-based Squalane. The Agave Extract is called PreBIULIN AGA, from Mexican Agave – the plant uniquely used to make tequila – and it's a repellent for bacillus oleronius bacteria. This is the skin bacteria specifically associated with rosacea; skin prone to rosacea has a volatile reaction to bacillus oleronius bacteria that results in the classic cyclical symptoms of redness, inflammation and hyper-sensitivity. Here, PreBIULIN AGA works to reduce bacillus oleronius, in turn repairing and replenishing the skin’s microbiome.
Elsewhere, Blue Agave extract contains prebiotic properties to help hydrate and reinforce the action of PreBIULIN AGA, while the plant-based squalane – pure and extracted from olives – and is proven to have a very high hydrating action while being non-comedogenic and non-reactive for sensitive skin.
3. Best For Dry Skin: Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
- Key ingredients: 10% azelaic acid, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
- Skin type: Best for sensitive-leaning skin, redness-prone skin and uneven texture (also great if you get the occasional breakout)
- Percentage: 10% azelaic acid
- Tester: Shani Cohen, Glamour’s Beauty Writer
Why we love it: I’ve been using this in my evening routine for a few weeks now, and it’s quickly become one of my most important steps. The 10% azelaic acid is the star - helping dial down my redness and keeping my skin looking clearer, which is a blessing during wintertime. It’s not just azelaic acid doing all the work either: this K-beauty hero is packed with hyaluronic acid for that hydration, plus niacinamide to help balance oil and even out tone over time. The texture is super light, so it sinks in quickly and layers really well with the rest of my routine (and yes, makeup too). Since using it, I’ve genuinely noticed my base goes on smoother and sits so much better. 10/10 from me.
Why we love it: You can always rely on Korean skincare to be gentle and soothing, and this Korean serum by Anua is no different. Formulated with an effective blend of 10% azelaic acid alongside hyaluronic acid, regular use will gradually help reduce the telltale signs of redness.
Hyaluronic acid will help hydrate skin, plus added niacinamide will help balance out any excess oil – all whilst evening out your skin tone.
“Consider this to be something of a magic potion: a hardworking blend of three of my all time favourite ingredients means this serum really delivers on every level. I found it easy to incorporate into my routine and before I started using it I expected it to leave my face feeling sticky but it didn’t do that all – instead it was a joy to apply both morning and night, it didn’t cause any pilling, either,” says Partington.
4. Best For Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Calmwise Serum
Why we love it: Medik8 is a brand that can do no wrong in the eyes of pretty much every Glamour editor, and its Calmwise Serum is a prime example of its science-backed efficacy. Fragrance- and alcohol-free, this rosacea serum is comprised of just seven ingredients that work to visibly reduce redness in just one month. It also promises to support and strengthen the skin’s barrier while leaving skin feeling calm and visibly restored.
Just six drops each morning is all you need, so consider this a great choice for flare ups or for everyday balance and comfort, especially during the winter.
“I was worried this serum would feel too oily for me, but actually it isn’t at all and instead it absorbs quickly into my skin without leaving any trace or film on top of it like some similar serums can. It is super calming and I noticed a difference right away – and despite the instructions saying to use it each morning, I actually quite like it as part of my evening routine when my skin is feeling warm or tight – something that often happens when I go from being cold outside to indoor central heating during the winter months," says Partington.
Save when you shop with these Medik8 Black Friday deals – and Sephora discount codes.
5. Best For Irritated Skin: Avène Cicalfate+ Intensive Restorative Serum
Why we love it: If your skin flares at even the slightest touch, Avène’s intensive serum could be your new holy grail. Specifically formulated for sensitive, rosacea-prone complexions, this lightweight serum helps to calm visible redness and irritation while helping to reinforce the skin’s natural barrier.
It’s infused with the brand’s iconic thermal spring water and promises to soothe and hydrate skin whilst making it feel visibly more comfortable, even on the most reactive days. It’s a true saviour for skin that craves calm.
Save when you shop with these LookFantastic promo codes, or wins in the Black Friday LookFantastic sale.
6. Best For Hydration: Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Serum Crystal Elixir
Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Serum is packed with hardworking ingredients, including soothing niacinamide, hydrating polyglutamic acid, brightening vitamin C and soothing peptides. It works to visibly soothe redness, refine pores and smooth texture.
“Expensive, yes, but my skin loves this serum so much that I’ve been through multiple bottles – and I credit it as the product that saved my dry, irritated, stressed-out skin during lockdown. It’s a real luxe treat, a bit like the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream, but it gets to work quickly and helps to give my skin back its glow, all whilst being barrier-friendly and soothing to boot,” says Partington.
After something else? Shop the Charlotte Tilbury Black Friday sale, and the Charlotte Tilbury advent calendar.
7. Best For Reactive Skin: Bioderma Sensibio AR+ Bl-sérum
If redness rules your complexion then consider this serum to be the calm in the storm. Uniquely formulated for reactive, rosacea-prone skin, the ultra-soothing formula works by targeting visible redness at the source thanks to clever Rosactiv tech.
It’s lightweight but deeply hydrating, and the blend of ingredients also work to strengthen the skin’s barrier and boost skin’s overall comfort levels. Over time, skin will feel less flushed and more balanced.
8. Best For Dull Skin: Paula’s Choice 7% Ectoin Milky Hydrating Serum
A new one from Paula’s Choice, this is a soothing powerhouse ideal for stressed, easily-flushed skin. It’s formulated with ectoin – a cutting-edge ingredient known and loved for its protective, barrier-repairing abilities.
It helps to calm visible redness while protecting skin against environmental damage. We love that it sinks into skin quickly and easily but never feels greasy, plus, added ceramides and probiotics help to brighten skin, leaving it feeling hydrated and looking glowy.
