A face serum is a clear, thick, liquid beauty product applied to the face and neck area. Face serums come in many different varieties and are often meant to target a specific problem. They can be used to help fight the signs of aging such as lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. They can also be used to help prevent acne and brighten the skin. Depending on its specific purpose, a serum can contain a wide variety of ingredients, including vitamin C, amino acids, mushrooms, glycerin, cucumber, and aloe.

People are often confused about the differences between a moisturizer and a face serum, and may be unsure if they should use one or both products. Due to their large molecules, moisturizers can only penetrate the first layer of the skin, allowing them to hydrate and seal in moisture. A face serum is able to penetrate into all three layers of the skin because it is made of smaller molecules. The serums ability to go deeper into the skin is what allows it to help combat many common beauty complaints.

Face serums are best applied to a clean, slightly damp face. If a toner is being used, the serum should be applied after the toner. It is often recommended to apply the face serum before bed, as the skin will absorb it better overnight, although each serum will have its own application instructions.

Some face serums contain ingredients that also help moisturize, therefore eliminating the need for an additional moisturizer. If an additional moisturizer is necessary, it is best to wait several minutes after applying the serum. Applying the moisturizer on top of the serum will help seal in the benefits of both.

Eye serums are a specialized type of face serum. They are applied to the thinner, more delicate skin around the eyes. These serums help decrease wrinkles and fine lines, and also help reduce the appearance of dark circles, which are often made more prominent by dehydration.

Some people do not need to use a face or eye serum. A face serum is probably not necessary if there are no trouble spots, and the skin responds well with just a moisturizer. In addition, the effectiveness of many of the ingredients in face serums and other beauty products are often in question. In that case, it is up to each person to decide if they are worth the money.

If the serum becomes discolored or yellowish, it may mean that the ingredients have oxidized, or become unstable. When this happens, the serum can become rancid, so it is best to dispose of it.