WHAT IS A FACE SERUM AND WHY SHOULD YOU USE IT?
Facial serum: A skincare product that seems to have taken skin-enthusiasts by the storm. But are you among the ones who have no clue what purpose a serum actually serves. If yes, then fret not! Because we are here to make you understand the ABC of facial serums.
A basic concept of a serum can be confusing; although it has moisturizing properties, it cannot be considered a moisturizer. It can come in an oil-based texture, but it is far from a facial oil. Some serums can also be watery, just like essence but not really essence! In short, a lot of confusion can revolve around a serum but what really defines a serum is its ingredients.
What is a serum really?
Serum can be defined as the magic potion in the world of skincare. It is applied to the skin after cleansing but before moisturizing. The intent of a facial serum is to deliver the benefits of potent ingredients directly to your skin. A facial serum penetrates deep into the skin to enrich your skin with an impressive concentration of active ingredients like Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Retinol and so on. The main concerns that facial serums target are dry, dull and dehydrated skin or early signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines or discoloration. So now you know why skincare enthusiasts go gaga over a good serum.
What are the various categories of facial serum?
Adding serums to your skincare regime can be confusing but when you have the right knowledge of its purpose, it can be a piece of cake. Mostly, serums are formulated under multiple categories keeping various skin concerns in mind and each of its benefits vary accordingly. Some of the best-selling types of serums are as follows:
- Brightening Serum
- Exfoliating Serum
- Anti-Aging Serum
- Anti-Acne Serum
- Hydrating Serum
What are the power ingredients typically used in a serum?
- Vitamin C: Boosts skin immunity & has anti-aging benefits.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Treats dehydrated skin by locking skin's natural moisture content.
- Antioxidants: Shields the skin from stress and environmental damage.
- Retinol: Addresses and corrects acne-concerns while improving early signs of skin aging.
- Plant-Based Active Ingredients: Brightens the skin and lightens dark spots and patchy skin.
Why should you add a serum to your skincare regime?
A serum is a power product that holds the ability to transform your skin with nourishing benefits and perks. To name a few:
- Improved skin texture
- Shrinked open pores
- Reduced hyperpigmentation
- Visibly younger-looking skin
- Hydrated & moisturized skin
- Brighter and glowing skin
- In-depth nourishment
How to choose the right serum for your skin?
Before picking up a serum, it's crucial to understand your skin type and the concern you want to treat. Secondly, know what ingredients work best to address those concerns. Once you are clear on that part, leave the rest to what we call the magic potion of the skincare world.
Dull & Dehydrated Skin: A serum with Vitamin C will increase collagen production and speed up the skin's repair process which helps your skin revive back. Hyaluronic Acid in a serum can help will provide instant hydration to the skin, making it soft and supple
Dry Skin: Vitamin E, Niacinamide, Glycolic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid serums are best to treat dry skin. These active ingredients improve skin elasticity, gently exfoliates and retains moisture back into the skin.
Acne-Prone & Oily Skin: Look for a retinol serum which increases collagen production and reduces inflammation. Zinc is also an active ingredient that soothes skin irritation and regulates oil-control. Salicylic Acid in a serum can help check acne by unclogging pores.
Note: Always keep in mind that when it comes to serum, less is more! Since most of the ingredients used in serums are potent, it can irritate the skin when used in a handsome quantity.