Skincare: Targeted Serums

A face serum is an essential part of both my morning and evening skincare routine. A face serum is designed to be used after toning and before moisturising, targeting specific skincare concerns, from redness to dehydration, from congestion to radiance. They do this by containing smaller molecules than moisturisers, so they can penetrate the skin deeper and quicker, working more effectively. Moisturisers are great for locking in moisture on the top layer of the skin, hence why you use one after a serum. 

I've been slowly building up a collection of serums (I've only been using them for about 18 months) and now have four that I rotate and use on a regular basis...

The Hydrator - Hydraluron

This is quite a new addition to my serum arsenal and is described as the "ultimate moisture boosting serum". It contains Hyaluronic Acid, which is extremely hydrating and helps to improve the skin's elasticity. This is one of those serums that you wonder what the fuss is about when you use it - but then realise what the fuss is about when you don't! Hydraluron seems to improve the absorption of moisturiser and just generally makes your skin look and feel better. It gets rid of that drawn, dull look that comes from dehydration and gives a healthy, plumped glow.

The Radiance Booster - Elemental Herbology Cell Food Serum*

The Cell Food Serum I have mentioned many a time on this blog, but it's just so darn good! It targets the radiance and vitality of the skin via a "power house" of proteins, vitamins and anti-oxidants (including Green Tea, Aloe Leaf Juice and Mandarin Orange Peel Oil). What I love about this serum is that you can actually see its effect within minutes of use - my skin looks brighter and more radiant. I always reach for the Cell Food Serum if I'm tired or ill to perk up my skin.

The Spot Battler - balance Me Congested Skin Serum

Another recent addition is the balance Me Congested Skin Serum. I'm trying to move away from drying spot treatments, so purchased this as it is described as a "calming and balancing non-drying gel". Containing ingredients like Lavender, May Chang and Aloe Vera, it can be used all over the skin as a preventative measure or literally "on the spot". This is a serum that works over time; it won't work miracles over night. But I do find it soothing on my skin and it helps to reduce redness and inflammation without being drying or irritating.

The All Rounder - Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair
I've had this well known and popular serum for about a year now, but have never actually reviewed it. This is the original formula ("Sychronised Recovery Complex I") and if you went out and bought it now, you'd be buying the re-formulated one ("Sychronised Recovery Complex II"). It helps to reduce the appearance of ageing and daytime damage, by specifically targeting the nighttime skin renewal process. The Advanced Night Repair really does do a bit of everything - hydrates, soothes, refreshes; provides a subtle healthy glow; even seems to help tackle those red, angry spots. This is nearly used up, so I'd love to try the new formula, which is meant to be even better.

Do you use serums in your skincare routine? Which are your favourites?

Beauty Bird xx