What does serum do for your face​? Its benefits and how to choose it wisely

A face serum is a highly concentrated skincare product designed to deliver potent active ingredients directly into your skin. Unlike moisturizers or creams, serums have lighter, more fluid textures, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin layers quickly.

While moisturizers primarily hydrate and create a protective barrier, serums target specific concerns such as aging, pigmentation, hydration, or acne, offering targeted treatments to significantly enhance your skincare results.

Facial serums can offer multiple benefits:

• Reduces signs of aging: powerful anti-aging ingredients such as retinol and peptides reduce wrinkles and fine lines, as shown by numerous clinical studies (e.g. Skin Pharmacol Physiol in 2020). This is one of the essentials for firming skin after age 60.

• Improves skin texture: ingredients such as hyaluronic acid moisturize deep down, improving skin softness and elasticity (as shown by the study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology in 2024).

• Brightens the complexion: vitamin C serums effectively brighten the complexion, reduce hyperpigmentation and improve overall radiance.

• Targets acne and blemishes: active ingredients such as salicylic acid clear pores and reduce breakouts, as confirmed by research conducted in by G Ital Dermatol Venereol (2020).

At Nescens, we are experts in anti-aging serums for all skin types. Our Zombie Serum has won numerous awards for its effectiveness. In fact, clinical trials have demonstrated an improvement of up to 12% in skin elasticity.

The choice of a face serum can be based on a number of criteria specific to each individual. Of course, you need to check that it is compatible with your skin, but also that it contains the active ingredients that will bring you the benefits you're looking for.

Selecting the right serum starts by identifying your skin type (you can use our skin diagnosis to identify it):

• Normal skin: choose serums with balanced hydrating ingredients such as peptides or antioxidants.

• Oily skin: opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas containing salicylic acid or niacinamide.

• Dry skin: prioritize hydrating serums rich in hyaluronic acid or ceramides.

• Combination skin: look for balanced serums that hydrate without excess oil, combining hyaluronic acid and mild exfoliants.

• Sensitive skin: select serums with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile, avoiding harsh active ingredients.

Target specific concerns by choosing serums with specialized active ingredients:

• Aging signs: ingredients like retinol, peptides, or hyaluronic acid effectively address wrinkles and fine lines.

• Hyperpigmentation: vitamin C, kojic acid, or niacinamide effectively combat dark spots and uneven skin tone.

• Acne-prone skin: salicylic acid or retinol-based serums clear pores and prevent breakouts.

• Dehydration: hyaluronic acid or glycerin-based serums provide intensive hydration and plump the skin.

Identifying high-quality serums involves checking for:

• Concentration of active ingredients: ensure active ingredients are prominently listed at effective concentrations.

• Clinical validation: look for serums supported by clinical research demonstrating their efficacy.

• Packaging: opt for products in dark or opaque bottles, which help preserve the stability of sensitive ingredients like vitamin C.

• Brand reputation: choose trusted brands like Nescens, recognized for their scientific rigor, transparent ingredient sourcing, and proven skincare results.

To maximize the benefits of your serum, follow these steps:

1. Cleanse your skin: start with a cleansing gel face to ensure optimal absorption.

2. Apply serum: dispense a small amount of serum onto your fingertips and gently pat it onto your face and neck.

3. Wait for absorption: allow the serum to fully absorb into the skin for 1-2 minutes.

4. Follow with moisturizer: finish your routine by applying a moisturizer to seal in the serum's active ingredients and provide additional hydration.

5. Consistency is key: use your serum consistently, typically morning and night, for best results.

Yes, using a serum daily provides continuous and cumulative benefits, improving overall skin health and appearance.

Yes, a serum provides concentrated active ingredients targeting specific skin issues, while a moisturizer hydrates and seals in moisture, complementing each other effectively.

Consult our selection of the best moisturizers for dry and mature skin to find what you're looking for.

If you have specific skin concerns or want targeted improvements in your complexion, incorporating a face serum can significantly enhance your skincare results.

It can also be a great gift idea for your mother or a friend.