Is SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum worth its luxury price? During a postpartum skin check, my dermatologist casually mentioned it like it was no big deal. “If you’re going to splurge on one thing for your face, make it this.” And like any sleep-deprived mom desperate for a little skin pick-me-up, I did.
Here’s my full, no-fluff, mom-of-three review after six weeks of using it — what worked, what didn’t, and whether it’s worth adding to your skincare shelf.
About SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum is one of those luxury skincare products that always makes the best-of lists for anti-aging. It’s packed with growth factors, peptides, and botanicals designed to firm, smooth, and improve overall skin texture.
It’s from Allergan, the same brand behind Botox and Juvederm, so it already had my attention. The claim? Firmer, brighter, healthier-looking skin in as little as one month.
When my dermatologist recommended this, promising visible results in 30 days, I figured it was worth a try. So I placed an order directly on the brand’s page on Amazon.com as I didn’t want to deal with international shipping hassles.
My Experience using this anti aging serum
The packaging is clean and expensive-looking, as it should be for the price. It uses a dual-chamber pump system. One side dispenses a reddish serum (the growth factors) and the other a creamy peptide blend. You mix them together and apply.
The scent is mildly medicinal. Not terrible, but not what you’d call spa-like or luxurious.
After One Week
My skin felt smoother, and my makeup applied better. I didn’t notice a huge visual difference yet, but the texture was definitely improved.
After One Month
Around the four-week mark, my skin tone looked more even, and there was noticeable firmness along my jawline. Fine lines on my forehead and under my eyes weren’t gone, but they softened.
However, the content in the bottle is very small. I saw the dimensions of the bottle and I thought for the expensive price tag, it was worth it. I used a small amount of product just as it stated. I was shocked how fast it ran out- as the bottle is huge!
I looked at the ounces and noticed their was only 1 oz of product in this giant bottle. They make it impossible to take this apart, I am assuming for this reason I stated. It took me about 5 minutes out on my deck with a hammer to open this bottle and it wa shocking.
Their is a very tiny little vial in the upper left hand corner of this bottle- that is where the small amount of cream is located. I am not quite sure I have ever seen anything like this. It is almost deceptive on purpose. Its a great product, but based on all the effort they make to include very little product in such a large bottle I will not buy again.
Pros
- Noticeable skin firming within four to six weeks
- Improves skin texture and overall glow
- Softens fine lines without causing irritation
- Lightweight, absorbs quickly, and layers well under makeup
Cons
- The $295 price tag is so pricey
- Smells a bit medicinal
- It contains very small serum
- The dual-pump can occasionally jam
Is SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum Worth It?
Honestly, yes — if your budget allows. It’s one of the very few high-end skincare products I’ve tried that actually gave noticeable results without any irritation. My skin looked firmer, brighter, and more even after six weeks.
That said, it’s not going to replace Botox, and it won’t erase every fine line overnight. It’s a steady, consistent kind of improvement. If you’re in your 30s or 40s looking to invest in your skin, it’s worth a spot on your wishlist.
Would I repurchase? well, I’d wait for a sale, redeem loyalty points, or hint for it as a Mother’s Day or birthday gift. It’s not an everyday staple for me, but it’s a solid splurge when my skin needs a pick-me-up.
A More Affordable Alternative
If nearly $300 isn’t in the cards, a good option is The Ordinary Buffet + Copper Peptides 1%. It doesn’t have the same clinical-grade growth factors, but it does a decent job with firming and brightening for under $20. I reach for it when I can’t justify the luxury price tag.
Final Verdict
SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum lives up to its reputation, but it’s definitely a treat-yourself product, not a skincare essential for everyone. It’s perfect for tired, postpartum, or aging skin in need of a safe, non-invasive glow-up. Just be prepared for the hefty price tag and a bit of a wait before you see major results.
Would I recommend it? Yes, if you’ve got the budget and patience. If not, there are decent alternatives that can keep your skin looking alive between splurges.
Have you tried it? Or do you have a favorite serum under $50? Drop it in the comments. I’m always down to test a good dupe.