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If you’ve ever wondered what the difference between serum and moisturiser is, you’re not alone. Not only do these two skincare product categories often contain many of the same ingredients, they’re also frequently advertised as targeting many of the same complexion concerns (e.g. dryness, dullness, ageing etc.).
So, with the help of dermal therapist and founder of Viviology, James Vivian, we’re taking a deep dive into all things serums and moisturisers. Read on to find out the difference between serum and moisturiser, whether you need to splash out on both, and the best products to try.
Difference between serum and moisturiser #1: Skincare benefits
The main difference between serums and moisturisers lies in their purpose and how they benefit the skin, explains Vivian. “It’s the job of a moisturiser to help seal in our skin’s natural hydration thereby preventing dehydration, sensitivity and the appearance of dry skin. Moisturisers should also help feed the skin with ingredients to further boost our skin’s natural hydration to soften, brighten and give that hydrated look and feel to the skin,” says Vivian.
“Serums, however, are applied underneath a moisturiser and are more targeted to specific conditions and concerns in the skin, such as age management, pigmentation, breakouts, oil control, hydration and inflammation. They are often concentrated and ideally contain active ingredients that can make changes within the skin,” continues Vivian.
Difference between serum and moisturiser #2: Ingredients and product texture
Another difference between serums and moisturisers lies in the product’s weight. “Moisturisers can be anywhere from extremely light, such as a fluid, to extremely rich and thick, such as a cream or balm. Serums, however, are much lighter in texture and absorb rapidly into the skin where they’re required to work their magic,” says Vivian.
Following cleansing – apply your serum first and moisturiser last, recommends Vivian. “Think of your moisturiser really as the final step of your skincare routine (apart from SPF during the day) and its role is to hydrate and lock everything in. Serums contain a multitude of different ingredients that work to address one or many issues within the skin that a moisturiser just doesn’t have the ability to do,” says Vivian.
So, now you know all about the differences between serums and moisturisers, let’s get to the product recs!
Whether you’re wanting to brighten up dull, lifeless skin or hydrate thirsty, dehydrated skin, we’ve rounded up all the best recommendations for serums for every skincare concern below.
With green tea extract and green tea seed oil from Jeju, this serum from K-beauty favourite, Innisfree, is perfect for deeply hydrating dry skin while strengthening the complexion’s moisture barrier to prevent future hydration loss.
Shop now: Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum, $39
With prebiotics and probiotics, Lancôme’s Advanced Génifique Face Serum helps rebalance the skin’s microbiome while hyaluronic acid plumps and smooths.
Shop now: Lancôme Advanced Génifique Face Serum, $174
Looking for a little extra luminosity? This affordable serum from Boost Lab brightens dull skin with vitamin C while reducing pigmentation with niacinamide.
Shop now: Boost Lab Vitamin C Brightening Serum, $29.95
If you’re dealing with breakouts or congestion, this sulphate-free, skin-clearing serum with dioic acid and salicylic acid is an absolute saviour to have on hand. It’s also excellent for smoothing away signs of ageing and fading hyperpigmentation.
Shop now: SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense Serum, $129
OK, now you’ve got your serum sorted, you’ll need a moisturiser to lock all its skin-loving goodness in. Here are some of our faves.
Designed for all skin types, this universal moisturiser with ceramides, squalane and polyglutamic acid is a brilliant choice for pretty much anyone. If you’re needing more or less hydration, simply adjust how much you apply.
Shop now: Viviology Ceramide Moisturiser, $45
Got an eczema or irritation-prone complexion on your hands? With three essential ceramides and The Eczema Association of Australia’s stamp of approval, you can be sure your sensitive skin is in safe hands with this dryness-busting moisturiser.
Shop now: CeraVe Moisturising Cream, $13.99
Reduce excess oil with this moisturiser from French pharmacy staple, La Roche Posay. Formulated with sebulyse (which is clinically proven to more effectively control sebum production than zinc) and LHA, it mattifies while exfoliating.
Shop now: La Roche Posay Effaclar Mat Anti-Acne Moisturiser, $33.95
Partly oily, partly dry, combo skin isn’t easy to deal with. But, this antioxidant-rich moisturiser with crosslinked hyaluronic acid, and essential phytonutrients is formulated to replenish moisture without overloading the skin.
Shop now: Youth to the People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream, $78
Women’s Health may earn commission from the links on this page, but we only feature products we believe in.
Isobel is a Piscean journalist and content creator. When she’s not in the ocean, you’ll find her trialling lotions and potions of all kinds. Besides Women’s Health, Isobel’s words have appeared in Marie Claire, InStyle, Vogue, Gritty Pretty, ELLE, and more.
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