How To Choose The Right Serum For Your Skin

Finding your perfect serum can feel like decoding a complex puzzle. With so many bottles promising glow, hydration and firmness, it’s hard to know which one will actually deliver for your skin.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose a face serum that works hard for your skin instead of against it.

How face serums deliver results

Serums are a powerhouse step in any skincare regimen, delivering concentrated active ingredients exactly where your skin needs them most. They have a lighter, more fluid texture than moisturisers, allowing them to penetrate the skin more deeply.

Serums are often applied after cleansing and toning so the ingredients can get to work without any barriers in the way. Whether your skin craves antioxidants, exfoliants or intense hydration, there’s a serum tailored to help you meet your specific goals.

What is the best face serum to use?

Knowing how to choose a serum for your skin starts by identifying your skin type and its specific needs.

• Oily skin

Oily skin often appears with a persistent glossy or greasy sheen, caused by excess sebum production. This overproduction can clog pores and create an environment where breakouts, blackheads and blemishes thrive.

Go for a serum with salicylic acid, a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA), which penetrates deep into the pores to help remove dirt and dead skin cells. This not only clears pores but may also help with future blemishes.

• Dry skin

Dealing with dry skin? Pick a serum with hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that draws water into the skin and helps it retain moisture. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, leaving skin looking clear and supple. Pair it with a nourishing moisturiser to lock in hydration and give your skin a smooth, balanced finish.

• Sensitive skin

Sensitive skin is more prone to redness, stinging and irritation, which means it needs a skincare approach that’s gentler than most. A serum with hyaluronic acid can help maintain hydration, fortify the skin barrier and improve its ability to defend against external irritants.

Vitamin C offers support for sensitive skin by reducing the impact of environmental stress and free radical damage. In addition, it helps prevent the appearance of hyperpigmentation. For sensitive skin types, it’s best to start with a gentle formula containing less than 5% vitamin C and gradually work up to around 10% if your skin tolerates it well.

• Combination skin

Combination skin can be challenging to manage, as it often means dealing with an oily T-zone prone to shine and breakouts alongside dry or tight cheeks. The goal is to find balance without overstripping or over-moisturising.

Niacinamide is a standout ingredient for this skin type. It helps regulate excess sebum production and keeps pore congestion at bay. At the same time, it supports the skin barrier to maintain an even texture and clarity. Serums that pair niacinamide with hyaluronic acid aid in minimising shine and breakouts while replenishing much-needed moisture.

• Normal skin

Normal skin is naturally balanced, without excess oil or noticeable dryness, so the goal is simply to maintain its healthy state. In the morning, apply a hyaluronic acid serum to ensure optimal hydration levels. Then, use a gentle overnight retinol serum to promote radiance and support the skin's natural renewal process.

Tips for safe serum application

Below are tips to help you enjoy the benefits of your serum while minimising the risk of irritation:

• Patch test first

Before using a new serum, apply a small amount to a discreet area (like behind your ear or inside your wrist) and wait 24 hours. This helps you identify any allergic reactions or sensitivity before applying it to your face.

• Follow recommended usage

Some serums are made for daily use, while others like retinol and exfoliating acids should be used only a few times a week. Overuse can lead to redness, dryness or compromised skin barrier health.

• Protect with SPF

Many active ingredients like vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs and retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Always follow your morning serum with a broad-spectrum SPF to prevent damage.

Shop Medik8 serums for every skin type and concern

At Medik8, our face serums are designed to evolve with your skin’s needs, whether you’re targeting hydration, radiance or repair. We also have cleansers, exfoliators and hydrating creams that work hand-in-hand with your serum to optimise results.

If you want to know what face serum to use at night or which formula will suit your skin type best, get in touch with us. Our team can help you find the ideal mix of products to support your skin’s health in the long run.

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