What are serums, and how do they fit into a skin care routine?

Finding a great skin care routine takes time. And your routine will change over time as seasons change and your skin changes. But there are some basics that every skin care routine needs: a great cleanser, toner, moisturizer, eye cream, sunscreen – and serum(s).

If I’m using great products, why do I also need a serum?

Different skin care products provide different results. Each item in your regimen should have a specific job, and a serum is no different. Your moisturizers likely contain sun protection (for daytime), and added emollients (for night), but a serum is a potent, concentrated formulation of ingredients that address a specific skin care need or concern. Serums are formulated with the best of the best when it comes to skin care ingredients: the beneficial ingredients found in serums are concentrated, and at a much higher percentage than they’re typically found in moisturizers and other products. And because serums are specifically designed to be their own delivery systems, the good stuff (antioxidants, peptides, vitamins, minerals, etc) gets past the top layer of skin, down to where it can do the most good.

How do I use a serum?

There are plenty of serums to choose from, and some of them are great for just about every skin type. For example, Reviva’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum helps boost hydration while retaining the skin’s moisture from within – something everyone needs. And Reviva’s Vitamin C Serum is another that is suited to all skin types – potent antioxidants help protect skin from free radical damage. The first thing you want to do is decide what you want from your serum: perhaps you want extra peptides for their anti-aging benefits, or DMAE for firming, or antioxidants to fight environmental damage. Remember, you don’t have to limit yourself to one. Though you probably don’t want to apply more than one serum at a time, you could use different serums for day and night. After cleansing, you will apply your chosen serum, allow it to absorb, then apply your favorite moisturizer – which will help “lock in” the benefits of your serum. Reviva has long been a proponent of “layering” skin care products for maximum benefit.

When should I start using a serum?

You’re never too old to start using a serum; but the sooner you start, the more you can benefit. Just as eating right and exercise are great habits that offer cumulative benefits, so does a great skin care routine. And a serum can be another beneficial part of that routine. Very few people want a time-consuming skin care routine. But adding a serum to any routine is a very simple step. And while serums do tend to be a bit pricier than moisturizers and other products, they are offering concentrated ingredients that give you the best bang for your buck. If you have questions about how a serum could benefit your skin care regimen, or which serum is best for you – or even how to use a serum – please call our experts at 1-800-257-7774.