Serum or cream? Discover how to use them together to transform your skin.
The serum focuses on treating specific problems, such as aging or hyperpigmentation, while the cream's primary function is to provide hydration and protect the skin.
Complementing both products is the key to success in fully addressing your facial needs and achieving radiant skin.
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a serum and a cream in your skincare routine? With the wide range of products available on the market, understanding the distinctions between them can be confusing. But don't worry, we're here to demystify it and help you maximize your skincare routine.
👉 Are you interested in natural skincare? You'll love this.
What is a facial serum?
History and evolution
It was in the 1990s that serums began to gain popularity in the skincare industry, especially with the introduction of anti-aging serums and serums with ingredients like vitamin C , hyaluronic acid, and retinoids . Since then, serums have become a staple in many skincare routines due to their ability to provide visible, concentrated skin-improving results .
In the context of beauty and skincare routines, the term "serum" refers to a highly concentrated formulation of active ingredients used to address specific skin concerns.
Key Features
These highly concentrated skin care products in active ingredients are designed to address specific problems such as aging, hyperpigmentation, hydration or luminosity.
What sets them apart is their ability to deliver a high concentration of active ingredients in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula . This allows the ingredients to penetrate deep into the skin and work on the deeper layers , where many skin problems originate.
What does a face cream do?
Facial creams are essential in any skincare routine. Although many people consider them just a moisturizer, their function goes far beyond that.
Main function
The main function of a facial cream is to hydrate the skin and protect it from external aggressions . It forms a film that helps prevent transepidermal water loss, keeping the skin supple, soft, and nourished for longer.
Common ingredients
Creams are usually formulated with ingredients such as:
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Emollients , such as vegetable oils and butters, which soften the skin.
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Humectants , such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which attract moisture.
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Occlusives , such as natural waxes, which seal in hydration.
Additionally, they may include active ingredients such as peptides, antioxidants, sunscreens, or soothing extracts, depending on the purpose of the formula.
Added benefits
In addition to moisturizing, many creams:
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They strengthen the skin barrier , helping the skin defend itself better.
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They soothe irritations or redness.
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They provide firmness and elasticity .
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Improve texture and tone.
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They reduce the appearance of wrinkles or expression lines .
In short, a good facial cream not only moisturizes, but also protects, treats, and enhances skin health when used regularly and properly.
Key differences between serum and moisturizer
The main difference between a serum and a cream lies in their texture and concentration of ingredients . While a serum focuses on delivering a high concentration of active ingredients to address specific skin concerns , a cream focuses on daily hydration and protection .
Serums are lighter than creams, gels, and even emulsions. Always apply the serum after applying these products, allowing enough time for them to be fully absorbed.
Why complement serum and cream?
Using a serum and cream in the same routine isn't redundant; it's strategic. Each serves a different but complementary function, and together they offer a more complete treatment for your skin.
Asset synergy
The serum, with its light texture and high concentration of active ingredients, penetrates the deepest layers of the skin and works from within. Applying a facial cream afterward reinforces its action with ingredients that hydrate, protect, and seal in the serum's benefits.
This combination creates a synergy that enhances the effects of both products.
Visible results
Properly incorporating serum and cream into your facial routine visibly improves your skin's appearance. You'll notice increased radiance, hydration, firmness, and an even complexion. Skin also responds better when well hydrated, making the serum's active ingredients even more effective.
Effect enhancement
When applied together, the serum prepares the skin to receive the benefits of the cream. This not only increases the absorption of the ingredients but also improves their long-term performance.
Consistent combined use of both products helps restore the skin barrier, combat aging, and maintain healthy, balanced skin.
What do you use first, the serum or the cream?
Understanding the correct order of application is key to maximizing their benefits. The texture and function of each product determine which one should be applied first.
Correct order
The serum is always applied before the cream . This is due to its lighter texture and its ability to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. The thicker cream works afterward, sealing in moisture and forming a protective barrier.
Reasons for the sequence
Applying the serum first allows the active ingredients to work effectively without interference. Then, when applying the cream:
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You seal in the benefits of the serum .
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You avoid water evaporation .
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You reinforce hydration and protection .
This order enhances the synergy between the two products and improves the visible results on the skin.
Recommendations for use
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Clean your face well and dry it gently.
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Apply the serum (1-2 drops or a small amount if it comes in a pump) with gentle tapping or a gentle massage.
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Wait a few seconds until it is absorbed.
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Apply the facial cream according to your skin type.
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Don't forget sunscreen if it's in the morning.
This simple ritual makes a big difference when done consistently.
Which serum and cream should you choose according to your skin type?
Every skin type has different needs. Choosing the right serum and cream will make all the difference in your results.
Dry skin
Look for products that provide intense hydration and nutrition .
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Recommended serum : with hyaluronic acid , probiotics or vitamin E.
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Ideal cream : rich in ceramides , vegetable oils (such as avocado) and peptides .
This combo helps restore the skin barrier, soothe tightness, and improve elasticity.
Oily or acne-prone skin
It requires light hydration and sebum regulation, without clogging pores.
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Recommended serum : with niacinamide , zinc or mild AHA/BHA .
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Ideal cream : non-comedogenic , gel or light texture, with soothing and regulating ingredients.
This duo helps balance skin, reduce shine, and prevent blemishes.
🧡 Sensitive or red skin
Your skin needs pampering, not aggressive stimuli.
Prioritize light textures, formulas without perfumes or alcohol, and soothing active ingredients such as oats, allantoin, or centella asiatica.
We recommend:
- Serum with niacinamide , oats or gotu kola
- Facial cream with bakuchiol , orchid stem cells, and soothing oils
A gentle combination with soothing, restorative, and anti-inflammatory action to balance sensitive or redness-prone skin.
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📰 What order should you follow in your facial routine? Discover how to apply your products correctly.
It may not be your skin, but the order in which you apply your products. Discover how to get the most out of them and avoid common mistakes. Read the full article 👉
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Why choose OhMyKoko?
At OhMyKoko we not only offer natural and vegan cosmetics, but we are also the first skin activist brand .
Our products are formulated with high-quality, natural ingredients, free of toxic chemicals , designed to care for your skin and respect the environment.
👉 If you haven't already, download our free guide and start your routine with meaning.
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