Hi, I hope you are doing well. A face serum is a lightweight liquid or gel that is applied to the face to deliver concentrated amounts of active ingredients. Serums are designed to target exact skin concerns, such as aging, acne, or hyperpigmentation. They can also help to hydrate, brighten, and protect the skin.
Serums are typically thinner than moisturizers and are absorbed into the skin more quickly. This makes them a good option for people with oily or combination skin. Serums can also be used under makeup.
Face serums can be a great way to improve the appearance of your skin. However, it is important to use them correctly and to choose the right serum for your skin type and concerns.
The Main Ingredients
It will depend on your skin concerns and your goals. You can buy a serum that focuses on a single ingredient or combines several. Another option is to use one formulation in the morning and something different before bed. The nourishing, moisturizing, and protective ingredients are great during the day (think hyaluronic acid and antioxidants like vitamin C). The rejuvenating or super healthy options work great at night (vitamins A, AHA, BHA, and peptides are excellent).
To get you started, Dr. Barbara Strum, aesthetic physician and founder of her eponymous skincare line, recommends hyaluronic acid as the ideal ingredient for almost all skin types, especially those prone to dehydration. Zinc, niacinamide, and salicylic acid (a form of BHA) are great options for skin prone to congestion. Vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, and niacinamide will help for an uneven skin tone. Finally, vitamin A and its many derivatives (retinol, retinol, retinoic acid, retinoids) will be your best friend for people concerned about fine lines and wrinkles. You can also try peptides and amino acids for an extra boost.
The Price
It is important to note that since serums often contain higher concentrations of active ingredients, the price is usually higher. That doesn’t mean you have to stretch an arm and a leg to get a quality product, but they tend to stand taller than a cleanser or sunscreen.
Final Verdict
Face Serum Rest assured, Hallie’s list is full of Grade serum options. It’s hard to have favorites, but because we have to, we’re going to call Skin ceuticals CE Ferulic for their unparalleled powers of shine and smoothness. Clinical Active Serum to be one of the best clarifying serums on the market, and the soothing serum from Dr. Barbara Sturm. Not only is it milky and light, but it contains a cocktail of plant-based actives to calm and soothe the skin.