Serums have become a skincare staple due to their enumerable benefits for the skin. Serums are concentrated forms of active ingredients that are applied before the moisturizer in a daily skincare routine. They contain smaller molecules than moisturizers and hence they penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, giving skin the necessary nourishment.
With regular use, serums can improve skin texture and target specific skin concerns like dullness, pigmentation, acne marks, blackheads, whiteheads, open pores, signs of ageing, and many more.
However, serums can be of various types and you must choose the right one according to your skin type and skin concern to get the best results. With so many serums around, it might be confusing to find the right one for you. But our expert Dermatologist is here to solve all your doubts and queries.
Here are some easy tips to choose the right serum by Dr. Bansari Davda, City Head Dermatologist of Urban Company Chennai.
Determine your skin type
Everyone has a different skin type and what is suitable for a dry skin type may not be suitable for an oily skin type. If you have oily acne-prone skin, consider choosing serums containing Salicylic acid, Retinol, or Niacinamide, as they work wonders for this skin type. Hyaluronic acid is an amazing active for people with dry skin, as it helps attract moisture in the skin making it plumper. If you have a normal skin type and are just looking for skin maintenance, Vitamin C or Hyaluronic acid are great options.
Look for suitable serums according to their age
Since serums are packed with active ingredients, you must be careful while choosing the right one for you. It is always best to start with a low percentage of actives to make your skin accustomed to the serum. If you are a teenager, a simple routine of cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen is enough. If you are in your early 20s, Niacinamide or Hyaluronic acid are great options for beginners. If are someone who is from the era of shows like kyunki saas bhi kabhi bahu thi, friends, greys anatomy etc. (i.e- in your late 20’s, 30’/40’s), it’s time to start Retinol.
Find your skin issues
If you are dealing with uneven skin tone, dark spots, and post-acne marks, Alpha-hydroxy acids like Glycolic acid/lactic acid, Azelaic acid, Vitamin C, and Kojic acid are great options to incorporate into your routine as needed. If you want to fight the signs of aging, a retinol serum is a good choice. For blackheads/whiteheads - again, Retinol or Salicylic acid are good options.
Don’t start all the actives at once. This may do more harm than good. Start one active at a time and make sure to choose the right ingredient in your serum according to your age, skin type, and skin concern for healthy, nourished, radiant skin. Always consult your Dermatologist before starting any strong activities in your skincare.
