Makeup Guru

Serums are becoming increasingly popular in skin care ranges. From anti-aging serums to extra hydrating formulations, you can find a serum for every skin concern. But are they worth the extra money. Are they any better than a well formulated moisturiser?

The simple answer is yes! They are most definitely worth spending extra money on as these little products are jam packed full of amazing ingredients at concentrated levels that moisturisers just can’t deliver. Bellow are our favourite serums that will surely bring a glow to your skin.

1, Lancome Genefique Youth Activator
Meet Lancome’s latest age-defying elixir
Beauty nerds brace yourself. Following 10 years of in-depth research, Lancome scientists studied the way our genes work (known as genomics) and the proteins they produce (that’s proteomics), to keep skin at its optimum level. They realised that genes take longer to repair themselves as we grow older and the proteins contained within the cells function at a slower rate too.

The breakthrough? All aging skin needs is a little pick-me-up to get the genes back into action. Lancome’s Genifique Youth Activating Serum forces the genes to think that they are young again. Used twice daily beneath your moisturiser or serum, a few drops of this high-tech elixir stimulates the protein production within our cells for a more luminous, toned, youthful-looking complexion. (May 6, 2009)
RRP: $160, 30ml.

2, Eminence Eight Greens Youth Serum
A powerhouse of organic phyto-estrogens work to lift facial contours and treat the signs of aging due to menopause, breakouts, hormonal imbalances and collagen loss. Concentrated whole plant yucca extract, vitex agnus castus, algae and flax seed absorb deep into the skin to tighten and brighten problem areas, and plump up loss of skin tone. Perfect for those looking for an organic solution to their skin care needs.

Key Ingredients: Yucca Extract, Flaxseed/Linseed Extract, Hop Extract, Red Clover, Paprika, Grape Extract, Chaste Berry, Horse Chestnut, BiocomplexTM: an antioxidant booster of Vitamins A, Ester-C, E, Coenzyme Q10, Alpha Lipoic Acid
RRP: $69, 30ml

3, Alpha-H Age Delay Facial Oil
This preventative and corrective solution aims at reducing cellular degeneration, pigmentation and discoloration, dehydration, scarring and fine lines, this formula is a blend of precious oils, to replenish and strengthen skin. Alpha-H Age Delay Facial Oil helps repair cell damage while firming, toning and softening skin that’s become dry, mature or sun damaged.  It deeply hydrates for noticeable results. Age Delay Facial Oil is a synergistic mix that works to slow the ageing process by protecting the skin against free radical damage while repairing and correcting.

Containing Apricot Oil for its protection and softening properties, Rose Hip Oil to repair and strengthen, Wheat Germ to nourish, Calendula to regenerate, Carrot Oil to improve skin texture and maximise moisture levels, Vitamin E, Frankincense for its firming and toning benefits, German Chamomile to soothe, Lavender to heal and Patchouli to aid in repairing cells and balance.
RRP: $75.95,  25mL

4, EmerginC Daily Affirmation
Ideal for skin that needs lifting and firming.
EmerginC Daily Affirmation is a lifting and firming serum containing a clinically studied micro-collagen pentapeptide, which helps produce new collagen. It also helps to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Contains kelp extract, tetrapeptides, oligopeptides, grape extract, vitamin C, witch hazel, green tea, spirulina, clover and gingko bilboa.

Use morning and/or night, or when a lifting effect is desired.
Price: $119, 30mL

5, Indio Cosmeceutical Queen C Serum
Indio cosmeceutical queen c serum is a super-strength serum for all skin types. It contains Japanese ingredient Nikkol VCIP, a stable, oil-soluble vitamin C ester which has antioxidant acivity, inhibiting lipid perxoidation. Nikkol VCIP offers oustanding transdermal absorption, stimulating collagen production while clarifying and brightening the skin by inhibiting melanogenesis. The serum also contains soybean oil so nourish, soften and moisturise the skin; safflower seed oil which conditons the skin and gives it a soft and smooth appearance; and linoleic acid, an anti-inflammatory ith moisture retention properties. It also features vitamin E for antioxidant protection and vitamin A to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Apply a small amount every morning on the face and neck after cleansing and toning. Apply with fingertips in gentle stroking movements. Follow with an indio cosmeceutical moisturiser.
Price: $139, 30mL

6, Trilogy Age Proof Nutrient Plus Firming Serum
Instantly lift and restore a luminous complexion.  This light and fast-absorbing formula, contains nature’s ‘moisture magnet’ hyaluronic acid, free radical fighting antioxidants A, C & E and brightening green tea, licorice and mulberry extract. Use under your moisturiser or before special occasions to leave skin feeling firmer, gently lifted and looking radiant.

Price: $42.95, 30mL