Just a few years ago, if you asked someone on the street what a healthy skin care routine consisted of they would probably tell you cleanser, toner, moisturizer. Many estheticians, dermatologists, and even cosmetic companies kept it just that simple. Fast forward to the present, and everyone is talking about serum being a key component to anti-aging and taking care of your skin. What are they and why have they impacted the skin care industry so quickly?
Usually a gel type of liquid, serums have a higher concentration of active ingredients than moisturizer and other products. They are intended to be hydrating and refresh dull skin. When your basic skin care routine is not working anymore and your complexion does not seem as fresh, glowing and beautiful, THAT is the time to change it up and add a serum underneath your moisturizer. They have a big impact and results are rapid.
Serums come in so many varieties, each with a specific purpose. When choosing a serum, look at what type of skin it is intended for and the problems it treats specifically. There are serums just for acne, others for whitening, hydrating, anti-aging, etc. Some serums combine these purposes (hydrating AND whitening), and others are more individual. Be sure to avoid any serums that contain alcohol or denatured alcohol as these defeat the purpose and dehydrate skin.
Once you’ve chosen your serum, there aren’t any special tricks to applying it. Cleanse your face thoroughly, as always, and use an alcohol-free toner. Go ahead and apply serum while your skin is still a bit damp from the toner as this locks in more moisture and the active ingredients of the serum actually penetrate more deeply. Don’t fall into the mindset of “if a little does well, use a lot”. The serum directions should tell you how much to use. Follow the serum with your favorite moisturizer. This last step is important and often neglected. Serum is not a replacement for moisturizer! The purpose of moisturizer is to lock moisture in to the skin and creating a protective barrier to keep irritants out. Serums hydrate, but they do not protect your skin.
Give your skin a special treat with our new Serum Infusion Mask. Added to your daily use of serum, you can choose another ingredient combination to provide a well-rounded approach to your skin care. While you relax either the serums locked in the natural cotton mask penetrate deeply creating an immediate and visible result. We love this method of refreshing the skin while traveling – hydrating the skin so you appear fresh and vibrant instead of dull and tired when you step off the plane ready for business or pleasure. It’s perfect for use right before a special night out as well; this mask does not leave your skin red or tight. The purpose is to treat your skin to something special, not a deep cleanse. Used once a week as part of your beauty routine, your skin will glow every day. Say good-bye to a dull complexion!
