What Are Serums?
Serums are formulas which have a concentration of active ingredients and contain vitamins and antioxidants. They are composed of small molecules which can quickly penetrate the deeper dermis layer of the skin. Serums can help with skin concerns such as the visible signs of stress, aging, sensitivity and sun damage on the skin.

Types Of Serums

Serums for Dry Skin
Serums for dry skin often contain hydrating ingredients such as Vitamin E, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Niacinamide, and Squalene, as well as Vitamin C. These hydrating ingredients can help improve the skin quality and some repair the moisture barrier to help improve your skin’s ability to retain moisture. We love the Iris Extract Activating Essence Treatment for 24-hour hydration.

Serums for Sensitive Skin
Serums for sensitive skin often possess non-acnegenic, non-comedogenic formulas, and can be used on blemish-prone and problem skin. Vital Skin-Strengthening Hyaluronic Acid Super Serum, which is formulated with our smallest molecular form of Hyaluronic Acid and delivers hydration to even sensitive skin types.

Serums for Skin Brightening
Brightening serums often contain Activated C, a potent form of Vitamin C which can assist with pigmentation issues and ingredients with exfoliating properties such as Glycolic Acid and Ferulic Acid. Try Kiehl’s fast-acting Clearly Corrective™ Dark Spot Solution to diminish dark spots and visibly evens skin tone.

Acne Serums
Serums for acne often contain ingredients such as Retinol and Salicylic Acid, which help to unclog pores. Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties, and Vitamin C helps with acne scarring. For problem skin, we recommend the calmative Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Concentrate with a non-comedogenic formula for problem skin.

Anti-Aging Serums
There is no right time to start using anti-aging serums – take cues from your skin, if it begins to look lacklustre, loses elasticity or develops fine line, it may be time to start incorporating anti-aging skincare into your routine. Anti-aging serums contain active antioxidant ingredients such as Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Plant-based Glycerin to reactivate the natural skin renewal process and achieve younger-looking skin. Discover more of the benefits of Vitamin C in Skincare here.

What is the difference between a serum and a moisturiser?
Serums have concentrated ingredients and smaller particles which penetrate to the deeper dermis layers of your skin and are often a more aqueous texture. Moisturisers are creamier and serve to hydrate the skin and help prevent moisture loss. These two skincare products should be used in conjunction with the other – serums are designed to deliver targeted results, and moisturisers lock in your serum while providing additional hydration. When used together, a serum can enhance the hydrating effects of your moisturiser.

How do you apply a serum?
Apply your facial serum after cleansing your face with skin toner or face cleanser and before your moisturiser. You only need a very small amount of facial serum to cover your entire face. Always apply to clean skin, lightly patting, pressing, and tapping the serum evenly over the face and neck with your finger to accelerate the absorption. Always read the instructions on the bottle and only use as much of the serum as is recommended – an application of 2-3 drops or 1-2 pumps is often recommended.

Can You Mix Facial Serums?
Yes and no – it all comes down to the ingredients used in the serum. There are some ingredients which are more potent than others such as Retinol, chemical exfoliants such as AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), and peel or acne serums which may be intended for a specific use. When layered, these products may not achieve the desired results, and can even damage skin. Speak with a skincare specialist or dermatologist to determine what’s best for your skin and how to achieve the result you’re after. Many serums, such as botanical serums mix and complement each other very well. When layering serums, start with the thinnest, lightest formulas and apply thicker formulas over the top. (We love to layer the Midnight Recovery Concentrate – made from 99.8% natural ingredients - over the Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate The Vitamin C and Squalene in these formulas work well together.

When Should You Use A Serum?
Facial serums can be used in the morning or at night. Different formulations are suited to different applications. Some facial serums can include ingredients that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so ensure you read the application instructions before use. The Daily Reviving Concentrate is a light blend of natural ingredients which nourishes the skin all day. In comparison, the replenishing Midnight Recovery Concentrate is intended for nighttime use to restore and repair the skin. Exfoliating and peel serums are also best suited for use at night when their active ingredients can penetrate the skin whilst you sleep.