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Loose Powder Guide: Types, Coverage, Shades & How to Apply Loose Powder

Learn how loose powder helps set makeup, control shine, and create a smooth, long-lasting finish. Explore different types like translucent, setting, baking, and finishing powders and how to use them for a flawless look.

Ultimate Serum Guide: Types, Benefits, and How to Choose the Right Formula

Serums are concentrated treatments designed to target specific skin concerns like acne, dryness, dark spots, and aging. This guide helps you find the best one for your skin.

What Is a Serum?

A serum is a lightweight skincare product packed with active ingredients that penetrate deeply into the skin.

Types of Face Serums

Hydrating

Boosts moisture and plumps skin.

Vitamin C

Brightens and evens tone.

Retinol

Targets fine lines and texture.

Niacinamide

Controls oil and reduces pores.

Hyaluronic Acid

Deep hydration support.

Acne Treatment

Helps clear breakouts.

Best Face Serums Overall

★★★★☆ 4.6

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Best For: Oily / Acne-prone Why: Reduces breakouts and controls oil Shop Product

★★★★★ 4.8

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

Best For: Anti-aging / Brightening Why: Powerful antioxidant vitamin C serum Shop Product

★★★★☆ 4.7

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum

Best For: Dry / Sensitive Why: Deep hydration and skin repair Shop Product

★★★★☆ 4.5

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

Best For: Dry / Dehydrated Why: Lightweight hydration boost Shop Product

Best Serums by Skin Type

Oily Skin

★★★★☆ Best Pick: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Why: Helps control oil, reduce breakouts, and minimize pores Shop Product

Dry Skin

★★★★★ Best Pick: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum Why: Deep hydration that plumps and restores moisture Shop Product

Combination Skin

★★★★☆ Best Pick: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Serum (or Hyaluronic Acid Serum) Why: Balances oily and dry areas without clogging pores Shop Product

Sensitive Skin

★★★★★ Best Pick: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermallergo Serum Why: Soothes irritation and strengthens the skin barrier Shop Product

Best Serums by Skin Concern

Acne & Breakouts

★★★★☆ Best Pick: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Why: Helps reduce breakouts, control excess oil, and refine pores for clearer skin Shop Product

Dryness & Dehydration

★★★★★ Best Pick: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum Why: Intensely hydrates, plumps skin, and strengthens the moisture barrier Shop Product

Dark Spots & Dullness

★★★★☆ Best Pick: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Why: Brightens skin tone, fades dark spots, and boosts overall radiance Shop Product

Sensitivity & Redness

★★★★★ Best Pick: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule Why: Calms irritation, reduces redness, and supports skin healing Shop Product

How to Apply Serum

Morning Routine

Apply after cleansing
Use 1–2 pumps
Follow with moisturizer + SPF

Night Routine

Apply after cleansing
Use treatment serums (retinol, acne)
Follow with moisturizer

Pro Tips

Layer thinnest to thickest
Don’t mix strong actives (retinol + acids)
Start slowly with active serums

Not Sure Which Serum to Choose?

Goal	Best Type
Hydration	Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Brightening	Vitamin C Serum
Anti-aging	Retinol Serum
Oil control	Niacinamide Serum
Acne	Acne Treatment Serum
Sensitive skin	Barrier Repair Serum

Explore More Skincare Guides

Moisturizer Guide Serum Guide Sunscreen Guide Toner Guide