Serums are the product with concentrated actives in them. Inspite of being concentrated they are still light on the skin and aren’t greasy. It contains tons of minerals, vitamins and other nutrients which help to improve the skins health. They can be used for all skin types. In a skin care routine, serum can be used after cleansing and toning and before a moisturizer. They are made up of smaller molecules and hence penetrate deeper in the skin thus giving more nutrition to the skin. They are the best for anti ageing but can be also used for young skin to prevent the ageing of skin and keep the skin healthy. So people as young as 25 years can start using serum mainly the hydrating one.
Many types of serums are available in the market and can be selected depending upon the age, skin type and purpose.
Hyaluronic Acid serum: It can be used by people with young skin as well as matured skin. Hyaluronic acid is a natural constituent of the skin which may deplete due to various reasons. The serum hydrates and moisturizes the skin and makes its plump and healthy. It rejuvenates dull and wrinkled skin. It is also beneficial for oily and acne prone skin and can be used both in the day as well as at night.
Retinol Serum: They are highly beneficial in a anti ageing regime. Being a derivative of vitamin A they can be used to deal with wrinkles and fine lines. The concentration of retinol is to be gradually increased as it can cause skin peeling and reactions. It may take a while to see the results. They are generally used in the night time and a use of sunscreen in the day is highly recommended when retinol serums are used.
Vitamin C serum: It is the best anti oxidant and is used to fight environmental and free radicle damage to the skin. It is suitable for all skin types and hence is easily adapted without any reactions. Because of its skin brightening properties. It can be used to treat blemishes, acne marks and hyperpigmentation.
Niacinamide Serum: It is the form of Vitamin B3. It supports the skin barrier, increases its elasticity and makes the pores look smaller thus improving its texture. It also helps to balance the oil in skin and in reducing the acne marks and blemishes. It comes in various concentrations but its concentration should be gradually increased to avoid any irritation. It also helps reduce the fine lines and wrinkles and also prevents damage due to UV radiation. It can be used twice a day.
Plant based serums: They include ingredients like green tea, vitamin C, chia seed , sugarcane. Since they are extracted from plants they are less irritant and easily adaptive by any skin type. However they may take more time to show their benefits than their chemical counterparts.
Fruit serums: They contain the concentrated extracts of fruits ,herbs and plant cell extracts and help to brighten and hydrate the skin. They also help to tighten the aging skin.
Essential Oils as serum: Essential oils are very beneficial when used as serums but have to be mixed with carrier oils as they are very concentrated and may cause allergic reactions. Some of the essential oils that can be used as face serum are:
Essential Oil Serums for skin types:
- Oily Skin: Tea Tree Oil, Eucalyptus, Lavender. They have anti inflammatory properties and help reduce acne.
- Dry Skin: Chamomile, Frankincense, Geranium . They soothe the skin and minimises redness.
- Combination Skin: Neroli , ylang ylang ,Cedarwood .they help in natural oil production but also prevent breakouts and promote healthy skin.
Tips to apply Face serums:
- Face serums have to be applied immediately after cleansing and moisturizing of the skin.
- It should be layered by a moisturizer.
- It can be used as a base under the makeup.
- They should be categorized in day and night ones.
- They should be gently massaged into the skin rather than rubbing them.
- Even if the serums are organic. a patch test is recommended before using them. Observe for any reaction for 24-48 hours prior starting regular use.
- Start with a lower concentration so that skin will get used to and adapt well.
- It is advisable not to mix too many serums as they may cause an adverse reaction.
