9 Best Serums for Under Makeup 2026

This hydration hero delivers a powerful one-two punch of instant moisture and long-lasting glow, making it a standout in the crowded serum-primer space. Infused with purified hyaluronic acid, the lightweight formula plumps skin on contact, smoothing fine lines and creating a dewy canvas that makeup glides over effortlessly. It’s the ideal solution for anyone battling dull, dehydrated skin that sabotages their makeup finish—transforming lackluster complexions into radiant, healthy-looking bases in seconds.

In real-world use, the 1.0 fl. oz bottle may seem small, but a little goes a long way—just a few drops evenly distributed across the face provide all-day moisture without pilling under foundation. The serum-to-primer hybrid performs exceptionally on dry and combination skin types, locking in hydration and preventing midday flakiness. However, oily skin users may find the glow veers toward shine by hour eight, especially in humid climates. It’s not designed to control oil, so pairing it with a mattifying setting spray is recommended for longevity.

Compared to dedicated primers without skincare benefits, this Neutrogena hybrid bridges the gap between skincare efficacy and makeup prep like few others. While it doesn’t offer SPF or color correction, its strength lies in delivering pure, unadulterated hydration with zero irritation—making it a go-to for sensitive skin types. It outperforms basic moisturizers under makeup and holds its own against pricier serum-primer hybrids, offering a smoother, plumper base than the e.l.f. Holy Hydration Drops at a similar price point.

Meet your new hydration sidekick—this ultra-light gel serum delivers a burst of moisture that feels like a drink of water for thirsty skin, all while doubling as a glow-boosting primer. With 1% hyaluronic acid and 5% niacinamide, it doesn’t just quench dryness—it helps refine texture and brighten dullness over time, making it a rare budget-friendly pick that pulls double duty. Whether you’re layering it under foundation or wearing it solo, it solves the all-too-common problem of makeup clinging to dry patches without greasiness or pilling.

During testing, the drop formula proved highly customizable: one pump smoothed rough cheekbones, while mixing two drops into foundation created a lit-from-within finish that lasted through eight-hour workdays. It absorbs quickly, plays well with other products, and works across skin types—including oily skin, thanks to its non-greasy, fast-drying finish. However, those with very dry skin may need to follow up with a moisturizer in winter, as it hydrates but doesn’t fully seal in moisture like a heavier serum.

When stacked against the Neutrogena Hydro Boost, this e.l.f. serum offers more brightening power thanks to niacinamide, though it doesn’t plump quite as dramatically. It’s the smarter choice for those wanting tone correction and hydration in one, especially when compared to single-ingredient hyaluronic acid serums. For a fraction of luxury prices, it delivers visible radiance and prep power, making it the best budget bet for glowing, even skin under makeup.

This multitasking marvel redefines efficiency with a triple-threat formula that corrects, protects, and primes—all in one squeeze. The spiral-swirl design combines purple, green, and yellow pigments to neutralize redness, brighten dullness, and even out sallowness, delivering a balanced base that reduces the need for heavy concealer. With SPF 50 PA+++, it’s a rare under-makeup serum that offers serious sun protection without white cast or greasiness, making it ideal for daily wear under tinted moisturizer or BB cream.

In practice, the lightweight, oil-free texture spreads easily and sets quickly, creating a smooth, matte-hybrid finish that controls shine for up to six hours. It works particularly well for combination and oily skin types who want sun protection and color correction without clogging pores. However, dry skin users may find it slightly tight by midday, and the color-blend effect isn’t foolproof—those with deeper complexions may not see the pigments blend seamlessly, leading to a faint ashy tone if over-applied.

Compared to dedicated color correctors and SPF primers, this punches above its price tag in versatility, though it lacks the skincare depth of hydrating serums like the Neutrogena or e.l.f. triple-bounce formulas. It’s not designed for intense hydration or anti-aging benefits, but for those prioritizing sun safety and instant tone correction, it outperforms single-function primers. It’s the ultimate on-the-go essential for travel or rushed mornings, offering more functional value than the Maybelline Grippy Primer at nearly the same price.

If your skin feels like a parched desert, this hydration powerhouse is here to rescue it with a 1.7% hyaluronic acid surge that plunges moisture deep into the dermal layers. Layered with squalane and niacinamide, it doesn’t just hydrate—it locks it in, delivering a bouncy, plump finish that lasts all day, making it the top pick for anyone who struggles with flaky makeup or tight, uncomfortable skin. The gel texture absorbs instantly without stickiness, creating an ideal base that makeup floats over without catching on dry spots.

Real-world testing showed dramatic improvement in skin texture within days—fine lines around the mouth and eyes appeared softer, and foundation applied more evenly. The 1.7 fl. oz bottle offers excellent value, with just 3–5 drops needed per application. It performs beautifully under all types of makeup, from full-coverage foundation to skin tints, and doesn’t pill even when layered over other actives. However, those with oily skin should use it sparingly in humid weather, as the squalane content can amplify shine if over-applied.

When compared to the Thirst Burst Drops, this delivers deeper, longer-lasting hydration thanks to its higher hyaluronic acid concentration and occlusive squalane. While it lacks color-correcting or SPF benefits, its skin-restoring performance makes it a superior prep step for dry and mature skin types. It holds its own against luxury plumping serums, offering more intense moisture than the Neutrogena Hydro Boost at the same price point—making it the ultimate hydration upgrade under makeup.

This cooling rollerball wonder is a game-changer for morning puffiness, combining retinol and caffeine in a formula that de-puffs and brightens with every roll. The metal rollerball delivers an instant chill, constricting blood vessels and reducing under-eye bags within minutes—especially effective when stored in the fridge for a wake-up jolt. Ideal for late-night screen scorers or frequent flyers, it tackles the root causes of tired eyes: fluid retention, poor circulation, and early signs of aging.

In daily use, the serum absorbs quickly without migrating into the eyes, and consistent application over two weeks visibly plumps fine lines and fades shadowing. The retinol promotes cell turnover, while hyaluronic acid keeps the thin under-eye area hydrated—critical for preventing creasing under concealer. However, retinol sensitivity is a real consideration; beginners should start with every other night to avoid irritation. Also, the 0.51 fl. oz size means frequent reapplication may drain it quickly if used on larger areas.

Compared to the JOAH under-eye concealer-serum, this focuses purely on treatment, not coverage—making it better for long-term improvement rather than instant masking. It outperforms basic caffeine rollers with its anti-aging retinol infusion, offering more transformative results than the Milk Cooling Jelly Stick. For those wanting depuffing power and skin renewal, it’s the most effective under-eye serum under $10, especially when used as a pre-makeup treatment step.

This innovative jelly stick delivers an instant chill that’s like an ice globes session in solid form, making it the go-to for calming redness and heat-activated irritation. Powered by niacinamide and a Redness Calming Complex, it soothes reactive skin on contact, reducing the look of flushing caused by stress, weather, or screen exposure. The blue light protection feature is a standout—rare in skincare—and adds real value for digital-heavy lifestyles where prolonged screen time triggers inflammation.

The stick format is travel-friendly and hygienic, gliding smoothly onto clean skin with no need for fingers. It absorbs quickly, leaving a refreshed, even-toned finish that makes foundation application smoother over redness-prone zones. It’s particularly effective on the cheeks, nose, and jawline—common flare-up areas. However, the formula is light, so it may not suffice as a sole moisturizer for dry skin types. And while it calms redness, it doesn’t offer SPF, so sun protection must be layered separately.

Against the e.l.f. Bright Icon or JOAH serums, this excels in immediate soothing, not brightening or coverage. It’s less about transformation and more about instant relief, making it ideal for sensitive, rosacea-prone, or stressed skin. While pricier than most in the lineup, its targeted calming power and unique stick format justify the cost for those battling chronic redness. It’s the most innovative delivery system here, out-cooling the grace & stella roller and offering more specialized relief than general hydrators.

This makeup grip guru uses a Serum-To-Grip technology that transforms from silky serum to slightly tacky film in under 20 seconds—creating a literal “glue” layer that locks foundation in place for up to 24 hours. Infused with 2% niacinamide, it’s not just about hold—it helps smooth texture and minimize pores over time, making it a dual-action primer that enhances both short-term wear and long-term skin appearance. For anyone battling makeup that slides, separates, or fades by lunch, this is the ultimate staying-power solution.

In testing, foundation applied over it lasted noticeably longer, especially in humid conditions and on oily T-zones. The water-based formula layers well with all skin types, including sensitive skin, and doesn’t pill when paired with other products. However, the tacky finish isn’t for everyone—some users may find it uncomfortable or too sticky if they dislike that “second skin” feel. Also, it doesn’t add hydration or glow, so dry skin types should layer a moisturizer first to avoid emphasizing flakes.

Compared to the Neutrogena Hydro Boost, this trades radiance for resilience, making it better for long wear than dewy finish. It outperforms the e.l.f. Thirst Burst Drops in makeup longevity but doesn’t offer the same hydration or brightening. For those prioritizing flawless, unchanging makeup through weddings, events, or workdays, this is the most effective grip primer in the lineup—delivering professional-level hold at a drugstore price.

This radiance revolution packs a 15% vitamin C punch—a concentration high enough to deliver real brightening results—while being gentle enough for daily use. Combined with vitamin E and 0.5% ferulic acid, it stabilizes the formula and boosts antioxidant protection, helping to fade dark spots, even skin tone, and shield against environmental damage that dulls makeup. It’s the best choice for anyone whose foundation looks patchy due to hyperpigmentation or uneven texture, turning discolored skin into a smooth, luminous canvas.

The serum absorbs quickly with a satin-matte finish, making it an excellent base for makeup without pilling or greasiness. Used consistently, it visibly reduces post-acne marks and sun spots within four weeks. It’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, suitable for most skin types, though sensitive users should patch-test due to the high vitamin C content. That said, it must be paired with SPF—vitamin C increases photosensitivity, and skipping sunscreen can worsen pigmentation.

Against other brightening serums like the Thirst Burst Drops, this delivers more dramatic tone correction thanks to its clinical-grade antioxidant blend. While the Triple Bounce Serum hydrates better, this one transforms skin clarity. It matches pricier vitamin C serums in performance, offering professional-level brightening at a fraction of the cost—making it the top pick for glowing, even-toned skin under makeup.

This K-beauty hybrid masterfully combines peptide-rich serum with medium coverage in a cushion-tip applicator that blends seamlessly into delicate under-eye skin. Infused with ceramides and peptides, it hydrates, firms, and blurs fine lines while masking dark circles—making it ideal for mature or dry under-eyes that reject traditional concealers. The soft sponge tip glides without tugging, depositing just enough product to brighten without settling into creases, even after eight hours.

In real use, it performs best when patted in with fingertips after serum, creating a skin-like, crease-resistant finish that looks natural in daylight. It’s particularly effective for moderate dark circles and puffiness, though severe discoloration may require layering. While it’s not as cooling as a rollerball, the formula itself helps reduce puffiness over time. However, the cushion tip can harbor bacteria if not cleaned regularly, and the product dries out faster than tube serums if left uncapped.

Compared to the grace & stella roller, this offers both treatment and coverage, making it better for daytime use when you want to look awake instantly. It doesn’t depuff as fast as the Milk Jelly Stick, but its long-term skin benefits and flawless finish make it the best all-in-one under-eye solution. For those wanting skincare-powered coverage, it outperforms basic concealers and rivals high-end serum concealers in performance.