When it comes to scientific research or laboratory work, selecting the right serum is crucial for successful experiments and accurate results.

Serums are often used in cell culture, diagnostics, and various research applications.

Choosing the right serum depends on factors like the type of cells you're working with, the research objectives, and the specific requirements of your study. This guide will walk you through key considerations to make the best serum choice for your research!

1. Serum for Normal and Combination Skin: Hydrating Serum

Normal skin typically doesn’t have major issues but still requires proper hydration, which is why a hydrating serum is an excellent choice. The same goes for combination skin, as a hydrating serum is ideal for nourishing and hydrating both oily and dry skin areas simultaneously.

Choose a hydrating serum with active ingredients like hyaluronic acid in both macro and micro sizes, as it can hydrate and moisturize the skin optimally, both deep within the skin layers and on the surface. The active ingredient LHA (lipohydroxy acid) helps gently exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells and fade dark spots. Your skin will stay moisturized and appear glowing.

2. Serum for Oily Skin: Purifying Serum

Common issues with oily skin include excessive oil production, enlarged pores, acne, and blackheads. A purifying serum with antibacterial properties is essential to prevent acne and balance oil production while still moisturizing the skin. Active ingredients such as rosemary, thyme, tea tree oil, salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acid, and hyaluronic acid are commonly found in serums for oily skin. Choose a water-based serum with a non-comedogenic formula to ensure it doesn’t clog pores.

3. Serum for Dry Skin: Nourishing Serum

Dry skin is often lacking in lipids, and the skin barrier may be damaged. Therefore, it requires active ingredients containing oils and rich nutrients to help repair the skin barrier. Almond, avocado, and argan oils are effective active ingredients for this.

Look for a nourishing serum for dry skin that contains Vitamin E to protect skin cells from oxidation, and niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to improve skin elasticity and stimulate ceramide production in the skin layers. This will help make your skin softer and more supple.

4. Serum for Anti-Aging Treatment

Skin that shows signs of aging, such as wrinkles, pigmentation, and reduced elasticity, requires anti-aging skincare treatments. Anti-aging serums typically contain active ingredients like retinol, antioxidants (Vitamin A, C, E, and resveratrol), and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help boost collagen production, repair skin tissue, making the skin more elastic and firm, reduce dark spots, and hydrate the skin optimally, smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles.

Lykkers, it’s all about knowing what your skin needs and selecting products that truly work for you. With the right serum, radiant skin is just a step away. Keep finding what suits you best, and remember that skincare is about consistency and care. Stay glowing and take good care of your skin!

Beauty and skincare: a dermatologist's guide to choosing the right serum

Video by The Guardian Labs