How to Choose the Right Serum for Your Skin Type
We all know to cleanse and moisturize, but if you want to target specific skincare concerns, a serum is a must-have addition to your daily routine. Serums are a highly-concentrated product that penetrate deeply into the skin to deliver results where you need them most, and can quickly and effectively bring stressed skin into balance. While they tend to be pricey, serums are chock full of active ingredients, so if you choose your serum wisely, you can expect a return on investment.
Thanks to their light texture, serums are quickly absorbed and penetrate the skin easily, allowing ingredients to have a maximum impact. However, even serums that deliver hydration must be layered under a moisturizer, because they lack the lipid-replenishing ingredients found in face creams. Think of them as the antidote to specific issues, such as acne or pigmentation, and as a supplement to your regular routine.
Where do serums fit in your skincare routine?
A serum should be applied after cleansing and toning the face and before using a moisturizer. This is because a thick layer of cream can prevent a serum with a lighter consistency from penetrating deeper into the skin, rendering the product ineffective. If, on the other hand, the serum is worked into the skin before the cream, the active ingredients can virtually enhance the effect of subsequent skincare products. Remember: apply skincare from thinnest to thickest consistency. When applying, just a few drops of the product are usually enough for the entire face and décolletage.
While most serums can be used either day or night, antioxidant serums, like those containing vitamin C, can protect against sun damage and environmental factors when applied in the morning.
How do I find the right serum for me?
Consulting a proffessional aesthetician can be invaluable when deciding on which products to add to your routine. However, if you already know your skin type, keeping an eye out for certain ingredients can aid in making the best possible choice.
Blemishes: Look out for serums with sulfuric, salicylic acid, phytic acid, niacinimide, and zinc.
Anti-aging: Retinol is a must for increasing cell turnover. Ferulic acid and alpha and beta hydroxy acids as well as hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamin C, and glycolic acids can also delay skin aging.
Pigmentation: Ingredients such as vitamin C, lactic acid, mulberry extract, bearberry extract or licorice root extract are recommended.
Dryness: Hyaluronic acid , antioxidants, and plant oils moisturize the skin.
