Looking back at recent skincare history, we can see that face serums haven't been around for a very long time — relatively speaking. Over the last decade or so, serums have moved from being a professional treatment add-on to something that the average skincare fan can purchase and safely use at home as part of a daily routine, such as products from KarinaNYC Skin & Lash Clinics. Having a serum in your skincare routine adds an extra step that feels more like a luxury than the standard cleanse and moisturize routine many of us are used to. Let's learn about serums — what they are, how they work, and why they could work for you.
A face serum is defined as a liquid product of thin viscosity. Applied topically, serums contain a concentrated range of active ingredients. The more active molecules a serum has, the more effective it will be on the skin’s surface layers and the less time you need to wait before seeing real results. Serums are, more often than not, not intended to take the place of a moisturizer but to work with it to get your skin to live its best life.
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of serums on the market, all of which aim to treat and support different skin concerns and types. These are the broader categories that most serums can be divided into.
Take your time to sort out your skin needs and where you need to go on your skincare journey before your serum purchase. Don't be overwhelmed by the wealth of options out there — there's something perfect for you! Look for reviews and dermatologist-recommended products — these will tell the truth about how a product works and if it is right for you.
A serum’s thin, fine texture allows those concentrated ingredients to penetrate deeper than those in a moisturizer. Following your serum step with your lotion helps to lock in hydration and activities and allow them to do their job. Where many moisturizers and cleansers are formulated for broader concerns like skin type, serums are often very targeted. For example, you may have an oily skin type and use a cleanser and moisturizer to help balance that — this is often referred to as a broad treatment. In addition to your oily skin, you may be concerned about excess breakouts that can be targeted with a salicylic acid serum — a targeted treatment backed by a broader treatment.
For most serums, you’ll add a few drops of product to your cleansed, dry hands or directly onto your cleansed, dry face. Pat that serum all over your face and neck, pressing down into your skin. Allow this to settle before moving on to the next step in your routine.
Take note: If your serum contains ingredients like retinoids or vitamin C, it may be wise to use the serum only at night and add an extra sun protection factor to your routine and outfit the following day.
Exfoliating serums may be used daily or weekly. The advice on the packaging should be followed closely so that you do not over-exfoliate your skin or apply the serum to sensitive areas, like around your eyes.
Integrating a serum into your skincare routine is incredibly simple, and you’ll notice the difference soon. There is a serum out there for every pocket, every skin type, every skin concern, and every preference. Will you try a few to find your perfect fit?
