​What is a Serum? And Why Should I Use One?

The trinity of skincare (cleansing, toning and moisturising) is a beauty ritual that millions of woman the world over could achieve in their sleep. Well-manicured hands spreading the elixir of youth from the t-zone out, and smoothing lashings of self-confidence liberally over the neck and up! But mention the word ‘Serum’ and that’s where the confidence stops. Serums whilst not new to the skin care industry still have a shroud of mystery surrounding them. Do you know what a serum does? Would you understand why you need one? What benefits are there versus a moisturiser? Perhaps you feel your current skin care products aren’t doing what you would like? Hopefully this information will change the way you approach your anti-ageing skin care regimen!

What is a serum?

Serums come in all guises; a skin care treatment enriched with intense concentrations of active age defiant ingredients such as Peptides, Vitamins and Glycolic and Hyaluronic acids (to name but a few). Dripping in nourishment and moisture, a serum is specifically created to address your skins hydration levels, to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, balance tone, pigmentation and age spots. Actively targeting the skin issue present - dull and lacklustre skin is a thing of the past!

How does a serum work?

A serum boasts a highly concentrated formula of active ingredients and a silky thin consistency. This liquid consistency allows for a deeper penetration into the skin, far deeper than a regular moisturiser - encouraging a rapid absorption, enabling it to work harder and more effectively.

Why do I need to use a serum?

The key to age defiant skin is in the hydration. Imagine your moisturiser in its thick consistency sitting on top the skin like a blanket preventing it from shrivelling up and drying out! But a moisturiser can only penetrate the first layer of skin. A serum will penetrate all three. Adding a serum to your regimen will immediately heighten your skins moisture levels in conjunction with your moisturiser. Penetrating deep into the cells themselves hand delivering nutrients and anti-ageing ingredients as if the serum is actually feeding the cells directly.

How do I apply a serum? And when?

The most effective skin care ritual will always have you applying your skin care products from thinnest to thickest. To maximise the anti-ageing and hydrating effects of your serum apply both morning and night after cleansing and toning – and always prior to your eye cream and moisturiser. A little serum goes an awful long way so the size of a 20 cent will be more than enough. For the ultimate result apply your serum to still damp (from the toner) skin.

Which serums should I use?

Just like your other skin care treatments, it’s vital that you choose a serum particular to your skin care issues and needs. For those with a more mature complexion (fine lines, wrinkles and slackening skin) we recommend the outstanding Clarins Double Serum, an intensive anti-ageing serum rich in over 20 plant extracts, delivering firmer, more youthful skin as fine lines are smoothed and pores made less visible. For those who are time poor, Dermalogica Overnight Repair Serum is a dramatic overnight age-fighting serum. Perfectly suited for those with mature or prematurely ageing skin, it syncs with your bodies night time recovery process, minimising fine lines, dryness and restoring elasticity. Supercharged with Peptides and a fusion of Argan and aromatic Rose oil, this serum means serious business. Or perhaps for the woman who loves essential oils as an integral part of her beauty ritual - look no further than Aromessence Iris Serum . A beautifully fragrant and 100% natural serum, this glorious blend of essential oils tones, softens and firms as facial features are redefined and rejuvenated. Yep! It’s that good!

For our full range of ‘Serums’. Click here

Do you currently use a serum each morning and night? If not will you be adding an anti-ageing serum to your skin care ritual from now on? Let beautyfeatures.ie in on your skincare secrets! We’d love to hear from you!