Over the years we have noticed that a lot of our clients tend to skip serums all together when formulating their skincare routine. But today’s serums are more advanced and potent than ever and have definitely become necessary if you want your skin to achieve maximum health. Similar to other skincare products, serums can address a variety of concerns and be used by a variety of skin types. However, one particular benefit of serums is its lightweight consistency, which allows it is to soak directly into skin with only a few drops! So do you need to add a serum to your skincare routine? The short answer is a resounding YES! Now the only thing left to decide is which one is right for you. Below, a few of the most popular skincare complaints we hear from clients and the perfect serum to treat it:
AGING SKIN
If your concern is preventing or treating fine lines and wrinkles, you’ll want a serum with a powerful mix of antioxidants like Vitamin A & E to block free radicals, as well as retinol, glycolic acid, and growth factors to keep skin bright and dewy. A great serum to add to your skincare routine if you want to treat aging skin is IMAGE’s Skincare the MAX Stem Cell Serum ($91), which repairs cellular damage to skin with its unique blend of plant-derived stem cells and nutripeptides.
HYPERPIGMENTATION/DARK SPOTS
If you spent too much time in the sun and are now starting to see the damage in the form of dark or sun spots on your skin, you should invest in a serum containing kojic acid and/or licorice root extract. Both are powerful ingredients that aid in lightening and evening out skin tone. We here at Barris are all fans of IMAGE’s Skincare Iluma Intense Lightening Serum ($41), which has a powerful blend of botanical lighteners, vitamin C and grape see extract to reduce inflammation and promote a clear complexion. And did we mention it smells like Hawaii in a bottle?!
INFLAMED SKIN/ROSACEA
If you suffer from rosacea or acne or any other type of skin inflammation, you’ll want to look for a serum containing anti-redness peptides like Vitamins A, C, and E and/or one that is blended with green tea extract. Another good option is a serum containing Vitamin C and Aloe, since both work together as soothing agents. Our favorite serum for those looking to soothe irritated or sensitive skin is IMAGE’s Skincare Ormedic Balancing Anti-Oxidant Serum ($45.90), which has a silky texture and is infused with organic japanese green tea, as well as polyphenols and copper-complex peptide to balance skin from within and restore it to its ideal moisture.
OILY SKIN
Pretty much ALL serums are great for oily skin. This is because serums never have occlusive ingredients, which trap in moisture, making serums never greasy or heavy. Although this also means that serums are less moisturizing than creams and lotions, a serum can definitely replace a moisturizer if you tend to have oily skin. If you do opt to replace your everyday moisturizing lotion for a serum, look for one boasting moisturizing ingredients like oil-solulable Vitamin C. We are big BIG fans of IMAGE’s Skincare Vital C Hydrating Serum ($56), which smells wonderful and has a slightly thicker consistency that feels more luxurious than other serums.