Discover 5 make-up serum suggestions and take care of your complexion!
Beautiful skin is important to the human eye for several reasons. These stem from biological, social and psychological aspects. A beautiful complexion is often associated with signs of health. Smooth, radiant skin can be indicative of good health, proper care and a proper diet and lifestyle. There are different standards of beauty in different cultures, but always skin with a healthy and radiant appearance is considered attractive. A well-groomed, well-groomed complexion has a positive impact on mood and self-confidence. The appearance of the skin can be important in forming a first impression of a person. People are often quick to judge others based on their outward appearance, including their skin condition. Therefore, beautiful skin can help form a positive first impression. In summary, beautiful skin plays an important role in the perception of human attractiveness and is an important element in forming first impressions and self-esteem. People often use make-up to enhance their beauty and hide their flaws. It goes without saying that make-up looks better on skin that is free of imperfections - and to preserve the beauty of the skin, it is important to care for it, even when applying make-up. An under-make-up serum is ideal for this purpose. Find out what a make-up serum is, which make-up serum to choose and how it cares for your skin in the following article.
Facial skin
The facial skin is the outer layer of the face, which forms a protective barrier between the body and the external environment. It is the most visible and, at the same time, the most sensitive part of the skin and performs many important functions. The facial skin protects the inside of the body from harmful external factors such as UV radiation, environmental pollutants and microorganisms. The skin regulates body temperature through processes such as sweating and the dilation and contraction of blood vessels. The facial skin is richly innervated and enables us to feel touch, pain, temperature and other sensory stimuli.
The facial skin also plays an important role in our outward appearance and is often the element that people judge during a first impression. A healthy, radiant complexion can add to attractiveness and confidence. Facial skin is a key tool for expressing emotions and communicating with others through changes in facial expressions, facial expressions and gestures.
Facial skin not only performs physiological functions essential for health and comfort, but also plays an important role in our emotional and social wellbeing by influencing our appearance and ability to communicate with others.
Structure of the skin
The skin is the largest organ of the human body and consists of three main layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the subcutaneous tissue. The epidermis (epidermis) is the outermost layer of the skin. The epidermis is mainly composed of dead epidermal cells called keratinocytes. These cells gradually move from the deeper layers of the epidermis to the surface of the skin, where they become dead cells that fall off in a process called exfoliation. The epidermis also contains melanocytes, which produce the pigment melanin, responsible for the colour of the skin, and immune cells, which help defend the body against infection. The dermis is the middle layer of the skin, which contains many important structures such as blood vessels, hair, sebaceous and sweat glands and touch receptors. The dermis consists mainly of connective tissue, which contains collagen and elastin, giving the skin elasticity and strength.
The subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis) is the deepest layer of the skin, which contains adipose tissue and most blood vessels and nerves. The hypodermis tissue acts as a thermal insulator and energy backup layer for the body. It also acts as a support for the skin and provides it with elasticity.
In addition, the skin also contains other structures such as hair follicles, nerves, lymphatic vessels and sensory receptors. These different components that make up the skin structure work together to provide the skin with protection, sensitivity, thermoregulation and many other functions that are essential for the health and well-being of the entire body.
How to care for the skin
Skin care is a comprehensive process of caring for the health and appearance of the skin that involves a variety of steps to keep the skin hydrated, supple, and prevent problems such as acne and skin ageing. Here are the basic steps of skin care:
Cleansing. Regular cleansing of the skin helps to remove impurities, excess sebum and make-up residue, which prevents clogged pores and the formation of imperfections. Choose a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type.
Toning. A toner helps to restore your skin's pH and add extra hydration. Choose an alcohol-free toner that won't dry out your skin.
Moisturising. Moisturising is key to maintaining healthy skin. Choose a moisturiser that suits your skin type and apply it morning and evening, and throughout the day as needed.
Sun protection. Daily use of a sunscreen helps protect the skin from the sun's harmful rays, preventing photo-ageing and hyperpigmentation.
Using a serum under make-up. A serum is a concentrate of active ingredients that can help improve the condition of the skin, such as vitamins, antioxidants and hyaluronic acid. Choose a serum tailored to your needs and apply it before your moisturiser.
Exfoliation. Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells, improving skin texture and preventing clogged pores. Choose a gentle facial scrub and use it 1-2 times a week.
Masks and skin treatments. Regular use of moisturising, cleansing or nourishing masks can provide your skin with extra nutrients and improve its condition. In addition, professional skincare treatments, such as acid-based treatments or microdermabrasion, can provide deep cleansing and skin renewal.
Healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, avoiding stress and getting enough sleep have a significant impact on the condition of the skin. Making sure you look after your overall health will also have a positive impact on the appearance of your skin.
Remember that everyone's skin is different, so it is important to tailor your skincare to your individual needs and skin reactions. If you have any skin issues, it's best to consult a dermatologist who can help you choose the right products and skincare strategy.
What is a make-up serum
A make-up serum is a skincare product that is applied before make-up is applied. It is a lightweight and often concentrated formula that contains active ingredients to prepare the skin for make-up application and provide additional skincare benefits. Make-up serums can have different actions, depending on their formulation, but most commonly offer hydration, smoothing, and improved make-up wear.
Primarily, make-up serums act as an extra layer of care for the skin, preparing it for make-up application and improving its longevity and appearance. With a variety of active ingredients, it can also provide additional benefits to the condition of the skin.
How make-up serums work
An under-makeup serum can deliver intense hydration to the skin, which is key to maintaining elasticity and a healthy appearance. Moisturised skin accepts foundation and other make-up products better. Some make-up serums contain smoothing ingredients that help reduce the appearance of pores, lines and fine lines. This makes the skin's surface more even, leading to a better make-up finish. Moisturised and properly prepared skin holds cosmetics better, meaning make-up can look fresh for longer.
Make-up serums can contain active ingredients such as vitamins, antioxidants or hyaluronic acid, which have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin. By using a serum under make-up, you are providing extra care for your skin.
An under-make-up serum is usually applied after cleansing and toning the skin, and before applying moisturiser and make-up. It can also be used as part of your daily skincare routine, independent of make-up, to provide additional benefits to your skin.
Who a make-up serum is for
Under-makeup serums can be beneficial for many different skin types and people with different skincare needs. Make-up serums provide extra hydration and help maintain skin elasticity, which is particularly important for those with dry skin that can easily become rough and lacklustre.
Make-up serums can contain active ingredients such as peptides, retinol or hyaluronic acid to help reduce wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and prevent signs of ageing. An under-make-up serum will be perfect for those who want to slow down the skin's ageing process.
Some make-up serums may be specifically formulated for those with skin problems such as acne, hyperpigmentation or excessive sebum production. They may contain ingredients to soothe inflammation, brighten or regulate sebum production.
Some make-up serums contain protective ingredients such as antioxidants to help protect the skin from harmful UV rays. It is therefore suitable for those who want to protect their skin from the harmful effects of the sun's rays. However, you need to pay attention to the formulation - some ingredients may react negatively to sunlight.
Make-up serums can help make make-up last longer by creating a smooth and moisturised skin surface on which make-up products last better. It is therefore ideal for those who prefer high make-up longevity.
A make-up serum will be appreciated by anyone who wants to improve the condition of their skin. The moisturising, nourishing and regenerating ingredients in serums can benefit all skin types, helping to restore, hydrate and maintain a healthy appearance.
Effects of using serums under make-up
Using a serum under make-up can have many benefits for the skin and the final make-up look. Serums contain moisturising ingredients that help to keep the skin hydrated. Moisturised skin absorbs make-up products better, which contributes to a smoother and more natural make-up finish. Some make-up serums contain smoothing ingredients that help reduce the appearance of pores, lines and fine lines. This makes the skin look more uniform and the make-up is applied on a smooth surface, leading to a better visual effect. Moisturised and properly prepared skin holds make-up products better, meaning make-up can look fresh for longer. The serum acts as an extra layer of protection between the skin and the make-up, which contributes to a long-lasting make-up effect. Make-up serums can contain active ingredients such as vitamins, antioxidants or hyaluronic acid, which have a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin. By using a serum under make-up, you are providing extra care for your skin, which can have long-term benefits in terms of improving the condition of your skin. Some make-up serums contain soothing ingredients that help to reduce puffiness, dark circles under the eyes and the overall appearance of tired skin. This helps make-up look fresher and more radiant, and makes skin appear rested and healthier.
In summary, using a serum under make-up can provide a number of benefits to the skin and make-up finish, including hydration, smoother skin texture, improved make-up wear and additional skincare benefits. Regular use of serums can help to achieve healthier, more radiant skin and an improved make-up look on a daily basis.
Key make-up serum ingredients
The key ingredients in make-up serums can vary, depending on the individual skin's needs and intended skincare results. Here are some common ingredients that are often found in make-up serums:
- Hyaluronic acid - a powerful moisturiser that attracts and retains moisture in the skin, improving elasticity and firmness. Hyaluronic acid keeps the skin well hydrated and smooth, which contributes to a better make-up look.
- Vitamin C - a powerful antioxidant that helps to brighten skin, reduce hyperpigmentation, and stimulate collagen production, leading to improved skin elasticity and a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles.
- Peptides - support the skin's natural regeneration processes, improving skin texture and elasticity. They can also help to reduce wrinkles and prevent loss of skin firmness.
- Niacinamide (vitamin B3) - has properties that soothe inflammation, reducing redness and regulating sebum production. Additionally, niacinamide can help to improve skin texture, smooth the skin's surface and reduce the appearance of pores.
- Antioxidants (e.g. vitamin E, green tea extract) - protect the skin from free radical damage, preventing photo-ageing and reducing skin damage caused by UV rays and other environmental factors.
- Caffeine - helps to reduce puffiness and swelling under the eyes, improving the appearance of the skin and reducing signs of fatigue.
- Plant extracts - depending on the type of ingredient, these can have a variety of actions, such as soothing inflammation, reducing redness, moisturising or regenerating the skin.
Before you decide to purchase a make-up serum, it is worth paying attention to the ingredients and tailoring them to your skin's individual needs and intended skincare effects. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, it is always a good idea to test the product on a small area of skin to ensure that it will not cause an allergic reaction.
Advantages
Using a serum under make-up can have many benefits for the skin and the final make-up effect. Here are some of the main benefits of this product:
- Hydration
- Smoothing skin texture
- Improved make-up durability
- Additional skincare benefits
- Reduction of imperfections
- Adaptability to different needs
Disadvantages
While make-up serums can have many benefits for the skin and the make-up finish, there is also the potential for adverse effects, especially if the product is not properly matched to the skin type or used incorrectly. Here are some potential adverse effects of using serums under make-up:
- Skin irritation
- Skin dryness
- Aging of the cosmetic
- Contributing to dermatological problems
- Allergic reactions
How often to apply make-up serums
How often a makeup serum should be used under makeup can depend on individual skin needs and the specifics of the product. If an under-makeup serum is part of your daily skincare routine, it is recommended to use it in the morning before applying makeup to prepare the skin for the day, and in the evening to provide nutrients and hydration to the skin during nighttime recovery.
If you want to achieve a special effect and ensure that your make-up lasts for an important event or special occasion, you can apply the serum under make-up then too. Moisturised and well-prepared skin can improve the longevity and appearance of your make-up. If your skin needs extra hydration, smoothing or regeneration, you can apply serums more often, even several times a day. However, it is a good idea to listen to your skin's needs and adjust the frequency of serum use according to your skin's condition.
The recommended frequency of serum application may be indicated on the packaging or in the product instructions. It is worth following these to ensure effective and safe skin care. In any case, it is important not to overdo the amount of serum applied and overburden the skin or cause irritation. Caring for the skin should be a gentle and balanced process, tailored to the individual skin's needs and reactions.
How to apply serums under make-up
The application of serums under make-up can be tailored to your own preferences and skin needs. Here are general guidelines on how to apply serums before applying make-up:
- Before applying make-up serum, cleanse your face thoroughly, removing impurities, excess oil and make-up residue. You can use a gentle cleanser or toner to prepare your skin for further skincare steps.
- After cleansing, you can use a toner to restore the skin's pH and further moisturise.
- Apply a small amount of serum to cleansed face, neck and décolleté, avoiding the area around the eyes. Gently pat the serum under make-up with your fingers to help it absorb into the skin. Remember that serums are usually applied before moisturiser.
- After applying the serum under make-up, continue with the rest of the steps of your skincare routine, such as moisturiser with UV filter (in the morning), and make-up products such as foundation, concealer, powder, etc.Allow the serum to absorb into the skin for a few minutes before applying further skincare products or make-up. This will ensure that your skin is properly moisturised.
- After applying the serum under make-up, continue with the rest of the steps of your skincare routine, such as moisturiser with UV filter (in the morning), and make-up products such as foundation, concealer, powder, etc.
Remember to choose a serum that is tailored to your skin type and the skin problems you face. Regular use of serums under make-up can have many benefits for your skin condition and your make-up finish.
What to look for when choosing a make-up serum
When choosing a makeup serum, there are a few important factors to consider in order to match the product to your skin's individual needs and expectations for makeup results. Here are some key points to look out for:
Skin type: When choosing a makeup serum, it's important to match the product to your skin type. If you have dry skin, look out for a serum with an intense moisturising effect. For oily or combination skin, a serum with a light texture and sebum-regulating properties may be more suitable.
Skin problems: If you have specific skin problems such as acne, hyperpigmentation or the first signs of ageing, choose a serum that contains active ingredients that work effectively on these problems. For example, for hyperpigmentation look for a serum with vitamin C, and for acne-prone skin look for one with AHA/BHA acids.
Skincare effects: Determine what additional benefits you would like to gain from using the serum. Do you want to improve hydration, smooth skin texture or perhaps reduce the appearance of wrinkles? Choose a serum that contains ingredients that meet your skincare needs.
Active ingredients: Read the product formulation and pay attention to the active ingredients contained and their concentration. Make sure the ingredients are suitable for your skin and that there are no substances to which you could be allergic.
Consistency: choose the consistency of serum that best suits your preferences and skin needs. It can be a light, watery serum or a thicker, creamier formula.
Reviews: Other users' reviews and experiences can provide valuable information on the effectiveness and performance of serums, especially if they relate to people with similar skin types or skin problems.
By following these tips, you'll be able to choose the under-makeup serum that best suits your needs and will help you achieve your desired skincare and makeup finish.
Discover the top 5 best under make-up serums in 2026
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Below are detailed reviews by our editors with a description of each product indicated.
