What is facial serum?

In skin care, serums are rightly called heavy artillery - they have no equal in terms of the power of their impact. And if you have not yet included serum in your beauty arsenal, then you will probably do so after reading this article.

1. What is a facial serum
2. Types of facial serums
3. Serum composition
4. How to use the serum
5. Features of the product
6. Review of SkinCeuticals facial serums

What is a facial serum

Serum (serum) is a cosmetic product in which active ingredients are presented in high concentration. That is, the active ingredients are the same as in creams, but their specific gravity is many times greater. The formula of the serum is such that it is absorbed almost instantly and shows results faster than cream. Sometimes - instantly.

The active components are up to 70% serum, while in creams they 10-12%, the rest is the base and structure-forming ingredients: emulsifiers, emollients (softeners), thickeners, film formers.

Types of facial serums

Serums can fulfill a specific mission or a whole range of anti-aging obligations, such as:

1. hydration;
2. nutrition;
3. regeneration;
4. lightening pigment spots;
5. increasing skin density;
6. stimulation of collagen and elastin production;
7. restoration of water-lipid balance.

And all this in one bottle.

The formula of the serum is such that it is absorbed almost instantly and the results of application are demonstrated faster than the cream. © iStock

Serum composition

Here are its main ingredients:

1. antioxidants - enzymes, polyphenols, minerals;
2. vitamins C, E, group B, retinol;
3. hydrofixatives - hyaluronic acid, glycerin;
4. acids AHA, BHA, which provide peeling;
5. ceramides, restoring the water-lipid balance and protective properties of the skin;
6. peptides that stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.

How to use the serum

Any serum is applied:

1. 1-2 times a day, in small quantities - 4-5 drops;

only on cleansed and toned skin - it is advisable to keep it damp, this will enhance the effect of the serum.

Serums can fulfill a specific mission or a whole range of anti-aging obligations. © iStock

Features of the product

1. Typically, a serum, unlike a cream, does not create an occlusive film on the skin, and therefore requires subsequent application of the cream. If it provides “sealing,” manufacturers recommend using it as a stand-alone product.
2. The great advantage of the serum is that it acts as a catalyst for the effectiveness of creams. By supplementing your care with serum, you will increase the intensity of other products and, accordingly, notice the result earlier.
3. Some serums prepare the skin for cosmetic procedures, prolong their effect, and speed up the rehabilitation process.
4. Serums work well in pairs - for example, antioxidant and moisturizing.

Review of SkinCeuticals facial serums

Serum for correcting acne and age-related skin changes Blemish & Age Defense

An intense acid complex (dioic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, salicylic acid) reduces the number of imperfections, reduces sebum production, cleanses pores and gently exfoliates. Glycolic and citric acids are responsible for smooth skin.

Retexturing Activator Moisturizing Serum

Hyaluronic acid and a component of the natural moisturizing factor - hydroxyethyl urea - well moisturize the skin, and hepes provides gentle but effective exfoliation and, as a result, skin regeneration. Fermented black tea extract (kombucha) is known for its ability to even out the complexion and add radiance to the skin.

Serum in gel Phloretin CF

Antioxidants phloretin, 10% L-ascorbic and ferulic acids have a synergistic (mutually reinforcing) effect. They protect the skin from early aging and harmful UV and infrared radiation, correct signs of aging, inhibit the formation of free radicals, even out complexion, and prevent age spots.

Highly effective antioxidant serum for dry and normal skin CE Ferulic

The serum is applied in the morning and has a triple effect. Highly concentrated L-ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) and ferulic acid provide powerful protection against free radicals and external negative factors, correct imperfections (wrinkles, age spots), stimulate collagen synthesis.

Highly effective antioxidant serum for all skin types Serum 10

Suitable even for sensitive skin. The combination of L-ascorbic and ferulic acids prevents the formation of free radicals, reduces pigmentation and the severity of wrinkles, and protects against the effects of UV radiation. Vitamin C stimulates collagen synthesis.

Corrective serum to increase hyaluronic acid in the skin H. A. Intensifier

Apply in the morning. Proxilan, licorice and purple rice extracts increase skin elasticity, help maintain optimal levels of hyaluronic acid and the integrity of the extracellular matrix (connective tissue). Concentrated hyaluronic acid in three modifications simultaneously moisturizes the skin and reduces signs of aging.

Some serums must be used under sunscreen.

Antioxidant gel for dry and normal skin Phloretin CF Gel

Suitable for dry, normal and pigmentation-prone skin. Antioxidants (ascorbic and ferulic acids in combination with phloretin) prevent aging and protect cells from harmful radiation and other aggressive external factors, reduce wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. The “serum in gel” technology increases the penetration of active components and makes the texture light, comfortable even for men’s skin after shaving.

Resveratrol B E Night Concentrated Antioxidant Gel

The antioxidant trio - resveratol, baicalin and alpha-tocopherol - reduces oxidative stress, triggers the processes of cell regeneration and self-healing. The gel provides effective night care for all skin types. Suitable for men too.

Antioxidant gel for skin care around the eyes against photoaging and signs of fatigue AOX+ Eye Gel

Vitamin C, ferulic acid, phloretin prevent oxidative stress, caffeine improves lymphatic drainage, butruscus root extract strengthens capillaries and enhances microcirculation. The result is hydration, protection, reduction of swelling, reduction of wrinkles, prevention of aging. Do not apply to moving eyelid.

Facial serum, what is it: an effective means of transformation

Products designed for high-quality care of delicate facial skin are designed to maintain its condition at the proper level, improve and promote a fresh appearance. Facial serum, what is it?

This is a highly concentrated product, a serum, which allows you to improve the condition of the skin in the shortest possible time - have a moisturizing effect, enhance regeneration, and saturate it with useful substances.

Types of facial serums

Depending on the main purpose, these facial concentrates are divided into certain types:

1. whitening;
2. nutritious;
3. anti-aging;
4. moisturizing;
5. restorative;
6. calming (anti-stress);
7. anti-acne.

Serums are not applied to lips and eyelids unless specifically stated in the instructions for the product.

Whitening

Preparations of this type eliminate pigmentation and unaesthetic dark spots. At the same time, concentrated action products brighten and even out skin tone.

Nutritious

Such cosmetics are indicated for women with dry skin, which is prone to early aging and wrinkles.

They smooth out fine wrinkles and improve skin texture due to moisture saturation. At the same time, the feeling of skin tightness goes away and the complexion improves.

Anti-aging

These products are designed to combat age-related changes:

As a rule, anti-aging serums contain vitamins, peptides, coenzyme Q10 and retinol.

Since acids and retinol increase the sensitivity of the dermis to sunlight, they are recommended to be applied before bed or in combination with products that have sunscreen properties.

Failure to follow the instructions for use may lead to increased skin pigmentation.

This type of remedy is indicated no earlier than from the age of 30.

Moisturizing

For dry and dehydrated skin, serums perform the following functions:

1. eliminate the feeling of tightness;
2. provide hydration;
3. prevent skin peeling.

In such products, one of the leading active ingredients is hyaluronic acid in combination with effective oils and glycerin.

This product is not used in winter, as moisturizing components can freeze at subzero temperatures, causing harm to the skin.

Regenerating

The action of concentrated preparations is aimed at loosening the uppermost layer of the dermis and exfoliation through the action of both inorganic and organic acids. This starts the faster update process.

Anti-stress

The main purpose of using serum is a calming effect. It is achieved in most drugs by including the following components:

1. pharmaceutical camomile;
2. aloe vera;
3. extracts from various medicinal herbs.

By using such products for red, irritated skin, you can improve its condition and return it to normal. Cosmetologists recommend using a serum with a calming effect after cleansing procedures, such as salon peelings.

Anti-acne

If your skin condition requires acne treatment, then serums that inhibit bacterial growth and tighten pores will help greatly. Concentrates may contain the following components:

Fat metabolism is brought back to normal, the appearance of acne stops, the skin dries out and its condition improves.

Indications and contraindications

When wondering what facial serums are, many believe that this cosmetic product has no contraindications.

More saturated in composition than face creams and gels, concentrated preparations are more effective. The use of this kind of product can improve the situation even from the first use.

Like any skin care cosmetics, serums have not only indications for use, but also contraindications.

Indications

Containing more beneficial substances than other dermal care products, serums are indicated in specific cases.

INDICATIONS

1. presence of wrinkles;
2. noticeable nasolabial folds;
3. unhealthy complexion;
4. dryness, increased peeling;
5. the presence of pigment spots;
6. signs of aging;
7. blackheads

Contraindications

The effectiveness of targeted serums is not shown to everyone. In order not to harm the skin, it is important to study some recommendations.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

1. Any concentrated products are contraindicated in the presence of papillomas and spider veins, as the active ingredients will stimulate their growth and development. The possibility of using any means can only be assessed by a specialist.
2. It is not recommended to use concentrates immediately before tanning. Many of the drugs have a whitening effect and have a significant effect on the upper layer of the skin. Immediately after the procedure, if exposed to the sun, the skin may get an uneven tan or even burn, as its protective properties will be reduced.
3. The use of serums is not indicated for those with young skin, unless the product is aimed specifically at them. Other means not only will not bring benefit, but can also cause harm, even leading to premature aging.
4. To combat acne, it is advisable to first consult a dermatologist before using the serum. Uncontrolled use of active agents can have the opposite effect. This is the activation of bacteria and, as a result, the appearance of new acne.
5. Serums are not indicated for dermatological diseases and unhealed wounds on the face.

Advantages and disadvantages

The concentrate, saturated in its composition, is an effective product that has a number of advantages and some disadvantages, the existence of which you should be aware of.

Advantages

The positive properties of the serums used include:

1. A rich, highly concentrated composition.
2. Economical in use - literally two drops of the product are enough for a single use.
3. Possibility of purchasing a cosmetic product in a pharmacy chain.

Flaws

Disadvantages include:

1. High cost, since high-quality concentrate cannot be very cheap.
2. Possibility of allergic reactions, especially on sensitive skin.
3. There is a risk of addiction, so the products are used in courses and changed periodically.

Taking into account the effectiveness of the product, the advantages in most cases outweigh the disadvantages, allowing you to choose the best option for each woman.

Question answer

How does serum differ from other cosmetic products (creams, gels)?

Is it permissible to apply the cream after the serum has been used?

What forms of serums are available?

Rules of application

Serums are very concentrated products that have the property of penetrating into the deep layers of the dermis. The action turns out to be fast.

Application should be carried out in courses (usually lasting 1-2 months), after which a break is taken.

Before using the serum, read the instructions supplied with the product and become familiar with the rules and features of use.

Application process

Serums (especially those with anti-aging effects) should be applied along the massage lines of the face with light movements. The texture of the product allows even the smallest amount to be distributed evenly.

Method of distributing the concentrate over the face:

1. From the center of the forehead to both temples.
2. Apply along contour lines towards the neck.
3. Starting from the wings of the nose, direct hand movements to the outer corners of the eyes.
4. Distribute over nasolabial folds and chin.

Just a couple of drops should be enough to cover the entire surface of the face and neck. After a quarter of an hour, you can apply face cream. It’s good if the cream is from the same series as the serum, then they, acting together, will enhance each other’s effect.

Before applying the product, the skin must be prepared - cleansed and treated with toner.

Application time

According to the time of use, serums are divided into daytime and nighttime. The latter are intended for use a couple of hours before going to bed and have a fatty base.

These include: anti-aging and nutritional. Daytime ones have a light consistency, are quickly absorbed, and allow you to use makeup after applying.

Whey: homemade option

What is this, milk serum for the face? Since ancient times, the residual product obtained from the preparation of cottage cheese, whey, has been used by housewives to maintain their beauty.

The predominant composition of the product is water (94% of the volume), which contains lactose, vitamins, minerals, proteins and beneficial bacteria (probiotics).

In addition, this is a natural product, has virtually no contraindications for use and is well tolerated.

Having regenerating and protective properties, milk serum lifts and cleanses the surface of the dermis.

You can try making another homemade serum. A small dark glass bottle will be needed.

You need to combine 5 ampoules of ascorbic acid (1 ampoule contains 2 ml), 10 ml of previously boiled water, and glycerin, which is sold at the pharmacy. All this is poured into the prepared container. Subsequently, it is used as a regular serum.

Popular cosmetic serums

The cosmetology market offers both budget-friendly options for domestically produced serums and expensive ones.

The choice of product depends on a number of factors:

1. expected result from use;
2. product prices;
3. woman's age;
4. condition of the facial skin before using the product.

When choosing a product, consider your age and the problems you want to solve. Do not use several serums at once.

How much does the serum cost? The cost of budget options starts from 500-700 rubles. But prices for expensive products can reach up to 10 thousand rubles.

Reviews

MARIA LOGVINOVA, MOSCOW:

“I used to think that serum was an unnecessary cosmetic product. This was the case before I tried Lancome Serum. The feeling of renewed skin comes literally immediately. The action is much more powerful than in creams.”

EKATERINA KALACHEVA, VORONEZH:

“Not long ago, a friend advised me to use Black Pearl serum in combination with cream. This application really works! I'm very pleased with the result. I try to use serum and cream from the same line so that they do not conflict with each other.”

Expert opinion

Elsa Borodina

plastic surgeon

The effect of hyaluronic acid-based serum is questionable, since the molecule is too large to pass through the pores. The benefit of serums is not so much in the increased concentration of active ingredients, but in liposomes. This is the name for microparticles (less than 140 nm and negatively charged), which work as an ideal capsule that delivers the beneficial substances of the serum directly into the cell. And the second big advantage of liposomal serums is their negative charge. Any damaged cell (including skin) produces a positive charge. As a result, liposomes neutralize this positive charge with their negative charge, which leads to a healthier cell as a whole.

Irina Dorofeeva

practicing cosmetologist

It is important to adhere to the course of using serums. It often lasts from 2-3 weeks to 2 months. After such intensive use, a break is needed. Then you can repeat the course, but for this I advise you to use a different serum. About 1-4 such course applications per year will be required. It depends on the condition of the skin.

The use of serums is an effective way to improve skin condition and combat emerging problems. When using these products, however, you should not ignore your daily facial care. An integrated approach to maintaining the facial dermis in good condition is the balanced use of care products.

Serums have a huge range of capabilities - they moisturize, nourish, fight acne, pigmentation, age-related changes in the skin, and have an exfoliating effect. But questions immediately arise: “How can you find your one and only one in such a variety and how often can you use it so as not to harm your skin?! And does everyone need serums?!” Spoiler: no, not everyone!

Alexander Prokofiev, dermatovenerologist, medical expert of the La Roche-Posay brand: “Facial serums have been around for a long time, but I still often get asked: “Why are they needed if there is a cream?” and “Are they needed at all?” The answer is clear - yes, we need it! Cream is basic daily skin care, and serums are designed to solve specific problems. If the cream is selected according to skin type, then when choosing a serum, the skin type is not important, but the main thing is the skin condition that needs to be dealt with (dehydration, acne, age-related changes, pigmentation). If there are no obvious skin problems, then serum is most likely not needed.

What is serum

Serums are a concentrated composition of active ingredients to solve a specific skin problem, the main purpose of which is to deliver them directly to the skin cells. The depth of penetration of the serum is greater than that of the cream. However, this does not mean that one replaces the other. After using the serum, you need to apply a cream to fix and seal the active ingredients into the skin.

From left to right: Lancaster 365 Skin Repair; Givenchy Hydra Sparkling intensive moisturizing serum for skin radiance; Vichy 89 Mineral hyaluronic gel serum; corrective serum that gives radiance Uriage Depiderm Serum Correcteur Eclat; serum to increase the level of hyaluronic acid in the skin and reduce signs of aging SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier; moisturizing emulsion La Roche-Posay Rosaliac UV Legere; elixir for any skin type Biotherm Life Plankton Elixir.

What types of serums are there?

Moisturizing - instantly soothe irritated skin. First of all, they are necessary for dehydrated or sensitive skin. Plus, they can be used in the summer if you feel that your skin dries out quickly and does not have enough moisture. The main ingredients of such serums are hyaluronic acid, glycerin, butylene glycol. They can be used morning and evening.

Soothing - suitable for those with sensitive skin. Look for the following ingredients: allantoin, niacinamide, neurosensin, herbal extracts.

From left to right: Kenzoki Serum Hydratant Ange Gardien; youth activator Lancôme Advanced Genifique; multifunctional facial serum IS Clinical Active Serum; Darphin Ideal Resource Perfecting Serum; Phymongshe Age Shield Recovery Serum; SkinClinic Ferulast revitalizing serum.

Exfoliating - designed to remove dead skin particles. The main ingredients are acids: lactic, salicylic and glycolic. These products should be used in the evening.

I would like to draw your attention to the fact that a number of components are unstable to environmental influences. Therefore, serums containing vitamin C or retinoids must be in opaque packaging with minimal contact with air. Such jars must be stored in a dark place (cosmetic bag, nightstand drawer or dressing table) so that they are not exposed to sunlight.

Anti-pigmentation serums contain vitamin C, arbutin, azelaic acid, and retinoids. They are used strictly in the evening, and during the day it is necessary to protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation with sunscreen.

From left to right: anti-aging serum with ultra-lifting effect Filorga Lift-Designer; intensive moisturizing serum Derm Acte Serum Hydratant Intensif 4D; Weleda pomegranate intensive lifting serum; strengthening serum with marine collagen Lysedia Collagene Marin Serum Jeunesse; moisturizing fluid cream with water camellia for radiant skin Chanel Hydra Beauty Camellia Water Cream; Repechage Hydra Medic Night Serum; Lifting serum for modeling the oval of the face Mixit No Fake Shine.

Anti-aging products are designed to tighten wrinkles, remove skin laxity, and increase its tone. They most often add high concentrations of retinol, antioxidants, vitamin C, ceramides and peptides. Serums with retinol are used only in the evening.

Serums for problematic acne-prone skin contain substances that regulate the functioning of the sebaceous glands and antiseptic ingredients: AHA and BHA acids, retinoids, zinc, propolis, herbal extracts.

Please note that some ingredients may have multiple effects. For example, retinol fights wrinkles, acne and reduces pigmentation. Therefore, if there are several problems at the same time, then you can choose a serum with a “universal” ingredient that will help solve several problems at once.

How to apply serum correctly

Cleanse your skin well, wipe your face with toner to restore water balance, and then move on to serum. Since it is a concentrated product, it is necessary to use a small amount for application - from one to five drops. Be sure to read the instructions before use!

From left to right: Rivoli Sérum Lumière anti-aging serum; modeling serum with black caviar and truffles Les Thermes Marins de Saint Malo Visage Face Serum Eclat; GlamGlow Superserum moisturizing facial serum; liposomal serum Sesderma Daeses Liposomal Serum; Caudalie S.O.S Vinosource moisturizing serum; highly concentrated intensive product Egia Biocare System Energizing Essence.

By the way, several serums can be used at a time, but a number of factors must be taken into account:

The one that is applied first works most actively;

serums must be combined with each other;

Do not simultaneously use serums with components that can cause irritation (retinoids, vitamin C, acids).

Apply the serum to your fingertips and quickly distribute the product over your face with light patting movements along the massage lines, as if driving it into the skin. If the serum is thick and oily, first rub it with your fingertips to warm it up, and then apply evenly to your face.

From left to right: ANSALIGY for You Regenerating Silk Serum; Lumene Harmonia Nutri-Recharging Revitalizing Serum; Skinbiotic Mix it now base serum; night elixir L’Occitane “Instant skin reboot”; serum with a-lipoic acid Health Quartet Protector+; anti-wrinkle serum Swiss Image; mattifying facial serum Detox Organics Kamchatka by Natura Siberica.

Wait 5-10 minutes for the serum to be completely absorbed before applying the cream (this will complement the serum and strengthen the protective barrier). It’s best to combine serum and cream from the same line, so the effect will appear faster and last longer - and this is not a marketing ploy.”