Facial Moisturizers Or Serums?

By Jean Pierre
Pride Skin Care Columnist

I have been asked many times, should a facial serum be used instead of a moisturizer? But these two products are completely different and their actions on the skin also differ.

A facial serum generally has a very low molecular structure which allows it to penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin carrying with it nutrients that are extremely beneficial to the skin. There are different types of serum, for example, acne serum, anti-aging (most popular) skin lightening serum, firming serum and hydrating serum.

Serums are used after a toner or astringent and before the application of a moisturizer.  They are highly concentrated needing very little use. However it can be very expensive based on the combination of raw material used in its formulation. Serums normally do not come in sizes larger than 30 ml. One to 3 drops is generally the recommended amount for each application to the skin.

Serums are very effective in the treatment of premature aging and should become a regular part of one’s home skin care program for the over 30’s and beyond. Hormonal aging can cause a drastic dip in estrogen levels and therefore slows the turn-over of skin cells. This can greatly impact the skins function causing skin to show signs of premature aging like fine lines, wrinkles and dehydration.

Moisturizers have a larger molecular structure and do not penetrate as deeply as serums. Moisturizers are meant to hydrate the skin by depositing moisture to skin cells. Moisturizers are formulated with humectants that draw moisture from the air to the skin.

Moisturizers are also recommended to be applied before make-up application to give a slip to the skin and for smooth even coverage. Moisturizers come in the form of night and day cream. A daytime moisturizer is generally light and a night time moisturizer, particularly those formulated for older individuals, can be very heavy. When looking for a night cream I would suggest you find one that is light in consistency.

Both of these products should be used on a regular basis even in the absence of lines and wrinkles. Preventive measures are best taken before ugly lines and wrinkles rear its ugly head. Always cleanse skin thoroughly before the application of a serum or a moisturizer. The cleaner the skin, the more readily the products will penetrate and will be more effective and give the desired results.

Jean Pierre is a Registered Nurse and an experienced Aesthetician. She has dedicated her professional life to the pursuit of excellence in specialized skin care products and spa service. She is the president and creator of the Obsidian Skin Care System and founder of the popular Jean Pierre Aesthetics and Spa. A community leader and inspirational entrepreneur, Jean Pierre, has been cited for numerous awards including the African Canadian Achievement Award for Business, The Toronto Sun’s Woman on the Move Award and the Harry Jerome Award for Excellence in Business.