Quick: What's the difference between a serum and a moisturizer? If you're a little stumped about the age-old serum vs. moisturizer question, don't worry! First, this is not a pop quiz, and second, we've called in the pros to help us sort this out. Herewith, read all about serum vs. moisturizer: From how the skincare products are different, to what each of them does, and how they can be used together to amp up skin health. Keep reading to finally uncover how serums and moisturizers differ—and to get pro tips on incorporating both into your skincare regime.
Meet the Expert
- Corey L. Hartman, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.
- Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Westport, Connecticut.
- Noelani González, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Bayamón, Puerto Rico.
- Dr. Tiina Meder is a dermatologist based in London and the founder of Meder Beauty.
What Is Serum?
"Serums are typically lightweight formulations that deliver potent concentrations of actives," explains dermatologist Corey L. Hartman. "They are usually thin and absorbent, leaving little, if anything, remaining on the surface of the skin."
Serums can take different forms. "Traditionally, the name serum was used to describe water-based skincare products," explains London-based dermatologist Dr. Tiina Meder. "Sometimes, you can see oil-based serums, but it is not common." Meder explains that serums can used for daily skincare, or as part of an active regime that targets specific needs such as acne, dryness, or age-related changes to the skin. Common types of serums include hyaluronic acid and vitamin c.
What Is Moisturizer?
"Moisturizers use a thicker formula to create a physical barrier that locks in hydration and prevents skin from drying out," says dermatologist Deann Mraz Robinson. "Additionally, they can enhance the functioning of the stratum corneum (the uppermost layer of skin that's made up of fat and oil skin cells) to help retain moisture." The key functionality of moisturizers is, naturally, to moisturize the skin, and thus they typically contain ingredients like the following:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Ceramides
- Organic oils such as macadamia, sweet almond, meadowfoam, borago, and enotera
- Vitamin E
- Carrageenan
Some moisturizers have added anti-aging ingredients, so they do double duty for your skin. But to address a difficult skincare problem (think: sun damage), you may want to combine your moisturizer with a quality serum.
