Serum is the magic bullet to all your skin problems, especially if you have a less than ideal skin care routine. Apply it to your face and neck after cleansing and toning before moisturising.
Unlike moisturizers, a serum contains smaller molecules and penetrates deeper into the skin, to deliver a high concentration of active ingredients. Selecting the right serum for your skin type and skin care goals is critical in achieving almost instant results. Here are some pointers:
1. For Acne Prone Skin
If you have acne-prone skin, serum with Salicylic Acid works well. Salicylic acid is great for fighting acne, redheads, whiteheads and blackheads by breaking sebum – the natural oil produced by your skin – and reducing the production of sebum in general that often clogs the skin causing pimple formations. Salicylic acid also breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells so that they can release from the pores easily, giving you a smoother, brighter complexion.
2. For Dehydrated Skin
If your skin is intensely dehydrated, try a serum with Hyaluronic Acid to help lock moisture into your skin. Hyaluronic acid is actually produced naturally by your body to lubricate your joints, eyes and tissues, and has been lauded in recent years as a super skin moisturiser appropriate for all skin types. A hyaluronic acid concentrate is specifically great for adding intense moisture to dehydrated skin by attracting and binding water molecules as well as locking moisture on your skin keeping your face looking and feeling hydrated all day and night. Note that there is a difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin. Click HERE for a guide on How to Tell If Your Skin is Dehydrated and What To Do.
3. For Anti-Ageing
If you want to reduce visible signs of ageing, fast, you’ll want a serum rich in Retinol (vitamin A) and Niacinamide (a type of vitamin B3). Retinol increases collagen production reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It is believed that your skin produces significantly less collagen and elastin after the age of 25, so a retinol-rich serum can also be introduced into your skin care routine earlier as a preventive measure. Niacinamide helps build on your skin’s natural proteins called keratin that keep your skin feeling firm. It also helps your skin develop a lipid barrier essential for retaining moisture and keeping your skin looking plump and young.
Many skin lightening products have niacinamide as their key ingredient due to its ability to inhibit melanosome transfer after long-term use, so be careful when selecting the product to use – and the length of use.
4. For Dull Skin
If your skin just looks dull and uninterested with life, opt for a serum rich in Ascorbic Acid [Vitamin C] which is a great antioxidant. There are many Vitamin C Brightening Serums in the market, and most are suitable for all skin types. Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties helps fight free radicles that may come into contact with your skin every day leaving your skin looking dull and tired. It also enhances collagen synthesis and protects against sun damage. Vitamin C is also an anti-inflammatory and as a result reduces redness and puffiness around the skin and eyes and is known to lighten dark spots and fade hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin synthesis for brighter, even, healthier looking skin.
5. To Firm Skin
As a result of ageing, drastic changes in weight, UV exposure or lifestyle habits, you may find your skin looking like it’s sagging. To firm your skin, go for a serum that is formulated with ingredients that will promote collagen production [such as Retinol and Niacinamide] and boost hydration [like Hyaluronic Acid]. These serums can work for face and all-over body tightening in different products. They will not only tighten sagging skin but will also reduce the depth of visible wrinkles and fine lines around your face and neck for a more youthful appearance.