20 Oct Should You Be Using a Facial Serum?

The short answer is yes, you should. And we’ll tell you why.

When it comes to skincare, a serum for the face is the powerhouse product you never knew you needed.

Whether you’re trying to hydrate the skin, fight wrinkles and sensitivity, even out skin tone, or combat acne, serums can help elevate your skincare routine and offer visible, long-term results.

So, what is a facial serum and how do you use it?

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about face serums, from the conditions they address to when to use them and the key ingredients to consider when buying them.
Shop Zecca facial serums in-store

What Is a Face Serum?

A serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing liquid designed to treat specific skin concerns with precision. They contain rich formulations that deliver a higher concentration of active ingredients compared to any other skincare product.

Because of their ability to penetrate deep into the epidermis layer, past the skin’s surface, to target problem areas, serums often deliver highly effective, long-lasting results.

What Can Face Serums Treat?

Serums can be tailored to treat a variety of issues, regardless of your skin type or how your skin feels. Some of the most common concerns include:

• Fine lines and wrinkles: Serums fight the signs of ageing by boosting collagen production, making skin appear firmer and more youthful.
• Uneven skin tone and dark spots: Highly concentrated serums can help with skin brightening and reducing hyperpigmentation, giving you a more even complexion.
• Dry skin: Serums can replenish moisture and plump the skin, making it look and feel more hydrated and less textured.
• Acne: Serums can help fight acne and prevent future breakouts and congestion.
• Sensitive skin: Calming ingredients in a serum will soothe irritation and reduce redness.

How Do You Use a Face Serum?

Serums are best used after cleansing and toning but before moisturising to maximise absorption. According to the experts, layering a serum before your moisturiser helps lock in the active ingredients and ensures they work more effectively​.

So, is it good to use face serum daily? Well, that depends on the product instructions.

Some potent ingredients need to be gradually introduced into your routine to avoid irritation. For gentle hydrating or antioxidant-rich serums, daily use is OK and often recommended for the best results. For targeted treatments like acne or pigmentation, consistency is also the key to achieving noticeable improvements.

When Do You Use a Serum on Your Face?

The optimal times to use a serum on your face are in the morning before you start your day, and in the evening, before you go to bed.

• Day serum: In the morning, use a serum that contains antioxidants to protect your skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UVA and UVB rays.
• Night serum: At night, opt for serums that work to repair skin damage and stimulate collagen production while you sleep.

Best Face Serum Ingredients to Look Out For

When looking at different types of serums, it’s important to take note of the key ingredients. Each one targets a specific condition or concern, so understanding what works for your skin is crucial.

• Hyaluronic acid: A must-have for dry or dehydrated skin, hyaluronic acid retains moisture and keeps skin plump and smooth. It’s especially effective in hydrating serums used during both the day and night.
• Vitamin C: This illuminating ingredient is known for reducing dark spots and boosting radiance. Vitamin C brightening serums are best applied in the morning to fight off oxidative damage caused by sun exposure.
• Retinol: Ideal for anti-ageing, retinol accelerates skin cell turnover, helping to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and even out skin texture. Retinol anti-ageing serums are best applied at night, as they can make skin more sensitive to sunlight.
• Niacinamide: This multi-tasking ingredient helps with everything from reducing inflammation to smoothing out lumps and bumps. It’s also great for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA): Popular AHAs like glycolic acid gently exfoliate the skin by dissolving dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover to reveal brighter skin. Regular use can help to reduce fine lines and fade dark spots and mild pigmentation.

So, Are Facial Serums Worth the Hype?

Absolutely! Although the best facial serum can sometimes come with a high price tag, it is packed with powerful ingredients that deliver dramatic and fast results. A little goes a long way, so it will last you as long as you need to reach your skin goals and achieve a healthier, more radiant complexion.

Experts across the board, from dermatologists to beauty insiders, agree that incorporating a serum into your daily regime can enhance your skin’s overall appearance, especially if you’re targeting specific concerns.

See our range of Peptide combination serums as well as Niacinamide, Vitamin A and Vitamin C serums in the Zecca shop at our Sydney clinic today. The clinic is open weekly, from Tuesday through to Saturday.
Shop Zecca facial serums in-store