Understanding the Benefits of Using a Face Serum
Facial serums have a very lightweight texture and a small molecular weight. This allows them to deliver active ingredients to the deeper layers of the skin without adding excess oil and grease behind.
Before choosing a facial serum to add to your routine, you should consider your main concerns and aims. Antioxidant vitamin C serums are a great place to start as they’re very effective at improving overall skin quality – from brightening the complexion to protecting the skin against environmental aggressors.
Target your specific concerns
SkinCeuticals’ antioxidant serum range comprises three different formulas to target different skin types and concerns in addition to providing environmental protection. C E Ferulic’s formula is designed to target visible aging signs with the addition of vitamin E – a very hydrating antioxidant, while Phloretin CF helps to prevent environmental damage while specifically targeting discolouration. The range’s latest addition, Silymarin CF, is formulated for the needs of oily and blemish-prone skin.
Maintain a strong skin barrier
If you suffer with dryness and dehydration, a serum formulated with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid can be very effective at delivering lightweight and long-lasting hydration to the skin. While a moisturiser penetrates the top layers of the skin, a serum can help take moisture to the deeper layers of the epidermis. You can also use hydrating serums to counterbalance the exfoliating effect of treatments that contain ingredients such as retinol or alpha-hydroxy acids. By pairing these ingredients with a serum such as SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier serum, you can help to maintain moisture levels, keep the skin barrier strong, and reduce any associated irritation.
Tips for Applying Face Serums
Apply your skincare correctly and in the right order
Face serums are designed to be applied after cleansing and before your usual moisturiser. This will ensure the serum is being delivered to clean skin and any debris, makeup and sebum have been removed from the pores. As serums have a very lightweight texture, you only need to apply two to three drops, patting it gently into the skin (rather than rubbing). Once the serum is fully absorbed, you can follow with a moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen, if applying in the morning.
Common mistakes to avoid
It's important to be mindful of the ingredients you mix together within your skin regime, and that they aren’t too harsh for your skin. For instance, if your serum has exfoliating ingredients within it such as alpha-hydroxy acids or retinol, make sure the rest of your routine is very gentle and hydrating, so you don’t compromise the skin barrier. You should also check how often your serum should be applied – some formulas are safe for daily use while others (such as those that contain salicylic acid and retinol) may only be suitable a few times a week. If you aren’t sure, go slowly at first to see how your skin feels and reacts to the ingredients within it. You can then build up usage over time.
Finally, don’t forget to store your serum in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight with the lid tightly screwed on. This is because air, sun and heat can often degrade active ingredients with your skincare such as L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Your serum will also have a use by date on its bottle, so be sure to take note of that once you open it.
Healthy, Glowing Skin
Once you start using a serum in your everyday skincare routine, you may feel an immediate difference in your complexion, but it may take six to eight weeks to notice more dramatic results and see an improvement. Stay consistent and the glow will follow.
By following the tips and tricks in our handy guide, you can help to maximise the results of your favourite serum and achieve beautiful, glowing skin. Don’t forget to share this guide with your friends and family too so they can also benefit from the power of a facial serum.
Not sure where to start? Explore our range of antioxidant and corrective serums that will enhance your daily routine.
FAQs
Featured Products
Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Multi-Glycan
A hyaluronic acid volumising and plumping serum.
C E Ferulic For Visible Signs of Ageing
Vitamin C Antioxidant Serum For Normal & Dry Skin Types
