Why Serum is Crucial for Glowing Skin
Even if you're the owner of several serums, it's not a particularly clear what the product does on its surface. Think of the contradictions: It's moisturizing, but you still use moisturizer. It can contain oily, but it's not a face oil. So many questions and we still haven't even gotten around to what the ingredients do yet!
What is serum?
Serum is a skincare product you can apply to your skin after cleansing but before moisturizing with the intent of delivering powerful ingredients directly into the skin. Serum is particularly suited to this job because it is made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate deeply into the skin and deliver a very potent concentration of active ingredients. This makes them a great tool for targeting specific skincare concerns, like fine lines and acne!
Is serum a moisturizer?
Great question… Yes, and no… Serums can be full of moisturizing ingredients (hyaluronic acid, vitamin e) to help skin retain moisture. But, that doesn't make them moisturizers in the traditional sense. Face lotions and creams are richer and create a barrier on top of the skin to lock all that good stuff in.
How often should I use my serum?
This depends on the serum. Read the label, but once a day will probably do the trick. I use serums twice a day, but I live in a Las Vegas, Neveda (a dry desert climate) and drink too much caffeine ;)
Copy that, but why the high price tag?
Yes, serums tend to be on the pricier end of the skincare spectrum. But for a pretty good reason! Remember that bit about being super concentrated and potent? You are getting your bang for your buck here...
Does serum expire quickly?
Certain potent ingredients often found in serum can become unstable once they are exposed to air. Vitamin C, for example, can oxidize and lose potency over time. Best rule of thumb is to store your bottle in a cool, dry place and use it up within six months to a year. Typically I go through a bottle of my fav serum in about a month so that shouldn’t be an issue.
Is serum right for your skin?
For most people, yes! Get to know your ingredients first. If you’re...
Acne-prone: Look for vitamin C (increases collagen production, enhances skin’s repair process, and reduces inflammation), retinol (also an antioxidant, reduces inflammation), zinc (soothes irritation, regulates oil production), and salicylic acid (unclogs pores). Detox Serum & Revive Serum make good options here.
Dehydrated: This is where Saskatoon berries show you how they can be your skin’s new BFF. Look for serums that contain anthocyanins (studies show that the anthocyanins may have anti-inflammatory qualities and help reduce age-associated oxidative stress), ferulic acid (protects skin naturally from UV rays and reverses free radical damage by promoting cellular repair and healing by night).), lactic acid (gently exfoliates and lightens hyper-pigmentation), and hyaluronic acid (retains and attracts moisture to the surface layer). Saskatoon Berry Serum (Lavender and/or Rose), Revive Serum and Bright Serum are winning choices here.
Feeling dull: Look for antioxidants like Seabuckthorn (it contain a whopping 12 times the amount of Vitamin C found Oranges), ferulic acid and AHA’s. Bright Serum is an excellent serum in this department.
Please note: Because serums are super potent, more is not always better. Be careful before piling it on. Powerful ingredients can irritate sensitive skin. Always do a patch-test especially when using serums that contain AHA’s or salicylic acid.