Answering Literally Every Question You Have About Serums

If one of your beauty goals is to better the appearance of your complexion in the long run, you may have looked into purchasing a skin serum (or two, or three) to add to your routine.

First things first… What is a serum?

Face serums deliver heaps of benefits to target key signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, age spots, dullness, and so on. Serums are typically runnier than moisturisers, which means serums absorb into the skin more easily.

Although there are some face serums for all skin types out there (hello, hyaluronic acid serums), most are formulated for a specific skin type or concern.

How to Use a Serum?

To reap the best face serum benefits, you should apply it after cleansing and toning, and before moisturising. Remember to apply lighter products before heavier ones to encourage full absorption.

Another thing to keep in mind is that there are different kinds of face serums. Some, such as those with vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, are better to use in the morning. Other serums are designed to be used at night. For example, always use retinol at night. Retinol can increase sun sensitivity in skin, making it a no-go for daytime wear.

How to Apply Face Serum?

• Read the instructions on the bottle to see whether you should use the product in the morning or at night.

• Find out, also in the instructions, how much product to use. Most serums recommend 2 to 3 drops, or 1 pump. Remember, more isn’t always better!

• Massage the skin serum all over your face, neck, and décolletage.

Can You Mix Serums Together?

Mixing serums can decrease each formula’s efficacy, so it’s not useful to combine them. Also, some ingredients, such as retinol and vitamin C, affect your skin’s pH levels differently and cancel each other out when applied at the same time.

However, certain skin serums can be *layered*. For example, hyaluronic acid can be used alongside retinol to prevent the skin from drying out and peeling.

Can I Use Two Serums at Once?

As we mentioned, you can definitely layer face serums; just avoid mixing them such as by adding a pump of each serum to your palm and pressing the two formulas together.

Should I Use Serum During the Day or at Night?

Before we answer this question it's important to note that these guidelines aren't universal, all serums are different so check the instructions on the product page or package is always best but here's a rough guideline on whether to use your serum during the day or at night.

Serums You Should Use During the Day

Day serums can contain any actives other than retinol, from antioxidants to humectants to acids, as long as you also wear adequate sun protection. Acids can make the skin more susceptible to sun damage, so protection is a must!

Serums that benefit your skin specifically during the day are antioxidant serums, such as vitamin c serums which counteract the free radical damage caused by UV light. Other serums that benefit the skin during the day as well are hydrating serums such as hyulorinic acids, and brightening serums such as vitamin b serums (or niacinamide as they're commonly called). Soothing serums and spot treatments are also completely fine to use during the day.

Serums You Should Use in the Evening

The big daddy of anti-ageing ingredients, retinol is a skincare powerhouse. Originally researched as an anti-acne treatment, this vitamin-A derivative increases cell turnover to bring fresh cells to the surface, eradicating wrinkles and hyperpigmentation as well as blemishes.

As incredible as it is, retinol shouldn't be used while the sun is shining. Ironically, this potent damage-reversing ingredient dramatically increases sensitivity to sun damage. Don't apply retinol during the day unless specifically noted on the product you’re using, or present in very low concentrations.

Some other serums to use at night are some peels and exfoliating products, its best to check packaging for which ones are best for during the day or night.

Not sure what serum to start with? Here are some serums and serum combinations we recommend. Short on time? Take our serum quiz to find the best serum for your skins needs.

1. Serums for Day Wear.

What it is: Revolution Skincare 12.5% Vitamin C Serum 30ml

Who it’s for: Anyone with dull skin.

Why it’s so good: Got skin that needs a big reboot in the luminosity department? One of the benefits of using a serum like this one is an enviable lit-from-within glow.

High levels of vitamin C in the formula can also make your skin look smoother and juicier by stimulating collagen production. Pop this one on a few minutes before applying your niacinamide serum to allow the first serum to work to its full potential.

2. A Face Serum for Everyone.

What it is: Aesthetics Rx B Serum

Who it’s for: Those seeking a face serum for all skin types.

Why it’s so good: It’s not just the fact that this product is free from sulphates, artificial fragrances, mineral oils, parabens, and alcohol.

This powerful serum heroes niacinamide to brighten skin and prevent inflammation. And the addition of hyaluronic acid can plump up the appearance of your skin.

3. Serums for Night Wear.

What it is: La Roche-Posay Redermic Retinol B3 Serum

Who it’s for: It’s a face serum for all skin types except sensitive.

Why it’s so good: Anything from La Roche-Posay is a winner in our eyes. But this retinol-based serum has stolen our hearts because it’s gentle and hardworking at the same time.

Consider this face serum’s benefits as more of a 360-degree approach, where lines and dark spots are no match.

Plus, the brand’s research reveals that with continual use over four weeks, Redermic Retinol B3 Serum diminishes wrinkles and leaves skin firmer and more nourished.

4. A Hydrating Serum for All Skin Types.

What it is: Bioderma Hydrabio Moisturising Concentrate Serum

Who it’s for: All skin types, especially very dry skin.

Why it’s so good: This is one of the best serums for beginners due to its lightweight texture, which never feels sticky once applied to the skin. In fact, one of this face serum’s benefits is that the formula sinks in almost instantly, working its magic with a clean feeling.

This serum also hydrates in three ways (with glycerine, hyaluronic acid, and Aquagenium - a patented complex) and can strengthen the skin’s natural barrier and soothe skin in the long run. Pop this on a few minutes after your retinol serum or on its own for a boost of hydration.

After checking out this guide, you should be well on your way to understanding serum skincare back to front. So select your favourite serum and get glowing!

Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.

Looking for more guides on serums? Check these out.....

• The Vitamin A Serums Made Especially For Treating Acne

• 5 Beginner Active Serums That Don't Flare Up My Sensitive Skin

• 6 Best Vitamin B Serums for Healthier Skin In 2024

• BARGAIN ALERT: 10 Serums Under $70 That Actually Work

• From Luxe to Less, These Are the Best Vitamin C Serums for Acne Prone Skin