A face serum can be one of the most targeted steps in a skincare routine. Unlike a cleanser, which focuses on removing impurities, or a moisturizer, which helps hydrate the skin, a serum is typically chosen to address specific concerns such as dullness, uneven-looking skin tone or dehydration. Knowing how to use face serum and where it fits can help you build a simple, effective routine.
What Is A Face Serum?
Face serums are lightweight skincare products formulated to target particular skin concerns. Depending on the formula, they may contain ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid or other skin-focused actives. The key is to choose a serum according to your skin’s needs rather than adding multiple products without a clear purpose.
Where Does Serum Go in Your Skincare Routine?
A simple skincare routine generally follows this order:
Start by cleansing your face to remove dirt, oil and impurities. Once your skin is clean, apply your serum before moisturizer. This allows the serum to become the targeted treatment step in your routine, while moisturizer helps complete your skincare regimen. In the morning, sunscreen should be the final step to help protect your skin from UV exposure.
How To Use Face Serum?
If you’re wondering how to use face serum, keep the process simple:
- Cleanse Your Face: Begin with a suitable cleanser and gently pat your skin dry.
- Apply Your Serum: Take a few drops and gently spread or dab the product across your face.
- Let It Absorb: Give the serum a moment to settle into your skincare routine.
- Moisturize: Follow with a moisturizer suited to your skin type.
- Apply Sunscreen In The Morning: Finish your daytime routine with sunscreen.
You don’t necessarily need several serums at once. Choosing one that addresses your primary concern can make your routine easier to follow consistently.
When To Use Vitamin C Serum: Day Or Night?
One common question is when to use vitamin C serum: day or night. Vitamin C serum can be incorporated into a morning skincare routine, particularly because vitamin C is commonly used for its antioxidant and brightening properties.
For a daytime routine, apply your vitamin C serum after cleansing and before moisturizer and sunscreen. For a nighttime routine, apply vitamin C night serum after double cleansing and before applying night cream. If you’re introducing a new active into your routine, start gradually and pay attention to how your skin responds.
Can You Use Face Serum Every Day?
The answer depends on the specific serum and its formulation. Some serums are designed for daily use, while others containing more potent active ingredients may require a less frequent application. Always follow the product’s usage instructions and avoid layering multiple products with potentially irritating active ingredients without understanding how they work together.
A face serum doesn’t need to make your skincare routine complicated. Think of it as the targeted step between cleansing and moisturizing. Once you know how to use face serum, selecting the right product for your skin concern and using it consistently becomes much easier.
Whether you’re looking for brighter-looking skin, improved hydration or a more even-looking complexion, choosing the right serum from the Garnier Bright Complete range and following it with moisturizer and daytime sun protection can help you maintain a simple, well-rounded skincare routine.

