Serums 101: Which Is Right For Your Skin?
Serums are a well-known treatment step in morning and evening skincare routines, but with so many formulations out there itâs hard to know which one would be best for you. Discover the...
Serums are a well-known treatment step in morning and evening skincare routines, but with so many formulations out there itâs hard to know which one would be best for you. Youâve probably seen them â filled with popular ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and retinol, but which one will work for your skin?
In this blog, weâll talk about what exactly a serum is, why you should use one, and the serum that is most suited to your skin concern whether oily, aging, dry or combination.
What Is A Serum and Why Should You Use One?
In comparison to a moisturiser, serums often have a concentrated formulation of a specific star ingredient. Dependent on the serum, they are usually lightweight in texture and have a larger number of active molecules which allows them to absorb easily into the skin. Key ingredients that can be found in serums usually include:
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Vitamin C
- Retinol
- Niacinamide
- Peptides
Whether your goal is to hydrate, brighten, smooth, or firm, incorporating a serum helps you achieve visible improvements tailored to your skinâs unique needs.
Serums For Your Skin Goals
Best Serum for Ageing Skin
When experiencing signs of ageing, you may notice the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness in the skin. Key ingredients to look for when it comes to choosing a serum for ageing skin are:
- Retinol: Stimulates cellular turnover for plump and smooth skin.
- Peptides: Increases collagen synthesis to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Antioxidants: Prevent cell damage that leads to signs of premature ageing.
One of the best skin serums for ageing skin is the Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & Growth Factor Advanced Lifting Serum 50ml. Key ingredients include a 9% lifting peptide complex, and a 3% growth factor complex to target even the most stubborn fine lines and wrinkles, as well as plump, and firm the skin.
Best Serum For Oily Skin
For those with oily/acne-prone skin, finding a serum that balances without completely stripping the skin can be a challenge. Opt for serums with ingredients that work to balance oil production and reduce breakouts like:
- Niacinamide: Helps to regulate sebum production and has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and acne.
- Salicylic acid: Also known as a BHA, exfoliator that removes dead skin and stops pores from clogging.
- Glycolic acid: Also known as an AHA, removes dead skin cells by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together.
The Q+A Salicylic Acid Facial Serum keeps breakouts and oil production at bay with salicylic acid, succinic acid, and betaine to refine skin texture, unclog pores, and refine your skin texture without stripping it from moisture.
Best Serum For Combination Skin
Combination skin is tricky to navigate, as it sometimes feels like youâre trying to find products for two different skin types, dry and oily. The trick to finding the right serum is to balance hydration and oil control without overloading or stripping the skin. Some great ingredients for this are:
- Vitamin C: Helps to brighten the skin, improving overall tone and texture.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates without adding excess oil to the skin.
- Snail Mucin: Rich in compounds like glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid to gently exfoliate while hydrating the skin.
The Allies of Skin 20% Vitamin C Brighten + Firm Serum works for combination skin as its waterless, antioxidant-rich formula brightens, firms, and evens tone without feeling heavy. The lightweight balm texture melts into the skin, hydrating dry areas while balancing oilier zones for a smooth, radiant finish.
Best Serum For Dry Skin
Dry skin types often experience the feeling of tightness in the skin, flakiness in drier areas of the skin, and dullness from the lack of moisture. Serum ingredients to look for to support dry skin are:
- Ceramides: Essential for strengthening the skin barrier and stopping trans epidermal water loss.
- Glycerin: Natural humectant that draws moisture into the skin.
- Shea butter: Deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin.
One of our favourite serums for dry skin is OSKIAâs Isotonic Hydra Serum Intense Biomimetic Hydration. Formulated to deeply hydrate the skin, this serum can also be used post-clinic treatment to soothe and repair, demonstrating just how nourishing and gentle it is. Not only do the ingredients include oat ceramides, but also in the formula are electrolytes, amino acids and probiotics.
Our Favourite Serums For Each Skin Type
Skincare is not a one-size-fits all approach and choosing the right serum for your skin type matters. If youâd like a more in-depth recommendation from one of our skincare experts, book a virtual consultation today!