How Do I Choose the Best Firming Serum?

Skin naturally loses elasticity as part of the aging process. Using a firming serum can help tighten and lift the skin, creating a younger looking profile. To choose the best firming serum, select one with at least one active ingredient that has been proven to tighten the skin, make sure it is affordable, and combine it with sun protection.

Active ingredients to look for in firming serums include hyaluronic acid, L-ascorbic acid, coenzyme Q10, and caffeine. Each active ingredient works in a different way, and many firming serums have more than one active ingredient. Anyone with sensitive skin should select a serum with only one active ingredient initially, to minimize the risk of skin irritation.

Hyaluronic acid is produced naturally in the body. Production slows down as part of the aging process. Hyaluronic acid plumps skin by absorbing moisture. This plump skin gives a smoother, firmer appearance. Hyaluronic acid also stimulates the production of collagen in the body, which tightens the skin.

L-ascorbic acid is a form of vitamin C that stimulates production of collagen by the body. Collagen production naturally slows during the aging process, so increasing collagen production is an important part of regaining tight, firm skin. An antioxidant that is naturally occurring in the body, coenzyme Q10 works by fighting damage caused by free radicals. Levels of coenzyme Q10 drop during the aging process, leading to a decrease in the amount of elasticity in the skin. Caffeine works by dehydrating the skin cells, smoothing and tightening the skin.

Select a product with at least one of these active ingredients, but check the price first. To get the best results from a firming serum, it is important to apply the products regularly. The firmer appearance provided by the serum is not permanent. Continued use of the products on a daily basis is necessary to get the full benefits. Selecting a pricey firming serum, and then not using it daily, or using it until it is gone and not replacing it, will not provide any long lasting benefits.

To get the best results from a firming serum, apply the product to clean, dry skin. Gently smooth the serum into the skin, using upward strokes, until it is completely absorbed. Apply sunscreen before going outside, as sun damage breaks down collagen and counteracts the benefits of firming serums. Expect to see results in several weeks, with more visible results developing the longer the products are used.