Is serum a moisturizer, and which one should be applied first?

I finally got a highly recommended vitamin C serum, but I’m confused about when to use it. Should I apply the serum before or after the moisturizer? Beauty bloggers on Instagram say one thing, while the woman at the pharmacy said something else. Is it something that depends on skin type? How do you do your routine? Could you share?

I’m using a vitamin C serum, I apply it first and wait for about 2-3 minutes. They say the serum penetrates the skin better that way, but it feels like it gets mixed when I apply moisturizer directly on top.

I think it’s better to look at the instructions that come with the product rather than listening to bloggers on Instagram or those at the pharmacy. Honestly, it’s exhausting when everyone explains such a simple piece of information differently.

It doesn’t change according to skin type; serums are usually used first. This is because their molecules are small and penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. Then you protect the upper layer with a moisturizer. But the combination of products you use is important, as some active ingredients can clash.

After visiting a beauty blogger, I went to a place to get a skin analysis; the esthetician there first said to use a moisturizer and then a serum. To be honest, with so many different opinions, I didn’t know what to do. The instructions weren’t very clear either.

Do you use the serum in the morning or evening? Because they say something about oxidation related to vitamin C, and are there any conflicts with sunscreen? Have you thought about those?

Honey, there’s really no need to stress this much. If the product doesn’t irritate your skin, you can use it. But first, a serum followed by a moisturizer creates a good balance. Don’t hesitate to experiment; something will definitely work out.