The Low Down on Face Serums

Skin Care

Let’s chat serums — one of the most popular skin care products in the game, but also one of the most elusive. What is a serum, and what makes them so great? Face serums are known as a powerhouse topical product because of how potent they are. Not only that, but there truly seems to be a serum for everything. Dry skin? There’s a serum for that. Acne? Your best bet is to get a serum. Looking for a product to reduce wrinkles and premature aging? You guessed it, a serum will fulfill that need! Keep reading to learn more about serums, how to apply them, and everything in between.

What is a face serum?

Serums are highly concentrated and lightweight topical products that are designed to be easily absorbed into the skin. They’re typically either water- or oil-based and come with a dropper to deliver a potent dose of nourishment and active ingredients directly into the skin, giving them the reputation as a true holy grail of all things skin health.

What do they do?

Serums are made up of smaller molecules that can penetrate deeply into the skin, easily delivering additional potent ingredients. One of the most common roles of a serum is to help hydrate and lock moisture into your skin, typically by priming it before moisturizing. That being said, serums are also a great tool for targeting a plethora of specific skin care concerns because of how concentrated the formulas are.

What skin types are serums best for?

Face serums are great for a variety of skin types, depending on their ingredients. Some are better for fighting inflammation (like our Balance Restoring Serum), and others are more focused on brightening skin and preventing premature aging. Whatever skin type you have, there’s a face serum to help control oil, hydrate skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, clear blemishes, or other common skin concerns.

Benefits of serums

As mentioned, the great thing about serums is that there’s something for every type of skin type and need. You name it, there’s a serum for it. Plus, since their formulas are so concentrated, the results are much more visible than moisturizers or face creams. Serums cover a wide range of benefits spanning from nourishment all the way to preventing premature aging and brightening. Keep reading to learn more about the numerous benefits you’ll reap while using a face serum.

Nourishes sensitive skin

The thin consistency of serums and soothing ingredients like Cucumber extract make them great for soothing sensitive skin, and keeping it healthy and happy. Additionally, one of the best parts about using a face serum is the ritual of it. There’s something so therapeutic about the act of applying a product you know will help your skin.

Brightens skin & prevents blemishes

Jam-packed with antioxidants and vitamins, brightening serums are perfect for those who want to prevent hyperpigmentation, reduce dark spots, and leave skin nourished. Some stellar ingredients to look for in a brightening serum are Vitamin C, Niacinamide, and Retinol.

Protects from free radicals

Free radicals are unstable molecules that are created when your skin is exposed to things like high levels of sun/UV rays, pollution, and more. They tend to cling onto your collagen and damage them in the process. That’s why preventing free radicals from wreaking havoc on your skin is the key to having a clear complexion. Ingredients like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Green Tea, and Niacinamide help neutralize free radicals and protect your skin and collagen.

Boosts collagen

Another perk of face serums is that many boost the production of collagen, a sought-after, important protein that helps your skin stay hydrated, plump, and youthful. We often associate collagen with reducing wrinkles and fine lines, but in order to maximize those benefits, experts recommend looking for collagen-boosting serums that include Vitamin C, Retinol, and Hyaluronic Acid.

Quicker results

Additionally, serums are notorious for their quick results. This is due to a couple of reasons. First, as you know, their formulas are extremely concentrated with a high dose of active ingredients, which are typically more effective than other products that aren’t infused with as many actives. Second, they’re also known for how quickly they absorb into your skin (hint: see below).

Intense absorption

Face serums are easily absorbed because they’re made up of smaller molecules, ergo, they’re easier to be absorbed. As mentioned, the fast-acting nature of serums also comes with the ability to help potent ingredients deeply penetrate your skin and stay locked in.

Exfoliates without scrubbing

If you’ve been in the skin care game for a while, you know how imperative a good exfoliant is — it helps slough off dead skin cells and keeps skin smooth and bright. While mechanical exfoliants are very common, chemical exfoliants (in the form of face serums) can be just as effective at cleansing and clearing your skin, while still being gentle with much less risk of harsh grains damaging your skin.

When & how to apply serums

Generally, serums are applied as the first ingredient of your skin care ritual, after cleansing and toning. A rule of thumb for serum application is that less is more — so when it comes time to apply your serum, most instructions recommend a pea-sized amount (you want just enough to lightly cover your entire face and neck). Add 1-2 pumps into your palms, and gently rub your hands together to warm and activate the serum. Next, lightly press your palms onto your skin and pat the serum on in outwards and upwards motions until it is fully applied to your face and neck. Follow up with your favorite moisturizer to seal it all in — serums are typically used twice daily on clean, dry skin.

Add a serum to your skin care ritual

If you’re ready to add a serum to your skin care ritual, we have two powerful options to choose from. Our Balance Restoring Serum is loaded with anti-inflammatory ingredients to clarify your skin, remove toxins, and minimize the appearance of pores.