Face cream or serum: what is better and what is different, review of the best products

Expert: Gromova Miroslava

Creams are a common cosmetic product, and serums have become popular not so long ago. Some do not understand the difference between them, and also ask questions about whether it is possible to get by with only one of these products, which is better and what is the reason to use both at once. We talked with practicing cosmetologists and are now ready to sort everything out on the shelves in this matter.

Is the serum really as effective as they say it is, and why use it in combination with a cream?

Anti-aging serum for the eye area
The appearance on the market of a new product - face serum - marked the undoubted commercial success of industry giants and the beginning of a new cosmetic era. From now on, women were ordered to at least double their spending on skin care products, since anti-wrinkle serum was and remains expensive, and without it, any attempts to maintain youthful skin are doomed to failure. You don’t want to look your age or – horror of horrors! – even older?

What exactly is a serum - a concentrated elixir of youth or a marketing argument that plays on the thinnest strings of a restless female soul? And if the serum is so effective, then why use the cream as well? Which is better to choose?

We answer in order.

Ampoules

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Ampoule serum or simply ampoule is the top of the cosmetic chain. They contain the maximum possible useful components. Ampoules are not used on an ongoing basis, but only when the skin needs additional help. After 3-4 weeks of using the product, it is recommended to give the skin a rest. If the bottle does not indicate whether it is a night or day serum, then it can be used 2 times a day, morning and evening.

What is serum and what can it do?

The cream, as a rule, has a multi-purpose purpose, for example, it moisturizes the skin, at the same time nourishes it and protects it from ultraviolet radiation. The serum hits one target , but probably more effectively. For example, it reduces the depth of wrinkles or whitens age spots, fights acne or skin redness. Accordingly, the type of serum is selected depending on the specific problem.

Since the serum contains active substances in a very high concentration and is supplemented with components that ensure their deepest penetration into the epidermis, the serum works faster and better. However, this does not give her the right to replace the cream, since it does all the other work.

The best face serums

Our review included the best serums from French and Korean brands. The specialists of these brands have significantly succeeded in the development and production of such products.

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum

Rating: 4.9

French serum Hyalu B5 Serum contains 2 types of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. It is designed for deep and long-lasting hydration. This serum effectively smoothes out small wrinkles on the skin and makes deep ones less pronounced.

The product is presented in a glass bottle and has a convenient pipette for collecting the product. The texture of this product resembles an aqua gel. It is slightly sticky, but when applied to the skin of the face it does not cause discomfort. Completely absorbed in 10 minutes. This product provides a pleasant feeling of freshness. The serum makes the skin elastic, firm and smooth.

AVENE Hydrance Intense Rehydrating Serum

Rating: 4.8

Another French pharmacy brand, AVENE, produces Hydrance Intense Rehydrating moisturizing serum. This product contains a large portion of thermal water and a patented trio of lipids. This serum provides a prolonged softening effect, restores water balance and smoothes wrinkles.

The cosmetic product is sold in a transparent bottle made of high-quality plastic with a pump dispenser. The texture of the serum is thin-watery. The product distributes over the skin very well. Absorbs very quickly and leaves no stickiness. This oil-free serum perfectly moisturizes and provides antioxidant protection.

Mizon Acence Blemish Spot Solution Serum

Rating: 4.8

Korean serum Acence Blemish Spot Solution Serum is intended for problem skin. The main active ingredients of this product: allantoin, extracts of lemon, Japanese pine bark, white willow bark, and Schisandra chinensis. This serum effectively treats problematic skin that suffers from acne and acne.

The serum is available in a plastic bottle with a pump dispenser. The consistency of the product is a thick, transparent gel. It spreads over the skin very comfortably and is absorbed quite quickly. It does not leave behind stickiness, film or greasy shine. The serum has an antibacterial, healing effect, eliminates acne, lightens acne scars, evens out skin tone and texture.

Some By Mi Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum

Rating: 4.7

The South Korean brand Some By Mi has developed an effective Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum. It contains: galactomisis extract (75%), vitamin C (3%), other vitamins, plant extracts and fatty acids. This product lightens age spots well, reduces the severity of post-acne marks, and evens out the texture of the skin.

The serum is sold in a bottle made of dark glass and equipped with a convenient pipette. The product has a fairly liquid consistency. Its color is light orange and there is practically no aroma. The serum is absorbed in 2-3 minutes. There is no stickiness or greasiness left after it. As a result of its use, the face looks healthier and literally glows.

Vichy MINERAL 89 Daily hyaluronic gel serum

Rating: 4.7

The French dermatocosmetics brand Vichy produces hyaluronic gel serum MINERAL 89. This product is characterized by a high content of thermal water (89%) and hyaluronic acid of natural origin. This product effectively normalizes pH and relieves discomfort, retains moisture in tissues, and enhances the barrier protective functions of the skin.

It is packaged in glass bottles equipped with a pump dispenser. The serum is transparent, colorless, and has a gel consistency. Distributes and absorbs very well. Does not leave behind a film. After using such a cosmetic product, the skin becomes elastic, moisturized and velvety. The serum soothes the skin well and removes redness.

Farmstay All-In-One Ampoule Collagen & Hyaluronic Acid

Rating: 4.6

The Korean brand Farmstay produces an effective serum containing hyaluronic acid and collagen. This product has a pronounced lifting effect. Due to the adenosine present in the composition, this product fights wrinkles, and due to niacinamide, it lightens pigmentation. The product also contains a large number of useful plant extracts.

The serum is sold in a large (250 ml) transparent blue bottle. The kit includes a spatula for removing the product. The consistency of the product is gel, transparent with a large number of microgranules. The serum distributes well, is quickly absorbed, and does not leave any stickiness behind. This product evens out the texture well and gives the skin radiance.

What is the difference between the textures of cream and serum, as well as methods of applying them?

Mattifying serum from La Beaute Naturelle

Everything is simple here - the cream is made on an oil base, and the serum on a water base (however, anti-aging serums can also have an oil base), the serum is lighter, thinner in texture and absorbs faster.

A few words about how to apply the serum correctly: the massage technique of application only works with the cream, which needs to be “helped” to penetrate the skin; The serum will be completely absorbed by the skin even without this. When using serum, massage movements - patting and stroking - have absolutely no meaning.

In addition to the texture, these two products differ in the volume of packaging, which is quite logically explained by the fact that the serum is consumed literally drop by drop, while we are used to applying the cream more generously. This fact, of course, is taken into account when setting the price of the product: as a rule, serum costs much more than cream.

If we are talking about how to use hyaluronic serum or a product based on isoquercetin, take into account that they need to be applied in doses with a pipette, “stretching” a few drops over the entire face and neck.

The best face creams

Our review includes the best dermatocosmetics, as well as products with natural composition.

Vichy Liftactiv Collagen Specialist

Rating: 4.9

Vichy specialists have developed an effective anti-aging face cream Liftactiv Collagen Specialist. This product contains 2 types of peptides and a vitamin C derivative. This cream stimulates collagen production at the cellular level. After its use, the skin becomes more moisturized, elastic, toned, and the oval of the face is corrected.

The cream is sold in a wide-necked jar made of thick glass. The consistency of the product is quite thick and dense. Visually it seems oily and greasy, but when applied it is very light and does not weigh down. Does not leave behind stickiness or grease. The finish on the skin remains matte. Does not conflict with decorative cosmetics.

Holy Land Moisturizing cream A-NOX Hydratant Cream

Rating: 4.8

Israeli cream A-NOX Hydratant Cream is a moisturizer. Active ingredients of the product: arnica and green tea extract, tocopherol, retinol, linolenic acid. Thanks to its innovative formula, the cream creates a special microlayer on the skin surface that has unique protective properties.

The cream is sold in a plastic tube with a durable lid. Its texture is light and the aroma is citrusy. The cream is absorbed quickly enough, does not create a filmy feeling, and does not clog pores. This product prevents excessive dryness and flaking, and quickly regenerates the skin in the presence of cracks or minor damage to the skin.

AVENE Revitalizing Nourishing Cream

Rating: 4.7

The French brand AVENE has developed a restorative and nourishing cream, Revitalizing Nourishing Cream. It contains: proprietary thermal water, pre-tocopheryl (a strong antioxidant), and red berry extracts (strengthen skin barrier functions). This product effectively combats dryness, irritation, and flaking.

The product is produced in a heavy glass jar with a wide neck. The kit includes a spatula for removing the product. The consistency of the cream resembles melted butter. This product is very pleasant to apply and is quickly absorbed. It does not leave a greasy shine or filmy feeling behind. The skin after using it is velvety and well moisturized.

Weleda Pink Smoothing Facial Moisturizer

Rating: 4.7

The popular brand Weleda produces a Pink Smoothing Moisturizer for the face. It contains: rose moschetta seed oil, jojoba and peach oils, myrrh extracts, purple radiola, and horsetail. This product has a 100% natural composition. Suitable for the care of normal and combination skin.

The cream is available in a metal tube with a durable lid. The consistency of the product is light, oily, and melts quickly. The aroma is very rich, but pleasant. The product is absorbed quickly and without residue. With systematic use of this product, the complexion is well evened out, the skin looks healthy and well-groomed.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Riche Rich moisturizing cream

Rating: 4.6

The French brand La Roche-Posay produces a rich moisturizing cream Toleriane Sensitive Riche. This product contains a large amount of thermal water, vegetable glycerin (intensively moisturizes), shea butter (nourishes and softens) and niacinamide (soothes). The product does not contain lanolin, mineral oils, parabens.

The product is packaged in plastic tubes with a hinged lid. The texture of the cream is very dense, thick and greasy. When applied to the face, it is completely absorbed within 10-15 minutes. If you apply it to oily skin, it may cause shine. It is advisable to blot your face with a paper napkin. This cream perfectly moisturizes and soothes dry and normal skin.

Is this temporary or permanent?

Another question that worries everyone is how to use facial serum correctly? Is it a product for continuous use or is it better to use it as a course? There is no general answer to this question, it all depends on what problems you want to solve and what goal you want to achieve. If you are young and your skin does not have any specific problems, if you do not overdo it with tanning, do not smoke and sleep for 8 hours, in general, if your image is impeccable, then you do not need serum. If, for example, comedones and acne bother you, you should choose a serum with an anti-inflammatory effect and apply it in a course. How long to use the product depends on the results, and they, as a rule, do not take long to arrive.

It’s a different story with anti-aging serums : when asked how often to use them, there is only one answer: constantly. Yes, it's not cheap, but it works. Here we are talking specifically about longer daily use. In this case, the right decision would be to choose serum and cream of the same brand, so that these two products complement each other. So everything is fair here - a campaign to preserve youthful skin will be an expensive undertaking. But without a doubt - effective!

And one more small but very important detail - how to store the serum. Keep the opened product in the refrigerator; temperatures above +25 can affect its properties.

Terms of use

The process of using creams and serums has its own nuances. Let's look at them in detail for each type of cosmetic product.

Creams

If you follow these rules, applying the cream will become more effective:

1. If makeup has been applied, remove it in the correct way (micellar water, hydrophilic oil, milk), and then wash thoroughly.
2. After complete cleansing, apply a tonic or toner to the skin. As a result, it will be possible to return the correct pH to the skin, which was disturbed by exposure to tap water. And after toning, the active components of creams penetrate better into the skin.
3. Make sure that the skin remains slightly damp after applying the toner, but not wet. This will allow you to “lock” moisture into the skin as much as possible.
4. Apply the cream using your fingertips. Use massage lines for this. You should absolutely not rub the skin, but you can lightly rub the product in.
5. There is no need to apply too much cream. The excess will still not be absorbed, but will only give even dry skin an oily sheen. Limit yourself to 2-3 peas. If you accidentally apply too much cream, blot your face with a paper napkin after 10-15 minutes to remove the excess.
6. Apply the cream twice a day. In the first half of the day, 15-30 minutes should pass after distributing the cream and before applying makeup. And before going to bed, maintain an interval of 2 hours after applying the cream, or at least 30 minutes. This is necessary so that the cream begins to work on the skin, and does not remain all on the pillow.

If you also use Sunscreen, then apply it last before decorative cosmetics.

Serums

If in addition to cream you also use serum, then adhere to the following rules:

1. Apply a small amount of serum (2-3 drops) and distribute it with light tapping.
2. Before distributing the serum, thoroughly cleanse and tone the skin.
3. After 15-20 minutes (the serum has time to be absorbed), apply the cream. It will prevent the concentrate from evaporating and secure the result.
4. For maximum effect, use the serum every day.
5. Typically, to consolidate the result, the serum must be used for 7-14 days. But with some products the effect is noticeable instantly.

If you plan to continue applying makeup, then let the serum absorb well. If you do not wait the proper time, then after 2-3 hours the decorative cosmetics may float.

Anti-aging bombs: hyaluronic acid and isoquercetin

The main star of anti-aging cosmetology, hyaluronic acid at one time made a lot of noise. This molecule has been shown to affect skin elasticity and density. Interestingly, a serum with this powerful anti-aging agent is also useful for young skin that is in dire need of hydration, for example, after prolonged exposure to the sun. The trick is that hyaluronic acid provides instant hydration to the skin, and it is this property that allows you to simultaneously smooth and fill wrinkles.

However, not only hyaluronic acid can give us a second chance - serum with isoquercetin comes to the aid of aging skin. This is a product of plant origin, in particular it is extracted from apples, I would like to add from rejuvenating apples. In general, in the wake of environmental sentiments prevailing in society, “biological” serums are becoming especially popular. We are, of course, talking about those products that are able to confirm their “purity” with appropriate certificates, and are not simply labeled “bio”.

Where to buy serum and not be disappointed?

To understand how to choose a facial serum, you need to understand your needs. You don't need “just a serum,” you need a product that ticks all the boxes. It has been repeatedly said that whey is not a cheap product, and its cost is formed not only from expectations fueled by marketers and our willingness to pay a high price. To produce the serum, they actually use proprietary formulas and expensive ingredients. Therefore, if you focus exclusively on the quality and “purity” of the serum composition, then the products of small European brands that work with natural or bio-components will suit you. Their serums are of consistently high quality, contain an optimal concentration of active substances for European-type skin, and it is easy to select accompanying care products for them.

Purpose of cosmetics

Regardless of what will be used in daily care, cream, facial serum, it is recommended to carefully understand for what purpose the products are used. Cosmetologists do not advise stopping at one product - only a complex effect can cope with the problems of the dermis. Even the quick results of the serum cannot be maintained without the active help of a cream that can strengthen the effect and prolong the effect of the main drug.

Medicines can be used for different purposes:

• hydration;
• protection from external harmful influences;
• enrichment with nutritional components;
• rejuvenation of the dermis, stimulation of metabolic processes;
• smoothing out wrinkles, leveling the facial relief;
• improvement and equalization of shade.

If you need to deal with several defects, it is better to choose a cream as the main drug; serums will serve as additional means.

Serum

If a serum is chosen to care for the dermis of the face, you need to remember that its choice must be approached responsibly, having first identified the problem that needs to be dealt with. If any doubts remain, you need to go to a cosmetologist who will recommend what exactly needs to be used for the skin.

There are several types of such compositions:

• Anti-aging. A high concentration of hyaluronic acid allows you to smooth out wrinkles, improve shade, tighten sagging areas, and restore elasticity. The presence of vitamin complexes and nutrients enriches the skin tissue with useful substances.
• Moisturizing. Recommended for use by those with skin prone to flaking. Components that moisturize and retain moisture in tissues allow you to cope with dryness in a short time.
• Restorative. They are used for damage to the dermis due to low-quality cosmetics, ultraviolet radiation, and improper cosmetic procedures. Active components promote tissue regeneration, rapid restoration and healing of the dermis.

There are also medications recommended against heavy rashes, acne, and pigment spots.

We invite you to watch a review of the facial serum:

Cream

Good creams have an oily structure that is easily absorbed by the dermis, allowing the active components to act with the greatest effectiveness. Each product has certain characteristics and is recommended against various skin problems - dryness, aging, pollution.

The products can provide the following effects on the dermis:

• put metabolic processes in order;
• restore damaged structure;
• protect from external adverse factors;
• saturate with moisture and vitamins;
• even out the shade, relief;
• eliminate unpleasant feelings of tightness and discomfort.

Regardless of the characteristics and purpose, there is one more feature - there are practically no contraindications. Side effects occur extremely rarely and only if the manufacturer's requirements were not followed or the drug was abused.