Serums are now a part of our skincare vocabulary even if we are not using one actively in our routine. There could be a couple of reasons behind it, either you are not the guy who believes in multiple skincare steps or the number of options available are confusing and intimidating for you. While you’ll take some time to understand why you need one in your routine, we can help you if you’re among the latter. 

Serums are actually one of the easiest (but an effective) ways to upgrade your skincare game. Whether you’re dealing with dry patches, shiny skin, breakouts, or just feeling like your face could use a bit of a glow-up—there’s a serum out there for you.

What Exactly Is a Serum?

A serum is a concentrated formula packed with powerful and active ingredients designed to target specific skin concerns like acne, dullness, or dryness. It delivers results faster that other products due to the high concentration of the ingredients.

To include it in your routine, choose on serum that targets your primary skin concern and apply it after cleansing and toning your face and before you put moisturiser. Let it sit and get absorbed in the skin for a couple of minutes before you layer your moisturiser.

How to Pick the Right Serum for Your Skin?

Now comes the most important part of the process, choosing the right serum for your skin type. Serums are targeted, which means you can (and should) choose one that matches what your skin actually needs.

- If you have dry skin: which means face feels tight, flaky, or stretchy, go for hyaluronic acid, peptides, ceramides and serums labelled as barrier building. These will be good for dry, sensitive as well as irritated skin.

- If you have oily or acne-prone skin: which means your skin is constantly shiny, the T-zone gets oily quickly and pores are clogged and breakout easily. Look for salicylic acid, niacinamide or azelaic acid serums which help in regulating sebum, unclogging pores and tightening them. 

- For mature or ageing skin: which means you have started noticing early signs of ageing, fine lines and dullness, like the skin needs a quick refresh. In this case, go for retinoids, peptides and ceramides, however, make sure to get it prescribed from your dermatologist.

- If you have pigmentation or dark spots: which means stubborn marks that won’t budge or dark or uneven skin tone around mouth or anywhere else on the face; look for vitamin C, niacinamide or alpha arbutin serums. These will also help with dull skin making it look more even and brighter.