What is a Face Serum?
Available on a large scale, face serums have dominated the skincare world. There's a serum for every skin concern possible. Dry Skin? Use a hyaluronic acid serum or aloe vera serum to lock moisture. Want to reduce dark spots? Use a niacinamide or arbutin based serum, and other uncountable benefits. But what makes face serums different from other skincare products?
Serums contain a concentration of active ingredients that target specific skin concerns. Serums work to deliver potent ingredients deep in your skin. Despite being packed with a higher percentage of active ingredients, they are pretty lightweight and fast-absorbing (very cool in my opinion).
So now that we know serums are a straight up game changer, the confusion arises about how to incorporate the right serum into our skincare regimen. If you want to know how to use a serum effectively, then continue reading to find out the step-by-step guide on face serums.
How to Use a Face Serum: Step by Step Guide
Serums no doubt serve the best for your skin but you can maximize its benefits by following the proper technique of applying it. The most efficient way to use a Serum is:
Step 1: Clean your Face
The first step is always the most important step of any skincare routine. Thus make sure to clean your face thoroughly before you use a face serum to treat your skin concern. Use a face wash that is suitable for your skin type and free from any harsh chemicals. A clean face will help better absorb the serum in your skin.
Wet your face with water and then massage the product into your skin in circulation motions. Pay extra attention to the areas of the face that get more oily. Rinse it off with water and pat your face dry.
Step 2: Tone your Skin
After you have washed your face, it's time to use a toner. Toners give an extra clean to the skin and removes any leftover dirt and oil on the skin. They also balance the skin's pH and prep it to receive the benefits of the serum.
Take a small amount of the product on a cotton pad and sweep it on your face. You can apply a toner using your hands too. Using your fingers, press the product onto your face. Make sure to cover all areas avoiding the eyes and lips.
Step 3: Apply the Serum
This is the part where we go ahead and apply the serum. Choose a face serum that is formulated to target your specific skin concerns. Take a few drops of the serum either on your fingertips or a drop each directly on your cheeks, chin and forehead. A small amount of face serum is generally enough for regular use. Spread the serum on your face and gently pat and press it on your face.
Step 4: Let it Absorb
Wait a few minutes before moving on, to let the serum fully sink into your skin. Serums tend to absorb quickly but still it is better to give it a couple of minutes to penetrate your skin and be effective.
Step 5: Use a Moisturiser
Routine is not completed until you use a moisturiser after applying a serum. Moisturiser works to seal in the serum into your skin. It creates a protective barrier for your skin, hydrates it and locks in all the benefits of the serum. Choose a moisturiser that suits your skin type and gently massage it all over your face.
Step 6: SPF!
Whether you use a serum in your morning or night routine, always use a sunscreen in the mornings before going out in the sun. A sunscreen will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays. This step is especially important if you are using serums infused with Vitamin C or Retinol that makes your skin sensitive to the sun. Choose a broad spectrum and high SPF option for overall protection for your skin.
Summing Up,
Serums are a great addition to your skincare routine, so don't be worried and go buy a serum right now! Make sure to follow the proper steps like having a clean face, toning and following up the serum with a moisturiser and sunscreen. Once you have incorporated a face serum in your daily regimen, you'll see your face get radiant and glowing. Be consistent with its use and you're good to go.
FAQ’s
How much serum to use on your face?
3 to 5 drops of your serum are enough to work their magic on the skin. If your face feels sticky or oily afterwards, then it is a sign that you might be using too much serum.
How to apply serum on your face at night?
To apply a face serum at night first cleanse your face thoroughly, apply a toner followed by the serum. Gently press the serum into your skin and let it absorb before moving onto the next step of your night routine.
What is the best time to apply serum on your face?
The best time to apply a serum is in the mornings or evenings. When you use a serum depends on the formulation and ingredients in the serum. If you use a serum, be sure to use an SPF too.
How many times do you apply serum on your face?
You can use a serum once or twice a day depending upon your skin and its needs. You can use it either in the morning or night or at both times.
What to do after applying serum on your face?
You should follow a serum up with a moisturizer to nourish and hydrate the skin and lock in the serum to make it more effective.
Should I use face serum before or after moisturizer?
You should always apply a serum before a moisturiser because serums absorb faster into the skin and moisturisers lock in the active ingredients.
