WHAT'S THE
DIFFERENCE
BETWEEN SERUM
AND MOISTURISER? 

Even the most dedicated skincare enthusiasts can find themselves pausing at the question: serum or moisturiser first? With elegant jars and vials lining your vanity, it’s easy to feel unsure about the right order or the purpose behind each step.


Understanding the distinction between these two steps is essential to building a routine that both treats and protects.


That’s why we’re diving deep into the differences between serums and moisturisers. Explore our guide to understand how they work together and how to create a routine that treats, hydrates and protects your skin for a radiant, glowing complexion.

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Side profile of female lips and nose on face with her finger just in front of her lips.

Serum vs Moisturiser: What’s the Difference?

Put simply, serums treat and transform while moisturisers hydrate and protect.
A serum is a concentrated formula infused with active ingredients that penetrate deeply to target specific skin concerns, whether it's dryness, dullness or signs of ageing. With their lightweight texture and potent actives, serums deliver results with precision and intent.
Moisturisers are richly hydrating creams that nourish the skin’s surface, lock in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. They provide comfort and protection for your skin, creating the ideal environment for repair and renewal.
Together, they form the foundation of an effective, elevated skincare routine that supports the skin’s needs at every level. Explore our range of serums, oils, and moisturisers to curate your routine.

Can I Use Serum and Moisturiser Together?

Absolutely. In fact, they do their best work together!
Use your serum to deliver intensive treatment, whether revitalising tired skin or addressing visible signs of ageing. Follow with a moisturiser to seal in the goodness and maintain optimal skin health.
To find your perfect moisture match, explore our blog covering the best moisturisers for all skin types.

Moisturiser or Serum First?

Order matters when layering your skincare. Always apply your serum first, followed by your moisturiser. This sequence allows the serum to penetrate deeply before the moisturiser creates a protective seal.
Creating an effective skincare ritual is essential for achieving beautifully hydrated and radiant skin. By combining the targeted power of serums with the nourishing protection of moisturisers, you can address your skin’s specific needs while locking in lasting moisture. The right sequence and products make all the difference in elevating your daily routine.

Close up of lady cleansing her face with foam cleanser and foam on her face with two hands on forehead and cheek.

STEP 1:
GENTLY CLEANSE FOR A FRESH START

Begin your routine with The Essence Cleansing Foam, a gentle cleanser that leaves your skin feeling clean, soft and refreshed – never tight or dry. It creates a calm, fresh base so your skin feels ready to absorb all the nourishing benefits that follow.

lady applying serum with two fingers across and up her cheekbone.

STEP 2:
INDULGE IN DEEP HYDRATION WITH A SERUM

Next, apply The Revitalising Hydrating Serum, a lightweight treatment that instantly quenches thirsty skin. It feels like a refreshing boost, leaving your complexion plump, glowing and energised, as if your skin is taking a deep breath of hydration.

texture of soft moisture cream.

STEP 3:
LOCK IN MOISTURE FOR ALL-DAY COMFORT

Finish with The Moisturising Soft Cream, a rich yet silky cream that wraps your skin in lasting hydration. It leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth and deeply nourished, like a comforting touch that stays with you throughout the day.
By applying serums first, you allow their high-performance active ingredients to work undisturbed, optimising results from the first drop.

CAN I SKIP MOISTURISER
IF I USE SERUM?

It may be tempting to streamline your routine, but skipping moisturiser is not recommended, even when using a serum. While serums treat the skin at a deeper level, they do not typically offer the protective benefits of a moisturiser.

Without a moisturiser to lock in hydration, moisture can evaporate from the skin’s surface, leading to dryness, irritation and compromised barrier function over time. A serum alone cannot provide the same level of protection or comfort.

HOW LONG TO WAIT BETWEEN APPLYING SERUM AND MOISTURISER?

For the most luxurious and effective layering experience, allow 30 to 60 seconds after applying your serum before moving on to moisturiser. As the serum settles, take a breath. This short pause allows the serum to fully absorb into the skin, ensuring its active ingredients aren’t diluted or disrupted.


La Mer’s Favourite Duo for Maximum Results

Elevate your ritual with two of our La Mer icons that work in perfect harmony:

The Revitalising Hydrating Serum. A rush of hydration that visibly awakens and renews the skin. Powered by the legendary Miracle Broth and Hydration Ferments, this serum helps plump fine lines and infuses the skin with energy and moisture.

The Moisturising Soft Cream. An indulgent cream that delivers deep, soothing hydration while restoring a radiant, soft-focus finish. With each application, skin feels stronger, more resilient and beautifully aglow.

WHY SERUM AND MOISTURISER
WORK BETTER
TOGETHER

Together, serums and moisturisers form the foundation of radiant skin. Serums deliver targeted benefits that transform the look and feel of your skin, while moisturisers protect and enhance those benefits, ensuring long-lasting hydration and glow.

Begin your journey with La Mer serums, oils and moisturisers, thoughtfully formulated for maximum impact. Or, if you're unsure where to begin, take our Skincare Quiz to personalise your perfect ritual.