Do you know the difference between oil, serum, and concentrate?
Which one does your skin require?
How to layer them to get the most out of them?
This blog will talk about the differences between each and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine. Let’s start with understanding the difference between Oils, Serums, and Concentrates.
What are Oils ?
Face oils typically contain plant extracts and essential oils to provide lipids to the skin for additional nourishment. Because of their larger molecular structure, oils are usually applied over a moisturizer to lock in the moisturizer’s goodness and target the skin’s outermost layers. Skin oils are especially effective in treating oily-dry skin, mature skin, and skin that has been exposed to freezing temperatures.
What is a Serum?
A serum is a step that is added to an existing skincare routine to give the skin a boost or to target a specific problem, such as wrinkles, dehydration, or redness. The formula is water-based and has a small molecular size for deeper penetration into the skin. Serums will contain peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants. After cleansing, apply a serum before applying a moisturizer.
What is a Concentrate?
Concentrates are similar to serums. They contain concentrated ingredients to target specific skin problems, such as a dull appearance or a pimple. The majority of the time, a concentrate only has one ingredient, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, or Rosehip, to provide a targeted boost to the skin where it is needed. A concentrate can be used alone, with a serum, or as a spot treatment.
Why include them in your Skin Care Routine?
Before we get into the best way to layer these products, let’s talk about why we use them in the first place. It can be challenging to tell the difference between the three. Facial oils are intended to hydrate and retain moisture in the skin. They typically contain botanical and herbal ingredients to nourish the skin.
On the other hand, serums contain a high concentration of active ingredients that address a wide range of skin issues at once (like wrinkles and fine lines). They usually have a watery texture as well.
Whereas, Concentrates have the consistency of a lightweight lotion. They have a high potency of one active ingredient.
For example, our new product Body Royal Flush is a super concentrated yet lightweight body serum that hydrates, smooths, and strengthens the skin for all-day support. It contains five molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid, which penetrate deep into the skin and plump your skin with hydration.
How To Layer Serums, Oils & Concentrates?
How to Layer?
We discussed which serum or oil is best for your skin type. So, now that you’ve decided on your skincare heroes, it’s time to layer them properly. Ideally, you should limit your selection to one or two serums, oils, and concentrates so that they can absorb effectively into the skin. To get the most out of each product, use your skincare products in the correct order.
We recommend starting with the lightest consistency and working your way up to the richest:
- Serums
- Concentrates
- Oils
Start by layering your facial serum, the thinnest consistency product, after cleansing and toning, as it delivers active ingredients into the skin the most efficiently. Following that are concentrates and facial oils. Facial oils are used last because they prevent water loss and “seal” the formulations in the skin.
Applying a facial oil after your serums helps lock in moisture and nutrient-rich ingredients while allowing optimal product penetration.
Apply a thin layer of each product over the entire face. Gently massage the product into your skin, paying special attention to your neck. Allow enough time for each product to sink into the skin to achieve the best results. To seal in the benefits, apply your favorite moisturizer.
The main reason for applying these products in this order is to ensure proper absorption. The order in which skincare products are applied determines how effectively the formulation can penetrate the skin. Using a thicker, richer formula first may cause poor product absorption for subsequent products.
If you apply products in the wrong order, you may notice pilling, and your skin may feel sticky. Furthermore, you risk irritating your skin and causing new skin problems.
Did you know? Layering serums on top of oils can cause your skin to dry because not enough water is reaching your skin.
Are you looking for a gentle yet effective serum? Try Royal Flush, a super-concentrated yet lightweight body serum that hydrates, smooths, and strengthens the skin for all-day support. It contains five molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid, which penetrate deep into the skin and plump your skin with hydration.
It smooths a rough and bumpy texture for visibly smoother, softer, and supple skin. Minimizes the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles and improves skin elasticity and firmness. It is made for sensitive skin, including those who experience acne, eczema, and keratosis pilaris on their body.