I’m frequently asked which item in a skincare routine should you splurge on; and the answer without a shadow of a doubt, is always serums.
These magical formulations contain a high concentration of active ingredients with a finer molecular structure to creams. So basically they’re designed to penetrate the skin more effectively and deeply than any other skincare product.
When choosing one, think of the complexion problem that you’d like to solve. For example, do you have dark spots? Are crows feet your nemesis? Or are those saggy jowls bringing you down? Pun intended. Whilst a cheap and cheerful option may contain the odd beneficial ingredients here and there, a high-quality (re: expensive) serum will be packed full of antioxidants, exfoliating acids and hard-hitting anti-ageing goodies that your skin will absorb in an instant, targeting those problem areas and reaping the benefits in a shorter space of time.
Be sure to apply to freshly cleansed skin and take a few extra moments to really massage it in to your face, starting at the centre of the face, and gently kneading and smoothing outwards. It gets the blood flowing and helps the serum seep in to the deeper layers of the dermis. After all, if you’ve spent all that cash on a wonder potion, you want to make sure your skin is making the most of it. Here are four of my all time favourites that I use regularly and get excellent results from every time.
Skinceuticals CE Ferulic
It wouldn’t be an understatement to say that this serum is a beauty editor favourite around the world. The blend of vitamin C, E, and ferulic acid is an anti ageing powerhouse. Alone all three antioxidants are powerful skin savers, but together, they boost each other’s antioxidant activity even more. The particular form of vitamin C used in CE Ferulic is the only form that prevents moisture loss in the skin. It brightens dark areas and smoothes out skin texture. The potent combination also boosts the power of your SPF fourfold; meaning it staves off sun damage while correcting existing damage. What’s not to love!
Lancôme Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate
I was an early adopter of this serum and it’s one I go back to time and time again. It’s refreshing on the skin, smells lovely and more importantly, it treats everything the average woman wants to tackle. From dullness, fine lines and loss of hydration, this amazing concoction hits hard- with visible results.
Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum
Caudalie is a brand I love from A to Z. This serum contains all natural active ingredients, namely Vitis Vinofera (aka grape extract), that work to target pigmentation and smooth fine lines. It’s intensely hydrating, smells wonderful and brightens skin after a few short weeks of use. The small, brown sunspots on the side of my face took around six weeks to fade using this serum twice a day.
Clarins Double Serum
This has been a beauty buff favourite for a while now and is on many a “must-try” list. And for good reason too. It’s basically two serums in one, packed full of 21 different plant extract, most notably turmeric, arnica, tomato and mango leaf, that target the early signs of ageing. Whilst you can use it both day and night, some oilier skins may find it a little too rich to use under daytime makeup.
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair is also one of my ultimate “go-to’s” and a wonderful choice for most skin types, click here to read more on that.
What’s your favourite serum? Have you tried any of these?
