Anti-ageing serums versus creams

There’s nothing more disheartening than waking up in the morning to discover a new line has begun to nestle itself into your forehead. Cue anger, frustration and a bad day ahead…

But before you reach for the nearest anti-ageing wonder on your shelf and start slathering it on, you need to determine exactly what anti-ageing product will work best for you.

And because it can be difficult to navigate through all the anti-ageing offerings on the market, we consulted NIVEA expert Annie Yuen who explains the difference between anti-ageing serums and creams and tells us why you need both in your beauty arsenal now.

What is the purpose of an anti-ageing cream?

“An anti-ageing cream delivers moisture and anti-ageing ingredients when you apply it all over your face, which is why we recommend the NIVEA Q10 range. These creams seal in the moisture and help replace lost Q10 in the skin which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”

What is the purpose of an anti-ageing serum?

“Generally, a serum is an intensive light and non-greasy treatment with a very high concentration of anti-ageing ingredients that target specific skincare issues.”

What is the difference between anti-ageing serums and anti-ageing creams?

“Serums are water-based so they are more easily absorbed by your skin than creams, and the anti-ageing ingredients will penetrate better, resulting in a stronger effect. Anti-ageing creams need to be applied all over the entire area of your face, whereas most serums only require one or two drops to be applied to a small area because it has a higher concentration of anti-ageing ingredients.”

So, do I need an anti-ageing serum or cream?

“Creams are more suitable to dry skin as they help restore moisture to the skin and have a heavier texture that will help seal in moisture like NIVEA Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream SPF 30+*. If you have very oily skin, then using a serum may be suitable as it has a lighter consistency, however serums are suitable for all skin types, so they should be used to complement an anti-ageing cream.”

When should I start using anti-ageing products?

“In general, anti-ageing creams and serums are used by the 45 to 50 age group, however you can start using these products in your 20s as this is when the skin starts to age and they can help prevent the signs of ageing.”

How do I apply my anti-ageing serum and cream?

“After you have cleansed your face, use a toner and then apply the serum right away while the skin is still slightly damp. Wait until the serum is fully absorbed then apply the cream.”

Try these anti-ageing serums and creams if you’re…

… in your 20s

Serum: Jurlique Herbal Recovery Advanced Serum

Cream: BABOR SKINOVAGE PX PURE Purifying Anti Aging Cream

… in your 30s

Serum: Lancôme Absolu Sublime Regenerating Oleo-Serum

Cream: NIVEA Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream SPF 30+

… in your 40s

Serum: Elizabeth Arden Prevage Advanced High Performance Anti-Ageing Serum

Cream: La Prairie Anti-Ageing Day Cream with UV Filters

… in your 50s+

Serum: Dermalogica Age Smart Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF30

Cream: Estée Lauder Revitalizing Supreme Global Anti-Ageing Creme

Do you use both an anti-ageing cream and serum? Do you find your skin benefits from using both?

*Always read the label. Use only as directed.