Face serums are concentrated treatments applied between cleansing and moisturising, each built around a specific active such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, retinol or niacinamide. Facial oils work differently, applied last to seal in the steps beneath. CHS Community Pharmacy stocks both from La Roche-Posay, Vichy, Bioderma, Institut Esthederm, Filorga, Soskin, Obagi, CeraVe, Eucerin and Now Foods.

Vitamin C serums

Vitamin C serums deliver ascorbic acid or a derivative to support brightness and a more even tone. Concentration is the main difference: 10 percent suits skin new to vitamin C, 15 percent is the common daily strength, and 20 percent and above are the highest. Pure L-ascorbic acid is the most researched and least stable form, which is why it is packaged in opaque bottles. Derivatives including ascorbyl glucoside and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate are more stable and gentler.

Hyaluronic acid serums

Hyaluronic acid serums draw water into the upper layers of the skin and suit dehydration, tightness and fine lines caused by dryness. They are applied to slightly damp skin and followed by a moisturiser to hold that water in. Hyaluronic acid suits all skin types including oily and acne-prone, because it adds water rather than oil.

Retinol serums

Retinol serums support skin texture and the appearance of fine lines, and are used at night because retinol degrades in sunlight. They are introduced gradually, starting two or three nights a week. Retinol increases sun sensitivity, so daily sunscreen matters more while using it.

Niacinamide and targeted serums

Niacinamide suits visible pores, uneven tone and redness, and combines comfortably with most other actives. Targeted serums in this range also include collagen concentrates for firmness, propolis for stressed skin, and dark spot correctors formulated for uneven pigmentation.

Facial oils

Facial oils are applied as the final step to seal in moisture. Jojoba oil most closely resembles the skin's own sebum and suits combination skin. Sweet almond and avocado oils are richer and suit dry skin. Grapeseed oil is lighter. Rosehip oil is used for texture and scarring. Vitamin E oil is often applied to small areas rather than the whole face.

Applying serums and oils in order

Serums go on clean skin before moisturiser, thinnest texture first and thickest last, with facial oil last of all. Vitamin C and niacinamide are typically used in the morning followed by sunscreen. Retinol is used at night. Patch test any new active on a small area first, and introduce one product at a time so any reaction can be traced to its source.

Buying serums and oils from CHS

CHS Community Pharmacy is a MOHAP approved online pharmacy that has served UAE communities since 2006 across more than 15 branches in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Pharmacists are available on 800979 for advice on choosing a formula for your skin type. Eligible orders placed before 9 PM are delivered free within 2 hours across selected areas of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.