What do they do and why do I need one?
Close your eyes, and imagine a product can banish spots, smooth out wrinkles, plump and tone the skin – essentially bring it back to life. Is there such a product (one product), that can do all that, why yes – serums! Read on to find out more about the benefits of serums in your routine, how they stand apart from any other product on your shelves, and some tips and tricks to get the most out of your serum.
The truth about facial serums
You are far from alone in not knowing what on earth serums are and why you need one. You may even have several on your shelves and still have no clue, just that you should be using one to get the glowing skin we all crave. Serums are skincare products that you apply after cleansing and toning but before you apply oils and moisturisers, to deliver a powerful combination of ingredients.
Containing a high level of concentrated actives that act quickly, efficiently, and on several layers of your skin, serums are developed and designed to target specific skin concerns such as:
Anti-ageing
Dark spots and hyperpigmentation
Acne and clogged pores
Dehydration
Uneven skin tone, redness, and sensitivity
Serums are the go-to product for most skincare professionals too, as they consider them to be “…the true workhorses of any product line” if you want to achieve youthful glowing skin. Serums have a lower molecular weight, allowing the skin to absorb the active ingredients quickly and deeply. They are dammed full of powerful ingredients that not only transform your skin, but you can often skip your moisturiser as they contain moisturising ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, to help skin retain moisture. That said, if you have dry skin (myself included) you may need that extra top layer of occlusives to seal in moisture for the day.
Aesthetician Veronica Barton-Schwartz, owner of Veronica Skin and Body Care Centre in Malibu, Calif., who counts celebrities Olivia Newton-John, Suzanne Somers, and Cher among her clients, is also a fan. "I think everyone is doing their skin a disservice if they don't have a great serum."
Serums should be considered a category of their own as they stand apart from face oils, moisturisers, and essences. Yes, most serums are water-based but they are not an essence. Yes, they contain several moisturising ingredients, but they are not creams, lotions and oils.
The cost of serums
There is no denying, quality serums will be the most expensive product within your skincare routine and for good reason. Put simply, active ingredients are more expensive than thickeners. However, because of the high levels of concentrated actives, you need a lot less making them super-efficient and should last 2-3 months.
Who are they for?
Serums are pretty much for all skin types and those who prefer a more weightless feel to their Serums should be considered a great fit for all skin types and those who prefer a more weightless feel to their products. Often targeting more than one skin concern, be sure to read what that serum can do for your skin as you may find you only need one!
Frankly, life is too short to be applying layer upon layer of serums. Here at Vibrant Skin, we’re HUGE advocates of minimal effort and maximum results! We use only high-impact natural ingredients that have been scientifically proven to achieve significant changes in the quality of the skin. Each blended with exceptional craftmanship to achieve optimal results. Healthy, glowing skin - Oh yes, please!!
Still, serums aren't for everyone. The liquid or gel-like texture of a serum with active ingredients can be a poor match for people with chronic skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, and those with a weakened skin barrier. If this is you, serums tend to penetrate too quickly, and this can irritate the skin barrier.
How to apply serums
Adding a serum to your daily beauty routine? Here's how to apply these lightweight elixirs for maximum effect.
After cleansing and toning your face, apply a pea-sized amount of serum, patting it evenly over the skin with your finger.
If you have sensitive skin, wait for 10 to 15 minutes after washing your face before using the serum. When your skin is damp, applying a water-based product is more likely to lead to irritation. Allowing your skin to dry completely slows down penetration.
You don't need to skip the moisturiser you love. Just pat on your serum first, so it isn't blocked from penetrating your skin.
Is your serum too pricey for twice-a-day use? Try using the serum as a booster either a.m. or p.m., adding a couple of drops to your moisturiser.
Takeaway
If you’re after glowing, youthful, plump skin, you really can’t go wrong with a serum in your arsenal. The smaller molecule and the sophisticated combination of actives in today’s serums are ideal to nourish the inner layer of the skin, an area, oils, essences, and occlusives just can’t reach.
What’s your favourite Vibrant Skin serum?