Every self-respecting woman, starting from the age of 25-30, thinks about skin care. At this age, the epidermis begins to lose its elasticity, it is easily damaged and dried out from external factors. It becomes necessary to use special means to maintain it in good condition.
Cream is a classic remedy for protecting and moisturizing it. It has a consistency that allows it to penetrate deep into the pores and moisturize the distant layers of the epidermis. In addition to the cream, other cosmetic preparations for the face can be found on sale - milk, gel, mask, scrub, tonic, micellar water.
Sometimes it happens that a cream or tonic stops giving the desired effect, in which case a serum (concentrate) comes to the rescue. Not many people know how the cream differs from the serum. The main difference lies in the increased concentration of biologically active components in the latter. Initially, concentrates were considered medicinal preparations and were sold in pharmacies, but over time they began to be used in cosmetology - and are now gaining more and more popularity.
Most of these drugs can only be prescribed by a professional cosmetologist, but some of them can be used in daily care without consulting a specialist. Nevertheless, we recommend not prescribing concentrated substances on our own, since they can do more harm than good.
In this article, we will consider what concentrates are, what their types are, as well as tips and tricks for use, the composition and rating of the best whey manufacturers presented in Russia. Let's take a closer look at how to choose the best concentrate for the face and neck, and what to look for in order not to make mistakes when choosing.
Content
Care cosmetics in the form of cream or milk are not suitable for every woman. Some of them do not like the feeling of something foreign on the face (since not all substances are completely absorbed, some of them create an invisible film that prevents the epidermis from breathing). According to buyers, the use of concentrates also avoids the shine that occurs when using creams on oily and combination skin.
Concentrates contain 10 or more times more active substances than conventional cosmetics.At the same time, only 1 or 2 components are active of them, the rest of the ingredients help the substance to get to the place where its effectiveness will be most needed, and also consolidate the result obtained. Serums do not contain oils, fragrances, and stabilizers, their active ingredients give the maximum effect when applied to the face, compared to standard cosmetics. Despite the fact that earlier this type of cosmetics was considered to be formulations used mainly by older women, now there are more and more new products for young people. Among them, models for the care of problematic skin of adolescents are popular.
The main differences between serums and other cosmetic products:
Modern serums can be used from the age of 18 and over.
Since such substances have a concentrated composition, when applied in large quantities, they can cause allergic reactions in the body. Most types of cosmetics of this type on the label have instructions for use, which says that a few drops are enough for one application, they need to be applied with massaging movements, without rubbing.
Some women, especially those with dry skin, may experience a feeling of tightness and flaking after applying the substance. In this case, you need to apply the product together with the cream, before or after it.
The following active ingredients are most often used in concentrates:
When choosing a serum, experts recommend focusing not on the type of skin, but on the age for which they are intended, as well as the problem they must solve. Cosmetologists do not recommend using serum for aged skin for girls under 30 years old, since the effect of active ingredients can damage the skin and make it immune to their action.
It is imperative to take into account the season - in the summer you can use water-based formulations, and in the cold season - based on oils that help moisturize and nourish. In winter, it is not recommended to use cosmetics with an antiseptic effect, as it dries out the epidermis and leads to cracks.
In the presence of allergic reactions, hypersensitivity, you need to select cosmetics that take into account such features.
The best decision before buying this or that product would be a consultation with a professional cosmetologist who will select a concentrate that is right for your skin.
Cosmetologists recommend using such cosmetics in small quantities, just one or two drops are enough.
Most often, serum is sold in compact glass bottles designed for a full course.
Experts advise to tone the skin of the face and decollete before applying, and then evenly distribute the liquid over problem areas. If it is applied together with a cream, it is necessary to take a break of 10-15 minutes between applications so that the active substance is absorbed and activated. If you need to enhance the effect of the serum, it is recommended to peel before applying. This procedure is not recommended to be carried out constantly, but to use it only in emergency cases requiring an immediate result.
The composition is applied 1-2 times a day, the full course is 15-30 days, after which a break is required.It is advisable to conduct such courses 3-4 times a year, the effect of their application can last up to 6 months.
It is easy to distinguish a dry epidermis from a normal one - it constantly peels off, there is a feeling of tightness, burning, the epidermis is easily damaged by mechanical stress. It needs to be moisturized and saturated with lipids. When choosing a serum, you need to focus on formulations with hyaluronic acid, as well as containing various oils, vitamins, panthenol, phospholipids.
The composition belongs to a series of professional cosmetics. The manufacturer recommends using the product in conjunction with a special mask. Since it is available in tablet form, it must be placed in water, where the concentrate must be added later. After it dissolves, the mask is straightened and placed on the face. The exposure time is 10-15 minutes. After removal, the remaining liquid must be evenly distributed and rubbed in with massaging movements.
It is possible to use serum for professional procedures - phonophoresis, microcurrent therapy, iontophoresis. Also, the substance is widely used for cryotherapy. The action of the procedure is similar to rubbing your face with ice cubes. The manufacturer recommends pouring the composition into special molds, freezing it, and then massage the required area with gentle movements. This procedure tones the epidermis, contributes to its rejuvenation by improving blood microcirculation and narrowing the pores of the epidermis.
The composition includes the following components: glycerin, mint and hawthorn extract, aloe, mountain ash, citric acid, calcium chloride, and other auxiliary components. The average price is 777 rubles.
The cosmetics of the French company M 120 have been popular among cosmetologists for over 30 years. In Russia, this line of cosmetics has been used for about 20 years. France is well known as a country that applies innovative technologies in cosmetology. For the manufacture of line products, the latest developments and materials, natural ingredients are used.
The use of the serum increases the elasticity of the epidermis, moisturizes it and makes it feel soft, silky and comfortable. The feeling of tightness and peeling effect disappears.
The bottle is equipped with a special dispenser that allows you to get the required dose (1 dose corresponds to 1 press). The liquid is applied with soft, patting movements to the required area, after which the use of a care cream is mandatory.
The jar has a capacity of 50 ml. The composition is minimal - hydrolyzed soy proteins, linolenic acid, guaiazulene. The average price of a bottle is 2,200 rubles.
The lifting concentrate of this company is used to care for dry and normal skin of the face, neck and décolleté. Such cosmetics were created as an alternative to injections carried out in beauty salons.
Cosmetics are produced by the Russian company LITA-Tsvet LLC and are popular not only among professional cosmetologists, but also among women who look after themselves on their own. The composition is designed to moisturize dry and normal skin, nourish it and saturate it with useful substances.
The complex can be used in two ways - as a base before applying a moisturizing cream or before applying a caring mask to enhance its effect.The liquid is absorbed within a few minutes, may leave a sticky effect that disappears after a certain amount of time.
The visible result from the use of the liquid is noticeable after a few weeks. The complexion improves, the feeling of tightness, peeling and dryness disappears.
A distinctive feature of this cosmetics is the use of the Exolin complex, which compensates for the lack of natural moisturizing substances, saturates the epidermis with nutrients, and stimulates the production of its own collagen. According to the manufacturer, the composition contributes to the formation of the oval of the face, gives shine, evenness and smoothness.
The list of serum components is small: the proprietary complex "Exolin", castor oil, glycerin, a perfume composition with a rose scent. The label provides an overview of the active ingredients, the way of using the concentrate. It must be sprayed over the entire surface of the face, neck and décolleté, then rub in with light massage movements until it is completely absorbed (special attention should be paid to the area around the eyelids, mouth). Some time after application, you can use a day cream and apply a make-up.
The capacity of the bottle is 50 ml, however, due to the low consumption, the liquid lasts for several months. The average price is 1,500 rubles.
Professional cosmetics of the Dutch brand are most often associated with its Faromatic line, which is produced on the basis of natural essential oils.
The ingredients in the concentrates are completely natural and do not contain synthetic ingredients. They are made from flower and plant extracts. The result from the use of a cosmetic product is visible almost immediately.
The serum deeply moisturizes the epidermis, stimulates cell regeneration, and also helps to smooth wrinkles. The components improve water and protein balance, saturate with vitamins.
The liquid does not contain dyes and perfume additives, stabilizers and preservatives. The liquid can be used alone or added to masks, creams, gels. The substance is suitable for age categories from 20 to 50 years.
The liquid contains jojoba oil, aloe vera, chamomile, vitamin E, etc. The volume of the bottle is 30 ml. The average price is 1,200 rubles.
The concentrate differs from analogues in its unusual form - it is produced in the form of capsules designed for one use. They are designed to smooth out wrinkles, moisturize the deep layers of the epidermis, and improve its structure. The German manufacturer's line of self-care cosmetics is well known not only among professional cosmetologists, but also among women who want to preserve the youthfulness of their skin as much as possible. The main active ingredient is hyaluronic acid.
The composition has a delicate and soft texture, suitable for the area around the eyelids and around the eyes, does not cause allergies when applied, it is practically not felt on the face.
One capsule is sufficient for application on face, neck and décolleté. Capsules are a good base for applying cream and makeup later on. After application, no pellets appear, all cosmetics are evenly distributed. It can be used both day and night.
The substance does not contain parabens and sulfates, but the list of components is large, and consists mainly of synthetic ingredients.
The visible effect appears after several applications, the content after application is absorbed and eliminates flaking, evens out the skin, makes it soft.
The luxury professional cosmetics of the German brand Klapp are not well known in Russia. This is due to the high unit price. And since this is one of the main selection criteria when buying a product, most buyers do not even consider the products of this manufacturer.
Nevertheless, it is worthy of your attention, since the serum differs from analogues not only in its qualitative composition and care characteristics, but also in its long-lasting and visible effect.
The main active ingredient is the biologically active complex TCR3-Plus. Together with an extract of algae and special amino acids, it creates a thin film on the surface of the epidermis, which moisturizes its deep layers, helps to eliminate dryness and a feeling of tightness, softens and gives elasticity, an even color.
The concentrate uses Abyssinian oil to protect telomeres from damage and degradation. Seaweed extract contains a substance that regulates the level of moisture in the epidermis and has a tonic effect.
Cosmetologists recommend applying the serum twice a day - morning and evening. After a while, you can use the cream and apply makeup.
The product is intended for women over 35 years old. The volume of the tube is 50 ml. Average price - 5,500.
Oily skin is characterized by enlarged pores, shine, periodic inflammation due to clogged pores with excessive production of sebum. When choosing cosmetics for this type of epidermis, these features must be taken into account. For normal skin, the effect of toning, lifting (for older women), and moisturizing in winter is important.
The serum is designed to care for oily and mixed skin, tightens pores, restores and tones the epidermis, removes oily sheen.
The bottle is small, has a convenient dispenser, allows you to easily and evenly spray the composition on your face.
The serum is almost entirely natural.
The concentrate is made on the basis of:
The liquid is applied to the face and bikini area before using the cream, and can be applied topically as an antibacterial agent. The tool is used in courses, the duration of each is at least 10 procedures. Suitable for all ages.The capacity of the bottle is 30 ml. The average price is 1,150 rubles.
The serum is intended for oily skin, it is best applied at night, when the regeneration processes are actively taking place in the epidermis. The active ingredient - lilac stem cells - contribute to the normalization of the epidermis, eliminate oily sheen, and prevent the formation of comedones.
The rest of the ingredients contribute to the regeneration of the epidermis, tighten the pores, prevent inflammation and reduce the amount of acne, leading to their complete disappearance over time. This happens due to the regulation of the sebaceous glands, which stops the excessive formation of sebum.
The composition of the product is completely natural, it includes citric and mandelic acids, saw palmetto extract, oak and lilac stem cells, caraway and pumpkin seed oil, vitamin E, and other components.
It is recommended to apply the serum at night, after cleansing the skin with mousse or tonic. After a while, you can use the branded cream.
The tube has a small volume - 30 ml. Average price: 4,000 rubles. You can hardly find such cosmetics in stores, we recommend ordering it online through online stores. Despite how much one tube costs, we recommend paying attention to this tool, since it has proven itself well among cosmetologists.
The cosmetics of the famous Polish company Farmona are in demand not only among buyers, but also among professional cosmetologists. First of all, the concentrate in question is intended for oily and combination skin prone to inflammation of various origins (acne).
The serum not only reduces the production of sebum and prevents clogging of pores, but also relieves inflammation, irritation, and relieves pain.
Main active ingredients:
The composition is applied to the face and décolleté with light massaging movements, some time after application, you can use skin care cosmetics. Application using an ultrasonic apparatus is possible.
The product is sold in a cardboard box containing 5 ampoules. Each of them has a capacity of 5 ml. The cost of the set is 2 100 rubles.
The concentrate is produced in Russia using Italian technology.Italy is well known all over the world as a legislator of cosmetology, which is why the Russian brand Teana took advantage of the developments of its colleagues and released a product that is in demand among women with facial skin problems.
The serum normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, tightens pores, reduces oily sheen, moisturizes the epidermis, has an anti-inflammatory and bactericidal effect, reduces swelling and redness.
The feature of the series is 3D hyaluronic acid, which, unlike usual, penetrates into different layers of the epidermis, and acts where it is needed.
The serum is applied to the face or décolleté, either pointwise or completely. Previously, the surface must be cleaned with tonic or other means. It can be used in several ways: apply directly to the site of exposure, or add to the cream and apply in combination. To enhance the effect, after using the serum, you can apply an alginate mask.
It is not recommended to use liquid for the mesoscooter, as it is non-sterile and can cause allergic reactions. For the same reason, experts do not recommend using the drug during pregnancy or lactation.
An open bottle should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 3 days. The course is designed for 10-14 days, the substance must be applied daily.
One ampoule is enough for 3 times. It does not open very conveniently; it is best to draw the substance through a syringe. The box holds 10 ampoules of 2 ml. The manufacturer recommends the use of cosmetics of the same line in a complex to obtain a quick and long-lasting result.
It is not easy to make a choice which concentrate of which company is better, because the variety of the offered cosmetics makes the eyes run up. Before buying a serum, we recommend that you contact a professional cosmetologist who will determine your skin type and tell you which concentrate to buy.
When buying, it is worth paying attention not only to the price, but also to the composition, as well as the duration of the course. The more natural ingredients are used in a product, the healthier it is for the skin.
We hope that our article will help you make the right choice and find an effective remedy at the best price.