Q: Everyone is talking about serums, what exactly is a serum?

A: Serums are highly concentrated in active ingredients and are more fluid based so that they penetrate the skin much quicker than a traditional moisturiser. They deliver quicker more effective results improving the skin’s appearance and boosting radiance. Anti-ageing serums are beneficial in helping to prevent or prolong the onset of ageing and are used to reduce wrinkles and in some cases increase skins firmness and radiance. Always apply your serum prior to your daily moisturizer (Unless otherwise advised) and for best results, use morning and evening.

We recommend La Roche-Posays DERN AOX (which we put to the test!) and Vichy’s LIFTACTIV Serum which we will be putting to the test over the coming weeks so watch out for our review.

Our ask the expert question has been answered today by La Roche-Posay’s Training Manager, Janette Ryan.

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We all want beautiful clear skin that’s blemish free and not dull and lifeless. Firstly a good skin care routine is essential including cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising. If after you’ve got your routine down to a fine art but find you still have breakouts we’ve listed out some products that may be worth trying out. Where possible ask for samples of the products so you can try them before parting with hard earned money to realise it doesn’t suit your skin!

To start with we have the Dermalogica Clearing Mattifier, approx ?57.35
As the name suggests this product is said to control shine, reduce congestion and help clear any breakouts. The way in which it manages this is by exfoliating whilst on the skin so unplugging any congested areas or follicles. It also promises help rid of fine lines and smooth out the texture of your skin.

Matis offer Intensive Purifying Serum, approx ?51
Serums are definitely the way forward in skin care containing higher strength ingredients. The Matis serum was created to regulate and control sebum secretion, the natural oil on your skin that is there to protect your skin but can sometimes cause breakouts for various reasons. The high potency formula should protect the skin from the various elements that cause your skin problems.

If you prefer to use more natural based products this may be of interest. Environ Active Sebugel A Approx ?30
Environ have used all the usual natural ingredients to sooth and disinfect irriated skin such as tea tree, colostrum, vitamin A and more. The colostrum used is dairy and is a totally natural antiseptic that will help control bacteria from spreading.

As always if you aren’t sure what your skin needs go to a salon or therapist and have your skin analysed. It’s worth it to go for a facial and get some detailed information back so you are armed with information that should help you purchase the right products for you.

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