Do I apply serum to dry skin?

Even the most amateur skin care enthusiast knows to sit up straight when they hear the word "serum." This lightweight, extremely concentrated makeup product isn't messing around with the conditions it aims to treat! Serums can offer a whole slew of benefits, including lighter dark spots and less prominent fine lines and wrinkles. However, using serum in an incorrect manner will undermine its potent potential. Many people wonder: Do I apply serum to dry skin?

The Do's and Don'ts of How to Apply Serum

DO apply serum containing vitamins and minerals

This should be applied since that is what you are using serums for. Instead, use a serum containing components that you believe to be the ideal ingredients for your skin. Let's take an example. A moisturizing serum with natural sea algae will rejuvenate and rebuild healthy nutrients inside the skin.

DON'T wear a serum with retinol during the day

If your serum contains retinol, make sure to apply it only at night. This is important regarding how to apply serum. Retinol is a great antiaging ingredient, but it does have to leave the skin feeling relatively sun-sensitive. This sensitive skin does not recover as readily to the sun's damaging effects which will include dark spots and hyperpigmentation, sensitization, and cell degradation after retinol rolls back the years by exposing the new skin.

DO apply to damp skin

According to Women's Health, wet skin is 10 times more permeable than dry skin. This means that applying serum especially one with hyaluronic acid with its water-binding properties to wet skin can help quicken or enhance the absorption of vitamins and nutrients in the formula.

DON'T use the same serum every day

When applying serum, over-applying potentially concentrated serums makes the skin too sensitive and causes excessive dryness in the epidermis. Therefore, consider a plant-based formula that avoids harsh, sensitizing ingredients and utilizes potent anti-aging or exfoliating serums 2-3 times a week. In contrast, however, alternating between formulas maximizes the broad range of benefits you seek for your skin.

Learn about the benefits of Prana Wellness products to enhance your overall health and beauty routine!

DO APPLY to clean, toned skin

Cleansing and toning should always be the standard foundation of any skincare routine. Cleansing will remove impurities that may have entered pores, while toning re-establishes your pH balance, preparing the skin for hydration. This 2-step process leaves skin in prime condition to receive delivery of nutrients from your serum.

DON'T miss the moisturizer after your serum

Most serums are hydrating in nature, and you will begin to notice once you apply the serum; at times, it feels a bit redundant using the extra step of a moisturizer afterward. But serum, for all of its powers, cannot possibly substitute for your moisturizer and shouldn't. Long-term serum application on its own will dry out the skin over time because there is no lipid replenishment. Moisturizer is also a necessary step in following up on serum because all of the helpful ingredients need a seal.

DO wait at least 90 seconds before layering another serum

Serums can be sheer but don't forget that they're concentrated formulas, after all. So when it comes to talking about how to apply serum, it's equally as important to let the skin barrier have time to absorb everything it needs before adding yet another layer on top of it. Add another product, such as a secondary serum or moisturizer, too soon after your serum, and you risk diluting or swiping away nutrients before they can fully be absorbed by the skin.

DON'T store your serums in extremely hot or cold

Some of these serums – mostly containing retinol or vitamin C – could lose some or all their potency unless they are kept under some conditions. But temperature is still one of the significant considerations for how to apply serum. It is best stored in an air-conditioned dry place and out of direct sunlight.

Learn about the best coconut oil for oil pulling to improve your dental hygiene and boost your wellness journey!

Final Thoughts

Do I apply serum to dry skin? - Serum is one of the most puzzling skincare products you may have in your routine, considering its complexity and variety. The beauty of serums lies in the fact that one can personalize these serums according to one's requirements!