However, things became a lot more complex as time went on. Today, there are hundreds of skin care products available on online marketplaces and in retail stores. We have oils and essences and cleansing waters, blur creams, skin lotions (manual exfoliators), chemical exfoliators (chemical exfoliators), balms, butter, and boosters. There are also eye creams and neck creams, masks, facial peels, dark spot correctors, and other products. There’s a face serum somewhere in between all of these products. The face serum is now ubiquitous, with every brand having one. But there are still many questions about when and how to apply it.
Let’s Start by Asking What a Face Serum Is.
Face serums are more than just creams and lotions. They can be the core of your skincare regime. The consistency of these light products is somewhere in the middle of a gel and a liquid. “These lightweight products are used to penetrate the top layers of the Skin to address specific concerns on a Deeper Level, such as improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, evening out skin tone or overall brightening of skin,” Dianne Davy, M.D., cosmetic dermatologist, Dallas.
These serums are great for oily skin types who might be wary of using anything too heavy or too thick on their skin. The truth is that brands have created serums to meet the needs of almost all skin types. Aida Bicicj, celebrity facialist and celebrity guru, says that serums can even be made to treat loose skin. “As you grow older, you may want to use more than one.
Do I Need to Use Moisturizing and Face Cream?
It all depends. Davis states that they are both effective for different purposes. “Moisturizers and serums are different in that they tend to be thicker creams which focus on hydrating your skin throughout the entire day,” she says. This is important, as you should have both: a moisturizer that seals the goodness in and a serum that addresses your concerns more deeply (cue the serum). You can also save money at the drugstores and spend more on your serum.
There are exceptions to this rule. Davis mentions that some hydrating serums can moisturize oily complexions. However, they probably won’t do enough for dehydrated skin. Bij also points out that a thick, occlusive moisturizing cream might not be necessary during summer when there is more humidity. In this case, it might be possible to use a simple serum.
Use This Method to Apply Your Facial Serum.
Keep in mind that gentle touches go a long distance. It can cause skin irritation, especially around the eyes. Bicaj’s trick: Place a small amount in your hands, about a quarter of a teaspoon. Press it into your skin. To apply a watery serum to the skin, rub a few drops on your face. Don’t forget your neck!
Now that you are a serum expert grab one of my top picks and add it to your regimen.