Emulsions vs. Serums
2 min read
Do emulsions and serums both deserve a spot in your skincare routine? Find out here.
When it comes to skincare, there are certain game-changing products that can take your routineโand the results you get from itโto the next level. Emulsions and serums are two such products. Theyโre both hardworking formulas that offer a multitude of benefits, from long-lasting hydration to barrier support and much more. But what makes them different? And do you need both in your routine? Read on for the full lowdown.
Emulsions are lightweight, water-based elixirs that contain oil as well as a host of emollients to seal in hydration and prevent water lossโsimilar to a moisturizer. The difference is that they feel extremely light and have a fluid, milky consistency that sinks into the skin immediately. Emulsions improve skin health by flooding it with moisture and helping to prevent hydration loss, which ultimately creates an optimal barrier for skin to thrive in.
Facial serums are lightweight, highly concentrated solutions that contain active ingredients designed to target specific skin concernsโdehydration, hyperpigmentation, dullness, and aging, to name a few. Consistency-wise, face serums tend to have a watery or gel-like texture, though there are some exceptions of course. Serums are beneficial to anyone whoโs looking for something beyond basic hydration in their skincare routine, whether it be help with fading fine lines and wrinkles, diminishing sun damage, or brightening up a sallow complexion. Additionally, theyโre designed to deeply penetrate the skin, which makes them very effective and often fast-acting.
โEmulsions tend to be thicker than serums and are primarily designed to hydrate the skin,โ says Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. โSerums tend to be lightweight and more concentrated formulations containing key active ingredients such as antioxidants.โ
From an application standpoint, serums are typically applied earlier in oneโs routineโusually after cleansing and before moisturizingโwhile emulsions are applied either as the last step, or right before your moisturizer.
This all comes down to your skin type and personal preference, but hereโs how we do it at fresh.
Our new Rose Deep Hydration Balancing Emulsion is an excellent option for anyone looking for a weightless super-hydrator that softens, plumps, and balances the skin. Itโs infused with rosewater, damask rose, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, and yarrow extractโand it sinks into the skin immediately. Great for all skin types, including sensitive, it helps skin act more predictably on a day-to-day basis when used regularly.
Another one of our best sellers you can always reach for? The Rose Deep Hydration Oil-Infused Serum enriched with squalane and rosehip oils. This multi-tasking elixir features an innovative bi-phase technology that prevents moisture loss, strengthens the skin barrier, and soothes irritation. For this reason, itโs an especially amazing option for anyone struggling with dry or sensitive skin.
Oily-skinned beauties, we didnโt forget about you: Our Tea Elixir Skin Resilience Activating Serum is a great one for all skin types, but especially those that are oily and acne-prone as it helps minimize large pores. Proven to boost skinโs visible resilience by 62 percent,* itโs enriched with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, as well as our exclusive Adaptive Phytocompound Tea (APT) Technologyโข for added antioxidant protection.
Find your hydration must-have
Whatever your skin type or current concern, there's a fresh product waiting to offer deep nourishment and hydration so that you can enjoy radiant skin year-round. Browse our range of skincare, bodycare, and gift sets to find the products that leave you feeling fresh.
*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