Try these 3 DIY face serums for glass-like skin this summer

Skincare tips: In addition to a carrier oil, DIY face serums often include essential oils, botanical extracts, and vitamins to target specific skin concerns (Image: Canva)

As the temperatures rise, so do concerns about keeping your skin hydrated and radiant. Fortunately, you don't need to break the bank on expensive skincare products when you can create your own nourishing serums at home. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of know-how, you can craft customised potions that will leave your complexion looking smooth, clear, and positively luminous:

Why DIY face serums?

Commercial face serums often come with hefty price tags and a laundry list of ingredients, some of which may not be suitable for all skin types. By making your own serums, you have full control over what goes into them, ensuring they are tailored to your specific skincare needs. Plus, DIY serums are often fresher and more potent than store-bought alternatives, as they lack the preservatives needed for long shelf lives.

Understanding the basics of DIY face serums

Before diving into specific recipes, it's essential to understand the basic components of a face serum. At its core, a serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing liquid that delivers a high concentration of active ingredients directly to the skin. The base of most serums is a carrier oil, such as jojoba, rosehip, or argan oil, which provides hydration and helps to carry other ingredients deep into the skin.

In addition to a carrier oil, DIY face serums often include essential oils, botanical extracts, and vitamins to target specific skin concerns. Whether you're looking to brighten dull skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, or calm inflammation, there's a combination of ingredients that's perfect for you.

3 DIY face serum recipes

Hydrating Glow Serum: Mix equal parts of rosehip oil and argan oil in a small dropper bottle. Add a few drops of vitamin E oil for added antioxidant protection. For extra hydration, incorporate a drop or two of hyaluronic acid serum. Apply a few drops of this serum to your face and neck after cleansing and toning for a dewy, radiant complexion.

Anti-Ageing Elixir: Combine 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil with 5 drops each of frankincense and lavender essential oils. Frankincense oil helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, while lavender oil soothes and calms the skin. Massage a few drops of this serum into your skin before bed to wake up to smoother, more youthful-looking skin.

Brightening Potion: Mix 1 tablespoon of sweet almond oil with 3 drops of vitamin C oil and 2 drops of lemon essential oil. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps to brighten the skin and even out skin tone, while lemon essential oil has astringent properties that can help to tighten pores and reduce excess oil production. Use this serum in the morning to give your skin a luminous glow.

Tips for making DIY face serums

• Always patch test new ingredients before applying them to your face to avoid potential allergic reactions.
• Store your DIY face serums in dark, glass bottles away from direct sunlight to prevent the oils from oxidising and losing their potency.
• Start with small batches of serum and adjust the ingredients as needed to find the perfect formulation for your skin.