Serums are a product which offer the skin a concentrated dose of active ingredients. They are also heaven sent, and we cannot get enough of them! Serums are now a regular player in most daily (and nightly) skincare regimes and the results speak for themselves. Serums are power-packed with goodness that penetrates deeply into the skin and to put it frankly, gets s*** done!
What Do Serums Target?
They will generally appear in a clear, gel-based or liquid texture, and are thinner than a typical moisturiser. A Serum is used after cleansing and before moisturising.
Due to the concentrated dose of active ingredients, serums penetrate deeper layers and cause change in cell behaviour that other products cannot and are not designed to do. They are full of goodness, delivering antioxidants, botanicals, hydration, and a high dose of nutrients (Hence why they can be one of the more expensive products in your skincare line-up). Some antioxidants which are often included in serums include vitamin A (which is your topical retinol Serums), C and E. You can also expect to see hyaluronic acid in your ingredient list.
There is a Serum to suit almost every skin type or condition. Serums can help treat everything from acne to rosacea, help repair barrier function and fight the signs of ageing (but ACTUALLY do it! Not just claim to!)
Serums contain molecules which can penetrate the skin unlike any other products. They offer an extremely high level of hydration and can be more effective at hydrating than most moisturisers. This is apparent as many creams (especially thicker night creams) have a tendency to sit on top of the skin. Pairing serums and moisturisers together will spoil your skin with the deepest level of hydration. It is important to note that using a hydrating serum should not replace your moisturiser, although it will enhance the effects of it.
Different Types of Serums
Hydrating Serums
Hydrating serums are pretty much as they sound. They work to deliver your skin with intense hydration and increase the effects of your moisturiser. They are particularly effective for people with dry skin, although can also have great benefits for oily skin types. Being able to incorporate another layer of hydration into your skin care routine can assist in counteracting the over production of oils. Peptides, luminescine and hyaluronic acid are important ingredients to look for in hydrating serums.
Anti-Ageing Serums
Anti-aging serums contain active ingredients which work to fight against wrinkles and fine lines, slowing down the aging process. These serums are beneficial for all skin types and can be used by anyone as young as 20 years old. Key ingredients to look for in anti-ageing serums are caffeine, green tea, retinol, proteoglycans and hyaluronic acid (which is sometimes labelled as sodium hyaluronate). Retinol is a strong ingredient, therefore those with dry skin should start with a low dosage in order to make sure their skin is able to tolerate the retinoid concentrate.
Antioxidant Serums
Antioxidant serums work to repair skin, prevent signs of ageing, and protect your skin from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules which we are exposed to everyday which can cause cell damage and premature aging. These serums can be used by those of all skin types, although there are ingredients which may cause irritation to some. Be aware of dyes, fragrances, sulphates, mint, and citrus within antioxidant serums as these are ingredients which commonly cause reactions. Great ingredients to look for in antioxidant serums are Vitamin A, C, E, resveratrol, melatonin, niacinamide and L-Ascorbic acid.
Pigment Prevention Serums
Brightening Serums help to breathe life back into lacklustre skin. These Serums are also perfect to prevent pigmentation forming in the lower layers of the skin (ready to appear in a years to come).
These Serums work wonders with those suffering from acne scarring, discolouration, red or brown sports and possible sun damage. These serums will help to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of existing pigmentation.
The key players in this Serum is Vitamin B (Niacinamide), tranexamic acid, liquorice extract and tyrostst – 11.
Jump on the Serum Train!
Need skincare that will pack a serious punch and deliver on its promise to bring your skin back to life? You need a serum, plain and simple. Serums are the sure-fire way to level up your skin care routine and see great results.
A Serum should be prescribed to you by your Dermal Therapist (ahem, us) so before you spend your hard earned pennies on Serums, because less face it, they are not the cheapest item on the shelf, ensure it’s the RIGHT one for your skin! To view our selection of Serums, click here.