You’re probably thinking that you’ve nailed down the art of your skincare routine, right down to the last detail.

Cleanser, check – face mask, check – moisturiser, check – sunscreen, check. What else could there be, right?

If you’ve never considered adding a serum to your skincare routine, then think again. You’re missing out big time, and here’s why:

What exactly is a Face Serum?

Serums are mild moisturisers containing a much higher dose of ingredients than your typical facial moisturisers – e.g. glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C.

They are highly effective and known to be very beneficial for managing specific skin conditions such as wrinkles or dry and ageing skin.

A serum is usually thinner than a moisturiser, making it ideal for layering. It can come in many different formulas including light creams, gels and oils.

Do I really need to use a Serum?

The short and sweet answer is: yes, absolutely!

No matter what your skincare routine or how old you are, serums offer a host of benefits, thanks to their concentration of topical skin health-boosting antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C and E.

When layered underneath your moisturiser, serums can target wrinkles, redness and pigmentation, something which all dermatologists stand by firmly.

In a nutshell, here are some of the benefits of adding a serum to your skincare routine:

• Hydrates the skin
• Plumps up skin making you look younger and healthier
• Can be used as a natural exfoliant
• Helps you manage acne-prone skin
• Boosts skin volume helping it regenerate
• Smoothens and moisturises skin
• Gets rid of wrinkles
• Brightens up dull skin
• Minimises the appearance of dark spots

How to use it

Now that you know what a serum is and why it should be a part of your everyday skincare routine, follow this guide to layer it properly on your face:

1. Cleanse skin

Use a cleanser to help get rid of impurities, excess oils and dirt from the skin. Do this twice a day, morning and evening, and also after you break a sweat. Always go for a cleanser that matches your key skin concerns.

2. Apply serum

Apply a fine layer of serum and massage into the skin until it is fully absorbed. A pea-sized amount is fine to begin with.

3. Apply eye cream

A light dab of your favourite eye cream using your fingertips is all you need.

4. Apply moisturiser

The secret ingredient which completes every skincare routine! As with a cleanser, use a moisturiser that’s specially formulated to meet your skin type and moisturising needs.

5. Apply sunscreen (broad spectrum)

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning right before you step outside – make sure it has a 30-SPF value or higher.

Use a Serum at any age

A face serum should be included in your daily skincare routine no matter what your age. Just make sure you buy one that suits your skin type and skincare demands – such as a hydrating serum or an anti-ageing serum.