Using a Face Serum – When, How and Why? A Practical Step-by-Step Guide

I often have questions about whether using a face serum is necessary. So I decided to dispel doubts and explain what role a serum plays in skin care and how to use it or not. A face serum is a cosmetic with an exceptionally concentrated formula, containing high concentrations of active ingredients such as vitamins, peptides or acids. Thanks to its light consistency and deep penetration into the skin, the serum can significantly improve its condition - moisturize, brighten, firm or help fight imperfections. However, for the serum to be as effective as possible, it is crucial to use it correctly. In this article, you will find a practical step-by-step guide that will show you how and when to apply a serum, how to match it to your skin type and what to pay attention to in daily care.

What is a facial serum and why is using a serum important?

Serum is a dermocosmetic with a high concentration of active substances, enclosed in a light, quickly absorbing formula - usually water, gel or oil. It differs from cream not only in texture, but above all in function. While creams mainly play a protective and moisturizing role, serum has a targeted effect: anti-wrinkle, brightening, soothing or seboregulating.

It is worth using serum because:

• works faster and more intensively than cream,
• goes deeper into the layers of the epidermis,
• can significantly improve the condition of the skin after just a few weeks,
• complements the action of other cosmetics in the care routine.

How to properly use facial serum?

When to apply serum – morning or evening?

It depends on the type of serum and its composition.

• In the morning , antioxidant serums, such as those with vitamin C, niacinamide, trehalose or ectoine, work best because they help protect the skin against external factors.
• In the evening, it is worth reaching for a regenerating serum with acids (e.g. PHA, AHA, BHA), retinoids, peptides or ceramides that support night-time cell renewal.

How often should I use a facial serum?

Most serums can be used daily – morning and/or evening , with the exception of intensive exfoliating products, which should be applied 2-3 times a week. In the case of sensitive skin or skin with active inflammation, it is worth starting with a lower frequency and observing the skin's reaction.

How to apply serum – step by step?

1. Makeup removal and cleansing – thoroughly remove makeup and impurities.
2. Toning – restore the proper skin pH with tonic or hydrolate.
3. Serum application – apply 2–4 drops of serum to dry or damp skin of the face, neck and décolleté. Spread gently, without rubbing.
4. Wait a while (30–60 seconds) for the product to absorb.
5. Apply cream – protect the serum with a layer of cream, which will prevent the active ingredients from evaporating and enhance their effect.

Order of application of cosmetics with serum – are you doing it right?

The rule is simple: from the lightest to the heaviest consistency .
A typical routine looks like this:

1. Cleaning
2. Tonic/Essence
3. Serum
4. Cream
5. Sunscreen (morning)

Important: Serum does not replace cream . Even if it seems "rich", it does not have an occlusive function - that is why you should always "close" it with cream.

How to choose a serum for your skin type?

The choice of serum should be based on the needs of the skin and its type. Examples:

Skin Type – Recommended Active Ingredients:

• Dry: hyaluronic acid, trehalose, ceramides, tremella

• Mixed: niacinamide, zinc, green tea, PHA (gluconolactone, lactobionic acid)

• Oily/acne: salicylic acid, BHA, retinol, neem, bakuchiol, tremella

• Mature: retinol, peptides, coenzyme Q10, reihi, trehalose

• Vascular: vitamin C (stable), niacinamide

• Sensitive: ectoine, centella asiatica, panthenol, lactobionic acid

Most frequently asked questions about using facial serum (FAQ)

Can the serum be used under the eyes?
Not all serums are designed for this purpose. It is worth reaching for products dedicated to the eye area, with the right pH and ophthalmologically tested.

How long to wait before applying the cream?
Usually 30–60 seconds is enough – this is how long it takes for the serum to absorb and not roll under the cream.

Can you combine different cheeses?
Yes, but with caution. Combining vitamin C with niacinamide or peptides with hyaluronic acid is safe, but some ingredients (e.g. retinol and AHA) can irritate the skin when used together.

Summary – how to best use the potential of a facial serum?

Using a serum is one of the most effective ways to consciously and effectively care for your skin. The key to success, however, is not only choosing the right product, but also applying it correctly, systematically, and adapting it to your skin's needs. If you include a serum in your routine according to the above tips, you will notice an improvement in your skin's hydration, firmness, and overall appearance over time.

Need help choosing a serum for your skin?
Consult a cosmetologist or choose products with a clear INCI composition and specific indication of action.