Why You Need to Add a Serum to Your Beauty Collection ASAP
May 07, 2020
-
Facebook -
Pinterest -
Twitter -
Copy
It’s no secret that serums are having a moment. Scroll through any skin-care Insta-feed or blog or take a peek into a product junkie’s medicine cabinet for proof. But what exactly is all the hype about and should you start incorporating serums into your skin-care regimen? To get the down-low, we reached out to dermatologist Adam Geyer, MD for an expert take on the benefits of serums and how to choose the right one for you.
The Basics
“As people have become savvier about their skin-care routines, layering has become increasingly prevalent. By using a serum, people are able to 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,” Dr. Geyer says. “Serums are usually formulated with a higher concentration of active ingredients so that a few drops are sufficient to cover the entire face. 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.”The Application
“Serums should be applied twice daily. They are the first products that should be applied to the skin after cleansing and toning. 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.” Geyer suggests. “Apply the serum with one or two fingers (so as to avoid wasting the serum on your hands) and massage thoroughly into the skin.”The Options
Now that you’ve got the basics and application covered, which product should you choose? Well, the answer depends on your skin goals, naturally. “There are many different types of serums and both the active ingredients and the texture can provide different functions and benefits. 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,” Geyer says.
Ahead, find five of our favorite serums that are perfect for your nighttime routine or morning makeup prep.
L’Oréal Paris 1.9% Hyaluronic Acid 7 Replumping Ampoules
For a boost of hydration, try the L’Oréal Paris Replumping Ampoules. The set of seven ampoules comes with enough serum to apply morning and night for a full week. After the week is up your skin will be refreshed and revitalized.
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
If you have acne-prone skin, this resurfacing serum is a must-try. It contains retinol, niacinamide and ceramides to minimize the appearance of pores and stubborn post-acne marks but is also gentle on the skin.
This serum will become your new BFF if you’re looking to even out your complexion. “Antioxidant rich serums tend to work well at preventing oxidative strain from pollution and UV radiation that we are all exposed to during the day, making them ideal for application under sunscreen in the morning,” says Dr. Geyer. Before applying your makeup, add a few drops of C E Ferulic to help protect every inch.
Chock full of exfoliating glycolic and lip-hydroxy acids, as well as hydrating hyaluronic acid, Effaclar works to minimize pores and smooth out the skin texture.
Versed On The Rise Firming Serum
For a formula that addresses fine lines and wrinkles, try On the Rise. It contains a blend of peptides and antioxidant-rich resveratrol to improve skin texture and leave you feeling supple and plump.
