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7 Best Skin Serums — And Why You Should Add One to Your Makeup Routine
March 24, 2022
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It’s no secret that serums are an important step in building your skincare routine. But did you know they can also help your makeup prep? To find out more about what serums do for your skin, we consulted Dr. Adam Geyer, a board-certified dermatologist. Continue reading for the best serums to use before you apply your makeup.
What Is a Serum?
“Serums are usually formulated with a higher concentration of active ingredients so that a few drops are sufficient to cover the entire face,” says Dr. Geyer. “By using a serum, people can intensify the strength of their regimen or round out the ingredients they are applying to their skin to provide a more comprehensive approach to anti-aging and hydration. The texture is usually lighter than a moisturizer, which allows for it to be used as a stand-alone product for someone with oilier skin, or used under a moisturizer for someone with normal to dry skin.”
When Should You Apply a Serum?
Serums should be applied twice daily. “They are the first products that should be applied to the skin after cleansing and toning,” Geyer explains. “A sunscreen should be applied over the serum in the morning, and a moisturizer appropriate for an individual’s skin type should be used over the serum at night. Apply the serum with one or two fingers (to avoid wasting the serum on your hands) and massage thoroughly into the skin.”
The Best Serums to Try
Now that you’ve got the basics and application covered, which serum should you choose? Well, the answer depends on your skin goals. “There are many different types of serums and both the active ingredients and the texture can provide different functions and benefits,” Geyer explains. “Serums formulated in a water base, for example, tend to be well-suited for those with oily skin, and those with a richer texture, or formulated with oils, tend to work well for those with drier skin. However, it’s really the combination of active ingredients that define the serum.”
Ahead, find seven of our favorite serums that are perfect for your morning makeup prep.
Skin Serum for Firming: Youth To The People Triple Peptide + Cactus Hydrating + Firming Oasis Serum
A more hydrated, plumper and firmer appearance makes a better canvas for any glam. Youth To The People’s latest offering is formulated with a moisture-multiplying matrix of peptides, hyaluronic acid, and super replenishing cactus stem that keeps skin bouncy and healthy.
Skin Serum for Dark Spots: Vichy LiftActiv B3 Serum Dark Spots & Wrinkles
Dark spots caused by hyperpigmentation could be tricky to cover up with concealer and foundation so help lessen the damage with this anti-aging serum. Clinical results show that in just eight weeks, dark spots (and wrinkles) are reduced. Basically, adding this to your skincare regimen prior to makeup application could be your secret weapon to a more even complexion.
Skin Serum for Hydration: Garnier Green Labs Hyalu-Aloe Hydrating Serum Gel
This refreshing, water-based formula actually replaces three products in one go: an eye cream, a serum and a moisturizer. Hyaluronic acid and aloe vera deeply hydrate and help reduce the appearance of puffiness under the eyes.
Skin Serum for Dullness: IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Dullness Vitamin C Serum
Boost your skin’s radiance in just 10 days with this potent antioxidant serum. Made with 15% vitamin C, it helps brighten dull skin and defend against free radicals.
Skin Serum for Enlarged Pores: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Anti-Aging Pore Minimizer Face Serum
You might be used to applying primer to make your pores look smaller before makeup, but did you know you can use a serum for the same purpose? This one contains glycolic and lipo-hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate the skin and minimize the appearance of pores.
Skin Serum for Moisture: L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
Hyaluronic acid is amazing for making skin appear plumper and reducing the appearance of fine lines, which leads to a smoother base under makeup. This serum absorbs quickly and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive. Just be sure to top it with a moisturizer, as hyaluronic acid pulls moisture into the skin.
Skin Serum for Nourishing: Graydon Superfood Serum
The road to smooth and supple skin is made easy with this velvety-smooth revitalizing serum from Graydon. It contains a powerful blend of superfood oils including omega-rich essential fatty acids that absorb easily into the skin while offering protection from drying elements.
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