The beauty industry’s big fallacy is that its customer base is made up of (a nauseating marketing portmanteau) “skin savvy” people who have the time, interest, and knowledge to understand the difference between peptides, retinoids, and moisturizers. It means that it is configured. Apply all three in one routine.
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In reality, most people don’t have a special interest in skin care and have other priorities, so I know that recommending a serum is already pushing my luck. Therefore, it is better to invest your time and money.
The multipurpose serum is quick and easy to use and can be used day or night (after cleanser, before moisturizer). It takes the guesswork out of it and eliminates multiple birds with one stone: dehydration, compromised skin barrier function, dullness, poor skin texture, unwanted wrinkles, or a combination thereof.
Most people have other priorities, so you’re better off putting in your time and money since you know you’re already having better luck by suggesting a serum.
Olay’s Super Serum (£39.99) combats dullness with brightening vitamin C and exfoliating lactic acid. Niacinamide soothes and protects the skin barrier, and humectants hydrate. Although suitable for everyone, it seems to be especially popular with young adults, and sales are huge.
Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair (£65) is also loved by millions and is quite popular. The smooth, non-greasy texture contains patented Tripeptide-32 to soothe, tone and soften skin. Despite the name, it can be worn day or night and generally holds up well even on very sensitive skin (you can even layer it under most other things). Peptides (short chains of amino acids that serve as the building blocks of proteins) are safe for everyone. Basically, the more peptides you have in your skin, the more collagen you can produce, which reduces the signs of skin aging.
If you want to add a retinoid (still the most evidence-backed ‘anti-aging’ treatment), Clinique’s Smart Clinical Repair (£62) contains HPR (Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate), which is gentler and faster acting than retinol. ) is included. Including a sophisticated blend of moisturizing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and peptides for barrier and texture.
Less powerful, but more affordable, No7 Protect & Perfect Intense (£24.95) is another peptide serum with retinol and extra vitamin C to brighten dull skin. In either case, wearing SPF during the day is essential (and best practice anyway).
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All of the above work well as so-called Fisher-Price Starter Serums for those who have not previously incorporated Fisher-Price Starter Serums into their daily routine. But as an avid serum fan, I don’t hesitate to use them on my face. .
