In today’s world of Instagram reels, YouTube skincare hauls, and endless skin care routines, it sometimes seems like social media has made skincare even more of a competition than it is a method of self-care. You're scrolling through your feed and you're seeing your favourite creator raving about some serum that completely transformed their skin or some moisturiser that guarantees a glass-skin radiance. Of course, you'd like to put the same products into your shopping basket, in hopes that they'll perform the same magic for you. But the catch is, what might work wonders on someone else's complexion might not work for yours.
Skin type, issues, and lifestyle all factor significantly in deciding the perfect product. So, rather than mindlessly following trends, an informed decision is the way to have healthier, happier skin. And where the eternal argument, face serum or moisturiser, comes in, knowing the difference is the beginning.
In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, we asked the same question to our expert, Dr Sanjeev Gulati, Department of Dermatology, Sharda Hospital - Noida, and here is how you can make an informed choice.
What is a Face Serum?
A serum is an oil-free, quickly absorbed liquid in high concentration of active ingredients. Due to having tiny molecules, it goes deep into the skin in order to address specific issues. Based on the ingredients, serums may brighten, hydrate, smooth out fine lines, or soothe inflammation.
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To give an example, Dr Gulati stated, Vitamin C serums are well-loved for erasing pigmentation and increasing luminosity, hyaluronic acid serums hydrate and plump dry skin, retinol serums smooth wrinkles and refine texture, and niacinamide serums control oil and soothe redness. “Imagine a serum like having a personalised treatment, it's similar to giving your skin precisely what it requires in a concentrated form,” he explained.
What is a Moisturiser?
Conversely, a moisturiser is more concerned with maintaining your skin barrier healthy and robust. It seals in moisture, retains water, and shields your skin from environmental aggressors such as pollution and weather fluctuations. Unlike serums, moisturisers don't penetrate very far into the skin but instead form a protective layer on the surface, keeping your skin soft, pliable, and hydrated.
Moisturisers exist in a variety of forms, such as light, gel-like moisturisers for oily skin, richer creams for dry or ageing skin, and balanced lotions for those in between. Regardless of your skin type, there is one product that nearly everyone uses in their daily life.
Serum vs. Moisturiser: What's the Difference?
Though both seem to do the same thing, the reality is that they are used for very different reasons. A serum is all about specific treatment, it drives high-impact actives deep into the skin in order to tackle particular issues such as dullness, acne, or ageing. A moisturiser, however, is about locking in water and shielding your skin from becoming dry.
In simple terms, serums penetrate deep and correct issues at their source, whereas moisturisers remain near the surface and keep your skin protected and feeling good.
Do You Really Need Both
The truth to this question is that it depends. If your only worry is maintaining healthy, hydrated skin, a solid moisturiser may be sufficient. But if you're struggling with certain issues, such as pesky dark spots, premature fine lines, or chronic dryness, a serum can be a game-changer.
For optimal results, Dr Gulati advised using them in combination. “Apply a serum first for your skin, then top it with a moisturiser to seal it all in. This way, you have the best of both worlds, i.e. deep care and long-lasting hydration,” he recommended.
How to Use Them Together
Creating your routine doesn't have to be complicated. Here's a simple expert-approved sequence:
- Clean your face with a gentle cleanser.
- Use your serum, just a few drops are necessary.
- Seal it with a moisturiser appropriate to your skin type.
- Cap it with sunscreen in the day for all your efforts to be safe.
Bottomline
At the end of the day, skincare is not about copying someone else’s shelf or chasing the latest viral trend. It’s about listening to your skin and giving it what it actually needs. If you’re just starting out, a moisturiser is non-negotiable, as it’s the foundation of healthy skin. Once you’re comfortable, consider adding a serum that targets your personal skin goals.
So, instead of asking “serum or moisturiser?”, the better question might be: “What does my skin need right now?” Answer that, and you’ll be one step closer to glowing, confident skin.