Serums, Toner, Eye cream?

I remember when I was younger skin care was cleanse, tone and moisturise. There was an exfoliating scrub, eye cream and a once a week peel off face masque.  There were no acids or serums. Now that products and technology have evolved, skin care ingredients have become more sophisticated and the old routine that I knew fondly has now gone.

Serums

Serums are applied after cleanse and acid (if required) they are concentrated active ingredient that helps target your skin type and concern. There are many different varieties of serums because there are different types of skin and concerns. I love my serum, it makes my skin feel great - I use a nourishing serum and it feels like such a treat for my skin. Serums can be layered so you can use more than one. Apply the thinnest (water-based) first and then apply the thicker one (oil based). I also use a thicker oil based serum for my aging concerns, when I massage my skin but as I'm a beauty therapist I understand this might not be part of everyone's routine.

Toner

Toners are still sold but they are not a requirement like they once were due, to the acids that help balance the skin by addressing our skin type/concerns. I still use a hyaluronic acid toner and I spritz it on after serum before moisturising because I have dry skin and the ingredients from this spray help me to retain moisture. If I'm having a particularly dry season I will also use it throughout the day. To learn more about acids see previous post on exfoliating.

Eye Cream

The skin around our eyes is the thinnest and most delicate. Heavy and perfumed moisturisers are not going to be helpful. They need a targeted approach. It is not a case of more is best, follow the application instructions as you don't want your eyes to become puffy or react to the cream. If you have eczema, see your pharmacist/GP and get the correct cream, don't play around with eye creams/moisturisers. Eye creams I would add in if you wear glasses from 20s upwards to help protect your skin from daily wear and tear. Eye creams are not going to change your genetics - if you have dark circles or droopy lids, that is what you have. They can help with the appearance but they are not a cure and the effects will not be long lasting. They can help create a base for applying make-up to hide colour but nothing more. I do use a nourishing eye cream.

Here's some diagrams explaining about how Vitamin C serum works and the benefits to your skin:

I hope this has uncovered the old way to the new modern way of skin care routine. Any questions please message me or book in for a skin consultation.