Serum power

THE classic skincare regime essentially comprises a simple wash, toner, moisturiser and sunblock. With more advanced technology now, pre-moisturising with super serums has become an essential extra step.

Virtually every skincare brand seems to have added a serum to its arsenal of products, trotting out scientific lingo that's convincing enough for you to part with your money.

From their original incarnation as ampoules delivered mainly in beauty salons, serums have entered the mainstream market. These highly concentrated potions are made up of very small molecules, formulated to hold active ingredients for more ready absorption and deeper penetration to the skin.