Does face serum go on before moisturizer?

What is the difference between face serum and moisturizer?

A serum is a light liquid, made with water or oil, that absorbs readily and delivers concentrated ingredients for a particular concern. Some target uneven pigmentation or signs of aging; others focus on hydration. Serum usually comes in a small dropper bottle, which gives a few drops the ceremony of a laboratory procedure. A few drops are typically enough for the whole face.1

Moisturizer adds moisture and helps prevent water from escaping. Its ingredients can attract and retain water, soften rough skin, and form a protective layer that reduces water loss. Those jobs support the skin barrier, the outermost layer that helps protect your skin. A hydrating serum can complement moisturizer, but it does not automatically replace a lotion or cream.1345

How do you use face serum with moisturizer?

1. 1Cleanse your face gently. Remove makeup first in the evening if needed, then wash and gently pat your skin dry rather than rubbing.
2. 2Apply your serum. Use the amount directed on the package; many liquid serums need only a few drops. Medication and treatment generally belong at this stage, immediately after cleansing.
3. 3Apply moisturizer. Choose a texture that matches your dryness, and follow any specific instructions for your serum or prescribed treatment.
4. 4Finish your morning routine with sunscreen. Choose broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Apply makeup afterward if you wear it.

Should you use serum in the morning or at night?

An antioxidant serum, such as vitamin C, can fit into your morning routine before moisturizer and sunscreen. It is an optional addition, not a substitute for sun protection. An optional serum can add targeted care, but the bathroom shelf is not a checklist.6

For a retinol serum, start at bedtime after testing a small area for a couple of days. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin, avoiding your eyes, nose and mouth, then finish with moisturizer. General starting guidance is a pea sized amount every other day for the first couple of weeks, unless your product or clinician gives different instructions. Retinol can cause dryness, redness, peeling or burning and increases sensitivity to sunlight. Talk to your healthcare provider before using retinol during pregnancy or breastfeeding.2

What you notice, and how quickly, depends on the serum's ingredients and formulation. Retinol takes several weeks before visible improvement, and changes in wrinkles usually take several months. Do not judge every serum by that timetable or assume that using more products will speed things up.127

Which moisturizer should go over your serum?

A light gel can suit oily skin, while dry skin often needs a richer cream. For combination skin, moisturize the dry areas rather than automatically applying the same amount everywhere. Fragrance can irritate dry or sensitive skin, so choose fragrance free products. For dryness after washing, prompt moisturizing helps retain water; retinol still needs clean, dry skin before application.35

What if layering causes irritation?

Introduce new products one at a time and test a small area before applying serum widely. Be careful combining acid products or adding a retinol serum to a prescription retinoid routine, because irritation can increase. Stop a moisturizer that causes an allergic skin rash. See a dermatologist if dryness worsens or becomes painful, cracked, bleeding, or very irritating.1346