Facial Serum Vs. Facial Moisturizer – What Is The Difference?

What Is A Facial Serum?

A facial serum is a lightweight and easily absorbable skin care product that delivers an intense dose of active ingredients to your skin. Since serums are highly concentrated and potent, you just need a few drops for your entire face. They are a great option to address specific skin concerns like dark spots, fine lines, and early signs of aging.

Serums are more powerful in comparison to regular moisturizers when it comes to anti-aging effects. They are concentrated so that they deliver a high potency of actives to the skin. The right time to apply a serum is immediately after cleansing but before moisturizing.

Trivia

Serum formulations entirely skip our occlusives like mineral oils and petrolatum. They are also the most expensive skin care products due to the high concentration of actives.

What Is A Moisturizer?

A moisturizer is a lotion or cream to prevent skin dryness. It is mostly water-based and traps moisture in the skin’s outer layer, providing a hydrated look. Moisturizers can be classified as emollients (lipids and oils), humectants (glycerin, urea, and hyaluronic acid), occlusives (lanolin, bee wax, stearic acid, and petroleum jelly), and protein rejuvenators (collagen, keratin, and elastin).

Moisturizers increase the water content in the skin, making it soft and supple. They are available in various formulations, and they may also help heal wounds and soothe skin inflammation based on the ingredients.

Facial moisturizers play a unique role in daily skin care. Besides keeping the skin hydrated, they protect it against the harsh environment, pollution, dust, humidity, extreme temperatures, and UV rays and UV rays (However, we shouldn’t rely on moisturizers as our main photoprotection).

Both facial serums and moisturizers nourish your skin and help make it healthy and glowing. But they benefit your skin differently. Check out our next section to understand the key differences between serums and moisturizers.

Face Serums Vs. Moisturizers – 4 Major Differences

Serums and moisturizers are vastly different products that benefit your skin uniquely. Do you need to choose either serum or moisturizer, or can you use them together? Scroll down to find the answer!

Can You Use Serums And Moisturizers Together?

Yes. They have different purposes. Your skin needs both serum and moisturizer to remain soft, supple, and youthful and look and feel its best. However, make sure that you choose these skin care products as per your skin type and need. The trick is to learn how to layer them properly to achieve nourished, hydrated, smooth, and blemish-free skin.

A general rule of layering skin care products is to apply the thinnest products first, followed by the thicker ones. Serums are meant to be delivered deep into the skin and should be applied first, followed by a moisturizer that forms a protective barrier on the skin, locking the serum’s nutrients. Follow these steps to get the maximum benefit out of your serum and moisturizer.

Note: Serums may not be a good choice for people with chronic sensitive skin conditions, such as eczema or rosacea.

How To Layer Serums And Moisturizers

Step 1: Wash your face with fresh, cool water and a gentle cleanser. Pat dry with a soft towel. Remember not to wipe your face completely dry as slightly damp skin aids absorption.
Step 2: Dot a few drops of serum on your face.
Step 3: Rub the serum gently, focusing more on the problem areas. Wait for 1-2 minutes for the product to absorb into the skin.
Step 4: Dot your face with a regular moisturizing lotion or cream and gently massage the product.

Repeat this process twice a day for the best results.

Here’s a generic example. Tanya Jain, a lifestyle blogger, was struggling with acne breakouts on her skin during her teenage years and she never had a skin care routine in place. This condition was an eye-opener and she began with a simple routine to strengthen her skin barrier and clear her skin. She shares her basic regimen; “Starting my refreshed skincare routine, I begin with a gentle face wash, giving my skin a clean slate after facing the world all day. Next in line is the hyaluronic serum, providing my skin with the moisture it craves, almost like quenching its thirst. Moving on, I apply an eye cream, my secret weapon to combat under-eye bags that could rival carry-on luggage. As for moisturizer, I opt for a richer one when my skin feels dry, creating a cozy haven for my face. On oilier days, I go for a gel-based option to keep shine at bay. Of course, I never skip sunscreen — my steadfast companion in the ongoing battle against the sun’s harmful UV rays (i).”

But do we apply the serum before or after moisturizer? This is a common doubt for many. So, let us clear up the confusion. You must apply the serum directly to your skin after cleansing and toning and before moisturizing. Do not use your serum after moisturizer; otherwise, the active ingredients will not be able to penetrate your skin. Go through our next section to understand when you should use serums and moisturizers.

When Should You Use Serums And Moisturizers?

Any skin care product will provide maximum benefits if used regularly over a course of time. Beauty influencers believe that serums and moisturizers should be ideally used twice a day for the best results. So, include these products in your morning and nighttime skin care routine.

While you may choose to use the same serum and moisturizer for both times, keep in mind that some serums may not be suitable for daytime use. If you wish to treat multiple skin issues, go for different serums for morning and night use.

Quick Tip

Unlike serums, you can use moisturizers multiple times daily to soothe dry skin. However, make sure your moisturizer is suitable for your skin type.

Most people also wonder if a serum can be used in place of a moisturizer. Well, that depends. Scroll down to understand when you can use it alone and when it’s best to team it up with a moisturizer for optimal skin care.

Can I Use A Serum Instead Of A Moisturizer?

While a hydrating serum can replace a moisturizer in some cases, it usually depends on your skin type and the climate. A hydrating serum alone might suffice if you have oily or combination skin. However, pairing a hydrating serum with a moisturizer is often necessary in drier or colder climates, particularly for individuals with dry skin. The moisturizer creates a protective barrier to seal the serum’s hydration and prevent water loss. This ensures your skin remains supple and well-nourished.

Serums are highly concentrated. Hence, choose one that suits your skin type to avoid breakouts. Here are a few tips to choose the right serum for your skin.

Tips For Selecting The Right Serum For Your Skin

• Opt for serums with glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E for dry skin. Choose serums with vitamin E, vitamin C, and ferulic acid to fight aging signs.

• Use serums formulated with tea polyphenolsⁱ  XNaturally occurring organic compounds found largely in fruits and vegetables with disease-fighting properties. , resveratrolⁱ  XA naturally occurring plant compound that helps prevent swelling in the body due to its anti-inflammatory properties. , retinolⁱ  XAn over-the-counter formulation of vitamin-A that helps unclog pores and increases collagen production. , and niacinamide to smooth wrinkles and make your skin plumper.
  Related: 30 Effective Home Remedies To Get Wrinkle-Free Skin

• Improve uneven skin tone, discoloration, and blotchiness with serums that contain kojic acid and glycolic acid, instead of concealing them with cosmetics that might make the issue worse.

• Serums with vitamin E, ceramides, niacinamide, collagen peptides, and glycolic acid are great for treating dry, flaky skin.

• Choose a water-based serum for oily skin. For people with dry skin must select a product with a slightly rich texture.
  The right moisturizer will leave your skin hydrated and soft. Follow these tips to choose a moisturizer that is best suited for your skin type.
• Consider your skin type and remember that what works well for others may not work well for you.

Tips For Choosing The Right Moisturizer For Your Skin

• If you have dry skin, choose a moisturizing cream over a lotion.
• Go for a lightweight moisturizing gel if you have oily or combination skin type.
• Choose a moisturizer with broad-spectrum SPF for daytime use.
• Use a moisturizer with antioxidants and regenerative ingredients for overnight use.
• Change your moisturizer according to the weather conditions.
• Choose a moisturizer specifically formulated for your age group.

Infographic: Tips For Picking The Right Facial Serum And Facial Moisturizer

Facial serums and moisturizers are a must-have in a skin care routine. These products promote smooth and healthy skin and impart a natural glow. However, using the right serum and moisturizer is key to ensuring your skin reaps the maximum benefits. Check out the infographic below for simple tips to help you out.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip moisturizer and use a serum?

Yes, you can skip your moisturizer and apply a hydrating serum twice a day to keep your skin hydrated and smooth.

Is serum a waste of money?

No, facial serums are a great investment for a holistic skincare routine. They are lightweight, hydrating, deliver essential nutrients, and address several skincare concerns.

Can I use both a facial serum and a facial moisturizer if I have oily skin?

Yes, you can. Opt for water-based serums and gel-based lightweight moisturizers if you have oily skin and are prone to breakouts. You can also go for hydrating serums and moisturizers to control oil production to make your skin look supple.

Can a facial serum replace a facial moisturizer?

A face serum cannot replace a facial moisturizer as it cannot provide enough hydration to your skin. It will not provide the nutrients required to make your skin look great. Using both ensures that your skin remains supple and radiant throughout the day.

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team

Confused between facial serums and moisturizers? Watch the video below to know the difference between these two and choose the right product for your needs.

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Dr. Farhaad RiyazMD, FAAD, FACMS

     

Dr. Farhaad Riyaz is a US-based dermatologist and an authority on skin cancer, ethnic skin, general dermatology, laser medicine, and non-invasive cosmetics. He has been in private practice since July 2018 and is a member of the AAD and ASDS in addition to several other professional societies. He has 9 years of experience and takes pride in developing personalized skincare...more

Arshiya SyedaSenior Editor

 

Arshiya Syeda is a senior editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer and combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She holds a bachelor's degree in literature and psychology from Osmania University, Hyderabad, and a post-graduate diploma in psychological...more

Ramona SinhaEditor

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal. She also did a certificate course in dermatology offered by the Novosibirsk State University...more

Swathi ESenior Beauty & Lifestyle Writer

Swathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach. Her interest in staying updated on beauty and lifestyle...more