A Serum is a concentrated form of active ingredients in a much higher proportion than a simple moisturiser.
It is easily absorbed by the skin and penetrates deep inside.
It is a dense infusion of nutrients, so a little goes a long way.
It works on your skin concerns like fine lines, large pores, discolouration, sagging and also help in restoring and renewing the skin. It also contributes to your overall skin health.
Though each serum has a selection of various active ingredients and serves different benefits, it still gets difficult to choose the right one for yourself.
Besides the claims and the list of the ingredients, it gets a little overwhelming to decide on which serum to buy.
Because of the high prices of these concentrated liquids, it’s hard to decide on that one bottle which will target your particular skin requirement.
To make it easier, here is a basic list of the generally listed active ingredients in the serums.
This will help you find ‘the one’ serum for your skin concerns and requirement.
1.Vitamin C
Natural source: citrus fruits, leafy greens, and berries, red and yellow peppers etc.
The Vitamin C serum or the L- Ascorbic Acid, is great for:-
A – Brightening of the skin.it helps in illuminating a dull complexion.
B – Repairs the sun-damaged skin like severe suntan and sun burns.
C – Helps to clear blemishes and dark spots.
D – Helps in quick healing of scars and cures discolouration.
2.Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the human body and provides lubrication to the connective tissues to regulate skin elasticity and moisture.
When applied topically it does the following:-
A – Its not rejected by the body as a foreign substance and penetrates deep inside. So it works as an amazing plumper for the skin filling wrinkles and lines.
B – Hydrates. It helps to absorb and retain the moisture from the environment by binding water molecules to it.
So it is highly beneficial for dehydrated skin.
C – Helps to smoothen and soften the skin by creating a moisture barrier on the skin.
Therefore helps to give some incredible anti ageing benefits.
Natural sources of Hyaluronic Acid: Leafy greens, starchy root vegetables, bone broths etc.
3. Retinols
Retinol is an active form of vitamin A molecule.
Serums with retinol have the following benefits:-
A – Have powerful anti–ageing effects by promoting the cell turnover increasing collagen production promoting firmness and plumping of the skin.
B – Helps to reduce discolouration, hyper-pigmentation and dark spots.
Natural sources of Retinol include rose-hip seed oil and primrose oil .
4. Glycolic Acid or AHA’s /BHA’S
Alpha Hydroxyl acids and Beta Hydroxyl acids are derived from fruits and milk.
These help in:-
A – Exfoliating the layer of the buildup due to the dead skin cells and helps to produce more collagen, fight dullness revealing fresh even toned skin.
B – Treats acne breakouts by absorbing excess oil.
C – Tightens the pores
D – Removes the impurities leaves the skin smooth and clear and hydrated.
E – Penetrates easily into the skin and helps to unclog the pores and remove impurities.
Natural sources of Glycolic Acid: Papaya, Pineapple, sugarcane, milk etc.
5. Liquorice Root Extract
Any serum with liquorice as an ingredient helps in:-
A – Lightening the skin tone
B – Treats the discolouration
C – Reduces scars
D – Reduces pigmentation due to the sun exposure
Natural Source of Liquorice Root Extract is dried Liquorice root
6. Ceramides
Ceramides are lipid molecules that hold the skin cells together to retain moisture and keep the skin plump.
The Ceramides serums help to :–
A – Replenish the lost lipids due to environmental damage or over drying skin products or a progressive age.
B – Works very effectively against eczema.
C – Repairs and renews the skin by protecting the skin from the free radicals by stimulating skins natural repair functions.
Natural sources of Ceramides are wheat germ, brown rice, spinach, beets.
7. Peptides
Peptides are active proteins, which instruct the skin cells to behave in a certain manner like produce elastin and collagen, reduce redness or relax the muscles.
They help the skin in:-
A – Minimising wrinkles by penetrating deep inside the skin cells.
B – Triggering the production of collagen.
C – Helps in wound healing and improving skin conditions like eczema.
Natural sources of Peptides include orange blossom, dairy, soy.
So now we know that there’s a serum out there for every skin concern.
Every skin type has its unique essential needs, so you just have to identify your skin’s requirements and decide on the serum you need to use to help keep your skin in a great shape.