Svetlana Markova

Beauty is like a precious stone: the simpler it is, the more precious it is!

Content

Any woman wants to preserve her youth and beauty for as long as possible. The first sign that shows age is facial wrinkles, which appear in most girls after 25 years. Among the large abundance of cosmetic products, those who want to quickly restore freshness and elasticity to their skin should pay attention to concentrated intensive preparations, the first place among which is occupied by facial serum. What is it, what are they, where to buy and how to use - read about it below.

What is a facial serum

Another name for this cosmetic product is serum, which translated from English means “concentrate”. It does not belong to the main, but to additional facial care products because the concentration of active substances in the serum is several times higher than the concentration of active ingredients in any good expensive cream. For this reason, concentrates cannot be used constantly; such drugs are recommended to be used in courses no more than 2-3 times a year.

Which is better - cream or serum?

No cosmetologist can answer this question correctly, because in fact, cream and serum for facial skin are completely different skin care products. Although their use boils down to one goal - preventing the aging of the skin, the main difference lies in the time of exposure of the product and the waiting period for a visible result. If a good cream slightly smoothes out wrinkles only after a couple of weeks, then a few drops of serum give the same effect within a day. It's all about the concentration of anti-aging components and the ability of the serum to penetrate deep into the layers of the skin.

What is a facial serum for?

Different types of serum help quickly solve various aesthetic problems on the facial skin. Young girls who do not yet have visible defects on the skin do not need such “heavy” products. Intensive concentrated preparations should be used only in cases where skin problems such as dryness, pigmentation, uneven complexion, and age-related changes cannot be corrected with conventional skin care products. The type of concentrate you choose will depend on the type of skin imperfections.

Positive and negative properties

To fully understand what a facial serum is and how beneficial it is for the skin, you need to understand the advantages and disadvantages of this cosmetic product. Concentrated serum-type preparations are superior to other skin care cosmetics because:

• help quickly improve the condition and appearance of the skin;
• penetrating into the deep layers of the epidermis, they have a beneficial effect on blood circulation and stimulate the sebaceous glands;
• have a whitening, antiseptic, rejuvenating effect;
• restore the elasticity of the skin, making it elastic and smoothing out fine wrinkles;
• normalize moisture balance, prevent dryness and flaking;
• have protective properties, protect the face from the negative effects of external factors.

Any cosmetic product has disadvantages. The disadvantages of the serum include:

• high cost - due to the concentrated composition, such a product simply cannot be cheap;
• temporary, unstable result;
• the possibility of allergic reactions, rashes, redness in the case of an incorrectly selected drug;
• cannot be used on dark skin, because all serums have a whitening effect;
• It is strictly not recommended to use serum for the face with spider veins and papillomas - concentrated preparations only stimulate their growth.

How to use

If you have skin problems that require immediate correction, pay attention to different types of serum. Remember that such products are very concentrated, so take into account these tips on how to properly apply facial serum:

1. Before starting the procedure, you should thoroughly cleanse your face of makeup, sebum and dirt. This can be done using a special foam, milk or tonic without alcohol.
2. For better effects of the nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants that are part of the serum, it is worth additionally exfoliating using a light scrubbing agent.
3. To enhance the effect of using the emulsion, to allow the product to penetrate as deeply as possible, it is better not to wait for the skin to dry completely, but to apply the drug to a damp face.
4. Place a few drops of serum using a pipette on a cleansed face, and then lightly spread with your fingertips, moving from bottom to top - from the forehead along the cheeks to the chin and neck area.
5. Movements during application of the drug should be smooth and soft - you should not rub or massage the skin thoroughly so as not to stretch it again.
6. After the product is completely absorbed by the epidermis, begin to carefully apply the cream, which ideally should be used from the same brand as the serum.
7. For quick visible results, you should apply the concentrate under the cream to a well-cleansed face in the morning and evening every day for a week or two.

The best face serums

The cosmetics market these days is overflowing with all kinds of facial care products. This also applies to serums, because there are a large number of products on sale in different price categories that will quickly help solve certain skin problems - moisturize, whiten, tighten the face, remove acne and fine wrinkles. The serum is selected not according to skin type, but according to age, and in accordance with the problems that need to be solved. As a rule, you should start using such products after 30 years, so the best serums for the face after 30 are described below.

Moisturizing

If the main defect of your face is dryness, choose a moisturizing serum. After starting to use this product, dehydrated skin immediately becomes well-groomed, elastic, and toned. Moisturizing concentrates have a light texture, thanks to which they are able to penetrate into the deep layers of the dermis. As a rule, they contain hyaluronic acid, natural oils and plant extracts, which restore the natural moisture balance. The most popular moisturizing serums:

• Clarins Bi-Serum Intensif Anti-Soif.
• Biotherm Aquasource Deep Serum.
• Almea H.A. Serum.
• La Plairie Sellular Hydrating Serum.
• Avene Soothing Hydrating Serum.

Rejuvenating

Women aged 30-35 years begin to actively fight the natural process of skin aging. The best remedies in this case will be anti-aging facial serums. They have a beneficial effect on stem cells, quickly restoring the elasticity and firmness of the skin. Immediately after starting to use the anti-aging serum, wrinkles begin to disappear, the skin tightens, and the face acquires a clear contour. Among the anti-aging concentrated preparations, it is worth paying attention to:

• Vichy Liftactive Surreme Serum 10;
• Shiseido Bio-Performance Intensive lifting serum;
• Matis Anti-aging serum with hyaluronic acid;
• Filorga Meso+ anti-aging;
• Caudalie Vineactiv anti-wrinkle – skin radiance activator.

Whitening

Girls who suffer from hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone will benefit from lightening serums. They help solve tone problems - whiten, remove age spots, acne marks, redness. As a rule, the composition of such cosmetics includes softening and soothing components - they contribute to a long-lasting lightening effect and help skin cells protect themselves from the production of large amounts of pigment. In the catalogs of manufacturers of facial care cosmetics you can find the following whitening serums:

• Givenchy Blanc Divin;
• Natura Siberica White;
• La Prairie White Caviar;
• Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector Optimizer;
• Yves Saint Laurent Blanc Pur Couture.

For problem skin

If the skin of your face is prone to acne, redness, and enlarged pores, you should choose a concentrated product based solely on the type of problem you have. Care products for problem skin contain natural ingredients that have an antiseptic effect, so they instantly soothe the face, relieve irritation and provide comfort. As a rule, such serums are prepared with plant extracts: chamomile, aloe, hawthorn, ginseng, etc. Good serums for problem skin:

• Darphin Intral – against redness;
• Natura Siberica for oily and combination skin;
• Guerlain Abeille Royale against age spots and to tighten pores;
• Sephora – activator serum against enlarged pores and skin imperfections;
• Sisley Serum Intensif with tropical resins.

Korean serums

Recently, Korean cosmetics have become very popular all over the world. Their products are inexpensive compared to products from global brands, but the quality remains high. On the Internet you can find many positive reviews about Korean-made serums, and all of them are really justified. Many women who have tried serums from Korea on their faces claim that they instantly transform their skin, making it firm, radiant, and velvety. Good concentrates are produced by the following cosmetic companies:

• It's skin;
• The Saem;
• Mizon;
• Farm Stay;
• Circle;
• The Skin House;
• Lioele.

Homemade facial serum recipes

An effective branded serum for facial care is not a cheap pleasure. If you don’t agree to pay a tidy sum for another miniature bottle of a miracle product, prepare a concentrate from natural ingredients yourself. This process will not take much time, and the money spent on components for home serum will not greatly affect the family budget. The main thing is to determine the type of product that would ideally suit your face. Below are recipes for different types of serums:

• Vitamin for oily and problem skin: take a small dark glass bottle with a pipette. Pour into it 5 ampoules of ascorbic acid, 2 ml each, 10 ml of pharmaceutical glycerin and 10 ml of boiled chilled water. Shake well until all ingredients are completely mixed.
• Anti-aging based on essential oils: mix 30 ml of apricot kernel oil with 15 ml of rosehip oil and the same amount of carrot oil. Add 15 drops each of rose oil and frankincense oil, and then 8 drops of orange blossom. Mix until smooth.

Whey

Milk serum very useful for normal and combination skin. Milk and fermented milk contain a large amount of nutrients: proteins, vitamins, amino acids, which have a beneficial effect on skin cells. Milk whey very well nourishes and moisturizes the skin, makes it healthy, well-groomed, elastic, and perfectly smoothes out wrinkles. To prepare a skin care product from milk, you just need to ferment it in a convenient way, then separate the curd, and use the resulting milk concentrate for cosmetic procedures.

How to choose the right serum

Before you go to the store to buy a miracle serum that will help you quickly solve problems with the skin of your face, you should carefully study the market for concentrated cosmetic products. Remember that every woman, like her skin, is unique, and it’s not a fact that a product praised by a friend will suit your face. To choose the most effective serum for yourself, pay attention to several important points:

• The facial care serum is selected solely based on the type of problem that currently worries you the most.
• It is important to consider your age when choosing a concentrated product. Anti-aging serums help fight wrinkles, but young women should not use strong lifting products, lest they end up with the opposite result.
• All serums are very concentrated and may not be suitable for different people, so it is advisable to conduct a simple allergy test before purchasing to make sure that the product will not harm you and your money will not be wasted.
• Girls over 25 years old should not immediately look at anti-aging products. You should start with moisturizing, brightening, restoring serums, and use anti-aging ones only after 30.
• It is strictly not recommended to mix the use of different concentrates at the same time in care. Take only one concentrated product that will best solve your skin problems. Another version of the serum can be tested only after a few months.

Price

Serums in the catalogs of budget manufacturers cost from 500 rubles, and world-famous companies price their products from 10,000. Serums from different companies are presented on the shelves in cosmetics stores, but a wider range of concentrated preparations for the face are offered by specialized online stores. In addition, you can often order good goods from them at a significant discount. Delivery, as a rule, is carried out by mail, and in Moscow and St. Petersburg - by courier. See the table for approximate Moscow prices for serums:

Product name	Purpose	Volume, ml	Cost in rubles
Natura Siberica for oily and combination skin	To tighten pores
Clarins Bi-Serum Intensif Anti-Soif	Hydration
Shiseido Bio-Performance	Rejuvenation
It's Skin Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Serum	Hydration
La Prairie White Caviar	Whitening
Biotherm Aquasource Deep Serum	Hydration
Mizon Barrier Oil Serum	Recovery
Givenchy Blanc Divin	Lightening
Almea H.A. Serum	Hydration
Vichy Liftactive Surreme Serum 10	Rejuvenation
The Saem Urban Eco Harakeke Ampoule	For problem skin
Natura Siberica White	Whitening
Farm Stay All in One Honey Ampoule	Lightening
	Rejuvenation
Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector Optimizer	Tone equalization
Lioele Blackhead Clear	Against blackheads
Guerlain Abeille Royale	For pigment spots and to tighten pores
MRB Biochange Tissue Activator Serum	Hydration

Serum is an effective cosmetic product for the care of the face, body, neck and décolleté, containing a high concentration of active ingredients that can penetrate deep into the skin. Unlike cream, serum molecules are much smaller, so this product really helps to cope with many skin problems.

There is an opinion that serums are intended for skin care only of mature women, but this is not entirely true. On sale you can find products aimed at moisturizing the skin, giving it a slight glow, elasticity, relieving symptoms of fatigue, improving complexion, etc. There are also serums that help in the complex fight against pimples, reducing pigmentation and narrowing enlarged pores. Owners of the fair sex even at 25 years old need products with such a range of actions. Particular attention is paid to the restorative serum, which allows you to return the skin to its former healthy appearance after exposure to excessive sunlight or various salon procedures. The restorative product relieves swelling and redness, preventing the occurrence of scars from injection rejuvenation procedures.

If previously you could learn about the benefits of serums from your own experience only in beauty salons, now such products are available in stores. Of course, most store-bought products contain a lower concentration of active substances, but they still remain very effective in skin care.

Anyone who has never had experience using serums believes that for complete skin care, daily application of cream to the face or neck and décolleté area is sufficient. It is worth noting that a regular cream is not able to significantly improve the appearance of the skin in a short time, or bring the functioning of the sebaceous glands back to normal. True, the results from using some serums will not come immediately. So, products with vitamins C, E and other antioxidants will take about four weeks to penetrate the skin and begin to act. It's another matter when the component works only at the epidermis level.

Serum formulations usually add lactic, hyaluronic and glycolic acids, minerals, vitamins, plant extracts and other active ingredients that have a beneficial effect on the epidermis, help other ingredients better penetrate deep into the skin or consolidate the effect obtained.

The serum contains more active substances than the cream. If you take a good face cream, it may contain no more than 10% hyaluronic acid, but the serum of this component may even contain 50%.

If you decide to purchase a facial serum, do not exclude the use of other cosmetic care products, including creams, toners and milks. Serum cannot protect the skin from the adverse effects of the environment, especially in very hot and cold weather, so it cannot replace cream.

Pros and cons of facial serum

Like any cosmetic product, skin care serum has its pros and cons. Of course, the top priority in the list of advantages of this product is the effectiveness of the serum due to the content of a large number of active ingredients in the recipe.

Applying serum to your skin is a real pleasure! The product applies very easily without leaving a feeling of greasy or dryness. It should be noted that there is a large assortment of serums, which should please girls and women who still cannot cope with the treatment of skin blemishes.

Before using the product, be sure to read the instructions on the product packaging. Ignoring the rules for using serum, applying emulsion to the skin with an expired expiration date - all this can lead to unpleasant consequences, including itching, rashes and irritation.

If the product packaging does not indicate that the product is non-comedogenic, it may clog your pores. In this case, after a while you will need a light scrubbing agent. Also use the serum with caution in the summer, especially if you have oily skin and don’t want to see an oily sheen on your face.

Keep in mind that good serums are not cheap, and they have a short shelf life. If you have several skin blemishes, you will most likely have to buy several products, each of which is aimed at combating one or two problems.

How to apply serum to face

Before applying the miracle product to your face, be sure to carry out a cleansing procedure with the stratum corneum. Remove all makeup, use an alcohol-free toner if possible, exfoliate with a light exfoliant if desired, and only then proceed to apply the serum.

If you want to enhance the effect of the serum, apply the product to damp skin rather than dry skin. In this case, the active components, the same vitamins and extracts, will better penetrate deep into the skin through the pores.

For one application, it will be enough to take a small amount of serum. The reason for this lies not only in the high cost of the product, but also in the fact that the composition of this product is very concentrated.

Spread a few drops of the product over your face with your fingertips, avoiding the area around the eyes. It is better to start rubbing the product into the skin from a point in the center of the forehead, heading towards the temples. Then use your fingers to follow the contour lines of the face and neck, leading to the collarbones. When the emulsion is absorbed, and this depends on the consistency, you can start applying the cream. Ideally, the brand of cream should match the brand of serum used.

Be sure to read the instructions. If no further information is provided there, the serum can be used for neck care. By the way, for some reason this area is very often forgotten, but deep transverse wrinkles on the neck will not hide a woman’s age.

If you want to eliminate the problem of hyperpigmentation with the help of a serum, then choose a face cream that simply moisturizes and nourishes the skin. If you use both an anti-pigmentation serum and a cream for the same problem at the same time, the skin will be overloaded with active ingredients, and then you risk getting an unexpected and unwanted effect. An exception is a rejuvenating serum, when an identical cream will only improve the effectiveness of the product.

Some cosmetologists recommend using serums in courses, but this method of care is a thing of the past. Now you can use it for as long as your skin needs. Just always pay attention to the appearance of your skin. So, if you notice that it has begun to peel, you need to add some kind of moisturizer to your collection of cosmetic products, and put the serum aside for now.

Change serums depending on the season. On hot days, the skin needs products of lighter consistencies, and on cold days - dense ones.

Where to buy facial serum

Experts advise not to buy products that are presented in large bottles. Firstly, whey in a larger container will not be convenient to transport if you want to travel. Secondly, the longer you use a cosmetic product, the more bacteria can settle there, which can affect your skin.

As mentioned above, now there is no problem purchasing a facial serum. So you can order the following cosmetic products in online stores:

• Natura Siberica, Facial Serum, for oily and combination skin- restores the structure of the skin, reduces oily shine, narrowing enlarged pores. The product contains Sophora japonica, which consists of up to 30% rutin. Wheat protein promotes deep penetration of actives into the skin. The serum recipe also includes extracts of calendula and chamomile, and Altai flax. Volume - 30 ml, price - 577 rub.
• Skin Doctors, Bio Serum- restores the structure of the epidermis, contains antioxidants and natural oils that have a beneficial effect on dehydrated and dry skin, as well as softening ingredients designed to improve complexion and reduce scars. The product protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation and helps reduce wrinkles. Volume - 50 ml, cost - 1151 rubles.
• Nature's "Beauty Nectar" facial serum- promotes deep hydration, gives the face a fresh look thanks to the content of grape extract, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, emphasizes the contour lines of the face. The manufacturer recommends using the product for at least a month to achieve the desired effect. Suitable for all skin types. Volume - 30 ml, price - 1661 rub.

Video recommendations on how to choose a moisturizing serum for the face:

With the help of serum, you can make your face literally glow, get rid of inflammation, age spots and even level out wrinkles. A beauty guide to using these magical “helpers” is in front of you.

Elixirs, activators—you name it, serums. The essence is the same: such products have a light texture, in the vast majority of cases do not contain fat (with the exception of oil-based anti-aging serums) and are enriched with several (5-7) components at a higher concentration. They are used to strengthen the protective functions of the skin. As a rule, such rehabilitation courses are carried out once every 3-4 months.

If already at the age of 25–30 you notice the first signs of aging - wrinkles, dull complexion, decreased skin elasticity, do not despair. Take an anti-aging serum course. Don’t be afraid of “withdrawal syndrome”: even if you suddenly stop using concentrates, the effect of their use will be noticeable for another 2-3 months.

Transfiguration period

If we talk about the first results, which everyone dreams of seeing quickly, then you need to be patient. When using products, for example, with vitamins C, E, retinol, and other antioxidants, dramatic changes will be visible no earlier than after 4-6 weeks. Penetrating into the skin, the active components of the product begin to act in the deepest layers of the skin, and not just in the epidermis, thereby providing a pronounced therapeutic effect.

Another thing is beauty products with instant action. These include moisturizing concentrates with hyaluronic acid, as well as elixirs based on silicone, which literally evens out the complexion in an instant, and due to reflective particles, it looks more youthful. This result, caused only by optical illusions, is what cosmetologists call the “Cinderella effect.” After just one application you will notice a dazzling result, but how long will it last - that’s the question!

In winter, you need to apply moisturizing serums, as well as creams with hydrating properties, 40–45 minutes before going outside. The cream should be absorbed. If you neglect this rule, the moisture will literally evaporate in a matter of minutes. And the skin will become dry and irritated.

Elena Monakhova, cosmetologist at TORI salon

Serums for professional use differ from products for the mass consumer. This is due to the fact that when creating a product for millions of customers, the brand strives to make it as universal as possible. Hence their “gentle”, superficial and less pronounced effect in comparison with salon products.

Serums are selected individually depending on the tasks. And many of them can be used even in adolescence. For example, those aimed at treating pimples and acne or other irritations in adolescents associated with their adolescence and hormonal imbalance.

Taking into account the environment, water quality and stress, moisturizing serums can be used from the age of 20-25. After 25 years, you can use serums with vitamins and collagen. At this age, skin aging processes are activated - and the sooner you start preventing age-related changes, the longer you will maintain youth.

Some serums can be used on their own. They create a protective lipid layer on the surface of the skin, and subsequent application of cream is not required. But in most cases the cream will still come in handy. It is better to use serums in courses; the longest course is 3 months. Afterwards a break of at least 4 weeks is required.

Young and early

At a young age, up to about 25 years old, you don’t need much to look attractive. The main rule during this period is not to neglect cleansers, use a moisturizer and regularly carry out peelings (you can limit yourself to home treatments). Such care is usually enough to look fresh. But sometimes annoying pimples appear. What to do with them? And this is where anti-inflammatory serums serve an excellent purpose. Usually they include extracts of plants such as aloe, propolis extract, and are enriched with useful microelements - zinc, magnesium. They have a slight antibacterial effect, soothe irritated skin, relieving redness.

If your skin problems are more serious (comedones, acne), it makes sense to look for a serum in the pharmacy cosmetics segment. Azelaic acid is often added to such products - it has been proven that it suppresses the growth of “bad” bacteria that live on the surface of the skin and provoke inflammation in acne. Anti-inflammatory serums “work” on the principle of a soft scrub: by gently exfoliating the skin, they cleanse its surface of impurities, facilitating oxygen access to the cells.

Mature decision

After 30-35 years and approximately until premenopause (45 years), the skin is especially in need of careful care. In addition to creams, masks and salon treatments, it is necessary to use moisturizing serums daily. They normalize the hydrobalance in the upper layers of the epidermis, improve the barrier and protective functions of the skin, and reduce the feeling of tightness. If the skin is dry, pay attention to glycerin, amino acids, lactic acid, NMF - natural moisturizer factor. These substances seem to attract water molecules to themselves like a magnet. Just imagine, 1 molecule of hyaluronic acid is able to hold up to 1000 molecules of water! For comparison: a regular cream contains only 2-3% hyaluronic acid, while its concentration in serum can reach 40%. As a result, the skin is tightened, filled with radiance, and the fine network of wrinkles disappears.

Velvet age

Anti-aging serums can be a significant help in care for women “50+”. Many, by the way, may well limit themselves to such care. But still, in winter it is better to use such serums in tandem with a good nourishing cream. Look for two-phase concentrates labeled "serum in oil" - this is a relatively new beauty product aimed at multi-tasking. It simultaneously eliminates wrinkles, dullness and sagging skin, and also deeply nourishes it. The composition includes oils rich in linoleic acid, containing valuable omega-3 fatty acids; rosehip seed oil, black currant, evening primrose, shea butter, macadamia, cocoa. And to get rid of age spots, take a product with kojic acid.

Often, unaesthetic spider veins appear on the wings of the nose, cheeks, and even in the décolleté area. Such “beauty” may be a manifestation of rosacea, a vascular disease. For prevention, be sure to use special anti-rosacea serums with vitamins K and C, extracts of cornflower, ginger, sweet clover and other extracts from medicinal plants. And only then mask imperfections with foundation or special powder.

Ekaterina Lipskaya, dermatologist, cosmetologist, PhD, training manager at A-PHARM company

The use of serums both at home and as part of salon procedures is always relevant, regardless of the time of year. Serums, as a rule, contain a large number of active ingredients and in higher concentrations. Moreover, the serum enhances the effect of creams applied after it. Although the effect of self-use of the serum is quite obvious.

Functionally, serums are divided into moisturizing, rejuvenating, lifting, etc. As an example, let’s look at the options that French laboratories offer us.

First of all, anti-aging serums are in demand, for example, from the Nuxurance line (Nuxe brand). They must be applied at least to the area of ​​wrinkles with patting, driving movements and, at a maximum, to the entire face in order to prevent aging.

Sometimes ladies complain that they cannot choose anti-aging care for sensitive skin, because the skin “reacts” to everything. Noreva laboratories offer an intensive regenerating anti-aging serum in the Novean 3D line, which is also suitable for sensitive skin.

The intensive firming anti-wrinkle serum from the Uriage Laboratory of the Isofil line is especially relevant. We especially recommend this product to those ladies who undergo mesotherapy procedures, contouring, peelings and other dermatoesthetic procedures. The serum enhances the effect of these procedures and prolongs their effect.

Very often, ladies who have reduced skin turgor look for serums with a lifting effect. In this case, we can recommend the serum from the Izodens line with an immediate lifting effect from Uriage or the new product Merveance Expert from Nuxe.

Application rules

1. After cleansing the skin and before applying morning or evening cream.

2. If the product has a dispenser, 1-2 presses are enough. Distribute the serum between your palms and then press them onto your face, starting from the forehead, moving down to the cheeks and chin. There is no need to rub it in with force and further stretch the skin.

3. Some serums are applied locally, say, only to the area around the eyes, a few drops at a time - read the instructions and do not waste the precious product.

4. If the instructions do not provide additional information, the serum can and should be applied to the neck area; for some reason, many people often forget about it. But it is the deep transverse wrinkles in this area that reveal a woman’s age.

Serum (serum) is a cosmetic product in which the 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.

The active components are up to 70% serum, while in creams they 10-12% , the rest is the base and structure-forming ingredients: emulsifiers, emollients (softeners), thickeners, film formers.

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.

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 that it be wet, this will enhance the effect of the serum.

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.

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 H. A. 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 B E 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.

Antioxidant gel for skin care around the eyes against photoaging and signs of fatigue AOX+ Eye Gel

Vitamin C, ferulic acid, phloretin prevent oxidative stress, caffeine improves lymphatic drainage, butruscus root extract strengthens capillaries and enhances microcirculation. The result is hydration, protection, reduction of swelling, reduction of wrinkles, prevention of aging. Do not apply to moving eyelid.

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Popular care products, which advertising calls “elixirs” and “activators” of beauty and youth, are called “serums” by cosmetologists. What is a facial serum and why does every woman need it on her cosmetic table?

What is a facial serum

A cosmetic concentrate is a preparation with a specific and quick action, used as needed.

The serum is based on transdermal “enhancers” (from English “amplifiers”), which make the stratum corneum of the skin permeable by integrating into its lipid layer. The active ingredients penetrate deep into the dermis and do their good work: moisturize, tone, nourish, regulate sebum production, whiten and improve complexion. Depending on the purpose, the serum may contain vitamins, antioxidants, peptides, collagen, herbal, anti-inflammatory components.

Serums are additional care products with intensive action, so their constant use is only necessary. For those who are younger, regular courses are recommended that remain effective during the “rest” period.

Previously, this kind of preparation was used only by professional cosmetologists because of the instant results that were immediately visible. Now cosmetic companies have concentrates for home use in their lines. But, which cosmetologists use in salons, are more effective than mass-market products. Because the latter are produced as “universal” ones, suitable for a wide range of consumers without risks to the skin, and they cannot completely replace salon procedures.

Sometimes serums are made to solve several aesthetic problems at once. But more often than not, this is a narrowly focused action.

What are the differences between cosmetic serum and other products?

Serum for facial skin differs from other skin care cosmetics in the concentration of useful components, which differ depending on the purpose. Which manufacturers add up to 70% of the composition, whereas in creams it is 5-10%. Serums, which are constantly being improved technologically (which affects the final price of the product), help the skin absorb substances at the cellular level, bringing them to the deep layers of the epidermis.

Concentrates are needed to nourish the skin with active substances and enhance the effect of creams used after them. Some serums can even protect your skin from sun and environmental damage and can be used on their own. But usually it is an “ambulance” to solve a specific problem, and it is impossible to do without the rest of the usual care.

“Serums,” unlike creams, consist of a small number of components, since they are aimed at solving a specific problem. That’s why they are chosen not by skin type, but by functionality and composition.

Serums are effective because the principles of cosmetology and pharmaceuticals are combined during production.

Types and classifications of cosmetic concentrates

The use of “serums” allows you to correct aesthetic imperfections thanks to specially developed compositions. Classification of cosmetic serums according to the direction of impact:

Moisturizing serums transport moisture deep into the skin. Most often they use low molecular weight, one molecule of which can hold up to a thousand particles of water. In ordinary creams the concentration of hyaluron is 2-4%, and in the “serum” it is 10 times more. In addition to moisturizing, it enhances collagen synthesis in tissues. Oils and plant extracts also help to normalize the hydrobalance.
Vitamin. Vitamins are needed in any serum. For example, vitamin C is also suitable for antioxidant, antiaging, anti-rosacea, and concentrates for.

Sebum-regulating, mattifying and anti-inflammatory. Regulate the functioning of sebaceous ducts and glands, relieve inflammation, thanks to plant extracts, microelements with antibacterial action, and azelaic acid. Gives velvety texture to the skin.
Revitalizing, i.e. “renewing” and antioxidant. They restore firmness and elasticity, eliminate dull complexion, improve skin barrier properties, and enhance cell renewal.
Lightening. Get rid of age spots. Fruit acids are used in serums as “enhancers”, so many of them have a brightening effect. For dark and tanned facial skin, serums should be chosen carefully so as not to create an uneven tone.
Anti-aging: , lifting.
Anticouperose. Strengthens blood vessels and narrows them, removing neurogenic phenomena.
For sensitive skin serums are produced separately. Since there is a high concentration of active ingredients on such dermis.

Do not apply concentrates intended for the face to the area around the eyes.

According to the texture of the serum there are:

Lightweight, watery structure that allows activators to penetrate the skin without creating a film on the skin.
Anti-aging oily concentrates are produced as “serum in oil” type.

Before purchasing, determine the problem: what is the serum for? It is better to consult a cosmetologist for advice, because the wrong choice of active ingredients, as well as excessive consumption, can lead to allergies and dermatoses.

How to use facial serum?

Each type of concentrated elixir comes with its own instructions for use, which indicate how much serum to apply at what time of day.

The morning is reserved for moisturizing, tightening products with a light texture, and the evening for nourishing, restorative products.

Typically, it is suggested to use the serum in the morning and evening after cleansing the skin, 10 minutes before. before applying the cream. Which it is advisable to purchase from the same series as the drug of special action. So that heterogeneous components of different brands and lines do not enter into unnecessary chemical reactions on the face.

Some serums, for example collagen ones, are recommended to be added to your cream care.

A small amount of the drug is required, so the bottles are equipped with dispensers. One or two clicks are enough for use. An overdose of the drug is extremely undesirable.
The composition is distributed along the skin lines with soft patting movements. Some manufacturers recommend gentle massage to increase blood flow.
You should use the facial serum for a month to a month and a half. Then the skin rests for 2-4 months. If you do not observe periods of rest, the skin becomes “satiated”: it stops responding to the composition or “responds” with peeling, irritation and other negative phenomena. They are used in courses for up to six months, but then changed to avoid addiction.

The components of the “serum” penetrate deep into the epidermis and from there give a young, fresh and well-groomed appearance to the skin. This is why serum is needed: to get rid of imperfections, improve skin condition and slow down its aging.

11 January 2014, 09:02