The Best Face Serum

Buying Guide

Throughout history, humans have been looking for the Fountain of Youth. While you may not be able to turn back time, the beauty industry is packed with products designed to stave off the signs of aging at least a little longer.

But most consumers know by now that creams can only go so far. That’s where serums can come in. While results are never guaranteed, it’s important to look at how each of them works before you invest in one.

The ingredient of the moment appears to be hyaluronic acid, a substance found throughout your body that is known for its moisture-retention properties. Hyaluronic acid starts to deplete as a person ages, adding to the aging effects caused by the loss of collagen and elastin. The beauty industry has found a way to create hyaluronic acid in a lab using bacteria, and that’s the ingredient you find in so many face serums today.

But do these hyaluronic-acid products work? According to clinical research, the key is in the size of the molecules. Larger hyaluronic acid molecules only hydrate on the surface, which helps, but for best results, you’ll need hyaluronic acid in both larger and smaller molecules so that the smaller molecules can sink deeper into the skin and work on the lower layers.

You’ll also find ceramides in some beauty products. Ceramides are found in skin cells and, in fact, make up 50% of the outermost layer of skin. As with hyaluronic acid, ceramides diminish over time, so topical application is designed to replenish what you’re losing. The idea is to gradually diminish the dull, dry skin that comes from lost ceramides to improve the appearance of your face, neck and other areas where you’re applying the serum.

Another product you’ll find in some of today’s face serums is caffeine. In small amounts, caffeine’s antioxidant effects can help protect cells. But some classic skincare ingredients remain popular today, including Vitamins C and B5.

• Serums come in multiple sizes, but you’ll notice many are in 1-ounce bottles. You’ll only apply a small amount each day, so even tiny amounts can last a while. One great thing about these smaller sizes is that they travel more easily than larger beauty products. That makes it easy to take your serum on the go with you.
• Serum should be massaged onto the skin using upward motions. You’ll typically only need a few drops.
• Exact application instructions vary based on the serum you choose, but usually you’ll put it on a freshly washed face, beneath your moisturizer and makeup. Some skin types will find that serum is enough, with no moisturizer needed, but many people choose to use both.
• Fragrance sensitivities are important, but even if you don’t have a sensitivity, you might want to look for serums that eliminate scents. This will help you avoid creating a layering of fragrances from your serum, moisturizer, makeup and other beauty products.
• It can take time for a new beauty product to take effect, especially with ingredients like hyaluronic acid. The product may promise results in a few days, but it’s more likely you’ll have to apply faithfully every day for several weeks to start noticing a difference.
• Some beauty products can be heavy on the skin, making them difficult to wear under makeup. Look for a face serum that isn’t greasy while also forming a light layer on the skin.
• Wrinkles aren’t the only issue serums can help alleviate. You’ll also find serums that help with blemishes and spots, as well as puffiness under the eyes. Knowing your particular problem areas can help you identify the best cosmetics to help you overcome them.