Why should you consider using a serum?
Serums are often considered one of the most mysterious products in skin care. You may have a collection of different types (we do), but can you honestly admit that you really know what they actually do for your skin? We put together a serum overview so you can check it out and get a better understanding of this amazing product.
What is a serum?
Serums are a blend of powerful active ingredients that are used to treat a range of skin concerns. You’ll find that they can vary in consistency, but they are generally water-based and absorb into the skin in record time! Their formulas are made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate the lower layers of the skin. By penetrating deeper into the skin, they are perfect for treating areas like wrinkles and fine lines.
What are the benefits of serums?
Honestly, the benefits of serums for the skin are huge. With a wide variety of ingredients (hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and vitamin C, to name a few), the possibilities are endless. The point of a serum is to have a high amount of active ingredients that can penetrate deeper into the skin and fight skin issues.
Here are some of the key benefits of serums:
Serums can boost collagen production and help fight signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles.
Serums can lock in moisture in the skin and prevent it from drying out.
Serums can reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone.
Serums can protect the skin from harmful free radicals and environmental influences like pollution.
Serums can treat blemish-prone skin and prevent further formation of spots and blemishes.
That all sounds pretty impressive, right? You might be wondering why you should use a moisturizer when serums are so effective.
While serums can provide great hydration and nourishment to the skin, it is still recommended to use a moisturizer because they work on the outer layer of the skin and form a protective barrier on the face to keep all the good stuff in the skin and keep the bad stuff out. Get caught. This makes serums and moisturizers a powerful combination in your skincare routine.
Why should I use a serum?
Ultimately it depends on you and the products you use on your skin because it is your skin after all. However, if you find that despite the time and effort you put into cleansing, toning, and moisturizing your face every day, your skin looks dull, lackluster, and showing the first signs of aging, then you may have decided that adding a serum to your routine is the right solution.
Serums are more concentrated than moisturizers and work faster because once they penetrate the skin, they can work virtually undisturbed while the facial epidermis is protected by the moisturizer. It’s a win-win situation!
How to use a serum?
To ensure your serum is at its best, you need to use it at the right stage of your routine.
Here are the key steps you need to follow to ensure your serum works its best:
Make sure all traces of makeup have been removed using a makeup remover (preferably not wipes).
Cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove all traces of makeup, dirt, debris, oil, and daily accumulated grime and impurities.
Next, use a facial toner. This will remove the layer of dead skin cells that creates a barrier and makes it difficult for the serum to absorb into the skin.
Now comes the serum. Apply the serum all over your face (be sure to avoid your eyes) and allow the serum to fully absorb into the skin for a few minutes.
Use your favorite moisturizer to create a protective barrier and keep your skin’s water and oil levels balanced.
Lastly, apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to ensure your skin is protected from UV rays.
This is a great example of a basic skin care routine to try when you feel like your skin is missing something and needs a little boost.
Serums are considered the most expensive skin care product, but this is definitely an investment worth spending your hard-earned money on. The potent formula of a serum is incredibly powerful and effective and will do wonders for your complexion if used correctly.
When should I start using a serum?
Yesterday! But honestly, there is no wrong time to start using a serum in your routine. Prevention is the secret to keeping your skin healthy, happy, and youthful. So the sooner you start, the better!
Should you use a serum every day?
Yes or no, it’s still best to check by looking at the label. It all depends on the ingredients used and the idea behind the formula. For example, a night serum may contain retinol, which is UV-sensitive and ineffective when used during the day. However, generally speaking, most serums can be used every day.
Is using a serum right for my skin type?
Almost everyone will benefit from using a serum. Here are the key ingredients to consider when looking for the best serum for you and your skin type:
Oily Skin Prone to Blemishes –
Vitamin C
Retinol
Salicylic Acid
Zinc
Dry Skin –
Glycolic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid
Vitamin E
Niacinamide
Sensitive Skin –
A word of caution for those with sensitive skin. Due to the power of a serum, the potent ingredients can be a bit heavy and cause irritation. It’s always a good idea to do a 24-hour patch test before applying a serum to your skin.
For dull skin, using an antioxidant-rich serum can help prevent free radical damage to your skin and leave it looking rejuvenated. If you have any concerns or questions about using a serum, contact your dermatologist for further advice.
Serums are an amazing skin-transforming product and hopefully you now have a better understanding of what serums can actually do for your skin. With so many options on the market, many of which produce fantastic results, you really are spoilt for choice!
