SERUM or CREAM? Why are they different?

THE SERUM

Face serums are important just as a moisturizer you constantly apply morning and evening. Unfortunately, there is a misconception that serums are uniquely addressed to counteract wrinkles, therefore to be exclusively used to prevent skin aging or treat mature skin. That’s not the reality! Serums are essential in everyone’s skincare and should be included in your daily skin routine. 

It’s important that You use the serum that suits the needs of Your skin.

What is a serum and what is it used for?

Serums are concentrates of functional ingredients, such as the well-known Hyaluronic Acid, in a liquid or gel texture. Its purpose is to help improve the appearance of the skin, maintaining it fresh and youthful. 

How and when to apply the face serum?

Serum must be applied after a thorough cleansing of the face, applying a thin layer on the skin that will be easily absorbed by the skin in few seconds.

When to use serums depends on the needs of the skin and the weather: during cold periods, skin tends to be dry, requiring more care, hydration and nourishment. During warm seasons, serums can be a valid alternative to rich or “heavy” creams that might weight on the skin, especially on oily and combination skin. 

For an effective skincare, our recommendation is add serums to daily skincare before the application a good face cream, both morning and evening.

THE CREAM

Applying face cream is an important step for the care of each one’s skin as it helps rebuild and replenish superficial dermis layers. The daily use of the cream helps protect the skin from cold, pollution, wind, sun (one of the main causes of premature aging), if the cream has UV filters, and other external agents. A regular and proper use of the cream is essential to maintain the skin hydrated, fresh and glowing.

What is the face cream and what is it used for?

A cream is an emulsion of functional ingredients, oils and water and its purpose differ according to skin type, age and function. The main objective of a cream is to provide hydration, donating tone and elasticity.

Creams are generally divided in:

• DAY CREAMS that protect the skin from smog, temperature swings, sun and other agents, leaving the skin bright and vital

• NIGHT CREAMS have a richer texture, which help skin appearance during the night rest, when it’s more receptive

How and when to apply the face cream?

A proper use and choice of face cream must not be underestimated: if you have an oily/combination skin a fresh, light and mattifying cream is recommended as it helps prevent the formation of blemishes such as black head, pimples and help regulate sebum production. For dry skin a cream rich of antioxidant vitamins (e.g. Vitamin E) and hydrating ingredients (Hyaluronic Acid) are the best.

According to Your cutaneous needs, apply the appropriate cream day and night, massaging it on face, neck and neckline until completely absorbed.

Is it possible to use SERUM and FACE CREAM together?  

Of course, you can! Combine serums to cream when your skin is particularly stressed, especially during winter time. The nourishing action of a cream might not be enough to ensure and protect skin elasticity and hydration. Adding a serum to the routine will provide a lifeline to your skin.

Before night rest during hot seasons, combining serum to cream will restore to skin vitamins and antioxidants that you may lose after long sunny day. Another suggestion is to apply serum before protective creams, but it’s best to check the label to see if photosensitive substances are contained in the product. The advice of a dermatologist or chemist will be helpful. 

When to start using cream and serum?

For a vital and healthy-looking skin, it’s never too early to start a daily routine. 

The general suggestion is to start applying the cream around 20/25 years, when cutaneous activity start to slow down. For young skin, in age range between 12 and 18 years, a mattifying and hydrating cream with a light and easy to absorb texture is the best option. Hydrating, nourishing and protective creams are excellent to maintain the skin youthful, elastic and help counteract aging signs. 

Serums are best used starting from 30 years, especially if there are no particular dermatological needs. In case of blemishes or precocious aging signs, serums can be applied earlier. 

Remember: creams nor serums can work miracles, but they will be of aid in maintaining your skin elastic and toned. In addition, a proper diet rich in vitamins and fibres combined to a healthy lifestyle helps maintain a good looking and radiant skin.