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What is a serum and how do you apply it?

Jam-packed with active ingredients, serums, such as our Advanced Genifique Serum and Renergie H.C.F Triple Serum, have the power to elevate skincare routines from satisfactory to sensational. Applied on cleansed skin, their light textures help smaller molecules to target specific issues. Let’s find out more about serums and when to use one. 

What is a face serum? 

Want maximum beauty benefits? Apply your serum after cleansing but before moisturising. As serums have the power to penetrate skin quickly, applying a moisturising cream shortly after will help to lock in the serum and provide an extra level of protection against external skin aggressors. Check out our selection of face moisturisers here to find your perfect match. 

Serum vs face oil 

Face serum and face oil are often compared, but what should you use? Whereas face oils are generally to protect and nourish your face, a serum will target a particular concern – like wrinkles or dryness. Face oils, which are great for those with dry skin, tend to be heavier than serums too, while serums can have lightweight, hydrating qualities. 

What are the beauty benefits of a face serum? 



Serums are the superheroes of skincare, sure to supercharge your beauty regime. For example, our iconic Advanced Génifique Serum helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while strengthening the natural barrier of the skin and improving radiance, texture, and clarity – no matter the skin type. It also works great under makeup as it provides a smooth base for application – perfect for prepping your skin. 

Face serum absorbs quickly and hydrates the skin, while feeling fresh and light, and it can reduce the appearance of pores, preventing them from clogging. It can also help to firm your face and manage uneven skin tone and texture. 

How to apply serum 

If the benefits sound great but you’re wondering how to apply serum, you’re in the right place. It isn’t difficult, but it is different to applying moisturiser, for example.  

Firstly, make sure your face is clean and dry, and dispense a few drops into your palm, warming it up before you apply it to your face.  

Using long, gliding strokes, spread the serum evenly across your forehead, cheeks, chin and neck. Why not use this as a self-care moment by incorporating a relaxing face massage with your fingers, or by using a face roller? 

Work from the centre of your face to the outside, and then finish by going downwards on the T-zone and across your lips and under the jawline.  

Finish with your favourite moisturiser. 

Remember, it’s best to press rather than massage in any remaining serum – leave it about a minute until it’s absorbed completely.  

Lancôme | Advanced Génifique Serum | How To With Zendaya

When to use serum 

It’s easy to incorporate a serum into your regular skincare routine; many serums, like our Advanced Génifique Serum, are best used morning and night.  

However, you might still be wanting to know how to use serum to maximise results. It’s best to use a serum after cleanser and toner. Try our Miel en Mousse cleanser, a foaming cleanser which removes makeup and leaves skin with a clean and comfortable feel, followed by our refreshing Tonique Confort toner, offering an extra boost of post-cleanse hydration. After cleansing and toning, apply your moisturiser (which will help to create a protective barrier and lock in the serum), face oil, eye cream or spot treatment.  

It’s a common misconception that if you have oily skin you don’t need a serum. The good news is that our Advanced Genifique Serum offers benefits to every skin type, whether you have dry, oily, normal or combination skin! 

To find out more about the face serums we offer, why not take a look at our range of serums and find the perfect serum for you? 

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