This is a commonly asked question in my skin care clinic.
The answer is yes. I routinely tell my clients if you only had money to spend
on one product, spend it on a serum.
The reason is simple: serums create the most change in
the skin. This is because serums contain high concentrations of active
ingredients. These active ingredients are often formulated in a low molecular
weight or lightweight base. This allows the product to absorb readily into the
skin and penetrate deeper than a heavier weight formulation, such as a
moisturizer.
There are many different types of serums offered by skin
care manufacturers. They are created to prevent the skin from damage, protect
the skin from damage, and/or correct damage.
“What
is the best serum?”
The answer depends on what concerns you have for your
skin. Serums are made with specific ingredients to address specific concerns.
For example, if your concern is acne, you may opt for a serum with an
exfoliating active ingredient such as salicylic acid to encourage quicker cell
turnover. However, if your concern is hyperpigmentation, you would want a serum
with known brightening properties, such as licorice root extract.
“How
do I use a serum?”
No matter what serum you buy, you must always use it
directly on clean skin (immediately following cleansing). This allows the
product to absorb into the skin. Otherwise, it will sit on top of the skin and
won’t be effective. How often you use the serum depends on the manufacturer’s
instructions for use. Applications may be once or twice a day.
