How to choose a face serum according to your skin type? The complete guide
Choosing a face serum can quickly become confusing. Between botanical oils, hydrating active ingredients, formulas for blemishes, and anti-aging treatments, it's not always easy to know which product truly suits your skin.
However, a well-chosen serum can become one of the simplest and most enjoyable steps in a skincare routine. Its concentrated formula addresses a specific need, whether it's nourishing dry skin, soothing sensitive skin, balancing combination skin, or improving the comfort of mature skin.
The best serum is not necessarily the most complex: it's the one that matches your skin type, your current concerns, and the texture you enjoy using.
In this buying guide, we help you recognize your skin's needs, understand the differences between the main formulas, and choose a suitable face serum without unnecessarily multiplying products.
What is a face serum actually for?
A serum is a concentrated treatment designed to complement the basic steps of a routine, such as cleansing and moisturizing. It is generally characterized by a light or fluid texture and a formula aimed at a specific need.
Depending on its composition, a serum can help improve skin suppleness, enhance its feeling of comfort, support its hydration, or balance the appearance of oilier areas. Oil serums can also help reduce the feeling of tightness by depositing a thin protective layer on the skin's surface.
Unlike a cream, which usually contains a mixture of water, oils, and texturizing agents, a serum can be formulated in different ways. Some are composed mainly of water and moisturizing active ingredients, while others rely on a blend of carefully selected botanical oils.
Important: a serum does not necessarily replace a moisturizer. Oily skin may sometimes benefit from a light serum used alone, while dry skin will often prefer to apply a cream after the serum to enhance its comfort.
A serum must address a specific need
It is not necessary to use several serums at the same time to achieve a complete routine. A versatile and well-adapted formula can be sufficient, especially when used regularly.
Before choosing, it is therefore helpful to ask yourself a few simple questions: does the skin feel tight after cleansing? Does it quickly become shiny? Does it react easily to fragranced products? Does it have both dry and oily areas? Are you primarily looking for comfort, suppleness, or a minimalist formula?
Skin type and concern: what's the difference?
Skin type describes its general behavior. It tends to remain relatively stable, although it can evolve with age, hormones, seasons, or certain lifestyle habits.
A skin concern, on the other hand, is a temporary or particular need. Naturally oily skin, for example, can become dehydrated after prolonged exposure to cold. Dry skin can also occasionally experience blemishes.
Therefore, it is possible to have oily and dehydrated skin, dry skin with blemishes, or normal skin that has become temporarily sensitive.
Skin type
It describes the natural sebum production and the skin's general behavior: dry, normal, combination, or oily.
Sensitivity
It can be constant or occasional. It often manifests as a feeling of discomfort, redness, or a reaction to certain products.
Concerns
Dehydration, dullness, blemishes, or visible signs of aging can appear on several skin types.
To choose a serum, both elements must therefore be considered. The skin type helps determine the formula's texture and richness, while the concern indicates which ingredients or properties to look for.
How to identify your skin type?
To observe your skin's natural behavior, cleanse your face with a gentle product, pat it dry gently, and wait about thirty minutes without applying any skincare products.
Then, observe the sensations and overall appearance of the skin. This simple test does not replace a professional evaluation, but it can provide a good indication to guide your choice.
Dry skin
It may feel tight after cleansing, lack suppleness, and have rough or uncomfortable areas, especially on the cheeks or around the mouth. It generally appreciates nourishing and protective formulas.
Oily skin
It produces more sebum and can become shiny quickly, especially on the forehead, nose, and chin. Pores may appear more visible.
Combination skin
It combines an oilier T-zone with normal or drier cheeks. It often requires a balanced formula that doesn't weigh down shiny areas.
Normal skin
It generally experiences little tightness and little excessive shine. However, it can benefit from a serum to maintain its suppleness or address a specific concern.
What about sensitive skin?
Sensitivity is not always considered a distinct skin type. Dry, oily, combination, or normal skin can also be sensitive.
If your skin reacts easily, opt for a simple formula, use few products at a time, and introduce each new product gradually. A patch test on a small area can also verify tolerance before full application.
Which serum to choose for dry skin?
Dry skin naturally produces less sebum. It can lack suppleness, feel tight after cleansing, and have rough areas, especially on the cheeks or around the mouth.
For this skin type, look for a serum that helps nourish the skin's surface and limit the feeling of discomfort. Serums composed of botanical oils are often appreciated, as they deposit a thin protective layer that slows moisture loss.
A nourishing texture
A slightly richer formula can improve skin suppleness and reduce the feeling of tightness after cleansing.
Botanical oils
Jojoba, argan, and rosehip are often incorporated into treatments for dry or uncomfortable skin.
A cream as a complement
When the skin remains uncomfortable, apply a cream after the serum to strengthen the protection on its surface.
GLØD: an option for dry and lacking-in-suppleness skin
The GLØD serum is an interesting option for dry skin or those looking for a more nourishing formula. Its combination of botanical oils, including argan, rosehip, and jojoba, is particularly suitable for routines focused on comfort and suppleness.
As it is an oil serum, a few drops are enough. It can be applied alone when the skin is comfortable or followed by a cream when the skin tends to feel tighter.
Usage tip: apply the serum to still slightly damp skin. This facilitates its spread and helps maintain a softer feeling after application.
Which serum to choose for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin can react more quickly to temperature changes, fragranced products, exfoliants, or an overly complex routine. It may experience temporary redness, a sensation of heat, or discomfort after applying certain products.
In this case, simplicity is often preferable. Choose a short formula, introduce only one new product at a time, and avoid combining several concentrated treatments in the same routine.
- Opt for a simple formula. The fewer products in the routine, the easier it is to identify what suits or doesn't suit your skin.
- Perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the serum to an inconspicuous area before using it on your entire face.
- Start gradually. Use the serum a few evenings a week before moving to daily application.
- Avoid introducing too many new products. Wait a few days before adding another product to your routine.
- Discontinue use if discomfort persists. A burning sensation or a prolonged reaction should not be ignored.
LIV: a gentle formula for a comforting routine
The LIV serum, formulated notably with hemp oil and chamomile, may be suitable for people seeking a gentle, comfort-focused routine.
Its oily texture allows for gentle facial massage without multiplying products. For sensitive skin, it is best to start with one or two drops, then adjust the quantity according to the skin's reaction and needs.
Vegetable squalane for a minimalist approach
When hesitating before a formula containing several ingredients, vegetable squalane represents a simple option. Its light texture spreads easily and can suit different skin types, including minimalist routines.
It can be used alone or mixed with a small amount of cream to add more suppleness without creating a complex routine.
Which serum to choose for combination or oily skin?
Oily skin produces more sebum, while combination skin generally has a shinier T-zone and normal or drier cheeks.
It is not necessary to completely avoid oil serums. The most important thing is to choose a light texture, use a small amount, and observe how the skin reacts.
Shiny skin can also lack water. Adding very drying products risks stimulating discomfort without correcting the imbalance.
Light texture
Opt for a serum that spreads easily and does not leave a heavy or sticky feeling on the skin's surface.
Small quantity
Start with one or two drops. Excessive application can give a heavy feeling, even with a suitable formula.
Balanced routine
Avoid combining a very harsh cleanser, frequent exfoliation, and several targeted treatments in the same routine.
RIKKE: for combination, oily, or blemish-prone skin
The RIKKE serum combines jojoba, tea tree, and lavender. It is particularly aimed at people looking for a light treatment for combination, oily, or occasionally blemish-prone skin.
Jojoba is often appreciated because its texture is relatively light. To avoid weighing down the skin, apply only a few drops and focus on the areas that truly need it.
To avoid: trying to completely dry out oily skin. An overly aggressive routine can cause more discomfort and make the skin harder to balance.
Which serum to choose for mature skin?
Over time, skin can produce less sebum, lose some of its suppleness, and become more easily uncomfortable. However, needs vary from person to person: mature skin can be dry, normal, combination, or sensitive.
The choice should therefore not be based solely on age. It is more relevant to observe the skin's current needs: lack of comfort, drier texture, loss of radiance, or preference for a nourishing formula.
Botanical oils are particularly interesting in this type of routine because they facilitate massage and leave the skin more supple. A serum can also be used with a gua sha, provided enough product is applied to avoid pulling on the skin.
Seek comfort rather than excessive promises
No cosmetic serum can completely erase wrinkles or stop the natural aging of the skin. However, a well-chosen formula can improve its general appearance, support its suppleness, and reduce the sensation of dryness.
For mature skin that also becomes drier, GLØD generally represents the most nourishing option in the ORÉRA selection. Squalane, on the other hand, may be suitable for people who want a simpler and lighter formula.
- Choose a texture you will enjoy using regularly.
- Apply the serum without rubbing or stretching the skin.
- Add a cream if the skin remains dry or uncomfortable.
- Use sun protection during the day.
- Evaluate skin comfort rather than seeking immediate results.
Which ORÉRA serum to choose? Our comparison
The three ORÉRA face serums have an oily texture suitable for massage with fingers or a gua sha stone. Their difference lies mainly in the botanical oils and botanical extracts that make up their formulas.
The choice therefore depends less on age than on the skin's current behavior. A person can also change serums according to the seasons: a lighter formula during the summer and a more nourishing formula when the skin becomes dry in winter.
GLØD
For dry, normal, or mature skin.
Its blend of argan, rosehip, and jojoba is suitable for people seeking more suppleness, comfort, and a nourishing texture for facial massage.
LIV
For sensitive or easily uncomfortable skin.
Hemp and chamomile make it an interesting option for a gentle routine, especially when the skin reacts easily or lacks comfort.
RIKKE
For combination, oily, or blemish-prone skin.
Its light formula based on jojoba, tea tree, and lavender is more suitable for people seeking a purifying treatment without completely drying out the skin.
- Choose GLØD if your skin feels tight, lacks suppleness, or becomes drier over time.
- Choose LIV if your priority is the comfort of sensitive or easily reactive skin.
- Choose RIKKE if your skin quickly becomes shiny or regularly experiences blemishes.
- Choose squalane if you prefer a formula composed of a single ingredient, without added fragrance.
- Choose bakuchiol if you are looking for a targeted active ingredient to carefully integrate into a mature skin routine.
Discover ORÉRA's three facial serums
Each serum comes in a 15 ml size. Three to four drops are usually enough to massage the entire face, allowing a small amount to be used for each application.
Squalane and bakuchiol: two other options to consider
GLØD, LIV, and RIKKE are complete blends of plant oils and botanical extracts. Squalane and bakuchiol offer a different approach: the former simplifies the routine, while the latter targets a specific concern.
Vegetable squalane for a minimalist routine
Olive-derived vegetable squalane is made of a single ingredient. Its light texture nourishes the skin's surface without the richer feel that some oil blends can leave.
It's an interesting option if you're looking for an unscented product, have sensitive skin, or simply want to add a few drops to your moisturizer.
Apply two to four drops to slightly damp skin or mix a small amount with your cream. It can suit dry, normal, combination, or sensitive skin, provided the amount used is adjusted.
Is squalane a serum? It can be used as an oil serum, but its formula is much simpler than GLØD, LIV, or RIKKE. It contains only one emollient and has no scented botanical synergy.
Bakuchiol for a more targeted routine
Bakuchiol is a botanical extract particularly sought after in routines for mature skin, lack of radiance, and the appearance of fine lines or uneven skin tone.
However, ORÉRA cosmetic bakuchiol extract is not a ready-to-apply serum. It is a concentrate that must be added to a moisturizer or compatible formula, following the instructions on the product sheet.
For a simpler and already formulated option, SARYAH night cream contains bakuchiol and cranberry. It can be applied after a serum like GLØD or squalane, depending on the skin's needs.
Important: Do not apply concentrated bakuchiol extract directly to the face. Follow the recommended dosage, introduce it gradually, and perform a patch test before regular use.
How to correctly apply a face serum?
The way a serum is applied influences both skin comfort and the amount of product used. Excessive application does not necessarily make the treatment more effective and can leave a too-rich feeling, especially with an oil serum.
For GLØD, LIV, and RIKKE serums, a few drops are usually enough to cover the entire face and neck. Start with a small amount, then add another drop only if the product does not spread sufficiently on the skin.
- Cleanse your face. Use a cleanser suitable for your skin, then gently pat it dry without rubbing.
- Leave the skin slightly damp. A slight dampness facilitates serum distribution and allows for the use of a smaller amount.
- Warm a few drops between your hands. Then spread the serum on your face with gentle movements.
- Massage without pulling the skin. Use upward strokes and avoid vigorous rubbing.
- Add a cream if needed. Dry skin may appreciate a cream after the serum, while oilier skin may sometimes prefer to use the serum alone.
- Apply sunscreen in the morning. Serum does not replace adequate sun protection when exposed to the sun.
In what order should products be applied?
As a general rule, products are applied from lightest to richest. A simple routine can therefore follow this order:
1. Cleanse
Remove impurities, makeup, and excess sebum with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin.
2. Apply serum
Apply a few drops to your face and gently massage until the product is well distributed.
3. Complete
Add a moisturizer if your skin needs it, then sunscreen during the day.
When using a water-based serum and an oil-based serum in the same routine, generally apply the water-based serum first, then the oil-based serum. However, this layering is not mandatory: a short and consistent routine is often easier to maintain.
Can a serum be used with a gua sha?
Oil serums are particularly suitable for facial massage with a gua sha stone, as they provide the necessary glide to avoid pulling on the skin.
First, apply a few drops of serum, then check that the stone moves easily. If it snags or pulls the skin, add a small amount of product before continuing.
- Always start with clean skin.
- Use light, comfortable pressure.
- Slide the stone slowly, without abrupt movements.
- Avoid irritated, painful, or broken skin areas.
- Clean the stone after each use.
- Stop the massage if the skin becomes uncomfortable.
To remember: Gua sha is a massage accessory. It does not replace choosing a suitable formula, a regular routine, or daily sun protection.
Common mistakes when choosing a serum
A serum can be very pleasant to use when it matches the skin's needs. However, many disappointments come from a poorly chosen formula, an excessive quantity, or a routine that has become too complex.
- Choosing solely based on age. Mature skin is not necessarily dry, just as young skin can lack comfort.
- Using too much product. A few drops are usually enough. A too generous amount can leave a heavy finish without providing more benefits.
- Introducing several treatments at the same time. It then becomes difficult to determine which one works or causes a reaction.
- Confusing oily skin with hydrated skin. Skin can produce a lot of sebum while lacking water.
- Multiplying targeted ingredients. A very busy routine increases the risk of discomfort and becomes harder to maintain.
- Applying a pure concentrate directly to the skin. A cosmetic extract like concentrated bakuchiol must only be used according to the product's instructions.
- Changing serum after a few applications. Unless there's a reaction, it's best to allow the skin time to adapt before evaluating overall comfort.
How to make a choice when you're still undecided?
When several serums seem suitable, start by identifying your main priority. Are you looking for more comfort, a gentle formula, a light treatment for shiny areas, or a routine composed of a single ingredient?
Dry or mature skin
Choose GLØD if you're looking for a nourishing texture focused on suppleness and comfort.
Sensitive skin
Choose LIV for a gentle synergy or squalane for a particularly minimalist routine.
Combination or oily skin
Opt for RIKKE and start with a very small amount to maintain a light feel.
Targeted routine
Consider bakuchiol for a routine dedicated to the visible signs of aging, always following its instructions for use.
There's no need to choose multiple serums. A suitable formula, used regularly and in small quantities, often forms the best base.
Frequently asked questions about face serums
Can a serum replace a moisturizer?
It depends on the serum and skin type. Combination or oily skin may sometimes appreciate a light serum used alone. Dry skin will generally prefer to apply a cream after the serum to enhance its comfort.
How many drops should be used?
Start with two or three drops for the face. Add one only if the product doesn't spread enough. A larger quantity is not necessarily more beneficial.
Can a serum be used morning and night?
Yes, when it's well-tolerated and its instructions allow it. It can also be used only at night or a few times a week, depending on the skin's needs.
Can oily skin use an oil serum?
Yes. The choice of formula and the quantity used are important. Oily skin may prefer a light texture applied in a very small amount rather than a rich treatment used generously.
What's the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin?
Dry skin produces less sebum, while dehydrated skin lacks water. All skin types, including oily skin, can experience temporary dehydration.
Is squalane suitable for sensitive skin?
Its simple formula can be interesting for a minimalist routine. However, tolerance is individual; it's best to perform a patch test before full use.
Is bakuchiol a serum?
Bakuchiol is a cosmetic active ingredient that can be integrated into various products. A concentrated bakuchiol is not necessarily a ready-to-use serum and should not be applied directly to the skin if its product sheet requires dilution.
Can squalane be mixed with a cream?
Yes. One or two drops can be mixed with a portion of cream in the palm of your hand just before application.
Can several serums be combined?
It's possible, but rarely essential. Introduce products gradually and avoid accumulating several targeted actives without a specific reason.
How long should you try a serum?
Comfort and texture can be evaluated quickly, but the skin's overall appearance requires more consistency. In the absence of a reaction, use the treatment regularly before deciding if it fits your routine.
When should use be discontinued?
Stop using the product if you observe a persistent burning sensation, significant irritation, swelling, or an unusual reaction. Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Kristel Audet
Founder and creator of natural skincare
The information presented in this guide is general. A cosmetic serum contributes to the comfort and appearance of the skin but does not replace a diagnosis or medical treatment. In case of a significant reaction, persistent acne, or a worrying skin problem, consult a healthcare professional.
