Think your current skincare regimen is complete? If it doesn’t include a face serum (a.k.a. skin serum), you could be missing out on an array of beauty benefits!
What is serum?
A face serum is a lightweight moisturizer that penetrates the skin more deeply—and contains a greater concentration of active ingredients (e.g., vitamin C, hyaluronic acid)—than a traditional moisturizer. Most face serums are water-based and include fewer “heavy” ingredients (e.g., mineral oil, nut oils, seed oils) than their traditional counterparts.
What does serum do?
Regular use of face serums can make your skin appear smoother, firmer and more youthful. It can also reduce inflammation and redness and help shrink open pores, which may result in fewer blackheads and whiteheads.
Although face serums provide some hydration, experts still recommend using them in conjunction with a traditional moisturizer for maximum nourishment.
When should you use a face serum?
The best time to use a face serum depends on both the formula and your skincare regimen. Face serums can be applied in the morning, in the evening or at both times. However, those who already use a topical retinoid should avoid applying a skin serum at night, experts warn, as it may cause irritation.
Face serum may also cause aggravation for individuals with certain chronic skin condition, such as rosacea or eczema. Always consult a dermatologist prior to beginning a new skincare routine and follow the directions on the product packaging unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
Choosing a face serum
Different face serums may contain different active ingredients. But keep an eye out for some common (and highly beneficial) ones, including:
- Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, grape seed extract and pomegranate extract, which protect skin from sun damage and help stave off fine lines and other signs of aging
- Anti-inflammatories, such as aloe vera, arnica, goldenseal and zinc, which help reduce redness and inflammation
- Hydrators such as amino acids, ceramides and essential fatty acids, which strengthen, nourish and protect skin from dryness and fine lines
Product picks
Following are some of our favorite face serums—including two skin serum sticks, which make application easier than ever! When using any of these incredible serums, be sure to remember that a little goes a long way!
Avalon Organics Wrinkle Therapy Facial Serum. This powerful skin serum “pairs Co-Enzyme Q10—a natural fuel for cellular energy, and rosehip oil—rich in skin-replenishing lipids, vitamins and antioxidants, to energize skin and counteract visible aging.” In addition, hyaluronic provides a plumping effect while promoting moisture retention for improved firmness and elasticity. It’s clinically proven!
Reviva Labs Hyaluronic Acid Serum. This hydrating serum helps increase skin’s moisture levels to “fill-In furrows, plump-up tissues and tone-down lines.” And according to its manufacturer, aestheticians have stated that it’s “the closest a cosmetic comes to a dermatologist injection of Restylane (hyaluronic acid).” Use it on its own or pair it with your favorite moisturizer.
CSI Vitamin C + 12% Youth Serum. This star serum “brightens, firms and tones skin” while helping “fight and repair sun damage.” It’s made of natural-derived, high-quality ingredients and recommended for all types of skin. Hypoallergenic!
Acure Seriously Soothing Serum Stick. This convenient serum stick allows you to “stick it to dry skin” with a combination of combo of grape seed oil, blue tansy oil and hyaluronic acid. Store it in the refrigerator for a “cooling blast” and apply as needed. For sensitive to normal skin.
Acure Radically Rejuvenating Serum Stick. This serum stick slides on easy to “defy dull skin” with a combination of avocado, marula oil and rose. It can also be refrigerated for a “cooling blast.” Are you ready for a radically rejuvenated complexion?
