Do you dream of a radiant, even-toned complexion but struggle with dullness and uneven texture? Don't worry; this blog post reveals the top 5 face serums to achieve healthier and brighter skin. But wait, there's more! We'll also discuss suitable skin types for each serum and the necessary cautions. That being said, start reading!
Why Are Face Serums So Popular?
Face serums are quite popular in the skincare industry. Unlike simple moisturizers, they're lightweight and contain concentrations of active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, and vitamin C. These ingredients provide your skin with the essential nourishing and rejuvenating elements that target concerns like dullness, pigmentation, acne, and dryness and reduce aging signs. Available in various textures, there’s a serum for every skin type!
How To Use A Face Serum Properly?
This is another major concern for most people. While serums are easy to use, the wrong application technique can affect the working process. So, just to be on the same page, here’s what to do while using a face serum;
- Clean your face first with gentle micellar water to remove makeup residue, dirt, and oil.
- With the help of a dropper, pour a few drops of serum on your fingertips and pat the solution onto your face and neck. Avoid rubbing or using excessive serum, as it can clog pores and cause irritation.
- Depending on the serum type, you may or may not apply a moisturizer later.
Face Serums To Use
Now that we are done with the introduction and covering a few questions, here’s the list of the best 5 face serums to use per your skin type;
Vitamin C serum is perfect for tackling issues like uneven skin tone, dullness, and pigmentation. Made with ingredients like l-ascorbic acid, ascorbyl-6-palmitate, and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, Vitamin C removes old skin cells and leaves a radiant and lively surface behind. Additionally, with daily usage, the serum further treats wrinkles and fine lines. Lastly, considering the sun exposure Pakistan's population faces daily, adding such a serum to your daily skin routine is a must!
- Suitable For: All skin types
- Preferred Usage Time: Morning
Recommended: Vitamin C 8% Serum
Caution: As the serum contains acidic properties, make sure to do a patch test beforehand, especially if your skin is sensitive.
Retinol serum contains vitamin A, which is necessary for boosting collagen and brightening skin tone. Its antioxidant properties also reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. According to skin experts, just 1% of retinol in your daily routine further improves skin texture, treats pigmentation, and regulates skin cell turnover for a flawless appearance
- Suitable For: All non-sensitive skin types
- Preferred Usage Time: Night
Recommended: Retinol 2.5% Serum
Caution: If your skin is highly sensitive, it can react to retinol. However, continuous usage builds tolerance and will likely treat the reaction while leaving smooth and young skin behind.
As most people struggle with keeping themselves hydrated throughout the day, the Hyaluronic Acid serum provides essential moisture to the skin and slows down the rate at which the water leaves your skin. Further, it improves the appearance, treats dryness and dullness, and increases skin elasticity. Lastly, the vitamin B5 present in the serum repairs damaged skin cells, leaving a healthier, hydrated, and brighter complexion behind.
- Suitable For: All skin types
- Preferred Usage Time: Morning & Night
Recommended: Hyaluronic Acid 2% Serum
Caution: Hyaluronic Acid serum is made for all skin types, so it can be used with several other products without fear of allergic reaction.
An AHA + BHA serum solution works as an exfoliator and gives a smoother complexion. While alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) clear and improve the skin's appearance and texture, the beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), with their oil-solubility, clear clogged pores and fight acne. Together, the serum removes dead skin cells, treats acne and stubborn acne scars, and evens skin tone for a visibly radiant and renewed glow.
- Suitable For: All non-sensitive skin types
- Preferred Usage Time: Once a week
Recommended: AHA 10% + BHA 2% Serum
Caution: As the AHA + BHA serum is a direct acid peel-off solution, don't use it regularly or with other acidic serums. Further, make sure you're using a suitable hydrating moisturizer to minimize the chances of reactions.
We've saved the best for last! Niacinamide serum contains vitamin B3 that works miraculously on the skin by minimizing pores and treating occasional breakouts. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also calm blemishes and promote a clearer, more even complexion. On top of that, the serum strengthens your skin's natural barrier, improves moisture retention, and protects it from environmental damage.
- Suitable For: All skin types - works best on oily skin
- Preferred Usage Time: Morning and evening
Recommended: Niacinamide 5% Serum
Caution: While the Niacinamide serum works well on all skin types, don't use it together with Vitamin C serum, as the combo won't work well and might cause an allergic reaction.
Healthy & Bright Skin Tone In Just One Drop!
So, these were the perfect 5 face serums to add to your daily skincare routine right away. By using each of them adequately and cautionary, you will achieve your dream of radiant, healthier, and brighter skin in no time! Also, don't forget to take a patch test before using any serums to avoid possible allergic reactions. Have a nice day!
FAQs
The best way to find the face serum that suits you depends on identifying your skin type, researching each serum's benefits and side effects, and determining the climate conditions where you live.
Yes. However, avoid mixing direct acid peel-offs and similar vitamin serums. Always take a patch test before using them daily.
Though the maximum time for each serum is around 4-8 weeks, it mainly depends on your skin concern and serum, as some work instantly, and some require consistent usage.
A moisturizer after serum application locks in hydration and creates a protective barrier for a well-balanced skincare routine.
Per the studies and research, exfoliating serums like AHA/BHA can cause purging, which is a temporary increase in breakouts as they clear clogged pores. This often goes away after a few weeks; however, if irritation persists, stop using the serum immediately.
Most serums, such as hyaluronic acid, can be used twice daily, morning and night. However, this is not the case for each serum; on the other hand, there are plenty that should be used once a day or once a week. To avoid any mishaps, follow the instructions on each serum.
While it depends on your perspective, make sure you're choosing a serum that addresses your skin problems and is credible among users. Conduct proper research and find the one that fits your budget and needs.