Serum Truths

Summer or winter, Serums are your best friend!
  Think of them like an extra layer of protection for your skin.

 How is a Serum different to a Moisturiser? 

Serums are formulated to instantly absorb into the skin at a cellular level whereas moisturisers contain emollients that form a protective layer on the skin’s surface to prevent moisture loss.

What types of Serums are there?

Water based serums (oil-free) are ideal for all skin types, especially oily, blemished or more sensitive skin.  Mature skin also greatly benefits as these serums are packed full of antiageing antioxidants and vitamins that penetrate the skin at a deeper level than oil serums, due to their smaller molecular size.  Water based serums  are weightless 'thirst quenchers' for your skin and are rapidly absorbed - the result - a brighter, firmer and plumper complexion that stays actively hydrated without heaviness or oiliness!

Oil based serums are ideal for skins that tend to be very dry as they provide additional emolliency to a moisturising cream. They help to minimise or alleviate the taut feeling that constantly dry skin imparts, leaving a visible moisture film that delivers a dose of suppleness and glow.    For an EXTRA nightly treat for impossibly dry or ageing skin, apply a water based serum first, followed by an oil serum then a face cream. 

So why do you need to be using a Serum?

Serums are used under your moisturiser to actively deliver nutrients to hydrate the deeper layers whilst allowing your regular moisturiser to protect the top layers and seal the surface against moisture loss from external factors like climate and pollution.   It's a fact we are all ageing, so daily use of a serum is vital, no matter your skin type, to further protect and preserve our visible youthful glow, to ensure your skin is truly hydrated from the inside out!  

 What type of Serum should you choose for your skin?

Oily skin – needs a silky fluid base that feels weightless on the skin, non-greasy and fast absorbing, yet has the ability to keep the skin hydrated on all levels.  In some cases a serum is the only moisturiser an oily skin needs, so it is vital that it contains all the nourishment that an active cream moisturiser offers.
iSHiKi-SKiN Recommends: Hydra Active Face Serum,  Liposome Moisture Serum, Sea Mineral Rescue Serum

Dry/Mature Skin – is always thirsting for more moisture – (be sure to drink your recommended daily water, it really makes a difference), so an oil based moisturiser is more beneficial, as the natural oils prevent the skin from drying out.  Instead, expect your serum to deliver a more supple complexion, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, reducing age spots and giving your complexion a glow, instead of dullness.
iSHiKi-SKiN Recommends: Rejuvenating Face Serum, Organic Face Renew Serum, Organic Camellia Serum, SkinGlo 6-Serum, Organic Skin Vitamin Serum.  For an extra moisture boost, try adding Liposome Moisture Serum, Hydra Active Face Serum, Intense Beauty Cell-Active Renewing Serum   

Blemished/Problem skin – a lightweight serum is an ideal choice, preferably oil-free, as even natural oils can make the skin feel more clogged and heavy.  iSHiKi-SKiN Recommends:  Sea Mineral Rescue Serum, SkinClear Active Clarifying Serum

Combination Skin – can use a combination of both serums – an oil free one for morning use (helps prevent the ‘shiny’ look) and a light oil based serum before bed to help the skin rejuvenate and hydrate overnight. iSHiKi-SKiN Recommends: Hydra Active Serum,  Sea Mineral Rescue Serum,  Organic Camellia Serum, Liposome Moisture Serum, Intense Beauty Cell-Active Renewing Serum

Sensitive Skin – Generally an oil-free or a very light oil based serum is best as heavy products will irritate sensitive skin, which is often thin and fragile or gets red, itchy or irritated. iSHiKi-SKiN Recommends: Hydra Active Face Serum, Intense Beauty Cell-Active Renewing Serum, Liposome Moisture Serum, Organic Camellia Serum

 How do you apply Serums?

Directly after cleansing and/or toning (whilst the skin is still slightly damp is ideal), apply your serum, lightly massaging into the skin. Use only a small amount (less for oil serums), as a little goes a long way.  Once absorbed into the skin, apply your daily moisturiser.  REMEMBER to always apply your serum first!  Creams are great for locking moisture in, but can lock the actives out!