What’s the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin?

Dry skin refers to lack of natural oil, while dehydrated skin lacks water. A good lightweight serum can help hydrate (water) and support skin barrier so skin stays balanced.

Can I use serum both morning and night?

Yes — many of our serums are formulated for twice-daily use. In the morning, follow with moisturizer + SPF. In the evening, seal hydration with your moisturizer.

Do I still need a moisturizer if I’m using a serum?

Yes. Serum delivers actives; moisturizer locks in hydration and can help strengthen skin’s barrier for lasting comfort.

How to Choose a Lightweight, Antioxidant Face Serum for Dry or Dehydrated Skin

When skin feels tight, dull, or thirsty, a well-chosen serum can make a big difference — especially if it’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and brings antioxidants to help defend against environmental stress. Here’s a simple, expert-led guide to building a serum routine that delivers hydration and glow without heaviness.

Recognize what serum really does (vs. moisturizer)

A serum is lightweight and fast-absorbing so it can deliver a concentrated dose of active ingredients to target issues like dullness, uneven tone, or dehydration.
Moisturizer still has its place — use serum first on clean skin, then layer moisturizer to seal in hydration for lasting comfort.

Opt for a serum with antioxidant and brightening power

Antioxidants like vitamin C help combat oxidative stress from environment, and can brighten skin for a healthier glow. Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Dark Spot Clearing Serum — helps visibly reduce dark spots and boost radiance while staying lightweight and fast-absorbing.

Go for water-gel or oil-free textures to protect hydration barrier

Dry or dehydrated skin thrives when lightweight water-gel formulas deliver moisture without heaviness or clogging pores.
Clinique Moisture Surge™ Active Glow Serum — exfoliates gently and leaves skin hydrated and brighter, ideal for boosting glow on dry skin.

Quick tip: If your skin feels tight after cleansing, applying serum on slightly damp skin can help lock in moisture more effectively.

Use a gentle renewal serum if skin texture or dullness is a concern

Sometimes dryness shows up as dullness or uneven texture — a renewal serum can help skin feel smoother and look more vibrant.
Clinique Turnaround™ Accelerated Renewal Serum — helps bring fresh, healthy-looking cells to the surface for smoother, more luminous skin.

Pair serum with a hydrating moisturizer (and SPF in the morning)

Serum delivers actives; moisturizer restores and locks in hydration. For dry or dehydrated skin, this combo can help rebuild and maintain the moisture barrier.
After a brightening or antioxidant serum in the morning, finish with moisturizer + broad-spectrum SPF to help protect skin.

Introduce actives gently and monitor for tolerance

If you’re new to serums — especially ones that exfoliate or brighten — ease in slowly. Use 2–3 times a week at first, then increase frequency as skin adjusts.
For example, with exfoliating or brightening serums, avoid layering multiple actives at once to reduce risk of irritation.

Quick Tip: Consistency matters more than frequency — a gentle serum used regularly is often more effective than a harsh one used sporadically.

Adjust choice to your skin’s changing needs (season, sensitivity, stress)

On drier or colder days, stick to gentler, hydrating serums; when skin is dull or fatigued, a brightening antioxidant serum can revive glow.

Summary

Choosing a serum is about balance — lightweight texture, antioxidant protection, and hydration support. Whether you reach for Even Better Clinical™ Dark Spot Clearing Serum, Moisture Surge™ Active Glow Serum, or Turnaround™ Accelerated Renewal Serum, you’re arming skin with targeted care. Pair your serum with a good moisturizer (and SPF by day) for the best results.

Explore these serums and find the one that fits your skin’s current needs.