Serum vs. Moisturizer: The Difference and Whether You Need Both

It's one of the most common questions when building a routine: if I already use a moisturizer, do I need a serum? Or can I use just a serum? Even though both go on after cleansing, they have different jobs and work best together. Here's a simple explanation.

What is a serum?

It's a lightweight product (watery, gel or a thin oil) with a high concentration of active ingredients aimed at a specific goal: hydration, radiance, the look of pores, firmness or dark spots. Because it's light, it goes on before your moisturizer.

Popular actives include hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, peptides, retinol and centella asiatica.

What is a moisturizer?

It's a richer product that keeps skin hydrated and soft and helps reduce water loss. It contains softening ingredients (emollients) and ingredients that form a protective layer (occlusives), plus some actives. Its main job is to support your skin barrier.

The main differences

• Texture: serums are light; moisturizers are richer.
• Purpose: a serum targets something specific; a moisturizer hydrates and protects.
• Order: serum first, then moisturizer.
• Amount: 2 or 3 drops of serum; an almond-sized amount of moisturizer.

Do I need both?

Moisturizer is part of a basic routine: nearly every skin type needs it. A serum is an optional step you add when you want to improve something in particular. If you're just starting out, prioritize cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen; once that's a habit, add a serum.

What if I have oily skin?

Some people with very oily skin in humid climates feel fine with just a hydrating serum and sunscreen in the morning. Even so, a light gel moisturizer at night helps keep skin hydrated. Read more in oily skin and shine.

What if I have dry skin?

You'll want both: a hyaluronic acid serum and a more nourishing cream on top to lock in hydration.

How to choose your serum

• Dehydration: hyaluronic acid.
• Shine and pores: niacinamide.
• Dull skin: vitamin C.
• Sensitive skin: centella or heartleaf.
• Firmness: peptides.

Torn between the two most popular? Read hyaluronic acid vs. niacinamide.

How to choose your moisturizer

• Oily or combination: oil-free gel or gel-cream.
• Dry: a richer cream with ceramides or butters.
• Sensitive: soothing, fragrance-free formulas.

Full guide in how to choose a face moisturizer.

Order of application

1. Cleanser.
2. Toner or mist (optional). If you're curious, read face mist: what it does.
3. Serum.
4. Eye cream.
5. Moisturizer.
6. Sunscreen (in the morning).

Wait a few seconds between serum and moisturizer so it can absorb.

Common mistakes

• Applying moisturizer before serum.
• Using too many serums at once.
• Thinking a serum replaces sunscreen.
• Switching products before giving them time (at least 4 weeks).

Shop it at BeautyRosee

Niacinamide, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serums, plus moisturizers for every skin type, in skincare. Also browse Moira, Goodal and Korean skincare.

FAQ

Can I use a serum without moisturizer?

Some oily skin types can get away with it during the day, but in general moisturizer helps maintain hydration.

Which goes first, serum or moisturizer?

Serum first, since it's lighter, then moisturizer.

How many drops of serum should I use?

Two to four drops for your whole face is usually enough.

Can I use serum morning and night?

Yes. Some, like vitamin C, are best in the morning, and others, like retinol, only at night.

Keep reading

• Skincare Guide: Your Complete Routine, Explained
• Hyaluronic acid vs. niacinamide
• Face mist: what it does