There are many buzzwords in beauty, but few have come on stage with as much power as "Serum". Almost overnight, it seemed as if the three-step cleansing, clay-moisturizing system had been abandoned in favor of a more elaborate skin care routine with this mysterious new liquid. Many of us are still shaky about what serums actually do and when they should be incorporated into our routines. Don't worry, you don't need a beautician license to understand serums. Not only are they easy to use, but they're even easier to understand as we break down the purpose of using a serum and how to apply it.
What is a serum and what does a serum do?
We've had cleansers and moisturizers since the beginning of time, but there weren't any products that addressed skin problems by delivering high levels of ingredients. Enter: serums. Serums are filled with active ingredients, botanicals, and antioxidants like vitamins C, A, and E, and target specific skin problems like dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles, or acne.
In terms of texture, serums are generally water based and come in a liquid or gel-like form, which makes them incredibly light. While many moisturizers are so supple that they can only sit on the outer layers of the skin, serums are quickly absorbed into the deeper layers of the skin. They're non-comedogenic, which means they won't clog pores or leave residue, but their molecules are also small enough to really penetrate the pores and work their magic from the inside out. As such, they are capable of addressing your skin problems with impressive precision and are considered to be one of the most effective topical skin care products on the market. In short: serums get what you want out of your skin faster.
What is the difference between serums, concentrates and facial oils?
Serum is often confused with another late arrival: face oil. While they might come from the same family, serums and oils are very distant cousins and should not be confused. Do you remember those tiny molecules in sera? Well, the molecules in oils are often much larger, although there can be variation in size. While facial oils are full of antioxidants, nutrients, and fatty acids that nourish the skin, the oils with larger molecules sit on the outer layer of the skin. Other oils like jojoba are smaller in molecular size and can penetrate deep into the skin. Facial oils that are easily absorbed can be applied before your moisturizer, while other oils that sit on the skin can be used as a final foundation for nutrition and protection against environmental stressors.
If oils are cousins of serum, what are concentrates? Well, more like an older sister. While the two products are very similar in appearance and consistency, a concentrate usually only offers an intensified dosage of one ingredient (read: vitamin C or rose hip) to address a specific skin problem. Serums can target a variety of problems at the same time, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, redness, wrinkles, and dryness. For those who want to revitalize their skin in one go, serums and concentrates can be used together.
How to use a serum in my routine
Now we have dealt with the what and why. You are probably wondering how and when to apply a serum. The serum step drops right after cleansing, peeling, toning and applying an essence. You can use a serum with your regular skin care regimen morning and night for great results. Make sure you start with a freshly washed face so your skin is free of product or daily debris so that the serum can penetrate the outer layers of the skin more effectively. You can use toner and essence, but there should be nothing emollient between your cleansed face and the product. When using multiple serums to meet different skin needs, start with the lightest formula and work your way up to the heaviest – the same principle as with the rest of the skin care products.
All you need to do is apply a thin layer as the serums are concentrated – a small, pea-sized amount should be enough. Serums can also be applied to the neck and chest to combat the visible signs of aging. For more information, check out this In The Mix video that explains what a serum is used for and how to incorporate one into your skin care routine.
(embed) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvLG78t94-g (/ embed)
Different types of serums: which one is for me?
Whether you are struggling with aging, sensitivity, or breakouts, Eminence Organics Senior Product Development Manager Colette Lieberman has a serum for every skin problem. If you want to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, choose a serum with peptides that can significantly smooth the appearance of the skin. Algae extract is another ingredient to look for as it is nutrient-dense and contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Maybe you're dealing with dull, dehydrated skin instead? Botanical hyaluronic acid (from marshmallow plant extract) is just as moisturizing as the fragrant strawberry. You might be surprised to learn that strawberries contain salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates scrubs and removes impurities to lighten the appearance of skin and shrink the appearance of pores.
Stabilized vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) brightens the appearance of the skin and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as does vitamin C salt (also known as sodium ascorbyl phosphate). Both versions of vitamin C can help improve the appearance of the skin. To combat the appearance of hormonal problem skin, organic phytoestrogens are active ingredients that can help address problem areas as well as the visible signs of aging. Remember, you never have to stop at a layer of serum that suits your needs and enjoy a completely refreshed face.
Do you have a good understanding of the differences between serums and other products? Find out which Eminence Organics serum will target your specific skin problem with our guide. You can also visit your preferred Eminence Organics Authorized Spa Partner to learn more about serums, oils and concentrates.