If there's one step in a skincare routine that tends to generate the most confusion, it's the serum. Do you apply it before or after moisturizer? Can you layer multiple serums? Does the order actually matter? The questions are endless—and the answers aren't always consistent depending on whom you ask.
To cut through the noise, we asked Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist who has encountered just about every skincare woe you could ever imagine. She's also skilled at advising her patients on building topnotch skincare routines to help them achieve their complexion goals.
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"One serum trick that some people don't realize is that certain serums, specifically hydrating serums containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, are actually more effective when applied to damp skin," she tells Parade.
"Spray skin with a thermal spring water just prior to applying the serum," she says.
"Serums containing active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C can actually be more irritating if applied to damp skin," Garshick says.
How to apply serum for maximum absorption
"Use your fingertips rather than aggressively rubbing it in," she says. "Pressing helps minimizing unnecessary friction while ensuring adequate absorption."
How To Layer Serums Correctly
Since every serum has a different skincare goal in mind, layering them is sometimes the best way to supercharge your routine. The act of layering any skincare products can feel intimidating, but Garshick says it's really quite easy if you follow one simple rule.
For example, the derm is a fan of Circadia Myo-Cyte Anti-Wrinkle Serum and RescueMD DNA Repair Complex. In the case of these two products, she recommends starting off with the anti-wrinkle serum then following it with the creamier repair complex.
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"Serums are generally applied after cleansing and before moisturizer. This allows the concentrated active ingredients to come into direct contact with the skin and for optimal absorption," Garshick says.
"Antioxidant serums, such as those with vitamin C, are often best used in the morning to help defend against environmental stressors. Repair serums, growth factor serums, DNA repair serums and retinoid-containing products are best in an evening routine," the derm explains.
5 Common Serum Mistakes To Avoid
Want to set your skincare routine up for success? Garshick shares five common serum mistakes to avoid if you want to see results.
"Some people assume more serum will deliver better results, but using too much amounts can lead to pilling and irritation. Most serums require only a few drops to cover the entire face," Garshick tells Parade.
2. Layering too many active ingredients at once
"Combining multiple potent actives (such as retinoids, exfoliating acids and vitamin C) can increase irritation without necessarily improving results. Unless otherwise recommended or formulated into the same product, don't combine too many ingredients at the same time," Garshick warns.
Skincare needs vary from one complexion to the next. For this reason, it's best to listen to your skin instead of trying a product just because it's trendy.
4. Not choosing the right serum formulation
With so many serums to choose from, finding the right formulation for your unique skin type is critical.
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5. Expecting immediate results
"Most serums require consistent use over several weeks to months to see benefits. Patience and consistency are essential for achieving the best outcomes," Garshick says.
Related: Does Nivea Creme Actually Reduce Wrinkles? We Asked Skincare Experts To Find Out
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Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist.Hence then, the article about the clever serum trick we wish we d known about sooner was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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