Transparent Sunscreen Archives - The Makeup Refinery

Black Girl Sunscreen: Is It Mineral or Physical?

Kerrin Jackson — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 20:10:39 +0000

Aside from immediately having Olivia Newton John’s “Physical” in my head, when typing this post I’m thrilled to get into the nuts and bolts of what’s fast becoming one of my favorite sunscreen brands.
But before we do, let’s first remind ourselves of just how important sunscreen is.

I especially want to remind you that you should wear sunscreen. Every. Single. Day. Regardless of where you are on the planet, and what skin type or tone you have.
The sun’s rays burn us all.

So, if you’re not, I want you to take just one thing away from this article.

Please start wearing sunscreen every day!!!

Okay, matronly rant over, and now I can get back to business.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying links. This means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

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Why is Black Girl Sunscreen Important?

Remember even just a few years ago?
You’d slap on some sunscreen (shout out to my Aussie friends ;), and your skin would have that glow-white/blue tint for the rest of time.
Well, there are finally high-quality solutions to the white cast caused by a number of sunscreens that are still available to this day.
And what I love about Black Girl Sunscreen is exactly that.

They have solved these sunscreen issues and provided us with sun protection that absorbs instantly and leaves not a trace of blue-white cast.

So, how do they do it?

Understanding Sunscreen Types

Now, if your knowledge of sunscreen types is minimal, never fear. Let’s go through it together.

Mineral Sunscreen

A mineral sunscreen provides a physical (or mechanical) barrier on the surface of your skin that protects it from the sun’s rays.
This barrier on your skin also reflects UV rays as well.

The most commonly used minerals that you may or may not be familiar with in sunscreens are zinc oxide and titanium oxide.

Physical Sunscreens

While a mineral sunscreen can be classified as a physical sunscreen, not all physical sunscreens are mineral sunscreens.

Confused?
The Reader’s Digest version is that, yes – a mineral sunscreen does act as a physical sunscreen on your skin.
But the term physical sunscreen is a bit broader. It can include both mineral sunscreens and non-mineral sunscreens.
These non-mineral physical sunscreens tend to use different materials to create a protective shield on your skin.

Chemical Sunscreens

Now, chemical sunscreens work a little bit differently.

Instead of using minerals to shield your skin from the sun’s rays, they use different chemicals to protect your skin.
These chemicals work like little sponges on your skin’s surface to absorb the sun’s rays, convert them into heat, and release them from your skin, to prevent damage to your skin.

It is more common for people to react to chemical sunscreen than mineral or physical sunscreens. So if you have particularly sensitive skin, be sure to patch test any chemical sunscreens you might be going to use.

Black Girl Sunscreen

It’s astounding to think that this phenomenal brand was founded only a few short years ago, in 2016.
Black Girl Sunscreen came out of necessity.
To help people with darker skin tones, use sun protection that leaves no white residue on their skin.
And Black Girl Sunscreen was born.
With a perfect range of products that we’ll explore shortly, I, for one, am a convert.

I keep the original Black Girl Sunscreen in my kit, I travel with it, and keep it at home as well. Oh, and Make it Matte and the Kids Sunscreen as well, to name a few.

Black Girl Sunscreen Products

Here’s the Black Girl Sunscreen products for you.

Black Girl Sunscreen spf 30

Oxybenzone and Paraben Free

SPF 30

Ultra Sheer

Buy Now!

Make it matte Spf 45

Ultra Sheer Sunscreen

Fragrance Free

Clear Gel Formulation

80 Mins Water Resistance

Buy Now!

black girl sunscreen kids

Hypoallergenic.

Fragrance Free.

Silicon Free

Aluminium Free

Paraben Free.

Buy Now!

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Is BlackGirl Sunscreen Mineral or Physical?

That’s a very good question.

The Black Girl broad-spectrum sunscreen Make It Hybrid SPF 50+ is a mineral hybrid sunscreen. It contains zinc oxide to protect your skin. Yet still leaves no residue behind.

The remaining products within the BGS range all rely on chemical filters to protect your skin from the sun.

Remember these points about chemical, mineral, and physical sunscreens:

Mineral sunscreens create a physical barrier on your skin using minerals such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
Natural minerals (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are used in BlackGirl Sunscreen’s mineral sunscreen products.
Chemical sunscreens use other ingredients that perform a chemical reaction when the sun’s rays reach the chemical sunscreen on your skin.

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Benefits of Mineral/Physical Sunscreens:

As we’ve mentioned, Black Girl Sunscreens are available in both mineral and chemical formulas.

BGS products are gentle on your skin as they contain healing and nourishing natural ingredients such as jojoba seed oil, shea butter, avocado oil, cocoa seed butter, and carrot seed oil.
Being free from both oxybenzone and octinoxate, Black Girl Sunscreen products are reef-safe, won’t damage coral reefs, and are environmentally aware products.
Formulated for diverse skin tones, Black Girl Sunscreen finally allows women with darker skin to protect their skin easily without any need to worry about residue or white cast after application.
Each Black Girl Sunscreen product is formulated to leave a sheer finish on your skin, that avoids even the slightest hint a white cast on dark or deeper skin tones.
A mineral-based sunscreen will also do double duty as moisturizers and are all formulated with hydrating properties to not only protect your skin, but nourish and hydrate it as well.
BGS provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.

Inclusivity and Empowerment

I love that Black Girl Sunscreen caters very specifically to the needs of people with dark skin tones. BGS acknowledges the very real need to protect their skin form the sun’s rays with options that are more than suitable for diverse ethnicities.
I picture the little girl that finally has a sun protection cream that she can apply and rub in directly. And just have it work, instead of being left with that ashy gray/blue cast after rubbing and rubbing, waiting for it to go away.

And also that notion that this very new brand has a focus purely on inclusivity, and it’s aims to empower people of color, not only with sun protection, but with skin health as well. Long overdue.

Tips for Effective Sun Protection:

Be sure to apply 15 minutes prior to sun exposure
Re-apply after 80 minutes of swimming, or lots of sweating
Apply your sunscreen at least every 2 hours
Don’t forget to pair your sunscreen with a good quality hat and protective clothing for full sun protection
Seek shade when you can
Avoid the sun at the peak UV times of day

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So I hope this sunscreen class have been invaluable in helping to clear up (pun intended!) the differences between mineral (and physical) and chemical sunscreens.
And moreso, I hope I’ve introduced you to a really important brand and name in the sunscreen world.

These products are really worth trying if you haven’t already, and if you are on the Black Girl Sunscreen train already, well, I’d love to know which is your go to sunscreen under the Black Girl umbrella.

And don’t forget, you won’t need it anymore x

The post Black Girl Sunscreen: Is It Mineral or Physical? appeared first on The Makeup Refinery.

Collagen Vs. Retinol: The Epic Battle for Better Skin!

Kerrin Jackson — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 23:21:15 +0000

Step right up, step right up! Welcome, my dear skincare-lovin’ friend, to the ultimate showdown in skincare!

In the left corner, we have the supreme reigning world champion, the legendary Collagen. Known for it’s age-defying plumpness and hydration.

And in the right, we have the fierce contender, Retinol. Armed with its cell-renewing prowess and wrinkle-fighting skills.

Get ready for a showdown like no other as these two titans go head-to-head in the quest for the best beauty products and better, younger, healthy skin.

A Closer Look At Collagen

So I’m certain that you have, without doubt, heard of collagen before.

That’s why you’re here, after all. But have you ever thought about what it actually is? What it does? And why you so desperately want the latest product from (insert pop star or online celebrity here) that’s loaded with the aforementioned c-word?

So let’s talk about this little wonder protein, and get to know it a little better, shall we?

Okay, so we know that collagen is a protein. And what it does is works as structural support for the connective tissues in your body. So basically, it works to strengthen and support not only your skin, your bones, and all of your organs but your ligaments and tendons, too.

So let’s just pause on our skin. Because that’s really what we are focusing on here, right?

What Exactly Does Collagen Do For Your Skin?

maintains your skin’s elasticity
helps contribute to your skin’s hydration and moisture retention
helps to heal wounds more quickly
causes your skin to stay supple and plump (that is – helps to reduce the look of fine lines)

And while we’re shouting the praises of collagen, let’s take a quick look at all the other miracles it performs for us that may not be so visible to anyone else.

What Does Collagen Do For Your Body?

supports joint flexibility
helps reduce joint pain and stiffness
supports all over bone health
works to create resistance to bone fractures
helps contribute to muscle strength and stability during exercise and movement
helps to maintain the lining of your gut and improve overall gut health

How Can You Use Collagen on Your Skin?

Collagen for your skin usually comes in the form of topical creams, masks, and serums. And when you apply these products directly to your skin, they absorb into your skin from the outside to support your skin’s collagen levels from the outside.

Using collagen this way can not only help to improve your skin’s hydration, elasticity, and firmness but may also help improve the overall appearance of your skin as far as minimizing wrinkles and lines. This can, in turn, help your skin have a more youthful appearance. Good news, right?

What I love most about collagen-containing skin care products is that they can also help your other skincare products to work more effectively. This is because collagen can help your skin absorb products better, as it retains moisture like a champion.

Now all of this news sounds pretty good. It’s worth bringing you back down to earth for a second. So without bursting your collagen-supported bubble entirely, consider that the visible effects of collagen may be somewhat short-term. And may not last as long as, say, oral collagen supplements. We’ll get into these shortly.

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What Can You Do To Get the Best Results Using Collagen?

To see all-over results for both your skin and your system on the inside, it may be best to consider taking both as a dietary supplement that you will ingest as well as topical collagen-containing skincare products on your face and body.
And while you might just see results with either of these processes on their own, combining forces with both will give you the best chances of overall improvement and health benefits as much as you can.

Collagen Do’s and Dont’s

Do be sure to prioritize a balanced diet. By eating a nutritious and balanced diet, you can support your body in producing its own collagen. By including foods that are collagen-rich such as proteins, and that contain zinc and vitamin C, you can be sure to
Do drink more water. By drinking plenty of water throughout each day, you can help create an environment within your system that collagen thrives in.
Do use collagen-boosting skincare products. It’s never too late to start incorporating a new product into your skincare. And if you’re especially concerned with fine lines, aging, and the general condition of your skin deteriorating, then look for products containing collagen-boosting ingredients such as vitamin C and peptides to support your skin’s elasticity.
Do use sunscreen. UV rays from the sun can break down your skin’s collagen. By using sunscreen every day, you can help protect the collagen in your skin and simply protect your skin from so many bad things – sun damage, skin cancer, melanoma, and premature aging to begin with.
Do exercise regularly. Performing physical activity can help stimulate collagen production. Amazing, right? It can also work to help keep your joints and muscles strong.
Do manage stress. Yep, chronic stress can have a negative impact on your collagen levels and overall health, too. Get out and go for a walk, meditate, try yoga or pilates, and remember to breathe.
Don’t eat too much sugar. Over-consuming sugar can lead to something called glycation. And in turn, this can cause damage to your body’s collagen and lead to premature aging.
Don’t smoke. Smoking can lead to a decrease in collagen production. And an increase in the aging of your skin. Not smoking entirely, or quitting now – can be instantly beneficial for maintaining (and improving if you quit!) your collagen levels.
Don’t overexpose yourself to harsh environments. Being out in extreme weather, like winds, extreme heat or cold, or even pollution, can cause skin damage and harm your collagen levels. Do your skin a favor by avoiding extreme weather conditions.
Don’t rely entirely on collagen supplements. Even though collagen supplements can be of great benefit to you, it’s also important to combine them with a healthy diet and overall healthy lifestyle. Don’t just put all your eggs in one basket.
Don’t lose patience. It can take time to build collagen and even longer to see results. By being patient and consistent in time, you will see gradual results with your efforts.

Don’t forget to use sunscreen! Imag by the National Cancer Institute

A Closer Look at Retinol

So we’ve just taken a really good at what a marvel collagen is.

But we can’t discount Retinol by any means. The newcomer that has emerged from scientific research to become a must-have beauty contender for those among us starting to internally freak out about the effect gravity is having on their faces and bodies.

To put it simply, retinol is a form of vitamin A. And it is proven to be able to improve the overall look of your skin. So let’s take a look at just how it does that.

First of all, retinol has the incredible capacity to boost cell turnover. This means that it can help increase the rate your cells can be shed and replaced with new cells. So in the case of your skin, it can help improve to texture of your skin and give it a smoother, softer appearance, too. Retinol can also work to fade dark age spots on the skin, and (drum roll) reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Now, remember that as we age, our bodies produce less and less collagen naturally.

This is where retinol gets to shine center stage.

Retinol can help stimulate collagen production, so it helps keep your skin plump, reduces the dreaded sagging, and generally help us look younger!

Of course, there has to be a caveat. All this good news has to come with a balancing act.

And that balance is having a knowledge and understanding of retinol. As it can be incredibly potent.

If you start using retinol, you may notice your skin has a bit of a freakout reaction. Some call it a period of adjustment! However your skin reacts, it’s important to know that your skin will respond, so its always vital to start small. Start with a low concentration.

Consistency is also key to reaping the benefits as well.

One more thing. Retinol can cause sensitivity to the sun. So always use sunscreen to protect your sensitive skin when you’re using retinol. Or even when you’re not, to be honest.

What Does Retinol Do For Your Skin?

anti-aging properties – retinol stimulates collagen and, in doing so, can maintain your skin’s elasticity and improve the general appearance of your skin
cell turnover – it can boost your body’s cell turnover, which results in smoother, softer skin
improves skin texture – retinol can help to promote smoother more even skin surface
minimize dark spots – can help fade dark spots and any imperfections and unevenness to create a more even complexion
skin elasticity – retinol can support your skin’s elasticity, which can in turn make your skin more supple and minimize the appearance of wrinkles
retains moisture – retinol can help your skin increase hydration and look plumper
heals wounds – by supporting tissue repair in your skin, retinol assist in the healing process for your skin
collagen boost – retinol can help maintain collagen levels because it stimulates collagen growth and, in doing so, support skin health all over

What Can You Do To Get the Best Results Using Retinol?

Start slow. Especially if you’re a Retinol newbie. It’s vital to begin with a lower concentration and then gradually build it up, as your tolerance increases.

Be consistent. This will allow your skin to get used to the power of retinol. It will ensure you see results in time.

Use it at night. Take advantage of the natural regeneration that occurs within our skin during the night. This will allow for the most effective results with your retinol treatment.

Follow retinol with moisturizer. A gentle post-retinol hydration will be the best defence against particularly dry skin or the peeling of your skin.

Wear sunscreen. As we know, retinol can exacerbate your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. So pair your retinol treatment with SPF. No questions asked.

Avoid aggressive products. Stay away from harsh exfoliants, and harsh skincare products in general. AHA’s for one, should be avoided by all accounts.

Acquire patience. It is going to take a little time for your skin to adjust to this new product. So give it time, but stay consistent with your daily skincare routine. Including your use of retinol. And as always, if you have any issues or concerns, seek the advice of a professional dermatologist.
Check out some of the most popular Olay Retinol-based products in this deep-dive comparison.

Retinol Dos and Dont’s

Do start slowly. Remember – if you are new to retinol products, start with a lower concentration and gradually build to higher concentrations over time as your skin becomes accustomed to retinol.
Do wear sunscreen. Retinol use will make your skin more sensitive to the effects of the sun. The best way to avoid these effects is to simply – use sunscreen!
Do apply retinol at night. As well as being sensitive to the day’s sunlight, applying retinol at night allows it to work while your skin is working – through the night.
Do use a moisturizer. Using a gentle moisturizer after retinol will help prevent any potential drying or peeling of your skin, which can happen.
Do be patient. Visible results may take time. So remember to be patient. Be consistent with your application, and give it a few weeks to a month – as it may take this long to see any visible improvement.
Do a patch test. Before going anywhere near your face with retinol, try a small patch test on your arm. This will show you if you have any reaction or sensitivity to retinol prior to applying it to your face.
Do protect your eyes. Keep retinol away from your eyes. Your best bet may be to use an entirely different eye cream near your eyes to ensure that no retinol can get near them.
Don’t Overapply. More is certainly not more when it comes to using retinol. Follow your products instructions as over-applying can lead to further drying or irritation of your skin.
Don’t mix ingredients. Avoid using retinol in conjunction with other active ingredients. As we mentioned, AHA’s or benzyl peroxide can react and cause increased sensitivity or skin irritation among other responses.
Don’t use while pregnant or nursing. It’s safest to avoid using retinol altogether while pregnant or nursing. Research is minimal on this combination as to whether it is safe or not.
Don’t use with exfoliating products on a daily basis. Over-exfoliating can be devastating on the skin you’re working so hard to improve. Avoid exfoliating too frequently, and if you must exfoliate, keep it to every other day at absolute most.
Don’t forget your neck and chest area. Include your chest and neck area by extending the retinol into these areas as well. This will ensure the effect is even between your face and chest and neck and consistent.
Don’t combine retinol with harsh cleansers. Harsh products can further increase sensitivity and reactions. Stay with gentle products while using retinols.

Don’t forget your chest and neck with retinol – image by Kalos Skincare

Which is Best, Collagen or Retinol?

While I want you to walk away feeling solid about which works best for you, comparing the effectiveness of collagen and retinol is not straightforward. They both serve entirely different purposes and have their own unique benefits for your skin. Let’s break it down:

Collagen

Collagen is a protein that works to provide structural support to your skin. It helps your skin to stay firm, plump, and elastic.

And while collagen supplements and skincare products can help support collagen levels in your body and promote overall skin health, their effectiveness can vary from one person to the next.

Collagen products may improve your skin’s hydration and texture, but the ability collagen has to penetrate the skin deeply and directly replace lost collagen is still a hot topic of debate.

Retinol

Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A. And it’s best known for its ability to boost cell turnover and stimulate collagen production.

Retinol is highly regarded for its anti-aging properties. It can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots in your skin. Retinol has been extensively studied and proven incredibly effective in addressing various signs of aging and improving overall skin texture.

Can I Use Both Collagen and Retinol in My Skincare Routine?

Now, while collagen and retinol have their own unique benefits, they can complement each other in a skincare routine. So, the answer is yes.

Collagen focuses on providing structural support and hydration, while retinol targets cellular renewal and collagen synthesis. Combining the two may have even better results than either single product on its own; enhancing the overall health and appearance of your skin.

The choice between collagen and retinol depends on your specific skincare goals and concerns.

If you’re primarily looking to address signs of aging and improve skin texture, retinol is often considered a more potent and scientifically validated option.

However, if you aim to support overall skin health, including hydration and elasticity, the benefits of collagen can make it a valuable addition.

It’s worth noting that your individual results may vary from the next person. And it’s always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional. They can help to determine the best approach for your specific needs.

Additionally, a comprehensive skincare routine that includes other beneficial ingredients and practices can further enhance the effectiveness of collagen and retinol.

Whether you join Team Collagen or Team Retinol, remember that each fighter has something incredible to offer on the journey to radiant skin.

Embrace the power of both, take your skincare routine by the gloves, and enjoy the ever-evolving quest for timeless beauty. Let’s raise a cheer for both of these contenders, and may your skin always be the winner!

Featured Image by Jess @ Harper Sunday

The post Collagen Vs. Retinol: The Epic Battle for Better Skin! appeared first on The Makeup Refinery.

Serum Vs. Moisturizer – Differences and Similarities

Kerrin Jackson — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 23:48:26 +0000

I don’t quite recall when I first heard the word serum. At least in terms of skincare. But I soon discovered that it was not quite what I thought it was.
Did you think it was some secret tiny bottle that would sit up on the top shelf, out of reach, and only came out at midnight when you were fast asleep?

There’s something kinda exclusive sounding about a serum, but the truth is way less mysterious.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate marketer, I earn from qualifying links. This means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

What Is A Serum?

A serum is simply a highly potent yet lightweight liquid product that is used to give your skin an intense treatment for a very specific issue. It is full of potent ingredients and is also usually water-based.

How to Use A Serum

To use a serum in your skincare routine effectively, use the following steps:

start by washing your face
then by cleansing and applying your toner
apply a small amount of serum to your face and neck, literally a few drops but be sure to follow the directions of the product you are using
massage it gently into your skin
finish the process with a moisturizer to lock in the benefits of the serum
aim for use twice a day for the best results possible

When to Use A Serum?

As we just discussed, you can use a skin serum after cleansing and toning your face, but before you moisturize.

The purpose of a serum is to deliver active ingredients directly to your skin. And they can also help to address any specific concerns you may be looking at, such as fine lines, dark spots, and dullness. The best approach is to choose a facial serum that targets the specific skin concerns you may have and then (most importantly!) use your serum consistently for the best results.

And as I mentioned earlier, ideally, try to use your skin serum once or twice a day. Of course, this depends on your skin type and very much on the instructions on the product.

The best approach is to follow the recommended usage for optimal results in your skin.

My Favorite Serums

Here are some of my most ravable about serums!

tatcha dewy skin serum

Ah, the Dewy Skin Serum from Tatcha. Much loved and relied upon by Japanese skincare aficionados everywhere.
The divine dewiness of the serum comes from the lactic acid within the exclusive Hadasei-3 – which is Tatcha’s very own trademarked blend of superfoods – from green tea, Okinawa algae, and Akita rice. Couple that with hyaluronic acid, gentle alpha hydroxy acids, and sugarcane-derived squalane, and you’ve got yourself one power-packed hydrating and skin-protecting serum

Buy Now!

biossance squalane and copper peptide serum

If you know me, you know I adore Biossance. My bathroom cupboard is full-of-it! Seriously! And the newest addition may just be this beauty. Containing key ingredients like collagen-supporting copper peptides, and instant hydration hero hyaluronic acid, and paracress, you will notice an instant improvement to the “plumpness” of your skin once you swipe on this baby blue serum.

Buy Now!

la Roche-posay hyalu b5 serum

This drugstore gem is loaded with Vitamin B5 (aka panthenol) which will soothe and moisturize, while the centella asiatica (or Madecassoside) which will help to nourish and restore your skin’s surface. Oh, I almost forgot that it contains not 1, but 2 different types of hyaluronic acid, which will do double duty to lock in moisture, all while you sleep.
A more affordable option for a high-quality serum that will help soften the appearance of fine lines and keep that plump level sky-high! Great for oily skin, too.

Buy Now!

cosrx advanced snail 96 mucin power essence

Yep, I said snail mucin. And I have talked about snail by-products before – see my post on the best Korean Lip products here
for more snail-derived goodness!
Now this essence is formulated with over 96% snail secretion filtrate, which delivers vitality directly to your skin. It will repair and rejuvenate your skin’s surface and soothe that dehydration.
Mucin Power Essence also doubles as a direct way to help repair dark spots, acne prone skin and dehydrated skin, so it is targetted to these concerns.

Buy Now!

What is A Moisturizer?

Now, looking at our old friend, the humble moisturizer. A moisturizer is a cosmetic product that is used to nourish and hydrate your skin. It helps to prevent dryness and keeps it soft and supple. I also feel that a good moisturizer keeps your skin barrier strong.

How to Use a Moisturizer

start by cleansing your skin and patting it dry
next, apply a small amount of moisturizer to your face and neck, using gentle upward, circular motions. Be careful to avoid your eye area.
aim to use your moisturizer twice a day, both morning and at night, to keep your skin hydrated and healthy

When to Use a Moisturizer

As we mentioned, aim to use a facial moisturizer twice a day, in the morning and at night. This will keep your skin hydrated and healthy, and fresh as a daisy.

Of course, these aren’t hard and fast rules. And you should feel free to adjust how often you moisturize, depending on your skin type and where you are in the world. Of, and also what season it is, too.

What Are the Main Differences Between Serum and Moisturizer?

When you want to identify the main differences between a moisturizer and a serum, you simply need to look at both of their properties and aims.

Facial moisturizers hydrate and protect the skin’s surface.

While serums are formulated to deliver active ingredients deeper into the skin.

Typically, moisturizers have a thicker and creamier texture than serums. Serums tend to be lightweight and have a more fluid consistency.

Also, serums are more concentrated and often have a high concentration of active ingredients. And this makes them way more potent and powerful than moisturizers.

Moisturizers also contain ingredients to help keep hydration in your skin. Ingredients that we call occlusives; that help lock in hydration to your skin.

And without getting too sciency on you, serums are made of smaller molecules than moisturizers. And molecules are made from larger molecules than serums. And what this means to you is that in terms of layering your skincare, thinnest to thickest (on top) is a good rule of thumb, but it probably won’t be the end of the world when you mix it up.
So don’t spend too much time worrying about the molecules!

What Are the Similarities Between Serum and Moisturizer?

Facial moisturizers and serums are both skincare products that are designed to hydrate and nourish the skin. Additionally, they both help to improve the overall appearance and health of the skin. However, serums typically have a higher concentration of active ingredients and are designed to target specific skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, while moisturizers are more focused on providing general hydration and protection to the skin.

My Moisturizer Picks

Here are some of my all-time favorite moisturizers for you to check out.

Sonia Roselli water elixir

Now you might be surprised, confused, and bewildered by this top recommendation. After all, Sonia Roselli’s Water Elixir is, in fact, a liquid. But I view this product as a moisturizer first and foremost.
A milky-white, water-thick moisturizer that will quench your skin’s thirst, strengthen your skin’s barrier, and also provide a one-step skin prep when time is pressing.
I adore the Sonia Roselli line, and this is the perfect product, to begin with if your relationship with her is still fresh and new.
Packed with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and Japanese rice, this moisturizer will call and nourish your skin as it hydrates.

Buy Now!

La-Roche posay double repair face moisturizer

A lovely, lightweight, everyday face cream that is filled with power ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, glycerin, and prebiotic thermal water.

Yes, glycerin is indeed an overlooked skincare worker bee. By drawing in moisture from it’s surrounding environment, glycerin can help prevent water loss within the surface layer of the skin.
Double Repair Face Moisturizer is a great way to provide daily hydration regardless of your skin type. It’s even perfect on sensitive skin as well.

Buy Now!

biossance Squalane and Omega Repair cream

If you don’t know by now, Squalane and Omega Repair Cream is one of my ALL TIME FAVORITE skin care products. And I don’t say that lightly. This cream feels light, but it is so rich. Goes on with ease and absorbs like a breeze. And literally works overnight.
As with every Biossance product, it contains ethically sourced squalane and is the perfect product to add to your daily skin care routine. I also love using this a night cream if my skin is feeling well hydrated, too.

Buy Now!

mario badescu buttermilk moisturizer

Another of my favorite super-lightweight yet super-effective moisturizers.
Mario Badescu is one of those brands that may not kick and scream when it enters the room but certainly knows how to put on a skincare party.
Check out their incredible range of highly tailored moisturizers, of which the Buttermilk may be my prized pick for a lightweight moisturizer every time.

Buy Now!

Moisturizer Vs. Serum FAQ’s

Q: Are They The Same?
A: Moisturizers and serums are not the same, though they both provide benefits to the skin. Moisturizers are designed to hydrate and protect the skin’s barrier, while serums are formulated with a higher concentration of active ingredients to target specific skin concerns.

Q: Do I Need To Use Both a Moisturizer and a Serum?
A: Whether you need or want to use both types of products depends on your skin’s needs. And only you can really answer that question. If you don’t have dry skin, perhaps a serum alone will be enough to treat your skin. Generally, it’s a good idea to use a moisturizer daily. And then, you can add a serum to your routine as needed. And don’t be afraid to experiment a little and see how your skin responds.

Q: When Do I Need To Use Them?
A: Use your moisturizer daily. Then add a serum as needed to work best with your skin and environment.

Q: What ingredients should I Look For in A Serum?
A: Look for specific ingredients that are known for their hydrating, nourishing, and soothing qualities. Ingredients such as argan oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil and olive oil are great starting points. And don’t forget hyaluronic acid, which is your first stop for hydration. Look for it in your moisturizer as well as your serum.

Q: How Do I Know Which Serum Is Right For Me?
A: The right serum for you depends entirely on your own skin’s concerns. Things such as your age, whether you have or have had acne, sun damage, or hyperpigmentation. Any scarring and the environment you live in as well.

Q: Are there any Side Effects From Using a Serum?
A: This all depends on your skin. And you knowing your skin. I can actually recall feeling a burning or tingling sensation from one or two serums over the years – and you know what? I just washed them off at that point. And eventually stopped using those products. If you experience anything more extreme, wash the serum off immediately and stop using it. Seek medical advice if you have any concerns.

Q: Can I Use One Without the Other?
A: You can use a serum without a moisturizer. And if you have naturally hydrated skin, this may be all you need. If you are drier, it’s probably best to use both. But it’s important to note that your moisturizer will provide your skin with essential hydration and protection. And your serum can hone in and target your own specific skin concerns on top of providing extra hydration.

Q: Can I Just Use A Serum?
A: It’s best for your skin to use both a serum and a moisturizer. And while a serum can go a long way to help provide your skin with very targeted ingredients, your moisturizer will lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated and supple.
Having said that, every single skin type is different. So you can experiment with only using a serum if you like. And see how your skin health responds. Because in the end, that’s what this is all about, right? Looking after the health of your skin.

Resources

Harvard Health Publishing

Lab Muffin Beauty Science

Featured Image by by Miska Sage

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