The current anti-aging market is overloaded with products pushed by developers to take advantage of easy prey. Don’t be that easy prey. Knowing what exists and who it might help is, in this case, more than half the battle. Don’t be that person buying loads of miraculous tiny bottles only to find that you looked better before the investment. Of course, you should consult a dermatologist first, but the following three products and types of products are certainly worth looking into:

One such serum is actually a specially designed kit; the Cellex-C High Potency Serum 2-Step Starter Kit. While it is ideal for all skin types it is particularly recommended for a more mature, hyperpigmented demographic. It is a Vitamin C-based serum that works by stimulating the collagen in the skin. That collagen will then firm up the skin leading to a fresher look. At around $80 a kit it is not cheap, but given that it is a dermatologist-designed serum with a trusted history on the market it is also one of the more reliable.

A similarly priced but no less effective product is Chanel Precision’s Hydramax + Active Serum Moisture Boost. If you are prone to dry skin, as most of us are, especially those in colder climates, this is a good serum to keep handy. It is extremely light but the cream itself is full of vitamins to enrich and enliven the skin. The vibrant, almost tingly appearance and feel of the cream leaves a lasting impression, and is worth the extra investment.

This last recommended product is actually quite a bit less expensive than the above two, despite being the serum of choice by none other than Madonna herself; the Caudalie Pulpe Vitaminee Energizing Fluid. At around $59 a bottle it won’t exactly break the bank, and the fact that it is a more natural serum than most on the market might put you at ease. If it doesn’t, the result of this natural product will. One of the active ingredients in each bottle is grape seed extract, and most users agree the extract itself plays the most visible role in keeping their skin glowing. The fragrance is subtle, and the cream is perfect for those with more sensitive skin.

While the above three are certainly recommended they aren’t the end-all be-all. Consult with your dermatologist, and don’t be afraid to ask for and seek out samples before deciding what serum is right for you.