How Do Emulsions Differ From Serums?
Kaleigh Fasanella
Beauty Expert
2 min read
Find out how emulsions and serums can benefit your skincare routine.
There’s always something new and exciting to try out when it comes to skincare; something that will elevate your current routine and have your skin looking better than ever! Emulsions and serums are two prime examples, with their unique formulas that have endless benefits. Whether you’re looking for long-lasting hydration or to improve your skin barrier, these are your best bet. If you’re wondering how they differ and if you should include both of them in your skincare routine, you’re in luck because we’re about to take a closer look at these two powerhouse products.
Although quite similar to moisturizers, except with a lighter, more fluid, and milkier consistency, emulsions are water-based elixirs that contain oil and emollients, which help retain skin hydration and moisture. This is essentially how emulsions improve skin health, giving it the necessary hydration, resulting in an improved skin barrier.
On the other hand, facial serums are lightweight, highly concentrated skincare products with active ingredients that work to address skin concerns such as dehydration, hyperpigmentation, dullness, and aging. Although there are some deviations from the norm, a face serum is a skincare product that typically has a watery or gel-like texture. They are best for people who are in need of more than just hydration, as they can be beneficial for fading fine lines and wrinkles, diminishing sun damage, or brightening up a sallow complexion. Because they lock into the skin almost instantaneously, they are able to get to work immediately upon application.
“Emulsions tend to be thicker than serums and are primarily designed to hydrate the skin.” This is according to Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “Serums tend to be lightweight and more concentrated formulations containing key active ingredients such as antioxidants.”
In terms of your skincare routine, serums are generally applied after cleansing and before moisturizing, whereas emulsions are often the last step or right before moisturizing.
Given the different skin types and preferences, there’s no one set way of incorporating these into your skincare routine, however, here’s how we do it at fresh.
If you’re looking for a lightweight hydrator that effectively softens, plumps and balances the skin, then our new Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Emulsion is worth considering. Formulated with rosewater, damask rose, low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, and yarrow extract, it penetrates the skin instantly for even better efficacy. With regular and consistent use, your skin can be more predictable. The good news is that it’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin.
The Rose Deep Hydration Oil-Infused Serum, enriched with squalane and rosehip oils, is another one worth adding to your skincare routine This multi-tasking elixir has an innovative bi-phase technology that locks in moisture, strengthens the skin barrier, and soothes irritation. Because of this, it comes highly recommended for people with dry or sensitive skin.
Then we have our Tea Elixir Skin Resilience Activating Serum, which we recommend for all skin types, particularly oily and acne-prone skin, as it helps minimize large pores. This serum has been proven to boost skin’s visible resilience by 62%,* it’s enriched with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, as well as our exclusive Adaptive Phytocompound Tea (APT) Technology™ for added antioxidant protection.
It’s never too late to give your skin a new lease on life, especially when there's a fresh product just waiting to give you the healthy and radiant skin you’ve been pursuing. Take some time to immerse yourself in our range of skincare, bodycare, and gift sets to find your perfect solution.
*observed results, clinical study, self-assessment by scoring, 33 subjects, 8 weeks, based on an average of smooth, visible lines, look of pores, bounce (plump & elasticity), and glow
Kaleigh is a New Jersey-based beauty and wellness writer and editor with a decade of experience contributing to both digital media outlets and brands. Before going freelance, she held positions at Allure, Teen Vogue, and Bustle Digital Group. Having a rare genetic skin condition, she's particularly passionate about normalizing all types of skin and spreading the notion of skin acceptance.