The Scary Downside Of Using Too Much Serum That Nobody Tells You About
May 18, 2022 by Louise Ferrer
By now, chances are your skincare routine already involves a multitude of products. From sunscreen and moisturizer, to cleanser and exfoliator, it’s no secret that protecting your skin requires some amount of work. And if there’s one item you probably shouldn’t miss out on, it would have to be a face serum. But fair warning though: using too much serum can actually defeat its purpose.
So, what exactly is this skincare product and why is it so important? We asked board certified dermatologic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey T.S. Hsu, MD to find out. Keep reading as he explains what a serum is, how it works, and the disadvantage of applying too much on your face.
What is serum?According to Dr. Hsu, “A serum is a thin viscosity skincare product that is usually high potency, and contains a concentrated dose of active ingredients that is geared towards addressing certain skin concerns.” He adds, “Typically serums are used after cleansing and before moisturizing in the morning and/or in the evening depending on the serum.”
What are the different kinds of serum?If you check out serums available on the market, you’ll notice that there are several options to choose from. Dr. Hsu notes, “Because serums are made to address skin concerns, they are generally categorized by skin needs such as hydration, pigmentation, anti-aging (for wrinkles), acne, and skin dullness.” Aside from these, he shares that “there are unique classes of serums—like vitamin C, retinol, and growth factors—that are stand alone, powerful actives that can address all types of skin conditions and are good nourishment even for the healthiest skin.”