You have probably grown to the idea of sticking to a skin care routine that includes the basics: not sleeping with your makeup on, using a skin moisturizer, and of course not missing on the ever-dependable sunscreen. However, there’s a chance that your beauty regimen is already outdated and you are missing a very important detail–especially if you haven’t included face serums as among your beauty essentials yet.
If you are serious with your skincare regimen, there is no reason to skip the use of face serums, especially with its beauty benefits. Need further proof? Read on to understand how face serums work and to learn the expert guide on having it included in your beauty routine.
WHAT IS A FACE SERUM?
A serum is probably one of the most commonly overlooked products in a skincare routine. It is a lightweight product that is often applied between cleansing and moisturizing. It penetrates deeper to deliver high-concentration of powerful ingredients into the skin. It targets specific skincare concerns like fine lines, dark spots, and wrinkles. Serums often come with a higher price tag compared to other skincare products and that is because of the high concentration of active ingredients in each bottle.
DO YOU NEED A FACE SERUM?
Serums are great for people with oily skin or those who simply prefer a weightless feel to their skincare products. While it is not necessary to have a serum, it’s still ideal to have one if you want to go the extra mile in your daily routine. It gives your skin a healthy glow, younger appearance and a host of benefits which will be discussed below.
TOP REASONS TO START USING FACE SERUMS
BRIGHTEN DULL SKIN
A serum that contains vitamin C, retinol and salicylic is formulated to illuminate and tighten the skin. It is also ideal for acne-prone skin by reducing inflammation and unclogging pores. It also contains antioxidants that protect the skin from free radical damage that aggravates signs of aging.
TIP: Does your skin looks dull? Make use of antioxidants like green tea extract or ferulic acid. These combat free radicals, increase the effectiveness of sunscreen and promote rejuvenation.
LIGHTEN DARK SPOTS
A dark spot correcting serum helps reduce sun damage by exfoliating and lightening discoloration to reveal a more glowing skin. It can also be used under sunscreen to double the protection and at the same time, slow down signs of aging and reduce sagging skin and wrinkles.
REDUCE THE SIGNS OF AGEING
An anti-aging serum helps skin look more radiant and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Serums with retinol, alpha-hydroxy acid, salicylic acid or antioxidants are effective at rejuvenating skin cells, thus slow down the signs of aging.
IMPROVE HYDRATION
Hyaluronic acid serum works wonders on moisturizing and hydrating the skin. It is great for retaining and replenishing moisture in the protective barrier of the skin. It also plumps up and smoothens out the skin, giving it younger and radiant appearance.
PREVENT BREAKOUTS
Are you prone to acne breakouts? Face serum is for you! Unlike the usual moisturizers, it has water consistency which means that they won’t block your skin’s pores. Serums are also easier to absorb, leaving your skin free from the residue that contributes to skin breakout!
HOW TO APPLY FACE SERUMS
- After cleansing your face, apply a pea-sized amount of serum. Pat don’t rub. Apply it by gently tapping the serum evenly over your face and neck.
TIP: Before applying face serum, use an alcohol-free toner and leave it slightly wet on the skin before application. By doing so, you will allow the ingredients to penetrate deeper into your skin.
- Proceed to apply your regular moisturizer and the rest of your beauty products as usual.
TIP: Allow the serum to be absorbed by the skin before applying the moisturiser. It is also best to apply it cold. This is the state that enables the moisturiser to create a vacuum effect that can pull the active serum ingredients deeper into the skin.
- Apply serum in the morning, at night or both. You can also add a couple of drops to your moisturiser if your skin is not prone to irritation.
CAUTIONS:
- For sensitive skin, allow your skin to dry before applying serum, particularly those that are water-based. Doing so will slow down the penetration of serum which is more likely to lead irritation.
- For drier skin, serum can be layered under moisturisers both day and night.
- For people with chronic skin conditions, serums may penetrate too quickly, only causing aggravation.
- Serums are extremely potent, piling it on too much may only irritate sensitive skin. Always perform a patch-test before application.
3 PRODUCTS TO USE WITH FACE SERUMS
#1. FACE CLEANSER
The initial step to using face serum is getting your skin free from impurities. Choose a facial cleanser that can help you get rid of dirt or excess oils that may be found on the surface of your skin.
Alyaka Recommends:
#2. MOISTURISER
Choose a moisturiser that is specifically formulated for your skin type to increase hydration and to get improved results.
Alyaka Recommends:
#3. BROAD-SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN
Everyday, it is best to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen especially in the morning. Choose one with an SPF of 15 or higher before heading outdoors to enhance the effects of the face serum that you are using.
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