What Exactly Is A Finishing Serum—And Do You Need One?
This added step is a game-changer.
,If you’ve been using products from coveted French beauty brand Biologique Recherche, then you’ve probably heard of “finishing serums.” As the term suggests, these special formulations are designed to be the finishing touch to your routine, so they’re applied last—after your treatment. That said, they seal in the rest of your skin care products while also providing an excellent base for your makeup.
But how do they differ from your other serums ? Unlike your treatment serums (a.k.a. “quintessential” or “targeted” serums), which contain the highest concentration of active ingredients to address different concerns, your finishing serums are unique in terms of formulation and function:
1. They’re designed to sit on top of the skin.
Containing larger molecules than your treatment serums—making them thicker in terms of consistency—finishing serums are not meant to penetrate deep into the skin as your regular serums do. Instead, they sit on the skin’s surface, protecting from external irritants as well as providing a shield to seal in your other products. You can actually use it as a sub for your makeup primer.
2. They feature sophisticated formulations.
Biologique Recherche finishing serums contain special botanical extracts, vitamins, antioxidants, and moisturizing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, to give skin a radiant and illuminated glow.
3. A little goes a long way.
Just two to three drops is enough to cover the whole face. This is because each drop is extremely concentrated and packed with nourishing actives, so you don’t really need to apply much.
Why You Need A Finishing Serum
Combined with your daily routine and your treatments, a finishing serum can significantly enhance the effects of your products—particularly your current Biologique Recherche lineup—by serving as that much-needed veil over skin and allowing your skin care ingredients to work their magic without being disturbed. Plus, they leave skin looking fresh and perfectly primed.
Here, a quick rundown of the different finishing serums you can try depending on your skin type and concern:
Good for dry, dehydrated skin, this highly-regenerating elixir is packed with moisturizing actives to hydrate and plump up skin (while also filling in wrinkles) for an instant lift and volume boost.
Rich in natural antioxidants and intense hydrators, this energizing serum restores skin’s radiance instantly, giving dehydrated or devitalized skin instants a visible glow-up upon application. It’s always used in tandem with the Biologique Recherche Complexe Royal (see next on the list).
This anti-aging elixir is formulated with a high concentration of royal jelly, which is known for its regenerative and moisturizing powers, combined with anti-aging extracts from silk and cucumber. It’s the perfect pick-me-up for mature skin.
Pro tip: For fairer, glowing skin, apply Complexe Royal first before Renovateur 14. For a golden glow, simply switch it up—apply Renovateur 14 first.
This silky serum hydrates with hyaluronic acid and soothes with witch hazel extracts, helping protect sensitive skin. It’s a good starter serum to promote a healthy overall complexion while minimizing the signs of aging. The best part? It literally leaves skin feeling like silk.
Featuring the VIP O2 line’s signature oxygenating complex, it’s the ideal formula for combating the signs of stress and fatigue on skin , protecting against pollutants, and restoring lost radiance. It’s designed for all skin instants but can particularly benefit those with oily tendencies.
Known to be the “king” of all finishing serums, it features the highest concentration of active ingredients (27 actives, to be exact) and delivers anti-aging, hydrating, brightening, and antioxidant properties.
A lighter version of the Le Grand Serum (and lighter on the budget, too), this revitalizing serum is also an anti-ager, which works to boost skin’s natural defenses while stimulating skin regeneration. It also delivers brightening benefits and is good for all skin instants.
A skin care and makeup product in one, this unique formula unifies the complexion by providing sheer, glowing coverage while delivering moisture and protecting skin from external aggressors. It’s perfect for busybodies who want to fast-track their routine without compromising the benefits.
Don’t forget: Even if you apply your finishing serum, remember that you still have to put on a good sunscreen for protection against UV rays. Wait for five minutes after applying your serum before layering on your sun shield.
Not sure which serum is for you? For customized skin care recommendations, you can book a virtual consultation with Michelle Reyes-Navarro, founder of Bella Pelle Philippines and our resident dermatologist, Dr. Maxmin Navarro, a Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) fellow.
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