Recently, I have been encorporating a couple of serums into my morning skincare routine that have really made an impact in how my skin appears during the day. Serums are great for any skin type, but particularly for oily/combination skins like mine as they are very lightweight and are easily absorbed into the skin without feeling greasy at all. Because there is very little fluid in serums, the product you get contains a very high concentration of active ingredients which is why they are generally quite expensive. However, you only use a very small amout and I find that this step has been extremely beneficial to my appearance of my skin.
After cleansing and toning, I firstly take a small pump of the Caudalie Vinosource Serum S.O.S. Thirst Quenching Serum (£29) and gently pat this into the centre of my face, so middle of forehead, nose and chin area. I am quite oily here, but also find that it is the area that I get more dehydrated in and my skin needs something other than moisturiser to hydrate it throughout the day to keep it plump and flake free. This has lovely lightweight formula containing grape water and hyaluronic acid, that is quickly absorbed by the skin without making it greasy. I find that it keeps my skin really hydrated even in the winter months, and by keeping my skin hydrated it also allows my make up to sit more evenly and prevent it from getting patchy.
My other recent discovery is BeautyLab Relax Neuropeptide Serum* (£45) which is like a mini facelift in a bottle. A little thicker in consistancy than the Caudalie, I apply this to the outer edges of my face, so cheekbones back to the hairline and sides of my forehead. This serum is marketed as a fabulous alternative to Botox injections, as the key ingredient, Hexapeptide 8, is designed to work at the epidermis level by relaxing the skin and therefore reducing facial expressions to soften fine lines at wrinkles.
Its effects get to work within an hour and last for up to 8 hours. Since using this for the past month, I can definitely tell a difference in the firmness of my skin, it feels more taught and uplifted and make-up looks smooth and even. I have been using this daily, but this would also be great as a quick-fix for a night out. The only negative I would say about this is that it is not quite hydrating enough for me in my T-zone (please note, I do have quite dehydrated skin) and when trialing this in this area, I was prone to flaky skin which is not ideal and hence why I just use it on the outer edges of my face. After all, these are the areas that need the most help in regards to fine lines and uplift.
Do you use a serum? What are your favourites?
*PR sample sent for consideration