Serums Vs. Moisturizers
Breaking Down Serums
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a serum and a moisturizer, and do you really need one or both in your home skincare regimen? You’re not alone. With the plethora of skin products on the market these days, it’s no wonder you may have been confused! To gain a better understanding of how they actually work, let’s take a closer look at serums and moisturizers.
“So, what exactly are serums? They have a water or gel-like consistency, and they are specifically formulated to penetrate deep into the skin. Due to their small molecular size, serums can target the deepest layers of the skin, rather than laying on its surface. This allows them to correct skin issues and deliver long-lasting results, which is why they are ideal to use between (professional) treatments”, according to Natalia Sadowski, Licensed Medical Esthetician, in a recent skincare professionals magazine article. She goes on to say, “Face serums are primarily composed of active ingredients, or potent ingredients, that “actively” work to correct the skin issue(s) for which they are formulated. For example, the active ingredient in an anti-aging product is one that specifically targets aging."
Peptides are some of today’s more well-known active ingredients which are proven effective in reducing lines and wrinkles by stimulating the synthesis of collagen in the skin. Active ingredients are the ideal way to provide necessary nutrients to the skin, while also working to help heal or prevent skin problems on a cellular level.
Serums Vs. Moisturizers
For an effective skin care regimen that delivers results, you need to use a serum and a moisturizer. Many clients are surprised to learn this, as they assume that a moisturizer alone will be enough for their skin. Unfortunately, a moisturizer alone will not help clients achieve healthy skin.
Unlike serums, moisturizers have a thicker consistency and are designed to keep moisture within the skin while preventing moisture loss. Due to the molecular size of the ingredients within a moisturizer, it lays on the skin’s surface. This makes it difficult for potent nutrients to enter the skin and effectively target skin concerns. Although there are moisturizers on the market that claim to correct or target certain issues, such as aging, hyperpigmentation (dark spots) or acne, etc.), most of them don’t have the power alone to correct skin problems. When a face serum and a face moisturizer are incorporated together into a skin care regimen, however current skin issues can be addressed effectively. This combination of a serum and a moisturizer provides the skin with necessary nutrients and optimal hydration. 
Charisma Skin offers several skin serums and moisturizers to meet the needs of all skin types and various skin conditions, from Ageless Serum with Peptides and Plant Stem Cells to Vitamin C Serum and Vitamin C Creme to help improve lines, repair, and protect skin.
A Personalized Skin Care Regimen
I hope this information has been beneficial to help provide clearer understanding of the roles of a serum and a moisturizer in your home care regimen. For an updated skin regimen schedule your complimentary skin consultation or your next facial now, if you are in the Portland, Oregon area. I look forward to helping you see an improvement in your skin! If you are an online customer, please contact me and I’ll be happy to do a “virtual” skin consultation to create a personalized regimen for your skin. Some of this information was taken from a recent publication of a skincare professionals magazine article, as noted above.
Pam Wheeler, Licensed Esthetician, Owner
Charisma Skin
503-686-5828