Serums 101: Best Picks for All Skin Types, And How To Use Them.
Serums are the best way to customize your skincare routine- slide them in between cleansing and moisturizing to boost efficacy or add extra benefits to your existing regimen. I am pretty consistent in any given season as far as my cleanser and cream of choice goes- but the one thing I do find myself changing up is my skincare serum- sometimes within the course of a day, from morning to evening, or over the course of several days within a week to take advantage of different ingredient benefits.
What step is serum in your skincare routine?
As a general rule, you always want to apply products in order of “weight”- from lightest to heaviest. Since serums tend to be on the lighter side, they should be applied right after cleansing (or, if you use a toner- typically water-like in consistency- apply the serum following the toner). Then, layer the SPF/ moisturizer of your choice on top, and apply eye cream as the final step. Or at least, that is what I do.
What are the best serums for all skin types?
This new serum is my current pick for anyone with sensitive skin that want anti-aging benefits of retinol. I finally got my hands on a bottle of PCA Skin ExLinea which caught my eye after my friend /skincare guru/influencer Jenna Crandall called it “Botox in a Bottle”- been using day and night for almost 2 weeks now and I am OBSESSED! (Also act fast, it is on sale as of today for 30% off HERE).
I use this rose serum for extra hydration under makeup, and it is great to use with Gua Sha tools (sharing a discount on my FAVORITE Gua Sha tools exclusively for Ultimate Edit subscribers this week- be sure to subscribe HERE).
BeautyStat Universal C Skin Refiner is gaining cult status among beauty insiders as the the ultimate age-defying treatment- and after even just one use, I can tell you, it WORKS. I could feel the tingle upon application, in a good way- and woke up with smoother skin.
SkinCeuticals is the OG of derm-recommended, clinically proven skincare- they were a client when I was a beauty publicist many years ago, I can vouch that this company is LEGIT. The 2 standouts that everyone should use- this serum morning and night to hold in hydration and plump the skin, and once per day, be like EVERY skin-obsessed beauty editor I have ever known and use this potent anti-aging cocktail.
Pixi is a drugstore favorite from the UK- and this serum in particular will change your skin texture- I use it 2 times a week. For a gradual glow tan AND anti-aging benefits, this is my tried and true fave, and I have heard amazing things (and seen many 5 star reviews) for this brightening concentrate from Nars. Last but not least, I just ordered this 1% retinol booster from Paula’s Choice because I love products that are positioned this way- to be added in to what you already use and love to up the benefit ante.
