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What is the purpose of serums in skincare?

  1. To provide immediate hydration

  2. To act as a base for makeup

  3. To deliver concentrated ingredients for specific skin issues

  4. To create a barrier against the environment

The correct answer is: To deliver concentrated ingredients for specific skin issues

The primary purpose of serums in skincare is to deliver concentrated active ingredients that specifically target various skin issues. Serums have a lightweight texture, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin compared to heavier creams or lotions. This makes them ideal for addressing concerns such as fine lines, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin texture, and dehydration. The formulation of serums typically includes higher concentrations of beneficial ingredients like vitamins, antioxidants, peptides, and acids, which work synergistically to enhance the overall effectiveness of a skincare regimen. In contrast, while hydration is important and some serums do provide it, their main role extends beyond hydration, focusing on specific skin concerns. Additionally, serums are not used as a base for makeup; rather, they are usually applied before moisturizers and makeup application. Lastly, while some products are designed to create a barrier against environmental stressors, this function is usually fulfilled by moisturizers and occlusives rather than serums, which are more focused on delivering active components into the skin.