Skin Serums
Dreaming of soft, glowing skin? We explore how adding a glow-giving serum to your skincare routine could make a difference
Upgrading your skincare routine by adding a serum can change the way your skin looks and feels for the better. But, what makes a serum any different to your moisturiser, and what are the benefits to adding this extra step to your skincare routine? Well, we have the answers for you. A serum is a skincare product that you can use daily after cleansing, and before moisturising, so that it can deliver powerful ingredients directly into your skin. There are many different types of serums – from gel-based to liquid formulas, but they will be less thick than your moisturiser. Dr Nandipha Magudumana, owner of the go-to skincare clinic Optimum Medical Solutions, says, “The molecules in a serum penetrate and hydrate the skin on a deeper level and make it more effective, while your heavier creams can sit on the top layer of your skin”.
THE BENEFITS
Serums contain many skin-boosting benefits such as life-giving topical antioxidants like vitamins A, C and E. When layered underneath your moisturiser, serums act as targeted treatment for wrinkles, pigmentation, uneven skin tone and redness. They absorb fast without leaving any residue behind that can cause a breakout. “Cleansers and moisturisers usually contain between 5%–10% active ingredients, but serums can contain up to 70%. This means that you will get results,” Dr Magudumana says. Serums effectively treat skin issues such as dullness, loss of elasticity and firmness, hyperpigmentation, acne and sun damage.
HOW TO USE A SERUM
Everyone’s skin reacts differently to any new product, so give yours about seven weeks to see how it responds to
a new serum. Use a pea-sized amount all over your face and neck in the morning and evening, before applying your moisturiser.
To find the right one for your skin type, it’s best to assess the benefits of the serum against the skin issue you want to treat. “To make sure that your serum has deeply penetrated your skin, you can also use a facial massage tool such as a jade roller,” Dr Magudumana suggests. A serum is not right for you if it doesn’t match your skin type. If you have oily or combination skin, then find a light lotion serum that feels weightless, but still has a potent formulation. For dry skin, choose one that’s packed with emollients and non-fragrant oils to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SERUM FOR YOUR NEEDS Hydrating
Boost the skin with extra moisture in addition to your normal routine. These serums are ideal for combination and dry skin. Hydrating serums can also boost the hydration levels of your daily moisturiser. Hyaluronic acid, peptides and luminescine are some of the key ingredients. These serums, will target skin issues such as
hyperpigmentation, dehydration, enlarged pores and fine lines.
Pigmentation
Serums with ingredients like phytic acid, vitamin C, kojic acid, L-ascorbic acid and glycolic acid perform an array of functions, and can target skin issues such as hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores and fine lines. Some serums that target pigmentation also exfoliate the skin – a useful benefit if you’re looking to smooth out your skin and minimise pores.
Protection
Antioxidant serums help protect your skin from the free radicals you’re exposed to daily. Free radicals can damage your skin cells, break your skin barrier and cause premature ageing. These serums contain vitamins A, C and E, niacinamide, melatonin, and L-ascorbic acid that helps to heal and repair skin from damage. Apply these serums in the morning underneath your sunscreen for added protection against UV light.
Anti-ageing
Anti-ageing serums slow down the ageing process by delivering essential anti-ageing ingredients to handle any fine lines and wrinkles. You are never too young to use an anti-ageing serum; you can start in your 20s to get ahead of any issues. Retinol, caffeine and hyaluronic acid are some of the key ingredients to look out for. However, if your serum contains retinol, make sure to start with low doses.
Brightening Serums
These serums work by smoothing your complexion, fading any sunspots, evening your skin tone and leaving your skin more radiant and glowing. Green tea, liquorice root, grapefruit extract, kojic acid, peptides and light reflectors in these serums will instantly give you that much sought-after glow.