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These days, it’s all anyone seems to talk about in the beauty business. Whether you’re looking for something to reduce fine lines and wrinkles or even out your skin tone, there’s a serum that claims to be your new best friend. So what exactly is a serum – and which ones should you choose?
Simply put, a serum is an extra step in your skincare regime, typically applied after your cleanser but before your moisturiser. But what does it do? Essentially, you should think of it as a sort of “direct hit” formula, delivering powerful, concentrated ingredients directly to the skin. Because serums are made up of smaller molecules than other products, they can penetrate deeper into the delicate skin of your face, making them ideal for targeting problem areas such as wrinkles, dry patches and fine lines.
As they deliver a similar effect, it can be easy to get serums confused with both moisturisers and face oils – but they are a separate product. Although they certainly have hydrating properties, using a serum shouldn’t mean that you skip the moisturiser – you’ll need your usual cream or lotion to seal in all those active ingredients. However, you might be able to choose between a serum and a face oil, depending on what’s right for your skin.
So now you know what a serum is, which ones are the best? After all, there are hundreds of products out there, each claiming to work miracles for your skin. Here are some of our favourites:
Revitalift Filler Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Wrinkle Serum by L’Oreal Paris
If you want to give a moisture boost to dry skin and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles at the same time, this budget-friendly serum from L’Oreal Paris is a great place to start. By gently plumping the skin, it helps to erase the signs of ageing and create a fresh, dewy appearance.
Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex Serum by Estee Lauder
A cult classic, this clever system uses unique tech patented by Estee Lauder to deliver astonishing results. Despite its moniker, you can use it both morning and night to boost your skin’s radiance and deliver hydration where it is needed the most.
Beauty Supercharge Serum by BYBI
A great budget buy, this oil-based serum should be applied after your moisturiser for a dewy, nourishing finish to your skincare regime. Cruelty-free and vegan, this formula uses essential oils such as geranium and jasmine to boost cell production and rejuvenate skin.
Hyaluronic Booster Serum by Nordic Roots
This quick-absorbing formula is ideal for anyone who struggles to find enough hours in the day – and finds that their skincare often suffers. A fragrance-free serum that will suit those with sensitive skin, it works to hydrate and balance your skin while smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines.
No. 1 Nourishing Face Serum by Vanderohe
If you’ve got cash to splash, this oil-based serum is a favourite of celebs and delivers incredible results. That price tag buys you a concentrated dose of some of nature’s finest cold pressed oils, which will nourish and hydrate while delivering an indulgent, spa-like experience.
