Best 5 Face Serums for Men in 2025 – Tested and Reviewed

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Best 5 Face Serums for Men Over 40 (Tested in 2025)

Let’s face it — when you hit your 40s (and especially your 50s like me), your skin doesn’t bounce back like it used to.

I’m 51, a men’s lifestyle blogger (since 2013), and I’ve tested more skincare products than I can count — from budget buys to premium serums that promise the world. I’ve got what I’d call “normal skin,” but with age, a bit of stress (and four kids at home), I started noticing fine lines, dull patches, and the occasional “you look tired” comment. That’s when face serums became a real game changer for me.

They’re not just a trendy add-on — the right serum can brighten your skin, smooth out texture, fade dark spots, and give your face that healthier, rested look. But the trick is finding one that actually delivers, feels good on your skin, and fits into a simple routine.

So here are five I’ve personally used and loved. Whether you’re dealing with tired skin, early signs of aging, or just want to upgrade your skincare game — these are the ones I’d recommend to any man over 40.

What You Should Know First

• I’m 51 and I’ve been testing men’s skincare for over 10 years.

• I only recommend products that genuinely work on my skin. If I ever get irritation or a breakout, I’ll say it.

• I’ve personally used every serum on this list — on my own skin.

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1. Brickell Repairing Vitamin C Serum for Men

If there’s one product I’ve stuck with for months now, it’s this one. The Brickell Repairing Vitamin C Serum has become a permanent part of my morning routine — and for good reason.

I apply it right after washing my face, and once it’s fully absorbed (which takes just a minute or two), I follow up with a moisturizer. That combo keeps my skin looking fresh and smooth throughout the day. And honestly, this serum alone makes a noticeable difference — especially when my skin feels dull or tired.

So what makes this one stand out? It's packed with natural, high-performance ingredients:

• Vitamin C – This is the hero here. It helps brighten the skin, even out your tone, and gives your face a more rested look. It also boosts collagen production and reduces the effects of sun exposure — so if you’ve had years of not wearing SPF (like many of us), this helps.

• Plant Stem Cells – These work at a cellular level to reduce inflammation and protect your skin over time.

• MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) – Found in spinach, kale and superfoods, it’s great for fading age spots and pigmentation.

What I really like is how lightweight and fast-absorbing it is — no greasy residue, no weird stickiness. Just clean, bright, hydrated skin. Plus, as someone who’s tested loads of serums, I can say that Brickell’s formula is gentle enough for daily use, even on slightly sensitive skin.

The scent is light and fresh, and the pump bottle makes it easy to get just the right amount. If you’re new to face serums, this is the one I’d recommend starting with — simple, effective, and genuinely good for your skin. Available on Amazon (click here)

It’s perfect for men over 35 who want to brighten dull skin, even out tone, and fight the early signs of aging — without fuss.

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2. Kiehl’s Age Defender Power Serum

This one feels like it was made for men over 40. The Kiehl’s Age Defender Power Serum is a quick-absorbing, no-fuss formula that gives your skin a firmer, smoother look — and it genuinely works, especially if your skin is starting to feel a little looser or tired.

I use this one in the evening, after cleansing, when my skin needs something a bit more targeted. What I like is how lightweight it is — no greasy feel, no shine, just a clean, smooth finish. And it absorbs in seconds, which makes it super practical if you’re not into multi-step routines.

What sets it apart are the two main ingredients:

• Cypress Extract – Known for its antioxidant properties, it helps protect and firm the skin. It’s what gives the formula that fresh, slightly woodsy scent too, which I actually enjoy — very masculine, without being overpowering.

• Adenosine – This is where the science comes in. Within this formula, adenosine is known to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines over time. If you're seeing deeper lines around the mouth or forehead, this ingredient helps soften them gradually.

Kiehl's Age Defender Power Face Serum, Anti-Aging Firming Facial Serum for Men, Reduces Look of Fine Lines & Wrinkles, Quick-Absorbing, Lightweight, with Cypress Extract & Adenosine - 2.5 fl oz

Kiehl's Since 1851

Buy on Amazon

Kiehl’s has done a great job making this feel like a no-nonsense serum: simple, targeted, and backed by research. It pairs well with a night moisturizer or can be worn on its own if your skin isn’t too dry.

Ideal for men looking to firm up sagging skin, reduce wrinkles, and keep their face looking strong and healthy — without going full “12-step routine.”

3. ManLabs Titan Peptide Max Serum

Now we’re stepping into premium territory — and honestly, this one blew me away.

The Titan Peptide Max Serum by ManLabs is a real upgrade in every sense. It’s more expensive than the other serums on this list (almost double, in fact), but the results speak for themselves. From the first week I used it, I could feel my skin responding — smoother texture, more elasticity, and just that “healthy glow” you don’t get from standard products.

I use it right after the ManLabs Toning Cleanser (review coming soon), applying the serum while my face is still slightly damp. Once it’s absorbed, I follow up with my usual moisturizer — and honestly, it feels like I’ve just had a professional treatment.

What makes this serum so powerful is its advanced peptide complex, designed to support skin firmness and boost collagen production. The formula also includes skin-restoring ingredients that target fine lines, dullness, and early signs of aging. You can tell right away that this is not your average serum. Available at Manlabs (here)

If you want the best of the best — and you’re ready to invest in your skin — this is the one I’d recommend. It feels like giving your face a first-class ticket every day.

4. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

You’ve probably heard of The Ordinary — it’s one of the most talked-about skincare brands in the world, and with good reason. This Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum is one of their absolute best sellers, and while it’s not specifically made for men, it works incredibly well — especially if you have slightly oily or blemish-prone skin.

I use it regularly, and my skin loves it. It’s lightweight, fast-absorbing, and doesn’t leave any residue. I usually apply it in the morning or evening (depending on my routine), and I find it really helps to even out my complexion and keep any shine under control.

It’s also extremely affordable — which makes it a brilliant option if you’re just starting to build your skincare routine or you don’t want to invest in a premium serum right away.

So what’s inside?

• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – This multitasking ingredient helps to visibly reduce enlarged pores, control oil production, and improve uneven skin tone. It’s great if your skin gets a bit shiny or you’re prone to breakouts.

• Zinc – Helps calm the skin and reduce redness, while supporting barrier function. Especially useful if your skin reacts to stress, shaving, or changes in weather.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Smoothing Serum for Blemish-Prone Skin, 1 Fl Oz

DECIEM

Buy on Amazon

I’d recommend this one to men of all ages, but especially if you’re in your 20s, 30s or early 40s and just want clearer, smoother skin without spending a fortune. It’s also a good choice if you don’t need a full-on anti-aging serum (yet).

5. Blu Atlas Vitamin C Serum

I’m finishing this list with one of my favourite brands — Blu Atlas. If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you already know how much I rate their skincare range. Their Vitamin C Serum is no exception: it’s a powerful, well-balanced formula that simply works.

I use it after cleansing with their Volcanic Ash Face Cleanser, and honestly, the combo leaves my skin feeling smooth, clean, and visibly brighter. The serum absorbs quickly, doesn’t feel sticky, and gives your skin that healthy glow that just makes you look more awake — even when you’re not.

What I like about Blu Atlas is that they keep things simple but effective — clean formulas, elegant packaging, and products that feel premium without being overcomplicated.

The star of this serum is, of course:

• Vitamin C – Known for its ability to brighten dull skin, even out tone, and boost collagen. It’s ideal if your skin is starting to show signs of aging, or if you just want to look more refreshed.

What’s great is that it works for most skin types, and it layers beautifully under moisturizer and SPF.

If you’ve never tried anything from Blu Atlas, this is a brilliant place to start. And just a heads up — I have an exclusive code that gets you 10% off your order.

👉 Use code DAPPERANDGROOMED at checkout: CLICK HERE

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How to Use a Face Serum (The Right Way)

Using a face serum is simple — but getting the order right makes a big difference.

Here’s how I do it every day:

1. Start with a clean face – Use a gentle face wash to remove dirt and oil (I use Blu Atlas or Brickell, depending on the day).

2. Apply the serum while your skin is still slightly damp – Just a few drops are enough. Gently pat it in with your fingertips — no rubbing.

3. Let it absorb fully – Give it 30 to 60 seconds. The skin should feel dry before the next step.

4. Follow with a moisturizer – Lock in the serum’s benefits with a good face cream. Morning or night, don’t skip this step.

5. In the morning, always finish with SPF – Especially if your serum contains Vitamin C or active ingredients.

That’s it. Clean, serum, moisturize — done.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a 12-step routine to take care of your skin — just a few smart choices that work. A good face serum can make a real difference, especially as we get older. Whether you're dealing with dullness, fine lines, or just want to give your skin a healthy boost, the five serums I’ve shared here are ones I’ve personally used and genuinely recommend.

From the affordable and effective formula by The Ordinary to the premium experience of ManLabs, there’s something here for every budget and skin type. Just remember: wash your face, apply the serum, follow with a moisturizer, and stick with it. Your skin will thank you — trust me.

Jerome

I’m Jerome, a 51-year-old men’s skincare and grooming blogger. I’ve been reviewing face serums, moisturizers, and anti-aging products for over a decade — helping men over 40 find what really works.

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