Serums - Serum for melasma discoloration

Serums and serums for dark spots: light texture, high concentration

Serum is the most concentrated in active ingredients and the lightest in texture step of the routine. It does not have the fatty components of a cream, so most of the formula is dedicated to active molecules. This is why it goes first, on clean skin, before anything else: it finds fewer obstacles and spreads over the entire surface without weighing down.

The usual confusion is about what a glow serum actually does. It does not whiten the skin. It works on the uniformity of tone, helping to bring dark areas closer to the natural color of the rest of the face and making the skin look brighter.

Which serum to choose

With vitamin C

It fits in the morning, under sunscreen. It offers antioxidant protection against daily stress and contributes to radiance. Formulas oxidize over time, so prefer dark or airtight packaging and close the cap tightly.

With niacinamide or tranexamic acid

The most tolerant options, suitable for skin prone to irritation. Used morning and night and combined with almost anything.

With acids or retinoids

Evening formulas that accelerate surface renewal. They require gradual introduction, two or three times a week at first, and sunscreen the next day.

Soothing serums

When unevenness is accompanied by redness, a formula with a soothing orientation works better than an aggressive one. Calm skin tans less.

What we look for on the label

• Concentration: niacinamide at 4 to 10 percent, vitamin C at 10 to 15 percent are the most common ratios.
• Vitamin C form: ascorbic acid is active but unstable, its derivatives are milder and more stable.
• Combinations: ferulic acid and vitamin E stabilize vitamin C.
• Packaging: pump or dropper with dark glass protect the formula from light and air.
• Absence of fragrance and alcohol for sensitive skin.
• Texture: fluid for combination and oily skin, oilier or richer for dry.

Popular options

The La Roche-Posay Mela B3 is the most sought-after serum in the category, with the La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C covering the antioxidant morning need. The Apivita C15 Propolis combines vitamin C with propolis, while the Caudalie Vinoperfect relies on grape extract. More intensive options are given by the Rilastil D-Clar in drops, the SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective with a soothing orientation and the Lierac Anti-Dark Spots Protocole.

How to fit it into the routine

After cleansing and before the cream. Three to four drops are enough for the whole face, with a light tap and not rubbing. Allow some time to absorb before the next step. Do not stack three different serums at the same time: choose one per time of day. Complete with a cream for dark spots, add local treatment to the most persistent spots and always finish with face sunscreen. If you are interested in other serum categories, see the beauty serums.

Frequently asked questions

Morning or evening?

Vitamin C in the morning, retinoids and acids in the evening. Niacinamide and tranexamic acid both times.

Does the serum replace the cream?

No. The serum brings the active ingredients, the cream locks in moisture and supports the barrier. For very oily skin a light cream is enough, but it is not skipped.

My serum has changed color. Can I use it?

If a vitamin C formula has turned dark orange or brown, it has oxidized and no longer offers the same. It is better to replace it.

How long does a bottle last?

With daily use, a 30 ml bottle lasts about six to eight weeks, which is also the time needed to evaluate the result.

The text is for informational purposes and concerns cosmetic products. For melasma or persistent discolorations, a dermatologist's assessment determines the appropriate plan.