This is one skincare step you don’t want to skip; it’s time to get serious about serums.
What Are They?
We’re sure you’ve all heard of serums, even if you haven’t incorporated them into your skin regimen. Serums are targeted, highly concentrated treatments that contain more active ingredients than your moisturiser. They’re used to combat wrinkles, age spots, pigmentation and other such skin concerns. The texture of a serum is usually thin, meaning it can absorb quickly and easily into your skin and be layered under your other skincare products.
Application is Everything.
How often you apply your serum is entirely product dependant, but the way in which you do so often doesn’t vary. If you apply your serum incorrectly you risk losing out on its potent yet beneficial properties.
Due to their high concentration, serums should be applied to freshly cleansed, slightly damp skin. This is because active ingredients absorb better when skin is clean and slightly moist. Always wait until your serum has totally absorbed into your skin before applying your suncream and moisturiser. You don’t need to ply on your serum as a little goes a long way. Use your fingers to apply the formula to your face and gently massage into your skin.
Which is best for you?
The best serums contain one or more of the following active ingredients: antioxidants, peptides, retinol, alpha and beta hydroxy acids and botanicals. To really up the ante on your skin regimen be sure to add in the following:
Oily Skin: To hydrate without adding extra oil to your skin, opt for a water based serum.
Dry Skin: Oil-based serums help to soothe and hydrate dry, flaky skin.
To Reduce Wrinkles: Daily irritants like pollution and UV rays can accelerate the ageing process. Antioxidants are your main defence in the war against wrinkles. One such antioxidant that works wonders is Vitamin C.
To Firm the Skin: Serums that contain large amounts of peptides and Hyaluronic Acid can assist in boosting collagen and elastin production (both are vital for plump skin). Vitamin A-based serums, used at night, once or twice a week also firm the skin.
To Brighten Skin Tone: Retinol is a wonder ingredient for those looking to illuminate and smooth out their skin. Exercise caution when using a serum containing retinol as they can cause skin irritation if used excessively.
At Bedtime: Skin repair happens best overnight, so before bed infuse your skin with a serum packed with essential oils and fatty acids. You’ll look ten years younger come sunrise, we promise!
Do you use a serum? If yes, which is your favourite?