A real concentrate of effectiveness – serums can be used to treat a plethora of skin problems: dryness, blemishes, dullness, spots, etc. What is a serum and how do you use it? How do you integrate it into your routine for maximal efficacy? We explain it all.
What is a serum and what is it good for?
A face serum is an ultra-concentrate of active ingredients. Its formula is normally water based and thus is light and fluid. Its texture, lighter than a cream, favours an in-depth penetration of the skin. Serums usually have a low molecular weight, given that its molecules are very small. This allows it to reach the derma, which is the most dense and rich layer of the skin (particularly, containing collagen and elastin). Therefore, it effectively prepares the absorption of the skincare products that will be applied afterwards, thus favouring their properties.
A serum is a deep and targeting treatment. It is designed to meet the skin’s specific needs. It can focus on one key ingredient (such as hyaluronic acid) or combine different active ingredients with different properties. You will inevitably find one adapted to your needs: redness, dryness, dullness, spots, blemishes and blackheads…
How is it different to a cream?
Creams and serums are both face care products, but their functions differ. Each has its own purpose, and they can complement each other perfectly. A cream is made up of a thicker formula, based on occlusive agents. This means that, as opposed to a serum, it is not designed to penetrate the epidermis, but to reinforce or create a protective barrier on it (hydrolipidic film).
A serum has the opposite aim: to penetrate the skin in its deeper layers. The cream, composed of several ingredients in small quantities is a product that nourishes the outer layer of the skin and protects it from external aggressions. The serum, with its more specific target, reinforces the effectiveness of the moisturising creams. The two products are perfectly complementary and act in synergy to provide the skin with optimal hydration.
How is it used?
Apply your serum after cleansing your skin. Add some droplets to the palm of your hand and massage them into your face. Follow up with your moisturizer, to lock the active ingredients of the serum into your skin.
How to choose a serum for one’s needs?
The choice for a serum is above all tied to your personal needs. The ideal serum depends on your skin concerns and will target them specifically. Do you have dry, tight skin? Are you seeing fine lines on the surface of your skin? Opt for a hydrating serum. Do you have oily and dilated pores? Go for a serum with salicylic acid. Do you have a dull complexion and want to give your skin an extra boost of radiance? Choose a serum that works on brightening the complexion, based on vitamin C. Don’t know what your skin is missing? Find the products you need with our skincare quiz. Answer a few questions in less than 3 minutes to find your personalized routine.
For a complete skincare routine, serums are a perfect complement to other skincare products. To moisturise your skin more effectively, or to correct multiple imperfections, these ultra-concentrated formulas will be your allies for a more plump, clear, and radiant skin.