The Truth About Serums: Why Your Skin Needs This Step You’re Probably Skipping

So, what's the deal with serums?

We’ve all been there...standing in the skincare aisle or scrolling online, wondering why there’s an extra step between cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen. Isn’t that enough? Do we really need a serum, or is it just another clever marketing trick?

Here’s the thing: serums aren’t just “nice-to-have” extras. They’re concentrated, targeted, and often the secret weapon that makes all the other steps in your routine actually perform better.

Which is why we’re diving into everything you need to know about serums....what they are, how they work, the myths you’ve probably heard, and how to choose the right one for your skin type.

WHAT EXACTLY IS A SERUM?

Think of serums as the overachievers of skincare. Where cleansers wash, toners prep, and moisturizers protect, serums deliver active ingredients at higher concentrations directly into your skin.

They’re usually lightweight, fast-absorbing, and packed with ingredients your skin craves - things like vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and botanical extracts.

Here’s the simplest way to remember it:

• Moisturizers = comfort food (they protect and hydrate)
• Serums = supplements (they target your specific concerns)

WHY SERUMS WORK SO WELL

The magic is in the formula. Serums are made with smaller molecules than moisturizers, which means they can penetrate deeper into the skin. That’s why they’re perfect for concerns like:

• Acne and congestion
• Hyperpigmentation and dark spots
• Dry or dehydrated skin
• Fine lines, wrinkles and firmness
• Redness and sensitivity

Instead of sitting on the surface, they actually deliver actives where your skin can use them most.

MYTH-BUSTING: WHAT SERUMS AREN'T

Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions:

1. “Serums are too strong for sensitive skin.”
   Not true. It depends on the serum. Some are calming and gentle...think soothing botanicals or hyaluronic acid.
2. “If I use a serum, I don’t need moisturizer.”
   Nope. Serums are potent, but they don’t seal in hydration the way a moisturizer does. You need both.
3. “They’re only for people with skin problems.”
   Actually, serums are amazing for maintaining healthy, balanced skin. Prevention is just as important as correction.

HOW TO USE A SERUM THE RIGHT WAY

If you’re wondering where serums fit in your routine, here’s the simple order of operations:

1. Cleanser
2. Toner (optional)
3. Serum
4. Moisturizer
5. Sunscreen (in the morning)

Think: lightest to heaviest textures. Serums are lightweight, so they should go on before thicker creams.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SERUM FOR YOUR SKIN CONCERN

For Acne-Prone Skin
Look for serums with ingredients like niacinamide, zinc, or gentle botanicals that help calm inflammation and regulate oil without clogging pores.  

For Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots
Vitamin C, licorice root extract, and niacinamide are great at brightening uneven tone and encouraging renewal.

For Dry or Dehydrated Skin
Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramide-rich serums help pull water into the skin and keep it there.

For Age Management
Peptides, antioxidants, and retinol (if your skin tolerates it - we like the retinol alternative of bakuchiol) are your go-to. They help boost collagen and smooth texture.

For Sensitive Skin
Stick to calming serums with aloe, chamomile, oat or green tea extracts. They strengthen your skin barrier while reducing redness.

WHY SERUMS ARE WORTH THE INVESTMENT

Yes, serums are usually more expensive than your basic cleanser or moisturizer, and there’s a reason. They’re concentrated with actives, which means you don’t need to use much to see results.

A bottle can last months, and the changes you’ll see in your skin often happen faster when a serum is part of the routine.

REAL TALK: DO YOU NEED MORE THAN ONE SERUM?

Sometimes. Some people use a hydrating serum in the morning and a brightening or firming serum at night. Just don’t overload your skin...1 to 2 serums at a time is plenty.

TIPS TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR SERUM

• Apply to slightly damp skin to boost absorption
• Use 3–4 drops (a little goes a long way)
• Be consistent, results show with regular use, not one-time applications
• Pair with sunscreen if your serum contains brightening or exfoliating ingredients

FINAL THOUGHTS: SERUMS ARE THE HEAVY HITTERS

If skincare were a team, your cleanser, toner, and moisturizer would be the support players, but your serum? That’s your MVP.

It doesn’t matter if your main concern is breakouts, dark spots, dryness, sensitivity or just keeping your skin balanced,...there’s a serum out there that can help.

So the real question isn’t “Do I need a serum?” It’s “Which serum should I be using right now?”

Not sure which serum fits your skin best? That’s where I come in. You can always book a virtual consultation with me and I’ll create a personalized routine just for you. And if you’re ready to try one now, check out my line of serums here.