Everything You Need to Know About Face Serums

If you’ve ever wondered what a serum really is and how it fits into your skincare routine, you’re not alone. Serums are one of the most loved (and sometimes confusing) steps in skincare. Let’s break it down in a simple way.

🌸 What is a Serum?

A serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing skincare product packed with a high concentration of active ingredients. Unlike moisturizers or creams, serums are designed to target specific skin concerns—whether it’s hydration, brightening, anti-aging, or calming irritation.

Think of it as the “treatment step” of your skincare routine, delivering powerful ingredients deeper into your skin.

✨ What Are Serums Used For?

Serums come in many types, each focusing on a different skin need. Some common uses include:

• Hydration: With ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid to plump and smooth.

• Brightening: With Vitamin C or Niacinamide to reduce dullness and dark spots.

• Anti-aging: With Retinol, Collagen, or Peptides to smooth fine lines and improve elasticity.

• Soothing: With Centella Asiatica, Panthenol, or Green Tea to calm redness and strengthen skin barrier.

• Acne Control: With BHA, AHA, or Tea Tree to reduce breakouts and refine pores.

💡 Tip: You can choose a serum (or even combine two that work well together) based on your skin’s daily needs.

🧴 How to Use a Serum Correctly

Using a serum is simple, but order matters!

1. Cleanse your skin gently.

2. Tone (optional but recommended) to prep and balance the skin.

3. Apply the serum – 2–3 drops are enough. Gently press it into your skin with fingertips.

4. Moisturize to lock in the serum’s benefits.

5. Finish with sunscreen in the morning routine.

⚠️ Remember: A serum is more concentrated than a moisturizer, so less is more.

⏰ When Should You Use a Serum?

You can use serums both morning and night, but the type of serum decides the best time:

• Morning serums: Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid (pairs perfectly with sunscreen).

• Evening serums: Retinol, Peptides, AHA/BHA (skin renews best overnight).

🗂 Routine Order Recap

• Daytime: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen

• Nighttime: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → (Optional: sleeping mask/oil)

💡 If you use multiple serums, apply them from thinnest to thickest texture, and avoid combining ingredients that may irritate (e.g., Retinol + Vitamin C at the same time).

🌿 How to Choose the Best Serum for Your Skin

The right serum depends on your skin type and main concern:

• Dry or dehydrated skin: Look for Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Ceramides → deeply hydrate and restore barrier.

• Oily or acne-prone skin: Choose Niacinamide, BHA, or Tea Tree → balance oil, minimize pores, and reduce breakouts.

• Dull or uneven skin tone: Go for Vitamin C, Arbutin, or Niacinamide → brighten and fade dark spots.

• Sensitive skin: Pick Centella Asiatica, Panthenol, or Beta-Glucan → calm redness and strengthen skin barrier.

• Mature skin or anti-aging goals: Try Retinol, Collagen, or Peptides → smooth wrinkles and boost elasticity.

💡 Pro tip: Always introduce one serum at a time. Test it for at least 2 weeks to see how your skin reacts before layering with others.

🌟 Final Note

Serums are the powerhouse of any skincare routine. By choosing the right one for your skin’s needs and applying it correctly, you’ll notice healthier, more radiant skin over time.

At Tsubaki Beauty, we offer carefully curated serums from Japan, Korea, and beyond—tailored for hydration, brightening, anti-aging, soothing, and more.

✨ Explore our serum collection and find your skin’s new best friend.