Facial serum – definition, active ingredients & correct application

What is a facial serum?

A facial serum is a highly concentrated, lightweight care formula that delivers active ingredients in precise doses—ideal for targeting specific skin needs. Compared to creams, serums have a more fluid texture, absorb faster, and complement subsequent skincare rather than replacing it.

Why is a serum useful?

Skin has different needs depending on the time of day and the season. A serum allows you to fine-tune your routine: antioxidant protection and hydration in the morning, regeneration and barrier strengthening in the evening. In a luxurious routine, the serum acts as a "performance layer" – visible, noticeable, smart.

Important active ingredient categories

• Hydrators: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ectoin – for plump, smooth skin and improved comfort.
• Barrier strength: Ceramides, squalane, niacinamide – reduce transepidermal water loss and support resilience.
• Antioxidants: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, Coenzyme Q10 – Protection against environmental stress, more even radiance.
• Pro-Age Peptides: signal the skin's tightening and smoothing processes; ideally complement moisturizing agents.
• Gentle brighteners: Niacinamide, arbutin derivatives, licorice extract – for uneven complexion and blemishes.
• Regenerating retinoids: Low-dose retinol – in the evening, for experienced skincare professionals.

Serum vs. Cream – the difference

The serum delivers active ingredients in a high concentration and a light texture. The cream locks in moisture, nourishes, and protects—it provides a comforting finish. The two together deliver luxurious performance: precise active ingredient power plus a sensory protective film.

Correct layering & dosage

After cleansing (and optionally toner/essence), apply the serum, pat in gently, and then finish with a cream or moisturizing oil. When applying multiple serums, layer from thin to rich. Antioxidant serums offer benefits in the morning, while hydrators, peptides, or mild retinoids offer benefits at night.

Tip: A rice bean-sized amount is usually enough – too much product makes layering difficult and can encourage pilling.

Choose serums according to skin needs

• Dehydrated skin: Hyaluronic acid serum + occlusive finish (cream/oil).
• Sensitive skin: Niacinamide, Ectoin, Panthenol – prefer perfume-free, reduced formulations.
• Uneven complexion/spots: Vitamin C serum in the morning, niacinamide in the evening.
• Mature skin: Peptides + antioxidants during the day, mild retinol in the evening (depending on tolerance).
• Oily/combination skin: light, water-based serums with glycerin/HA, balancing active ingredients such as niacinamide.

Conclusion

A high-quality facial serum is the most precise tool in your skincare routine. It delivers concentrated active ingredients in a luxurious texture—visibly effective, elegant in application, and perfectly combined with cream or oil.

Sources

1. DermNet – Serums and active ingredients https://dermnetnz.org/topics/skin-care
2. American Academy of Dermatology – How to layer your skincare https://www.aad.org/public
3. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology - Advances in topical delivery systems https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/14732165