Today, we’re going to spill the tea on why using a face serum regularly can be a game-changer for your skin. Think of these formulas as the ultimate solutions for your skin because they are packed with all kinds of good stuff like antioxidants, vitamins, and peptides that help it stay healthy. Moreover, serums have the ability to penetrate into the deeper layers of your skin and deliver those antioxidants right at the source. Compared to other products, serums work better and faster- Skincare backed by Science. They will prove to be complete game-changers in your routine.
They’re especially great for targeting specific skin concerns like dark spots, fine lines, dehydration, and acne. So, if you’re dealing with any of those pesky skin issues, picking the right serum can work wonders.
In this article, we will talk about the importance of some of the most popular ingredients in face serums: Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and Retinol.
What Is Vitamin C?
It’s an antioxidant that can brighten your skin, fight free radicals, and improve your overall skin tone. You know the days when your skin looks tired, dull, and washed out? Well, that is when you should reach out for a vitamin C serum as it can give your skin an instant, radiant glow. Vitamin C gives collagen production a boost, making skin feel bouncy, firmer, and brighter.
Best for – dull skin that needs some brightening
Dos And Don’ts To Keep In Mind While Using Vitamin C
DO:
- Check the product label to see if the formula contains a stable form of vitamin C, such as L-ascorbic acid or its derivatives, for maximum efficacy.
- Patch test the serum on your jawline before using it all over your face to avoid irritation or allergic reactions.
- Apply the serum in the morning and follow up with sunscreen to help protect your skin from environmental stressors like UV rays.
- Store the serum in a cool, dark place to help maintain its potency and effectiveness. If your serum changes colour (turns yellow), stop using it immediately.
DON’T:
- Use a vitamin C serum with other products – Ingredients like retinol or AHAs/BHAs, can be irritating when used together. Don’t use them in the same routine, use Vit C in the AM and your other actives in the PM.
- Overdo it – a little goes a long way with vitamin C and it can irritate sensitive skin, so start with a small amount (a few drops at most) and gradually increase the quantity so your skin builds a tolerance to it.
- Skip SPF – Vitamin C can help protect your skin, but it’s not a substitute for proper sun protection. In fact, Vitamin C is more effective when combined with your sunscreen.
- Forget to moisturise – vitamin C can be drying on its own, so make sure to follow up with a good moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
This one can be a BIG game-changer for dry skin as it has molecules that can hold up to 1000 times their weight in water, making it the ultimate hydration booster! Think of it as a sponge that soaks up moisture and plumps up your skin and to be honest, who doesn’t want that dewy skin? Hyaluronic acid also helps improve your skin’s texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines by adding hydration. Plus, it’s gentle enough for all skin types so everyone can benefit from its powers!
Best for – dry, dehydrated skin
Dos And Don’ts To Keep In Mind While Using Hyaluronic Acid
DO:
- Use a hyaluronic acid serum that is formulated to suit your skin type and concerns.
- Apply the serum to damp skin or mist your face with water before applying it to help increase absorption.
- Layer the serum under your moisturiser. This will help lock in the hydration and maximize the benefits.
- Store the serum in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to help maintain its effectiveness.
DON’T:
- Use a hyaluronic acid serum on dry skin without applying a moisturiser over it. It can draw moisture out of your skin and leave it feeling even drier!
- Overuse the serum. Too much hyaluronic acid can cause congestion and breakouts in some skin types!
- Expect immediate results – hyaluronic acid takes time to work, so be patient and consistent in your usage.
What Is Niacinamide?
This one is a multitasking ingredient that does it all! It helps regulate oil production, reduces the appearance of pores, and improves your skin’s barrier function. Remember, your skin barrier is the first line of defence you have when dealing with stressors like pollution and UV rays. Keeping it healthy should be a top priority!
Niacinamide also helps manage hyperpigmentation, which is when your skin has dark spots or an uneven skin tone caused by factors like acne or melasma (caused due to pregnancy or hormonal changes). It helps regulate your skin’s melanin production (the process that gives your skin its colour) and by doing so, it may give you a more even skin tone.
Best for – all skin types
Dos And Don’ts To Keep In Mind While Using Niacinamide
DO:
- Use a niacinamide serum that is formulated to suit your skin type and concerns.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but before moisturising or applying sunscreen.
- Combine niacinamide with other active ingredients, such as vitamin C, to boost its effectiveness.
DON’T:
- Use a niacinamide serum at the same time as AHAs/BHAs, as they can be irritating when used together.
- Expect immediate results – most skincare products take 4-8 weeks to show you results. Be patient and consistent with your routine.
- Use a niacinamide serum on broken or inflamed skin.
What Is Retinol?
Let’s talk about retinol, aka vitamin A. It’s an ingredient that’s been around for a while but still remains in the spotlight because it is super effective in treating acne and preventing signs of ageing. Retinol helps increase cell turnover, ultimately giving your skin that fresh, bright look. As we age, our skin’s natural collagen production decreases, which leads to fine lines, pigmentation, and wrinkles. By boosting collagen production, retinol helps to keep skin looking plump and youthful.
Retinol can be intimidating for beginners for multiple reasons. Some people may experience mild redness, peeling, flaking or a breakout when first using it, but this usually subsides after a few weeks as long as you keep moisturising your skin. It’s also key to wear sunscreen when using retinol, as it can cause photosensitivity aka when your skin is more sensitive to the sun. But trust me, the results are worth it!
Best for – all skin types, especially mature skin
Dos And Don’ts To Keep In Mind While Using Retinol
DO:
- Start with a low concentration of retinol and gradually increase the frequency as your skin begins to slowly build a tolerance to it.
- Apply retinol at night, after cleansing and toning, but before moisturising.
- Use retinol consistently to see the best results.
DON’T:
- Use retinol too frequently, as overuse can cause dryness, redness, and irritation.
- Apply retinol to damp skin or after using acidic skincare products, such as AHAs/BHAs or vitamin C, as it can increase skin irritation.
- Use retinol during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it could be harmful to the baby.
What Are Peptides?
If Hyaluronic acid doesn’t work for you, try peptides instead. Peptides are building blocks of protein for your skin. They help boost elasticity and keep your skin looking plump and firm. They’re a great ingredient to add to your routine if you’re looking for a bit of anti-ageing action. They help keep your skin moisturised and nourished for long hours and pair well with all other active ingredients. The best way to use peptides would be to layer it on over another serum to give it a boost of hydration.
Best for – all skin types
Dos And Don’ts To Keep In Mind While Using Peptides
DO:
- Use a peptide serum after cleansing and toning your skin.
- Combine it with different skincare ingredients like Vitamin C, niacinamide or hyaluronic acid. This helps in achieving healthy-looking skin since all the ingredients work simultaneously.
DON’T:
- Expect results overnight. Like every other skincare product, peptides too take time to work on the skin and deliver results.
- While peptides pose little risk to any skin type, it is best to start off by applying it to your skin every alternate day before making it a part of your daily skincare routine.
Now that you’re all caught up on the different types of serums, which one will you be adding to your routine?
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