A face serum is like a lightweight moisturizer and contains a higher concentration of active ingredients, such as glycolic acid, vitamin C, etc. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for an addition to your anti-aging skincare regime or if you struggle with dry skin, or skin prone to breakouts. In most cases, the serum has a water-like consistency, but it can also be in the form of a gel, light cream, and oil. Nowadays, you can easily find them in most convenient stores.
Types of Serums
Let’s take a look at a few of the types of serums available.
Anti-Aging
One of the most common concerns not resolved by moisturizers alone is aging. Serums help in reducing wrinkles and also produce collagen. Usually, this type contains retinol or bakuchiol. They can also reduce sagging and the appearance of under-eye dark circles.
Skin-Brightening
If you have dull skin and want to improve the overall tone, you might want to try a skin-brightening serum. They are full of antioxidants and certain other ingredients that reduce pigmentation and blemishes. Common ingredients include Vitamin C, kojic acid, glycolic acid, ferulic acid, licorice root, mushroom extract, or lactic acid. It’s also used to reverse sun damage and helps soothe sunburns.
Hydrating
If you have dry and flaky skin, it would be a good idea to invest in a hydrating serum. You can use it all year round or only in winter, depending on your skin. Usually, hydrating serums consist of hyaluronic acid, a molecule attached to the collagen. It binds water to the skin and hydrates it as a result. You’ll usually find a hydrating serum with Vitamin B5 in the stores.
Fighting Free Radicals
To combat free radicals and prevent them from damaging your skin, you need a serum packed with antioxidants. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can accumulate on the skin due to pollution and UV rays. The accumulation of these free radicals can cause illnesses and premature aging. When it comes to serums with antioxidants, choose one that contains Vitamin E, C, A, or resveratrol for the best results.
Acne-Prone or Sensitive Skin
If you have an acne breakout or are prone to breakouts, you can use a salicylic acid-based serum. Another anti-inflammatory and soothing ingredient that is useful in serums for sensitive and acne-prone skin is niacinamide.
Skin Texture
If you want smooth skin and want an all-purpose serum, get one with glycolic acid in it. This alpha hydroxy acid is derived from sugarcane and can help smooth and hydrate the skin.
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Benefits
Now let’s delve into the benefits of serums and why you should invest in one:
Fighting Acne
Serums are concentrated water-based solutions that are absorbed directly by the skin. If you have acne-prone skin, using a serum can help reduce the breakouts. A tea tree oil-based serum with 13% Niacinamide is an excellent option for combatting acne. It results in a clearer complexion as it can also reduce the acne scars.
Reducing Wrinkles
If you have aging skin and want to protect it from wrinkles, go for hyaluronic acid (HA) serum. It can help reduce wrinkles in just two weeks. It also boosts collagen production and prevents sagging of the skin. You can also try Retinol and Vitamin C-based serums. Always look for primary ingredients that have antioxidant properties.
Skin Brightening
To get clear and bright skin, use a serum with a higher concentration of Vitamin C. Depending on your skin type and requirements, you can use the serum once a day or every morning and night. From dull to bright skin, you’ll start noticing the change in a week or two.
Nourishing
Serums are lighter and contain active ingredients that easily absorb into the skin. Use a serum after cleansing your face and before applying a moisturizer in your everyday routine. It’ll help lock the moisture in your skin and give it a smooth and glowing finish.
Sun Protection
Anti-aging, brightening, and hydrating serums can soothe sunburns and also reduce sun spots & hyperpigmentation. The anti-inflammatory agent can reduce redness and help in healing wounds. Although it’s not an alternative to medicine in healing wounds, Vitamin C can increase mitogenic stimulation and quickly repair the damaged DNA bases.
Value for Money
A little goes a long way when applying a serum. They are, therefore, a great return for your money. Once you get one, you’ll start noticing the results in a week or two.
How to Apply?
Once you have cleansed and toned your skin, you can apply the serum before using any other product, such as moisturizer or BB cream. Use it once or twice a day, depending on your requirement. If you’re using it to reduce pigmentation or for antioxidants, it’s best to apply in the morning. Using an anti-aging serum is best if applied at night before sleeping. If you have dry skin and want to keep it hydrated, you might want to use it twice a day. If you’re using a serum for the first time, try testing it on a small area of your skin first and wait for 24 hours to see the results. Once you’re ready to use it regularly, it’s best to follow the instructions on the packaging. In general, you emulsify a drop or two in your hands and then apply it to your face and neck. As with every skincare product, you need to use it consistently and according to your needs. If your skin condition changes every season, try getting a general all-purpose serum or two types of serums accordingly.
