Alexander Prokofiev, dermatovenerologist, medical expert of the La Roche-Posay brand:
“Facial serums have been around for a long time, but still I am often asked: “Why are they needed if there is a cream?” and “Are they needed at all?” The answer is clear - yes, we need it! Cream is basic daily skin care, and serums are designed to solve specific problems. If the cream is selected according to skin type, then when choosing a serum, the skin type is not important, but the main thing is the skin condition that needs to be dealt with (dehydration, acne, age-related changes, pigmentation). If there are no obvious skin problems, then serum is most likely not needed.
What is a facial serum
Serum (serum) is a cosmetic product in which active ingredients are presented in high concentration. That is, the active ingredients are the same as in creams, but their specific gravity is many times greater. The formula of the serum is such that it is absorbed almost instantly and shows results faster than cream. Sometimes - instantly.
Quiz: Which SkinCeuticals anti-aging product is right for you
Active components make up up to 70% of the serum, while in creams there are 10-12% , the rest is the base and structure-forming ingredients: emulsifiers, emollients (softeners), thickeners, film formers.
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Night Elixir L'Occitane Reset Nuit Huile-en-Serum
Night Elixir L'Occitane Reset Nuit Huile-en-Serum A new version of the legendary night elixir Reset Nuit Huile-en-Serum, whose name sounds like “Instant Skin Reboot” in Russian, now contains 10 times more Immortelle essential oil, as well as organic extract of the same flower, which is extracted using an innovative extraction method (this allows you to preserve even more beneficial properties of the plant).
And these two components were accompanied by extracts of akmella and marjoram. As a result, the experts at L'Occitane have created a super-effective anti-aging treatment with a cooling finish that erases signs of fatigue and stress, leaving skin healthy and energized. With prolonged use, the elixir gives a prolonged effect. Metabiotics and other beneficial bacteria that are needed for beauty and youth Read
Types of facial serums
Serums can fulfill a specific mission or a whole range of anti-aging obligations, such as:
- hydration;
- nutrition;
- regeneration;
- lightening pigment spots;
- increasing skin density;
- stimulation of collagen and elastin production;
- restoration of water-lipid balance.
And all this in one bottle.
The formula of the serum is such that it is absorbed almost instantly and the results of application are demonstrated faster than the cream. © iStock
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M.Aklive Revital Essence “Antioxidants + Peptide Boost”
M.Aklive Revital Essence “Antioxidants + Peptide Boost” This fluid essence literally melts into the skin, leaving a feeling of freshness and cleanliness for a long time.
Day after day, it restores firmness and elasticity, improves lymphatic drainage and reduces puffiness and pigmentation. All this became possible thanks to a thoroughly verified composition, which includes alpine rose, olive leaves, lecithin, glycerin - and this is not the entire list of active ingredients that care for the skin and put it in order. Text: Svetlana Antonova
Serum composition
Here are its main ingredients:
- antioxidants - enzymes, polyphenols, minerals;
- vitamins C, E, group B, retinol;
- hydrofixatives - hyaluronic acid, glycerin;
- acids AHA, BHA, which provide peeling;
- ceramides, restoring the water-lipid balance and protective properties of the skin;
- peptides that stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.
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Baxter of California Skin Concentrate BHA
Baxter of California Skin Concentrate BHA Despite the fact that the concentrate of the American brand Baxter of California includes BHA acids, it is suitable even for sensitive skin, as it does not cause irritation or peeling, but delicately exfoliates the upper layers of the epidermis and cleanses pores. all types of pollution. Hyaluronic acid is responsible for moisturizing and neutralizing oily shine on the face. In general, Skin Concentrate BHA has a very pleasant texture and neutral aroma, so both women and men can use it.
How to use the serum
Any serum is applied:
- 1-2 times a day, in small quantities - 4-5 drops;
- only on cleansed and toned skin - it is advisable to keep it damp, this will enhance the effect of the serum.
Serums can fulfill a specific mission or a whole range of anti-aging obligations. © iStock
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Shiseido Ultimune III Skin Renewal Concentrate
Concentrate that restores skin energy Shiseido Ultimune III This year, Shiseido introduced the third version of their bestseller - Ultimune III concentrate. This time, it is based on innovative technologies The Lifeblood and ImuGenerationRed, which stimulate the vitality of the skin, activating its protective functions and, at the same time, restoring it from the inside. Simply put, a serum with a silk texture penetrates into the deep layers and works there to firm, elasticity and improve the skin. By the way, in 2022, the concentrate is represented by three beauty ambassadors: Megan Rapinoe (two-time world championship winner and vice-captain of the US women's national soccer team), Hikaru Utada (singer, songwriter and producer) and Ursula Corbero (actress, known for the TV series Netflix "Paper Heist")
Features of the product
- Typically, a serum, unlike a cream, does not create an occlusive film on the skin, and therefore requires subsequent application of the cream. If it provides “sealing,” manufacturers recommend using it as a stand-alone product.
- The great advantage of the serum is that it acts as a catalyst for the effectiveness of creams. By supplementing your care with serum, you will increase the intensity of other products and, accordingly, notice the result earlier.
- Some serums prepare the skin for cosmetic procedures, prolong their effect, and speed up the rehabilitation process.
- Serums work well in pairs - for example, antioxidant and moisturizing.
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Kiehl's Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum
Serum with a microdose of retinol for every day Kiehl's Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum To a microdose of pure retinol, peptides and ceramides were added to this serum - these components complemented each other's properties, and the result was one of the most powerful products that works in three directions .
Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum helps renew the surface of the skin, while at the same time increasing elastin reserves (increasing elasticity and firmness) and strengthening the protective barrier, which helps the skin stay hydrated for as long as possible (by the way, this also has a beneficial effect on skin perception retinol). How to get rid of acne at 20, 30 and 50 years old Read
Review of SkinCeuticals facial serums
Serum for correcting acne and age-related skin changes Blemish & Age Defense
An intense acid complex (dioic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, salicylic acid) reduces the number of imperfections, reduces sebum production, cleanses pores and gently exfoliates. Glycolic and citric acids are responsible for smooth skin.
Retexturing Activator Moisturizing Serum
Hyaluronic acid and a component of the natural moisturizing factor - hydroxyethyl urea - well moisturize the skin, and hepes provides gentle but effective exfoliation and, as a result, skin regeneration. Fermented black tea extract (kombucha) is known for its ability to even out the complexion and add radiance to the skin.
Serum in gel Phloretin CF
Antioxidants phloretin, 10% L-ascorbic and ferulic acids have a synergistic (mutually reinforcing) effect. They protect the skin from early aging and harmful UV and infrared radiation, correct signs of aging, inhibit the formation of free radicals, even out complexion, and prevent age spots.
Highly effective antioxidant serum for dry and normal skin CE Ferulic
The serum is applied in the morning and has a triple effect. Highly concentrated L-ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) and ferulic acid provide powerful protection against free radicals and external negative factors, correct imperfections (wrinkles, age spots), stimulate collagen synthesis.
Highly effective antioxidant serum for all skin types Serum 10
Suitable even for sensitive skin. The combination of L-ascorbic and ferulic acids prevents the formation of free radicals, reduces pigmentation and the severity of wrinkles, and protects against the effects of UV radiation. Vitamin C stimulates collagen synthesis.
Corrective serum to increase hyaluronic acid in the skin HA Intensifier
Apply in the morning. Proxilan, licorice and purple rice extracts increase skin elasticity, help maintain optimal levels of hyaluronic acid and the integrity of the extracellular matrix (connective tissue). Concentrated hyaluronic acid in three modifications simultaneously moisturizes the skin and reduces signs of aging.
Some serums must be used under sunscreen.
Antioxidant gel for dry and normal skin Phloretin CF Gel
Suitable for dry, normal and pigmentation-prone skin. Antioxidants (ascorbic and ferulic acids in combination with phloretin) prevent aging and protect cells from harmful radiation and other aggressive external factors, reduce wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. The “serum in gel” technology increases the penetration of active components and makes the texture light, comfortable even for men’s skin after shaving.
Resveratrol BE Night Concentrated Antioxidant Gel
The antioxidant trio - resveratol, baicalin and alpha-tocopherol - reduces oxidative stress, triggers the processes of cell regeneration and self-healing. The gel provides effective night care for all skin types. Suitable for men too.
Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Skin Smoothing Essence
Smoothing essence for the face Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Skin Smoothing Essence Thanks to the Dynamic Resurfacing Skin Smoothing Essence based on a complex of acids, birch sap (it contains manganese, zinc and iron), dryness, tightness and discomfort, as well as enlarged pores will become a thing of the past. Plus, this product with an incredibly light texture has powerful smoothing and softening effects.
