How do I choose the right serum?

Author: Abdullah Dooley  |  Last update: Friday, October 17, 2025

Skin Type Whether you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin, there is a serum that is specifically formulated to address your skin concerns. For example, if you have oily skin, look for a serum that is lightweight and oil-free, while if you have dry skin, choose a serum that is hydrating and nourishing.

How do you know what serum is right for you?

How do I know which Ordinary serum to get?

Treatment serum

Now's the time to address your specific skin concerns with active ingredients. Stick with The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% if you're concerned about dullness, or The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% if you have oily skin.

Which serum to start as a beginner?

It is always best to start with a low percentage of actives to make your skin accustomed to the serum. If you are a teenager, a simple routine of cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen is enough. If you are in your early 20s, Niacinamide or Hyaluronic acid are great options for beginners.

What is the best overall serum for face?

Our favorite face serum overall is InnBeauty's Project Firming & Plumping Vegan Snail Serum for its ability to hydrate, soften, and firm the skin. We also loved Glow Recipe's Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops Sun Glow Serum, which targets dullness and dryness and has a sheer tint for an extra radiance boost.

Find the 1st Step for Your Skincare Routine | Importance of Skincare Steps & Rules of Layering

What is the No. 1 face serum?

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Which serum should not be used together?

How do I know which serum to use first?

Thin to Thick: Layer by lightest to thickest consistency. Many serums have a similar viscous consistency, but if you notice one is thicker, start with the thinner formula first. Take Your Time: Give each serum several seconds to set before moving onto the next.

Which brand is best for serum?

What is the best Ordinary serum for aging?

Should I use niacinamide or hyaluronic acid first?

When used together, always go with applying hyaluronic acid first, followed by Niacinamide. By following this, you would be able to attract plenty of hydration first. After that, apply Niacinamide to help regulate sebum production and help with the minimization of pores.

How do I know what version of serum I have?

How To Check What Version of Serum You Have. To check what version of Serum you currently have, open the Plugin in your DAW and under 'Menu' select 'About…' You should then see information on your Plugin appear, the current Version of the Plugin is displayed on the second line at the top.

Do you put serum on wet or dry skin?

According to Women's Health, wet skin is 10 times more permeable than dry skin. This means that applying serum especially one with hyaluronic acid with its water-binding properties to wet skin can help quicken or enhance absorption of vitamins and nutrients in the formula.

Which face serum is best according to a dermatologist?

What are the disadvantages of face serum?

How do I choose my serum?

When choosing a face serum, it's important to consider your skin type and any particular skincare concerns that you have. For example, if you have oily skin, then you may benefit from an oil-control serum. However, if you have dry skin, then an extra hydrating serum may be more suitable for your needs.

What not to mix with niacinamide?

DON'T MIX: AHA/BHA and niacinamide

Niacinamide is used to treat hyperpigmentation and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are chemical exfoliants. To understand why niacinamide shouldn't be mixed with AHAs and BHAs, you need to consider pH.

How long should you wait between serum and moisturizer?

Serum and Moisturizer: 1 minute

Goldenberg's go-to recommendation for timing between serums and moisturizers is about one minute. This wait has the same reasoning: Sixty seconds — give or take — gives each product a moment to delve into your pores.

What to not mix with hyaluronic acid?

“Hyaluronic acid plays well with most ingredients, while caution must be taken when using retinol in combination with alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, and some types of vitamin C.” Linkner echoes the tip about avoiding vitamin C.

In what order do you use face serums?

Is it bad to mix serum with moisturizer?

Well, the quick answer is yes, you can mix serums with moisturisers. For this, you should follow the same guidelines as when you mix two serums together. Mix a couple of drops of serum in the palm of your hand with the moisturiser of your choice.

Which is better, CeraVe or Cetaphil?

There is no definitive “better” brand between CeraVe and Cetaphil. Both make quality skincare products using different approaches. CeraVe has more specialised options with patented technologies, while Cetaphil focuses on simpler, sensitive skin formulas.

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