Walk down any skincare aisle and the serums all promise glowing skin — but they're not interchangeable. Each active ingredient solves a different problem. Here's a plain-English guide to the four most popular serums, what each one actually does, and how to pick the right one for your skin.
Hyaluronic acid — for hydration
Hyaluronic acid is a moisture magnet: it holds water in the skin, leaving it plumper and smoother. It suits every skin type, including oily skin, because it hydrates without feeling heavy. Apply it to slightly damp skin, then seal with a moisturiser.
Best for: dryness, dullness, fine lines that look worse when skin is dehydrated.
Vitamin C — for brightness & even tone
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps brighten the complexion, fade dark marks and even out skin tone over time. It's a great morning serum under sunscreen. If your main concern is uneven tone or post-blemish marks, this is your pick.
Best for: dullness, dark spots, sun-related discolouration.
Collagen & firming — for bounce
Collagen is the protein that keeps skin firm and springy, and it declines with age. A collagen or firming serum supports a smoother, firmer-looking surface and is a good choice if loss of firmness and fine lines are what you notice most.
Best for: mature skin, loss of bounce, early fine lines.
Pore & oil control — for shine
If your skin gets shiny by midday or you're prone to congestion, an oil-control serum helps balance excess oil and refine the look of pores. Pair it with a gentle cleanser rather than stripping the skin.
Best for: oily and combination skin, visible pores, midday shine.
How to layer serums
A simple rule: cleanse, tone, apply serum to clean skin, then moisturise. In the morning, finish with sunscreen. You don't need all four serums — start with the one that targets your main concern, and patch-test first if your skin is sensitive.
Our Ultra Compact skincare range includes Hyaluron, Superglow Vitamin C, Antiaging & Collagen, Firming and Pore & Oil Control serums — most under R60. Browse the skincare range →
Frequently asked questions
Can I use more than one serum?
Yes — many people use a hydrating serum (hyaluronic acid) alongside a targeted one like vitamin C. Introduce one at a time so you can see how your skin responds.
Morning or night?
Vitamin C works well in the morning under sunscreen; hydrating and firming serums suit both. Always wear sunscreen during the day.
My skin is sensitive — where do I start?
Begin with a gentle hydrating serum, patch-test on a small area, and build up slowly. Gentle options like micellar water and rose water can support a calmer routine.
