Face Creams, Serums and Makeup Tools

Match the active ingredient to your skin

Serums and concentrates are built around an active ingredient: retinol for fine lines and texture, vitamin C or niacinamide for tone, hyaluronic acid for water. Retinol should be introduced slowly, used at night and followed by daily sunscreen, and people who are pregnant should ask a doctor first. Creams and whipped moisturizers seal in hydration, with richer textures for dry skin and lighter gels for oily skin. Sleeping masks are leave-on overnight treatments, not rinse-off masks. Bottle sizes such as 30, 50 or 100 ml show how much product you actually get.

Primers, contour kits and brush sets: shade and fiber

Contour kits are sold by depth, such as light to medium or medium to deep, and often include a brush; pick the range that matches your skin tone, using the undertone rather than only the depth. Primers prepare skin for makeup, and silicone-based ones feel smooth while water-based ones feel lighter. Brush sets list the number of pieces and the bristle type: synthetic fibers suit creams and liquids, natural hair suits powders. Wash brushes regularly, as old product builds up and can irritate skin.

Questions about Face Creams, Serums and Makeup Tools

Can I use retinol every night?

Start with two or three nights a week and build up as your skin tolerates it. Use sunscreen every morning, and skip retinol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless a doctor approves.

What is a sleeping mask?

It is a rich leave-on cream or gel applied as the last step at night and left on until morning, which helps skin hold moisture. It is different from a rinse-off clay or sheet mask.

How do I pick a contour shade?

Choose a contour one or two shades deeper than your skin, with a cool or neutral undertone so it reads as shadow. Kits labeled light to medium suit fair to light-medium skin, so check the range.