What is a Serum?
- Serum Maker
- May 7
- 4 min read
Updated: May 8
What Is a Serum? (And Why Your Skin’s Begging for One)
Let’s cut to the chase: if skincare were a concert, your serum would be the lead singer. Not the backup dancer, not the roadie—the star. That little bottle of magic often packs more punch than anything else in your routine. But what is it, really?
Like Espresso for Your Face
Think of your skincare routine like your morning coffee. Cleansers are your water—necessary but basic. Moisturizers? They're the cream. But serums? Honey, serums are the espresso shot. They're potent, targeted, and designed to get results fast.
In this post, you'll learn:
• What makes a serum different from lotions and creams
• Why serums cost more (and how to DIY them without breaking the bank)
• What kind of results you can expect—and how to spot the real deal
The Secret's in the Size (Molecule Size, That Is)
Serums are made with small molecules that sink deeper into the skin. Unlike creams that mostly sit on the surface, serums dive down and deliver active ingredients where they’re needed most.
Always apply your serum on clean, damp skin. Think of it like watering a plant before adding fertilizer—it helps ingredients absorb better.
A 2022 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that low-molecular-weight serums improved skin hydration by over 40% compared to traditional moisturizers.
“Serums are where science meets skincare,” says dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe. “They’re your powerhouse products.”
All About That Base (No Filler, Just Function)
Serums typically skip the heavy oils and waxes. That’s why they feel light but hit hard. You're paying for actives—not fluff. That's also why they're often pricier… or seem pricier.
But here's a little industry tea: many commercial serums contain less than 1% of the star ingredients they boast about on the label. That’s called the 1% rule—anything listed after the first 1% of ingredients is likely just there for marketing.
DIY serums let you control what’s in that 1%. No filler, just performance.
Serum vs. Moisturizer: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I skip moisturizer if I use a serum?” the answer is… sometimes. Serums deliver actives, but they don’t always lock in moisture. That’s your moisturizer’s job. Think of them as partners, not substitutes.
Apply serum first, let it absorb, then seal it in with a light moisturizer. Especially at night, when your skin’s in repair mode.
Not All Serums Are Created Equal
Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, peptides, retinol—the list goes on. The key? Choosing a serum that matches your skin goals.
Brightening? Go for Vitamin C.
Hydrating? Hyaluronic is your bestie.
Anti-aging? Ferulic acid + E + C is a power trio
A 2019 clinical trial showed that a 15% Vitamin C serum used daily reduced fine lines by 27% in 12 weeks.
“This is why you love Skinceuticals,” says every glow-obsessed influencer ever. (But you don’t have to pay $169 for it.)
Why You’ll Love Making Your Own
The biggest win of going DIY? Customization. You’re not stuck with a formula made for “normal” skin (what even is that?). You create the perfect blend for your face, with your goals, at a fraction of the cost.
And unlike store-bought bottles that sat on a shelf in a warehouse for who-knows-how-long, your serum is fresh, active, and ready to glow.
“Skincare should be smart, simple, and yours,” says... well, me, Serum Maker;)
Let’s Recap. Serums are:
• High-potency, deep-penetrating skin boosters
• Designed to deliver targeted results fast
• Often overpriced—but not when you make them yourself
Now that you know what a serum is, you’re ready to mix your first one. Check out serummaker.com. You’ll learn how to craft your own serums, using the highest concentrations of active ingredients. Get the skills. Save the money!
The Essentials course will get you up to speed quickly on what you need to know to make your own serum and creams at home. You can order the ingredients today and make it tomorrow. And we’re starting with the GOAT of all serums: the glow-getting, collagen-boosting Vitamin C + Ferulic + E formula that gives luxury brands a run for their money. Goodbye $169.00 pricetag! Hello $1.35 to make at home!
Ingredients I recommend:
Vitamin C | Active (Brightens skin, boosts collagen, and fights free radicals) | PURE 1 Lb. (453.6 g) |
Ferulic Acid Powder | Humectant (draws water into skin) | BOSS ESSENTIALS 30g |
Hyaluronic Acid Powder HMW** | Humectant, Intense hydration and surface plumping | Making Cosmetics 1.8 oz / 50 g (800,000-15,000kDa) |
Vitamin E oil | Humectant (hydrates & soothes skin) | Cliganic 4 oz /113g |
Some of the links are Amazon affiliate links. I only recommend products I use and trust. If you click and purchase, I may earn a small commission. This helps support Serum Maker so I can keep creating and sharing new formulas;) |
See full list of Serum Maker's Recommended Ingredients
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