Why Facial Serums Don’t Work: 3 Critical Skincare Mistakes

Facial serums have long been a beauty must-have: a concentrated formula, active ingredients, and the promise of radiant, well-groomed skin. However, many notice that even expensive serums don’t deliver results. Skin remains dull, breakouts appear, or a feeling of dryness appears. In most cases, the problem isn’t with the product, but with skincare mistakes. We at joy-pup explore three critical reasons why serums don’t work as well as they should.

Mistake #1: Incorrect Serum Application

One of the most common mistakes is using serum on dry skin or on poorly cleansed skin. Serums are designed to penetrate deeper into the epidermis, and dirt and makeup residue literally block this process.

Furthermore, many forget that a serum is not a cream. It doesn’t replace basic skincare and doesn’t create a protective barrier. If applied without a subsequent cream, the active ingredients can quickly evaporate or cause a feeling of tightness.

How to use it correctly:

• cleanse your skin in two steps (makeup removal and cleansing);
• apply the serum to slightly damp skin;
• be sure to “seal” it with a cream suitable for your skin type.

Mistake #2: Wrong serum for your skin type and season

Fashionable ingredients aren’t always a one-size-fits-all solution. Vitamin C, retinol, acids, or niacinamide are only effective when chosen correctly. Using an overly active formula can lead to irritation, while a light, moisturizing serum in winter can lead to dryness and discomfort.

It’s also important to consider your current skin condition. What was perfect in the summer may not work at all in the fall or winter.

Common mistakes:

• choosing a serum “based on a friend’s advice” rather than based on your skin’s needs;
• ignoring seasonality;
• using multiple active serums simultaneously without understanding their compatibility.

Mistake #3: Expecting instant results and lacking a system

A serum is not a magic wand. Even the most effective formulas require time and consistency. Expecting noticeable results in 2-3 days leads to disappointment and endless switching of products.

Furthermore, a serum cannot compensate for a lack of basic skincare habits: insufficient moisturizing, sun protection, or improper cleansing.

For a serum to truly work, it is important to:

• use it daily or in courses, according to the instructions;
• combine it with SPF in your morning routine;
• maintain an overall balance in your skincare routine, rather than relying on just one product.

To be continued…