Beauty serums have been around for a while, part of the arsenal of products used at spas and specialized skincare clinics for deep skin repair. But only recently have they been introduced on the market as over-the-counter products.

“A serum is a liquid that helps tackles problem of dehydration, redness and fine lines”

The skin absorbs serum faster than it does a cream and since it is light in texture, it is far more effective for a larger surface area than a regular cream or moisturizer.

• Firms and lifts skin
• Boosts Collagen
• Reduces the appearance of dark  circles and puffiness in the eye area
• Boosts the skin’s natural protection against the environment
• Stimulates the skin’s circulation

What’s in a Serum?

Most serums offered by good brands are either a mix of certain essential oils, hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C or of well known anti-ageing ingredients like CLA( conjugated linoleic acid), AHA, Retinol( an exfoliant and anti-ageing ingredient) and even real elemental gold( to re-energise dull skin).

Plant cell serums contain edelweiss flower, hydrogenated castor oil, aloe vera and soluble collagen of plants.

Usage

Since it’s meant for inner repair, a serum works best with product that focus on surface healing. So you can use the serum first and apply a cream or moisturizer over it.

Using it is simple just wash and cleanse your face and apply a serum with outward strokes. Follow this with a light moisturizer for a more absorbent effect.

Cause for Concern

Unfortunately Serums have downsides too.

• The most important one is that they don’t work on all skin types.
• Serums work best on undernourished or dry skin and on normal to dry skin. So if you have oily skin, the serum may not be able to help.
• Also, they are not meant for very young skin, and can only help delay the ageing process, not stop it completely.
• Since, they come in concentrated form, only a drop or two should be used. More than that can result in a rash or skin breakout.
• Keep in mind also that compared to your regular cream, serums may be costlier. And most important, you can’t use serum on its own. It should always be layered with a corresponding cream. Since a serum is absorbed by the skin very quickly, without layering it will leave your skin feeling dry very soon.