Understanding the Differences between Moisturisers, Serums, & Essences

If you’re new to skincare, it can be overwhelming initially, with the plethora of products available. Amongst them, moisturisers, serums, and essences are essential components of many skincare routines, with each serving a distinct purpose and formulated differently to address specific skin needs. In this article, we will explore the characteristics and benefits of these products by skincare specialist MD Dermatics Singapore to help you better understand their roles in achieving healthy and radiant skin.

Moisturiser: Hydration and Moisture Retention

Moisturisers are a fundamental part of any skincare regimen, acting as a barrier that seals in moisture and prevents dehydration. They often come in the form of creams or lotions that are designed to keep the skin hydrated, soft, and supple. Good moisturisers from leading skincare brands like MD Dermatics contain humectants, such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which are essential in attracting moisture from the environment and binding it to the skin.

Additionally, moisturisers may even include emollients like shea butter or natural oils that help to smoothen and soften the skin’s surface. They create a protective layer that locks in moisture and prevents water loss, especially in dry or harsh environments; while Singapore is already naturally humid, air-conditioned environments can still dry your skin. Moisturisers are suitable for all skin types and should be used as the final step in a skincare routine to seal in the benefits of other products.

Serum: Targeted Solutions for Specific Concerns

Serums are concentrated and effective formulations that deliver a high dosage of active ingredients deep into the skin. These lightweight, fast-absorbing liquids are specially formulated to address specific skin concerns that you may have, such as fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, or uneven skin tone. Unlike moisturisers, serums do not contain occlusive ingredients, so they penetrate deeply into the skin—as mentioned above—to provide targeted benefits.

The active ingredients in serums can vary widely, from vitamin C and retinol to hyaluronic acid and peptides. Each serum is designed to target a particular skin concern and works effectively when applied before a moisturiser. For instance, serums from MD Dermatics Singapore is effectively a six-product programme specially tailored to revitalise, treat, and protect ageing skin. Due to their powerful formulations, a little goes a long way with serums, making them a cost-effective addition to any skincare routine.

Essence: Lightweight Hydration and Skin Vitality

Similar to serums, essences are lightweight and highly concentrated products. However, essences are even lighter and more watery in texture, making them suitable for layering and providing an extra boost of hydration. These products are particularly popular in Asian skincare routines and are known for improving skin vitality and resilience.

Essences normally contain nourishing and soothing ingredients, such as botanical extracts and antioxidants, which help to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin. They can be applied directly to the skin after cleansing and toning, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate deeply and prepare the skin for subsequent products.

Incorporating MD Dermatics into Your Skincare Routine

Here at MD Dermatics, a trusted brand in skincare under Indulgence Beauty, we offer a range of products specially formulated to address various skin concerns. Our revolutionary Skin Rebirth System is a seamless skincare programme that utilises the various products that we have to effectively treat even the most stubborn skin issues like hyperpigmentation, age spots, and dull skin tone. For more information about our skincare programme and products, do check out our website.