What is the Difference Between Face Cream and Serum

The main difference between face cream and serum is that face serums are lighter and more absorbent than face creams, which are thicker and stay on the surface of the face.

Face cream and serum are two cosmetic products that help to protect and improve the appearance of the skin on the face. Many people will use both as part of their skincare routine.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Face Cream
– Definition, Consistency, Formulation, Use
2. What is a Face Serum
– Definition, Consistency, Formulation, Use
3. Difference Between Face Cream and Serum
– Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Cream, Face Cream, Serum

What is a Face Cream

The face cream is a cosmetic product we apply to the skin of the face to moisturize, protect, and improve its appearance. Creams generally contain up of more than 20% of water and volatiles and less than 50% of hydrocarbons, waxes, or polyols. The water in face cream helps to hydrate and soothe the skin, while the oil helps to lock in moisture and create a barrier to protect the skin from environmental damage. Face creams are typically thicker and more emollient than lotions or gels. They are also consistently spreadable.

There are many different types of face creams in the market, each addressing specific skin concerns. For example, moisturizing creams add moisture to the skin and prevent dryness. They often contain ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin. Moreover, anti-aging creams help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. They often contain retinol, antioxidants, and other ingredients that promote collagen production and protect the skin from environmental damage. Sunscreen creams are another common type of face cream. They protect the skin from UV radiation which causes sun damage. Meanwhile, acne cream help to control and prevent acne. They often contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores.

What is a Face Serum

A face serum is a skincare product we apply to the face after cleansing and before moisturizing. It is typically a lightweight, fast-absorbing liquid or gel that is applied to the skin before moisturizer. A serum is generally made up of small molecules that can penetrate deeply into the skin and deliver active ingredients to the lower layers. Serums typically contain higher concentrations of ingredients such as antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and other nutrients that are beneficial for the skin. The purpose of serum is to target specific skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and dullness.

Facial serums are often formulated with specific types of active ingredients, such as Vitamin C (to brighten the skin and boost collagen production), retinoids (reduce the fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin texture), and hyaluronic acid (hydrate and plump the skin) Moreover, facial serums are generally more potent and expensive than other skincare products.

Difference Between Face Cream and Serum

Definition

The face cream is a non-transparent, soft, and viscous semisolid we apply on the skin of the face to moisturize, protect, and improve its appearance. Face serum, on the other hand, is a lightweight, fast-absorbing liquid or gel we apply to the face after cleansing and before moisturizing.

Consistency

Serums are typically more fluid and lightweight than creams. Creams are typically thicker and more emollient, and they tend to sit on the surface of the skin.

Formulation

Serums are made up of smaller molecules and contain higher concentrations of active ingredients like antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and other nutrients that are beneficial for the skin. Creams, on the other hand, typically contain thicker ingredients like oils and waxes and have lower concentrations of active ingredients.

Use

Serums are applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. They target specific skin concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and dullness. Creams are typically used as a moisturizer, and their main function is to hydrate and protect the skin.

Conclusion

The main difference between face cream and serum is that face serums are lighter and more absorbent than face creams, which are thicker and stay on the surface of the face. In general, serums are a good choice for those with specific skincare concerns, but one can use the cream as a moisturizer for daily use.