Do you need a serum? In a word: yes. The case for this skincare superhero, and how to incorporate one (or more!) into your regimen.

 

With so many different types of products on the market, it’s intimidating to figure out exactly what your skin needs. There are elaborate, daunting multi-step regimens made so popular by the K-beauty craze, there is the uber-minimalist school, and there is always the throw-a-bunch-of-random products in the mix approach, which definitely seems to be the most popular. But can this style be effective? Probably not.

 

How to Create a Skincare Regimen

The most effective way to reap the benefits of the products you’re applying is to exercise consistency. Even the most efficacious formulas require that you give them a chance—you need to be patient in order to see results. (Most dermatologists recommend using a new product for 30 days at the very least.) And on that note, unless a dermatologist specifically recommends a complex regimen—and chance are, they won’t—as long as you are using clinically-tested products that work for your skin type, a less-is-more approach is almost always wise, not to mention time- and money-saving. Again, consistency is everything. In fact, medical advisors Dr. Eva Simmons-O’Brien and Dr. Diane Orlinsky AKA “The Lady Derm Docs” found that after their patients religiously used the Ourself Everyday Regimen as directed for two weeks, users reported benefits like visibly better skin overall.

 

Step One: Choose the Right Cleanser

There are literally thousands of face washes to choose from, and the truth is, the best ones tend to work for all skin types. After all, the point is to gently remove dirt, makeup, and debris to keep pores from clogging, remove surface dead skin cells, and to prepare your skin to receive more concentrated products meant to treat skin (rather than cleanser, where after it does its job, you’re basically washing it down the sink.

 

That said, there are also myriad options should you desire a cleansing experience that’s a little more tailored for your specific skin type. For example, if you have very dry skin, you might consider a creamy cleanser. Oily or combination skin types might benefit from a gel texture, and very sensitive types may look for especially gentle, hypoallergenic formulas.

 

Step Two: Make Serum Work For You

Back to our original question: If you want to see real results at home, serums are the most effective route to achieve them. In essence, a serum is specially formulated with more concentrated doses of active ingredients designed to target specific skin concerns. Because serums are so potent, dermatologists and estheticians often recommend you apply them as your first layer of product after cleansing.

 

For daily clarity and to halt hyperpigmentation at its source—before it even begins—immediately follow cleansing with Daily Dark Spot Intercept as your first line of defense to help prevent dark spots in all of their forms. Formulated with a combination of Brightening Intides™—intelligent peptides—niacinamide, and vitamin c, this serum soothes, calms redness, and helps defend skin against environmental assaults, every single day.

 

Ready to kick things up another notch? Meet HA+ Replenishing Serum with Subtopical Firming Technology™. This groundbreaking new serum immediately replenishes both hydration and moisture, and over time, visibly recovers volume and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles at the source. Clinical studies showed that 92 percent of users said skin feels more hydrated and supple, and that skin texture looks and feels smoother; (and this product is already raking in rave reviews from those who are reporting astounding results). Layer on top of Daily Dark Spot Intercept to achieve a smoother, more supple, and dewy complexion.

 

Step 3: Moisturizer Is a Must

Everyone needs a moisturizer to hydrate and soften, to protect your outermost skin barrier, and to help seal in the efficacious ingredients that your serum delivers. And because you need to use this product every day, choose wisely. Look for ingredients that will work harder and stronger.

 

Ourself Daily Renewal Cream was formulated with and tested by dermatologists and is recommended for all skin types. However, if you tend to have drier skin or are looking to increase hydration levels as cooler weather arrives, consider Daily Renewal Cream Rich, a well, richer version of the original. Both are packed with Firming Intides™—intelligent peptides—brightening niacinamide, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and skin nourishing antioxidants. Apply directly after serum.

 

Step 4: SPF Is the Ultimate Essential

The final step in every skincare regimen—no matter what products you are using—is the cherry on top: sunscreen. While many skip this step, it is actually the most crucial part of any antiaging protocol to prevent UV damage that causes fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture, and hyperpigmentation, not to mention skin cancer. The key is to identify a SPF that not only protects, but like moisturizer, incorporates additional ingredients that actually make your skin healthier with each use.

 

Ourself Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is an elegant solution. The texture is silky and once applied and blended, leaves no white cast, regardless of skin tone. It’s a mineral sunscreen, which means it works well for all skintypes, including sensitive, and it’s non-nano and reef friendly. Besides the zinc oxide-provided SPF 50 protection, the formula also contains Firming Intides™, niacinamide to help Improve the function of the skin barrier, antioxidants vitamin e, sunflower extract, and bisabolol, plus soothing rice bran extract and jojoba esters. Like any great skincare product, you’ll see an improved complexion with consistent usage.

 

To recap:

 

Step 1: Cleanser

 

Step 2: Daily Dark Spot Intercept followed by HA+ Replenishing Serum

 

Step 3: Daily Renewal Cream or Daily Renewal Cream Rich

 

Step 4: Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50