Last Updated on March 22, 2026 by omgbart
This serum claims five benefits in one drop. Here’s how it really performed on my skin.
The Olay Super Serum is priced around $40 and boasts multiple treatment properties that address a wide range of skincare concerns. I picked up a bottle at Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada. My thought: buying skincare north of the border can only be a perk, right? It’s not uncommon for formulas to differ slightly, a result of stringent FDA regulations.
What is Olay Super Serum?
The Olay Super Serum is a 5-in-1 treatment and the brand’s most powerful formula to date. It delivers lasting hydrating and corrects issues such as loss of firmness, discoloration, uneven tone, rough texture, and fine lines. After consistent use, I am a fan of the medium-weight texture (richer than most water-based serums I have tried) and how it layers with my other richer, more moisturizing formulas. Performance wise, my skin has definitely looked brighter and felt softer. It's important to stay equal parts optimistic and realistic. No dramatic results happen overnight.
Key Ingredients in Olay Super Serum
Since the Super Serum targets 5 very specific complexion conundrums, each area of concern is addressed by an ingredient proven to correct that very issue. Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) brightens the skin, Lactic Acid (a gentle Alpha Hydroxy) exfoliates for a smoother appearance, Niacinamide hydrates and helps refine the look of enlarged pores, Collagen Peptide keeps the skin firm and bouncy, Vitamin E offers antioxidant protection and anti-inflammatory benefits, and lastly, Hyaluronic Acid retains skin hydration levels.
Yes, there is fragrance in Olay’s Super Serum but I find it to be pleasant and non-irritating (as a rule, my skin is not sensitive to added fragrance). A touch of Mica and Titanium Dioxide provides a subtle blurring and light reflecting effect. And while you will notice that pearly purple hue when you dispense the product, there's no need to worry about any sparkle. It absorbs quickly with a very natural-looking finish–not the slightest bit shimmery.
P.S. I did not notice any ingredient discrepancies among the formulas sold in the US and Canada.
How to Use Olay Super Serum (and When)
The Super Serum slots very easily into your existing skincare routine. It’s your treatment step that goes on cleansed/exfoliated/toned skin before a moisturizer and/or sunscreen. I’ve had no issues with the formula pilling and find that it works great day or night. If you’d like to use it in the mornings, you can, since the exfoliating properties of the formula are quite mild.
As with Alpha Hydroxy Acid anything, it’s important that you avoid the area around the eyes during the application. Make sure to follow up with broad-spectrum sunscreen if you opt for daytime use.
Is Olay Super Serum Worth It?
At 45, I'm particular about my serums. Most days, I reach for a Vitamin C serum in the morning and a Retinoid at night. Preferably, both formulas contain Hyaluronic Acid and either one includes Ceramides or Peptides. The truth is, I rarely turn a 3-in-1, 5-in-1, or all-in-one into a non-negotiable staple in my routine. However, I’ve enjoyed the Olay Super Serum on a few getaways recently.
For one thing, it hasn't required more space in an already overstuffed travel bag. If you’re in your twenties and just developing an anti-aging angle to your routine, this Olay formula is a great place to start. If you’re an advanced skincare user and prefer to pack light, this is a multi-tasker worth keeping around.
$39.99 (30ml) at boots.com (where there is always a sale or promo going on) or you can grab it for $43.99 at ulta.com.
For more budget-friendly skincare gems, check out my curation of Amazon finds RIGHT HERE.
Frequently asked questions
What does Olay Super Serum do?
It's a 5-in-1 treatment that addresses five common skin concerns in a single formula. Vitamin C brightens, Lactic Acid exfoliates, Niacinamide refines pores and hydrates, Collagen Peptide firms, and Hyaluronic Acid retains moisture. The formula also contains Vitamin E for antioxidant protection. For a $40 drugstore serum the ingredient list is genuinely impressive.
Can you use Olay Super Serum with retinol?
Yes but keep them in separate routines. Olay Super Serum in the morning and retinol at night is the cleanest approach. The Lactic Acid in the formula is mild enough for daytime use but layering it with retinol in the same sequence adds unnecessary stress to the skin barrier.
Is Olay Super Serum good for sensitive skin?
The formula does contain fragrance which is worth knowing if your skin is reactive. The exfoliating component — Lactic Acid — is one of the gentler AHAs so irritation risk is low. If you have sensitive skin start with evening use only and monitor how your skin responds before adding it to your morning routine.
When should you use Olay Super Serum in your routine?
After cleansing and before moisturizer or sunscreen. It works morning or evening. If you use it during the day follow with broad-spectrum SPF — the Lactic Acid increases sun sensitivity. Avoid the eye area regardless of when you apply it.
Is Olay Super Serum worth the price?
At around $40 for 30ml it's one of the more credible multitasking serums at the drugstore price point. If you prefer a simplified routine or need a travel-friendly all-in-one, it delivers real value. Advanced skincare users who already layer multiple targeted serums may find it less essential — but as a travel companion or routine simplifier it's hard to beat at this price.
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