serum cream

Common formulation types in this set include gels, creams, serums and lotions — product labels list forms such as Gel, Cream, Serum and Lotion.

Common active ingredients across these items include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide (vitamin B3), peptides, vitamin C, retinol, licorice extract, squalane/squalene and glycerin.

Sizes commonly range from about 0.5 fl oz up to roughly 3.38 fl oz, with several products around 1 to 1.8 fl oz.

Many items are labeled unscented, fragrance-free or “No Fragrance Added,” and several products list “Paraben-Free.”

Guidance commonly advises applying targeted serums before moisturizers — typically before oils, primers and makeup — or using serums alone or layered under a cream, depending on the formula.

Reviewers commonly describe textures as lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-greasy and smooth, noting that products sink in quickly and layer well; a small number reported pilling or heaviness for some formulations.