Serums have become quite the buzzword in the skincare world, with good reason. They’re highly concentrated and designed to target specific skincare concerns, including sun-damaged skin. Our Super B3 Serum, for instance, contains a powerful blend of 10% Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Super Oxide Dismutase, and Hyaluronic Acid, making it an incredibly potent tool for sun-damage repair.
But skincare is a highly individualised journey. Finding the right products to match your skincare goals and lifestyle is essential. So, let’s delve deeper and explore the what, why, and how of serums – and what to look for in a serum for sun-damaged skin.
What is a serum?
A serum is a skincare product that is designed to deliver a high concentration of active ingredients to the skin. Serums are typically lightweight and have a thin, watery consistency that allows them to penetrate deep into the skin. Unlike moisturisers, which are designed to hydrate and protect the skin’s outermost layer, serums are formulated to target specific skin concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, or uneven skin texture. They come in many different formulations and can include a wide range of active ingredients.
Why use a serum?
If you’re on the fence about serums, here are a few reasons you should jump on board:
- Serums are easy to incorporate into your existing skincare routine. Simply apply after cleansing, but before moisturiser and SPF. They can even be layered with other serums and active ingredients.
- They have a pleasant feel on the skin, usually with simple formulations that are lightweight and fast-absorbing.
- Many serums are formulated with good ‘slip’, which refers to the texture of the product, and means they can be used with tools like gua sha and facial rollers to enhance their effectiveness.
- Serums can improve the efficacy of other products by penetrating deeply into the skin and preparing it for further steps.
How to use serums
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to incorporate serums into your skincare routine.
- Less is more: Serums are highly concentrated, so start with a small amount. Using too much serum can waste product and potentially irritate your skin. A pea-sized amount is usually enough, but add more if you feel you need it.
- Cleanse first: Apply your serum after cleansing your skin. This ensures that the active ingredients are effectively absorbed into your skin. Use a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt or oil from your skin before applying the serum. If you’re using other serums, layer them from thinnest to thickest consistency or seek individualised advice from a professional.
- Gently pat it in: To ensure that the serum is absorbed into the skin, gently pat it in with your fingertips. Avoid rubbing or pulling the skin, as this can cause irritation or damage. Allow the serum to fully absorb before applying any other products.
- Follow with moisturiser: Moisturiser is the perfect way to seal in the active ingredients in your serum and provide additional hydration. Choose a moisturiser that suits your skin type and apply it after the serum has fully absorbed.
- Consistency is key: To see the full benefits of a serum, it’s important to use it consistently. Incorporate it into your daily skincare routine and use it morning and night for best results. Over time, you should notice improvements in the overall health and appearance of your skin.
Choosing a serum for sun-damaged skin
When it comes to choosing a serum for sun-damaged skin, it’s important to keep in mind that not all serums are created equal. You’ll want to look for a serum that is specifically formulated with ingredients that can help repair and protect sun-damaged skin. Antioxidants, hydrating agents, and Vitamin B3 are some of the ingredients that you should look for in a serum. Vitamin B3, in particular, has been extensively studied and may help in reducing the appearance of sun-damage.
Our Super B3 Serum is an ideal solution for people with sun-damaged skin. Formulated with a high concentration of 10% Vitamin B3 (niacinamide), 2.3% Hyaluronic Acid Complex, and Superoxide Dismutase, it is a powerful and versatile serum offering multiple benefits. Vitamin B3 is a well-researched and well-tolerated ingredient that may help to reduce the appearance of sun damage, while Hyaluronic Acid is a moisture-loving molecule that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, providing deep hydration to the skin. The addition of Superoxide Dismutase, a potent antioxidant, may help to break down potentially harmful molecules and protect your skin’s DNA from further sun damage.
But remember, every person’s skin is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you have questions regarding skin care, please seek the advice of a skincare professional or reach out to our team to find the right SolarCareB3 product for you.