What is a facial serum for and how to use it?

Alexander Prokofiev, dermatovenerologist, medical expert of the La Roche-Posay brand:
“Facial serums have been around for a long time, but still I am often asked: “Why are they needed if there is a cream?” and “Are they needed at all?” The answer is clear - yes, we need it! Cream is basic daily skin care, and serums are designed to solve specific problems. If the cream is selected according to skin type, then when choosing a serum, the skin type is not important, but the main thing is the skin condition that needs to be dealt with (dehydration, acne, age-related changes, pigmentation). If there are no obvious skin problems, then serum is most likely not needed.

What is a facial serum

Serum (serum) is a cosmetic product in which active ingredients are presented in high concentration. That is, the active ingredients are the same as in creams, but their specific gravity is many times greater. The formula of the serum is such that it is absorbed almost instantly and shows results faster than cream. Sometimes - instantly.

Quiz: Which SkinCeuticals anti-aging product is right for you

Active components make up up to 70% of the serum, while in creams there are 10-12% , the rest is the base and structure-forming ingredients: emulsifiers, emollients (softeners), thickeners, film formers.

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How to choose the right facial serum

When choosing any cosmetic product, the question is always: at what age can it be used? It is recommended to use facial serum from a young age, the main thing is to correctly determine which option your skin needs.

So, which facial serums are best to use at a given age:

• at 20–25 years old
  - anti-inflammatory, helping to cope with acne and blackheads;
• at 25–45 years old
  – moisturizing and supplying collagen;
• after 45
  – nourishing with oils or providing a lifting effect; for problems with spider veins - anti-rosacea.

Intensively restoring anti-wrinkle serum with royal snail extract, 150 ml, FarmStay

1 290 ₽

Dietary supplement NOT A MEDICINE

Types of facial serums

Serums can fulfill a specific mission or a whole range of anti-aging obligations, such as:

• hydration;
• nutrition;
• regeneration;
• lightening pigment spots;
• increasing skin density;
• stimulation of collagen and elastin production;
• restoration of water-lipid balance.

And all this in one bottle.

The formula of the serum is such that it is absorbed almost instantly and the results of application are demonstrated faster than the cream. © iStock

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Basic facial skin care: advice from a cosmetologist

During the day, a lot of impurities accumulate on the surface of the skin, which may not be visible to the naked eye. Foundation, powder, and dust particles settle on the surface of the skin and clog pores. The skin glands secrete oil, which normally moisturizes the skin and regulates pH.

If the lipid balance of the skin is disturbed and skin care is not carried out competently every day, this can cause a number of problems:

• clogged pores
• inflammation and acne
• violation of breathing and skin nutrition
• decreased elasticity
• the appearance of wrinkles, etc.

Proper daily skin care consists of several stages. The cosmetologist selects the products taking into account age, skin type, the presence and intensity of defects.

Serum composition

Here are its main ingredients:

• antioxidants - enzymes, polyphenols, minerals;
• vitamins C, E, group B, retinol;
• hydrofixatives - hyaluronic acid, glycerin;
• acids AHA, BHA, which provide peeling;
• ceramides, restoring the water-lipid balance and protective properties of the skin;
• peptides that stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.

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Using serums in salon care

Cosmetologists also actively use serums in salon care. But during professional procedures, serums are often introduced using various hardware techniques - for example, using ultraphonophoresis or microcurrents, plus salon care usually includes deep cleansing of the skin, massage, and the application of various masks.

Naturally, with such an integrated approach, the active components of the serum penetrate the skin better, its effectiveness becomes higher, so the result is visible even after the first procedure.

Should you include serum in your home care?

If necessary, include serums in your home care - this is a truly effective and modern skin care product.

How to use the serum

Any serum is applied:

• 1-2 times a day, in small quantities - 4-5 drops;
• only on cleansed and toned skin - it is advisable to keep it damp, this will enhance the effect of the serum.

Serums can fulfill a specific mission or a whole range of anti-aging obligations. © iStock

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Terms of use

As a rule, facial serums are produced in containers with a dispenser. Sometimes products are sold in microcapsules. The package may also include a pipette. This means that in any case, air access to the product is excluded, which guarantees the preservation of its beneficial properties. In addition, the ease of use of the drug increases.

Before using the serum, thoroughly cleanse the skin. It is advisable to remove makeup and dust with a cloth soaked in micellar water or hydrophilic oil. But you can also use a suitable foam or gel for washing. After cleansing, the skin is treated with tonic.

Due to the fact that whey has a high concentration of beneficial substances, it should be used in minimal quantities. A few drops of the product are first applied to the palms and lightly rubbed. Then distribute the serum over the face with soft massage movements. Additionally, you need to pat a little product into the skin around the eyes with your fingertips.

The serum is absorbed very quickly. After 5-10 minutes, you can apply the main care cream, which is selected according to your skin type. It is optimal to use products for additional and basic care from the same manufacturer. This speeds up getting the desired result. As a rule, the first noticeable effect is observed after a week.

Features of the product

• Typically, a serum, unlike a cream, does not create an occlusive film on the skin, and therefore requires subsequent application of the cream. If it provides “sealing,” manufacturers recommend using it as a stand-alone product.
• The great advantage of the serum is that it acts as a catalyst for the effectiveness of creams. By supplementing your care with serum, you will increase the intensity of other products and, accordingly, notice the result earlier.
• Some serums prepare the skin for cosmetic procedures, prolong their effect, and speed up the rehabilitation process.
• Serums work well in pairs - for example, antioxidant and moisturizing.

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What does daily facial skin care consist of?

Daily care for different skin types includes several mandatory procedures:

• Cleansing. Cleansing products are selected individually based on its type. It is better to give preference to products with a neutral pH without surfactants (alkalies).
• Exfoliation. Tonics, due to their mild chemical action, dissolve dead cells on the surface of the skin, renew the skin, and restore radiance and freshness to the skin.
• Hydration. The remedies work in two ways. And, as a rule, modern creams combine both options. The first method is water retention. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid in creams retain water molecules. The second method is to “lock” the water. Oils and silicones create a protective film on the surface of the skin that prevents water from evaporating. Step-by-step daily facial skin care, regardless of its type, necessarily includes the use of creams. The texture of the moisturizer depends on your skin type. The drier the skin, the denser the cream should be. It is also worth considering the advice of a cosmetologist on caring for the skin around the eyes. The skin in this area is thin and requires delicate care.
• Protection. Taking care of your skin every day involves using products with ultraviolet protection. They are applied before going outside to exposed areas of the body.

Review of SkinCeuticals facial serums

Serum for correcting acne and age-related skin changes Blemish & Age Defense

An intense acid complex (dioic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, salicylic acid) reduces the number of imperfections, reduces sebum production, cleanses pores and gently exfoliates. Glycolic and citric acids are responsible for smooth skin.

Retexturing Activator Moisturizing Serum

Hyaluronic acid and a component of the natural moisturizing factor - hydroxyethyl urea - well moisturize the skin, and hepes provides gentle but effective exfoliation and, as a result, skin regeneration. Fermented black tea extract (kombucha) is known for its ability to even out the complexion and add radiance to the skin.

Serum in gel Phloretin CF

Antioxidants phloretin, 10% L-ascorbic and ferulic acids have a synergistic (mutually reinforcing) effect. They protect the skin from early aging and harmful UV and infrared radiation, correct signs of aging, inhibit the formation of free radicals, even out complexion, and prevent age spots.

Highly effective antioxidant serum for dry and normal skin CE Ferulic

The serum is applied in the morning and has a triple effect. Highly concentrated L-ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) and ferulic acid provide powerful protection against free radicals and external negative factors, correct imperfections (wrinkles, age spots), stimulate collagen synthesis.

Highly effective antioxidant serum for all skin types Serum 10

Suitable even for sensitive skin. The combination of L-ascorbic and ferulic acids prevents the formation of free radicals, reduces pigmentation and the severity of wrinkles, and protects against the effects of UV radiation. Vitamin C stimulates collagen synthesis.

Corrective serum to increase hyaluronic acid in the skin HA Intensifier

Apply in the morning. Proxilan, licorice and purple rice extracts increase skin elasticity, help maintain optimal levels of hyaluronic acid and the integrity of the extracellular matrix (connective tissue). Concentrated hyaluronic acid in three modifications simultaneously moisturizes the skin and reduces signs of aging.

Some serums must be used under sunscreen.

Antioxidant gel for dry and normal skin Phloretin CF Gel

Suitable for dry, normal and pigmentation-prone skin. Antioxidants (ascorbic and ferulic acids in combination with phloretin) prevent aging and protect cells from harmful radiation and other aggressive external factors, reduce wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. The “serum in gel” technology increases the penetration of active components and makes the texture light, comfortable even for men’s skin after shaving.

Resveratrol BE Night Concentrated Antioxidant Gel

The antioxidant trio - resveratol, baicalin and alpha-tocopherol - reduces oxidative stress, triggers the processes of cell regeneration and self-healing. The gel provides effective night care for all skin types. Suitable for men too.

Microcurrents for the face - a modern phenomenon of cosmetology

Microcurrent facial therapy

– an innovative cosmetological method of skin rejuvenation. This type of physiotherapeutic procedures confidently reduces the popularity and demand for Botox. The key advantages of microcurrents are a gentle effect and an almost immediately noticeable result.

Microcurrents: a general description of a cosmetological phenomenon

Microcurrent facial treatment refers to the delicate effect of low-voltage electric current on the skin. The procedure allows in a matter of minutes to achieve alignment of facial wrinkles, normalization of the functioning of all components of the dermis and improvement of the general appearance of the epidermis. This is achieved through gentle contraction of muscle tissue.

Microcurrents act on the epidermis as delicately as possible,

activating cell metabolic processes and normalizing ion channels. They trigger biochemical processes that, for some reason, no longer function independently (due to age, improper care, side effects from another procedure/medicines).

Result of exposure to minimum currents:

— Increased muscle tone; — Improving the synthesis of adentosine tiphosphate; — Increasing the speed of movement of amino acids; — Acceleration of blood microcirculation; — Increased synthesis of elastin, hyaluron, collagen by two times. — The changes made in the structure of the skin contribute to a faster movement of beneficial macroelements in the dermis and the removal of harmful toxins from cells.

The effectiveness of the innovative method

Moving from theory to practice, I would like to immediately note the effect that is achieved through the procedure. All actions described in the previous block are aimed at achieving one goal - improving the condition of facial skin.

Microcurrents help:
-
Reduce facial and age wrinkles, swelling; — Refresh skin color; — Normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands and reduce the formation of acne; — Prevent (or cure) inflammatory processes; — Fill every cell with vital activity; — Eliminate acne marks/pimples; — Tighten sagging skin; — Reduce bags under the eyes and more.

In addition, microcurrents for the face can reduce or completely get rid of pain resulting from traumatic skin treatment (plasty, resurfacing, peeling, etc.). Microcurrent therapy is especially recommended for the dermis, which has already begun to show signs of aging. Due to the insignificant electrical indicators, this procedure is not addictive.

Features of the procedure

Microcurrents are applied to the face using a special electricity-generating device equipped with a mechanical control panel. The latter allows the specialist to independently control the strength and frequency of the current depending on the characteristics of the patient’s skin.

The procedure is quite simple to carry out and takes place in 3 stages.

:

Skin preparation

.
This step is necessary to completely cleanse your face. After removing the impurities, the cosmetologist applies the gel necessary for the unhindered transmission of electric current from the device to the deep layers of the dermis. Treatment
.
Microcurrent therapy can be performed using stationary, moving or glove electrodes. The cosmetologist selects the most suitable treatment method on an individual basis. Hydration.
The treated skin is moisturized with a cream designed for the specific type. The average session time is 30-50 minutes. In this case, no preliminary testing or analysis is required. Before microcurrent treatment, the cosmetologist conducts a full consultation and survey, on the basis of which the possibility of performing the procedure is determined.

Skin preparation and further care

The advantage of microcurrent therapy is that there is no need for special preparation.
The procedure can be carried out immediately on the day of treatment. to adhere to several rules
for 3-7 days before skin treatment : - Refusal of alcohol, cigarettes and coffee; — Consumption of at least 1 liter of water per day; — Normalization of sleep (sleep at least 7 hours); — Exclusion from the diet of foods high in protein; — Limiting physical activity. — Such restrictions should be adhered to throughout the entire course of treatment.

As for facial care after the procedure, everything is somewhat simpler. To achieve the best effect and preserve it for a longer period of time, it is recommended not to apply makeup for 24 hours after the procedure, not to overload the liver with alcoholic beverages and fatty foods, and also do not forget about the rule of consuming at least 1 liter of water. More detailed recommendations will be announced by the cosmetologist after the microcurrent facial procedure and determination of the current skin condition.

Number of sessions and result of the procedure

Microcurrent treatment gives effective results after the first procedure. The skin noticeably improves, tightens and becomes more hydrated. However, to achieve the most positive result, it is still recommended to carry out microcurrent courses. The number of sessions and their frequency depend on age:

Up to 30 years - no more than 2-3 sessions per course (in this case, microcurrents are recommended as a preventive procedure or additional cosmetic facial treatment during the main therapy); Up to 40 years – 5-6 sessions with a weekly frequency; Up to 50 years – 8-12 sessions every three days; From 50 years – more than 10 sessions with a frequency of 1-2 days. These conditions are general. The exact number of sessions and their frequency within one course is determined by the cosmetologist. To set the correct schedule, the specialist assesses the current condition of the skin and checks its reaction to the first procedure.

In addition to complex (course) treatment, a one-time procedure is also possible. One session of electrical skin treatment helps to achieve a short-term effect that lasts up to 2-3 days. This option of microcurrent therapy is suitable if you need to prepare for an upcoming important event or if you are not yet ready to take a full course.

Indications and contraindications

Like any physiotherapeutic procedure, microcurrents for the face have their own number of indications and contraindications. Signs of the need for such skin treatment are: - Traces of acne, acne; — Incorrectly formed contours of the oval face; — Presence of pigment spots; — Recent plastic surgery; — Increased sagging skin; — Excessive dryness and sensitivity of the dermis. The skin treated with electric current is instantly smoothed and almost immediately begins to accelerate the production of missing microelements. Due to this, all problems, which are indications, are eliminated as quickly as possible.

Despite its high efficiency and gentle effect on the dermis, not everyone is allowed to undergo microcurrent therapy. Main contraindications

to its implementation: - Pregnancy, breastfeeding; — Presence of metal pins (other designs), gold threads, pacemaker; — Impaired heart function; — Individual intolerance to electricity; — Malignant neoplasms; — Epilepsy; — Somatic diseases in severe form. Before directly applying microcurrents to the face, the cosmetologist will conduct a full consultation and indicate the possibility of carrying out the procedure.

Pros and cons of microcurrents

Microcurrent therapy today is one of the innovative methods of skin treatment and does not have a full-fledged analogue. Its popularity and demand is explained by a large number of advantages. The main advantage of this type of physiotherapy is its effectiveness. The result of derma treatment is noticeable immediately after completion of the session. The effect obtained during a full course lasts for six months.

Equally important advantages

procedures include: - Painlessness - due to the influence of the current, only a barely noticeable tingling sensation may be felt; — Good tolerance - the body tolerates the effects of electric current well; - Possibility of inclusion in complex treatment - microcurrents for the face can be carried out during the same period with other cosmetic operations; - Safety - a small current does not have a negative effect on the body, the only exception is skin treatment if there are contraindications; - Complex impact - electric waves are aimed at eliminating all shortcomings, and not individual problems.

With a large number of advantages and disadvantages

the procedure has very little. They concern possible discomfort associated with exposure to electric current. During this procedure, a metallic taste may appear in the mouth. After completion of the procedure, a short-term increase in blood pressure is possible.

Microcurrents for the face: myths and truth Due to the large amount of information about microcurrents, which is not always true, the number of myths about the procedure regularly increases. Let's look at the most common assumptions and determine their veracity:

“Exposure to electric current is painful and unpleasant!” - myth. Only low-frequency electrical layers are sent to the deep layers of the epidermis. The only possible discomfort is a slight tingling sensation, similar to the effects of frost. “Microcurrents help get rid of dark circles” is partly true. Getting rid of dark circles using electrical impulses is only possible if their appearance is not associated with diseases of the internal organs. “Exposure to electricity leads to muscle atrophy” is a myth. Short pulses, on the contrary, correct and improve facial contours. But no other way! Most of the untrue myths are left by girls who are simply afraid to visit a cosmetologist’s office or who have chosen an insufficiently qualified specialist to perform microcurrent therapy. To avoid making this mistake, we recommend that you contact only professionals in their field. You can find these in our Galatea salon.

Microcurrent facial treatment in Maryino metro station Bratislavskaya

– an effective procedure that allows you to achieve noticeable results in the shortest possible time. Its implementation has a positive effect on all layers of the dermis and improves the overall appearance of the skin. The main condition is to choose the right cosmetologist and not neglect his recommendations.

How to choose the right product

You need to buy the serum at a specialized cosmetic store or pharmacy. It is important to check expiration dates and the conditions in which the product was stored. If the bottles were placed under bright light, it is better to refuse the purchase. The active substances included in the drug are easily destroyed, such cosmetics will be useless, and in some cases can cause severe skin irritation.

When choosing, you should take into account your skin type, your own age, and the problems that need to be solved. Concentrated preparations are not suitable for young girls. The exception is serious skin defects, but in this case it is better to use professional cosmetics prescribed by a doctor.

You should not buy serum for future use. The product has a limited shelf life; once opened, the bottle should be used as quickly as possible. It is better to place the opened package in the refrigerator. Sealed ampoules and vials can be placed in a cool, dark place away from batteries and bright lamps.

It is recommended to test for an allergic reaction before purchasing. For this purpose, there are testers in stores; if necessary, you can ask the seller for a mini-sachet. A small amount of concentrate is applied to the crook of the wrist. If the skin does not turn red or itch, the drug can be safely used on the face.