Ask Joanna: Should I Use Face Serums?
Hello Joanna,
I am curious about face serums. Should I be using one in my daily skincare routine? What exactly are they, and how do I know which one is right for my skin?
Skincare serums were created as a way to deliver highly concentrated ingredients directly into the skin to heal, rejuvenate and improve skin’s health overall. Intended to be used between cleansing and moisturizing, serums are made up of small molecules that are able to penetrate deeply into the skin. They can be used daily, and should be applied after cleansing and toning as the skin’s pH is balanced, allowing the ingredients to be absorbed in the most efficient manner. Moisturizer should be applied as a final step after serum application.
Like all products, finding the right serum for your skin is a matter of understanding what your skin’s condition is at any given time. This changes depending on many factors including, diet, lifestyle, climate, etc. I always have a few serums on rotation for this reason. I also mix serums sometimes depending on what my skin needs.
When trying new serums, consistency is key. While you may see an immediate change in hydration levels of the skin, treating issues like hyperpigmentation and acne may take longer to see results. A good rule of thumb is to use a serum consistently for 6 weeks to see results. And I always recommend seeking the advice of a professional to determine which serums are best for your unique skin condition before adding them to your regimen.
