CHOOSING THE RIGHT SERUM!


In this series, we help you find the best product for your skin type or concern. Firstly lets understand the difference between a serum and cream! A serum is a smooth, non oily formula that is enriched with active ingredients and is capable of absorbing more effectively than lotions and creams. If you have a particular skincare concern like dark spots or wrinkles, a serum may be the turbo boost you need. Typically made up of smaller molecules, serums tend to absorb deeper into the skin. “The absorption is so heightened, you can really deliver a big punch with a very small amount,” says O3+ Global Skin Expert, Priti Singh. Most skin types can benefit from a serum depending on the active ingredients used in the formulation,” says Priti. Since they come in such variety, look for formulas that target your skin concern. Think of serums as a best supporting actor and not a solo act. While very oily complexions might be able to get away with using just a serum, most dry-normal complexions will need to layer moisturizer on top. Plus, applying actives under your moisturizer helps seals them in,” says O3+ Celebrity Skin Expert Meetah Thakkar. So, after cleansing, apply just a couple of drops of serum (less is more here) on a slightly damp face and then follow with your thicker formulations like lotion or cream. Here, some of our favorite picks which target common concerns:

Dryness


During very cold winters, you’d layer thermals under your clothes and top it with a sweater and a scarf right? Applying only a moisturizer is akin to wearing just a shirt in the dead of winter. Instead, create a layering strategy. You want to cleanse with a moisturizing wash and follow with toners and essence that also contain hydrators like hyaluronic acid, glycerin or shea butter. The hydrating moisture serum from O3+ contains a blend of oils in its formulation. Argan oil provides moisture that doesn’t feel greasy. Other benefits? Argan oil also promotes elasticity so skin can retain it’s bounce.

In addition, Hyaluronic acid promote firmness and moisture. Jojoba oil provides lightweight hydration, and meadow and Vitamin E brightens and protects. Pat 1-2 drops of the serum onto your complexion before applying your moisturizer.

Acne Prone


Most of us believe in drying acne out and avoiding hydration but this is not the correct solution as skin becomes dehydrated leading to other concerns such as pre mature ageing etc. In turn it is also said that, drying out acne prone skin will actually cause it to produce more oil. Balance your complexion with a lightweight fluid like the O3+ Seaweed Serum . A blend of sea water and algae help in controlling acne due to the anti bacterial & purifying action in the Seaweed. Moreover the Acnesis serum also enriched with the purest form of Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid helps in controlling the excess sebum and prevents acne!

This serum is your best bet if you are struggling with acne! It also gives a lightening effect on post acne marks!

Anti-aging


Mature skin can face a few issues. As skin ages, it tends to lose its ability to hold onto moisture well. Sun damage accumulated over the decades can cause uneven tone, lines, wrinkles and sagging. Try going for Vitamin A Retinol enriched serums that help in strengthening the collagen! Our Skin & Life style expert, Shalini Shivdasani loves the O3+ Youth Drop serum . It’s full of antioxidants to protect against sun damage, a botanical and floral complex helps in encouraging cell turnover and hyaluronic acid helps in boosting moisture.

Brightening


Dark spots can be notoriously hard to get rid of so serums are really essential to deliver a targeted dose of brightening ingredients. Look for skin friendly ingredients like licorice root, niacinamide and kojic acid can help fade spots. We recommend the O3+ Brighten Up serum which contains C11, O3+ Patent technology of Vitamin A, C & E to soothen and brighten the skin. It also provides a potent dose of antioxidants to prevent further sun damage and darkening of spots. Niacinmide helps fight against inflammation and dullness. Aloe and ceramides strengthen the skin barrier so it can function at its optimum levels. For dark spots we recommend the O3+ Agelock Vitamin C Serum that effectivity reduces dark spots and uneven skin tone due to the high potency of the purest form of Vitamin C serum.