The serum is often the most concentrated product in a facial routine. More fluid than a cream, it penetrates quickly and targets a specific need. However, you must choose the one that matches your skin. Here is our simple guide.
Serum or cream: what is the difference?
Cream hydrates and protects the surface of the skin. Serum, on the other hand, is formulated to provide a higher concentration of active ingredients in a lightweight texture. Both are complementary: apply the serum first, then the cream on top.
Which serum for which need?
Dull or tired skin: focus on radiance
Grey complexion, lack of luminosity, skin exposed to urban pollution: choose a radiance serum. The Perle d'Eau Douce serum by Iris & Opale, with its melting texture, is designed to brighten dull complexions and protect the skin from pollution.
Mature skin: target firmness
Over time, skin loses its tone. A duo of targeted serums, such as the Alchimix n°3 Jouvence set, helps revitalize the appearance of mature skin. Don't forget the neck and the jawline, which are often neglected: the neck and jawline firming serum is designed for this area.
Combination to oily skin: seek balance
Skin that shines does not need to be stripped, but rebalanced. The Malachite set brings together three treatments designed for impure skin. And above all, keep hydrating: dehydrated skin tends to produce more sebum.
Dry skin: think about oils
Skin that feels tight appreciates nourishing textures. A dry oil such as the multi-use oil with squalane and rosehip can be used alone at night or mixed into your cream.
Hesitant? Try several serums
The L'Alchimix n°1 set contains 4 serums to alternate according to your skin's needs. For fans of products made in France, the Apple Essential Beauty Box combines a serum, eye contour, and vegan cream.
How to apply your serum?
- Cleanse your face, then optionally apply a toner.
- Dispense 2 to 4 drops of serum into the palm of your hand.
- Apply by smoothing from the center of the face outwards, without forgetting the neck.
- Let it penetrate for a minute, then apply your cream.
- In the morning, always finish with sun protection.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using too much: a few drops are enough; the excess will not be absorbed.
- Layering too many serums: one or two maximum per routine.
- Changing every three days: give your skin a few weeks to get used to a treatment.
- Forgetting the tolerance test if you have reactive skin: test on a small area first.
Find our entire selection in the Facial serums & oils category.