Serums vs. Elixirs: What’s the Difference & How to Use Them Together for Glowing Skin

If you’ve ever felt confused about whether you need a serum, an elixir, or both — you’re not alone. These products might seem similar, but they serve different (and powerful!) roles in your skincare routine.

Let’s break it down so you can confidently build a ritual that supports your glow from the inside and out.

💧 What is a Serum?

Serums are lightweight, concentrated formulas that deliver targeted active ingredients deep into the skin. Think of them as your treatment step — addressing specific concerns like dark spots, fine lines, breakouts, or dullness.

You can layer serums based on your needs. Just wait about 30 seconds between each application to give your skin time to absorb the product properly.

My Favorite for the AM:
Use a Vitamin C serum to brighten, even skin tone, and protect against environmental stressors throughout the day.

Try: F83 Vitamin C Serum
This multitasking serum helps protect the skin from oxidative stress, hydrate, and brighten! Plus, this is a great option for day-time because it helps protect against UV rays (I sill recommend using a clean SPF though.)

My Favorite for the PM:
Use a corrective serum to boost skin renewal and target fine lines, pigmentation, and acne overnight.

Try:

• F59 Corrective Serum – Ideal for tackling uneven skin texture and tone while strengthening the skin barrier.

🌿 What is an Elixir?

Elixirs are richer, oil-based formulas that deeply nourish and lock in moisture. While serums deliver targeted treatment, elixirs are like your skin’s finishing layer — they support barrier repair, hydration, and overall skin health.

They’re especially great for dry, sensitive, or mature skin types that need a little extra love.

Elixirs are often used after serums to seal in all that goodness and add a luxurious glow to the skin.

Try:

• F87 Corrective Kahai Elixir – A lightweight yet potent oil that supports regeneration and radiance..

• 002 Finer Pore Elixir – Made with Hemp and designed to strengthen, tighten, renew, and revitalize irritated and dehydrated skin.

How to Layer Serums & Elixirs

1. Cleanse your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser.

2. Apply toner or tonic if you use one.

3. Apply your first serum (like Vitamin C in the morning).

4. Wait about 30 seconds, then apply your next serum (like Hyaluronic or Corrective Serum).

5. Gently press in your elixir or oil to seal everything in.

6. Finish with SPF in the morning or a moisturizer at night if needed.

Jenn’s Final Thoughts:

Serums and elixirs are both essential in a well-rounded skincare routine — you don’t have to choose one or the other. Use serums for targeted treatment, and elixirs for nourishment and protection.

When used together (and layered properly), they create a ritual that’s not only luxurious but highly effective.

💚 Want help building your own routine or curious which products are best for your skin type?
Take my Skin Quiz here and let’s personalize your glow ritual.

Next week, We’re diving into Gua Sha, Facial Cupping, and Red Light Therapy — three powerful tools to elevate your skincare routine even further.Trust me, you won’t want to miss these glow-boosting details!

Until then, stay glowing!