Facial Skin Serums

Serums are lightweight, highly concentrated skincare products formulated with active ingredients designed to target specific skin concerns. Serums can be water or oil based and are formulated to ensure that they absorb into the skin, so you can take advantage of specialised treatments that focus on visible age prevention, improving and clarifying skin texture, addressing blemishes and adding hydration and radiance.

Yes, and it’s mandatory. Using a moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen in your twice-daily routine is the best way to seal in your serum and skincare’s skin-loving ingredients while defending your skin’s moisture barrier, preventing trans-epidermal water loss and free radical damage from the sun’s harsh UV rays.

Applying a serum on the skin is the third step of your routine after your cleanser, toner or exfoliator. When it comes to layering serums, apply in the following order: water-based serum then oil-based serums then emulsion-based serums, lightest to thickest before applying your thicker treatments and finish with a protective moisturiser and SPF.

It depends on the formula of the facial serum you’ve chosen and the health of your skin. Serums that feature a hyaluronic base can have an almost immediate effect on plumping your complexion with deep hydration. Hydrating serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid can make skin feel smoother and more supple soon after use, while serums with vitamin A or vitamin C may take several weeks of consistent application before visible improvements appear. Regular use is key, as skin serums are designed to deliver ongoing support rather than instant changes.

Exfoliating acids and vitamin A products help clarify your skin, improve skin texture and increase cell turnover. However, they can make your complexion more photosensitive, dry and potentially flaky. Using hydrating face serums, occlusive moisturisers and a high-rated SPF can help you easily address your skin concerns. You might find some active products can be too intense for sensitive skin types, which is why we offer our vitamin A skin serums in Australia at different concentrations — gentle, mild and intense.

Serums are formulated to deliver concentrated doses of active ingredients, targeting specific skin concerns like fine lines, hyperpigmentation and dehydration. They can enhance skin texture, provide deep hydration, improve radiance and address signs of ageing.

Face serums are typically water-based and designed to penetrate deeply into the skin to deliver active ingredients, while face oils are oil-based and create a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture and provide additional nourishment.

Yes, serums and face oils can be used together. Apply the serum first to deliver active ingredients deep into the skin, followed by the face oil to seal in the benefits and provide additional hydration and nourishment.

Serums are generally lighter and designed for daily use, delivering a broad range of active ingredients. Concentrates, on the other hand, are often more potent and targeted for specific skin concerns, used less frequently or as needed for intensive treatment.

The type of facial serum you should use depends on your specific skin concerns. Here are some of our recommendations: • Crystal Retinal 3 for anti-ageing and smooth skin texture • Hydr8 B5 Intense for deep hydration • C-Tetra for brightening and radiance • Liquid Peptides for firming and plumping • Intelligent Retinol 3TR™ for improving skin tone and texture • Bakuchiol Peptides for sensitive skin and anti-ageing benefits

You can typically use face serums twice daily, once in the morning and once at night, to ensure continuous delivery of active ingredients and optimal results. However, serums like retinol should be used only at night due to their photosensitivity, and it’s recommended to start with a lower frequency (e.g., every other night) to build tolerance.

Face serums are suitable for all skin types, including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin. Choose a serum that addresses your specific skin concerns and is formulated for your skin type. If you have blemish-prone or oily skin, look for lightweight, non-comedogenic skin serums that add hydration without leaving residue. For drier or more mature skin, richer formulas containing ceramides or plant oils can help strengthen the skin barrier. Even sensitive skin can benefit, provided you opt for a serum for the face that avoids fragrance and includes soothing agents.

Yes, you can mix face serums, but it’s essential to layer them correctly based on their formulations to ensure maximum efficacy. Generally, apply the lightest serum first and finish with the thickest. It’s also important to be mindful when layering products. Not every facial serum works well together — powerful actives such as retinoids or exfoliating acids may conflict if applied at the same time. To minimise irritation and maximise results, start with one skin serum and gradually build up, or seek guidance before combining different options.

Store face serums in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Tightly close the caps to prevent oxidation and contamination.

Apply a few drops of serum to your face and neck after cleansing and toning. Gently pat the serum into your skin with your fingertips. Allow your facial serum to absorb fully before applying moisturiser and sunscreen.