With so many skincare products on the market today, it can be difficult to understand the industry. Face serums and moisturisers are two necessities that frequently lead to confusion. Both are necessary for keeping skin looking young and healthy, yet they have multiple applications and special advantages.

Knowing the difference between a moisturiser and a face serum will help you create a skincare regimen that works for your skin type.

What is a Face Serum?

A face serum is a skincare product with a substantial amount of active ingredients that is lightweight and absorbs quickly. Specific skin issues like dullness, pigmentation, fine wrinkles, acne or dehydration are the focus of serums. Serums send powerful substances straight to the underlying layers of the skin because of their tiny molecular structure, which allows them to penetrate deeper.

Serums often contain retinol for wrinkle prevention, niacinamide for balancing, vitamin C for brightening, hyaluronic acid for hydration and peptides for firming. Because of their thin, fluid consistency and common water or oil base, serums are perfect for layering under other skincare products.

What is a Moisturiser?

A moisturiser is a creamier, thicker solution that is intended to seal in moisture and nourish the skin. Moisturisers minimise water loss and protect the skin from external aggressors by forming a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. They are necessary to keep the skin supple, smooth and velvety while preserving its natural moisture balance.

A combination of hydrating agents, which draw in water, emollients, which soften skin and occlusives, which retain moisture, is frequently included in moisturisers. Glycerin, shea butter, ceramides and plant oils are typical components. All skin types can benefit from moisturisers, which come in a variety of formulas from thick creams for dry or older skin to light gels for oily skin.

Key Differences Between Face Serum and Moisturiser

Consistency and Texture

Because of their thin, fluid texture and small weight, serums absorb rapidly and thoroughly. In order to seal in moisture, moisturisers create a barrier on the skin’s surface by being thicker and creamier.

Purpose and Function

Treatment solutions called serums are designed to deliver active chemicals to target particular skin issues. The major functions of moisturisers are to protect and hydrate the skin, keeping it healthy and balanced.

Concentration of Ingredients

Compared to moisturisers, serums have a higher concentration of active substances, which increases their potency for desired effects. A balanced combination of moisturising and protecting substances makes up moisturisers.

Order of Application

After cleansing and toning, but before moisturising, serums should be used. While the moisturiser locks in the benefits and offers lasting hydration, this enables the active ingredients to effectively penetrate the skin.

Do You Require a Moisturiser and a Serum?

The majority of skin types benefit from utilising both a moisturiser and a serum. The moisturiser keeps the face nourished and protected, while the serum uses focused active ingredients to target particular issues. If you have several skin goals, layering these products might increase the efficacy of your skincare regimen.

A vitamin C serum, for instance, helps brighten the skin if you are trying to address pigmentation, while a moisturiser keeps the face hydrated and keeps it from becoming dry. Choose lightweight, not acne-causing formulas for both products if you have skin that is oily or prone to acne.

Conclusion

Although they have different purposes, face serums and moisturisers are both essential components of a comprehensive skincare regimen. Moisturisers offer protection and hydration, while serums use powerful active ingredients to provide specialised treatment.

Knowing how these products differ from one another enables you to make wise decisions and attain skin that is healthier and more glowing.