What's the Difference Between Serums and Moisturizers?

In the skincare world, things can get a little complicated. With all the different skincare steps and ingredients to keep track of, it can be easy to feel lost and overwhelmed.

One thing that causes confusion is knowing which products your skin actually needs and the exact benefits of each. Many people have a serum and moisturizer as part of their daily routine, but what’s the difference between the two? Luckily, we’re here to help set things straight and get you on the road to happier, clearer skin.

What is a Serum?

Serums are highly-concentrated formulas with a lightweight consistency. They’re formulated with smaller particles, allowing them to absorb quickly and penetrate deeper into the skin on a cellular level. Serums are also often antioxidant-rich and designed to address specific skin concerns like signs of aging, sun damage and hyperpigmentation.

To help calm and soothe skin, our Zen ultracalming serum is a must-have treat. Zen helps bring skin back into balance, visibly reducing the appearance of blotchiness and redness. If your skin is in need of a hydration boost, our Drink It Up super-hydrating serum is the perfect way to quench your skin’s thirst. Drink It Up is clinically proven to provide 48-hour hydration and help promote cell turnover, protects against environmental stressors, fights signs of aging, and keeps skin soft and dewy.

Endless Hydration

Quench your skin’s thirst with this super-hydrating serum that also helps fight signs of aging and keeps your skin soft and plump.

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What is a Moisturizer?

Moisturizers tend to have a thicker, creamier consistency than serums. While they generally also include ingredients that target specific issues, their main purpose is to seal in hydration to prevent water loss and strengthen and protect the skin barrier. Moisturizing daily helps balance your skin’s natural oil production, fights signs of aging, and keeps your skin soft and smooth.

With our collection of moisturizers, you can choose the right one for your skin based on your skin type, product preferences, and the level of hydration you need. Hydrate is a lightweight and breathable moisturizer that provides light hydration without excess oiliness or stickiness, making it perfect for those with oily or acne-prone skin. We also offer two dual-purpose products that serve as a daily moisturizer: SunFilter and Primed & Ready. SunFilter is a reef-safe mineral sunscreen that protects against UV rays, blue light, environmental pollutants and free radicals while providing 12-hour hydration. Primed & Ready is a 2-in-1 moisturizer and primer that blurs pores and imperfections, extends the wear of makeup, and provides 24-hour hydration.

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Should They Be Used Together?

Moisturizer is a crucial step in any skincare routine but when using a hydrating serum, some find themselves wondering if moisturizer is even necessary. In short, the answer to that is yes! By layering the two, you’re delivering powerful ingredients to the skin and locking in moisture, which is especially beneficial if you have dry or sensitive skin. If you have oily skin, a hydrating serum may be enough so moisturizer may not be needed. The key is to always listen to your skin and tweak your routine as you see fit!

How Do I Add Them to My Routine?

To maximize the effectiveness of your skincare products, it’s important to layer them properly. Your products should generally be applied from thinnest to thickest. After cleansing and applying toner and any treatment products, apply a few drops of serum to your skin. Once the product has fully absorbed into your skin, apply your moisturizer on top.

Abby Vinas

Abby Vinas has long been an active member of the holistic health community, advocating in favor of its benefits to both our physical and emotional well-being. Her commitment to leading a healthy lifestyle has made her an authority on self-care practices. Abby is passionate about fitness, nutrition, and proper skincare, and is also an avid lover of avocado toast and dog-petting.