With the sheer volume of skincare products on the market, it can be very difficult to decipher which one to use for what skin concern. Is a toner best to treat uneven skin tone? Is a cleanser or a cream the appropriate choice for acne-prone skin? With combination skin types as well as seasonal concerns, things can get downright confusing. One of the most confusing choices is when to use serums versus moisturizers. What is the difference and is there ever a time when you’d want to use both?
Defining Serums
Face serums tend to be more lightweight than moisturizers. Because they are thinner and lighter, they absorb into the skin more quickly. Very little product remains on the skin, which means they can lead to less oiliness. With no formal definition of a serum, the product can be an oil, gel or lotion.
Serums are versatile products because they can address a variety of concerns. They can brighten the skin as well as fight signs of aging. They are often used as a tool to fight acne as well. The downside to serums is often the price, as they tend to be costlier. But, because formulations contain strong ingredients, smaller amounts of the product are needed to pack a punch. In other words, a little bit of serum goes a long way on your face.
Explaining Moisturizers
When you think of a moisturizing product, you probably think of a thicker formula that hydrates your skin and keeps it from drying out. Moisturizers also create a physical barrier on the surface of the skin that helps keep hydration in.
These products can also tackle difficult skin conditions such as signs of aging. Locking moisture in helps diminish the look of wrinkles. Moisturizers can also help skin appear softer, which is associated with younger skin.
The Difference Between Serums And Moisturizers
As already noted, their consistency is different but the intended use of serums and moisturizers is also different. Serums are meant to deeply penetrate the skin so that the active ingredients can be delivered more effectively to address specific concerns. Moisturizers target the outer layer of the skin, keeping it appearing hydrated and working with the cells to improve the appearance of the skin.
Because moisturizers are made up of larger molecules, they don’t deeply penetrate your skin in the same way that serums do. Although this is a plus for hydration, it’s a negative when it comes to experiencing the strongest effects of active ingredients. If an ingredient with a targeted purpose is advertised, a serum is likely the best option to get those benefits.
Oily skin can actually benefit more from serums than moisturizers. A serum provides less hydration than a moisturizer, which can be the right amount for someone who has oily skin. Someone with dry skin may find that serums are not hydrating enough and may need to opt for moisturizers. Those with oily skin may also find that moisturizers actually trap the oil on the skin, causing clogged pores and the potential for acne breakouts.
Layering May Be The Best Of Both Worlds
For those with dry skin, layering a serum and following up care with a moisturizer can be extremely effective. The serum penetrates delivering the proper active ingredient and the moisturizer seals it in while also hydrating the outer layer. However, if you are prone to acne, oil-based serums may do more harm than good.
So what’s the best way to layer these products? When layering any skincare item, starting with the thinnest formulation is key. Apply the serum first so that its active ingredient has a better chance of working effectively. Rub the serum on your face and wait for up to a minute to make sure it is absorbed. If the skin concern you are trying to remedy is also present on your neck, make sure you apply it there also.
Once you’ve waited a sufficient amount of time, apply the moisturizer. Depending on the active ingredients, some serums and moisturizers are better used at night. For example, some may contain no SPF and therefore would not be a great choice for daytime application where you’d be remiss not to protect yourself from the sun. Some products may be overly hydrating and may make it difficult to apply makeup over the product. Bottom line: read the product instructions and follow the recommended usage.
Who’s The Beauty Battle Winner?
There is no clear winner here. The best product really depends on your skincare concern as well as your skin type. Using a serum and a moisturizer together may even be the best option for you. This way you benefit from the serum’s active ingredient and the hydrating properties of the moisturizer.
Recommended Products
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Night Pressed Serum
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Cream
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream
e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream Fragrance-Free
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