Our supercharged fall schedules mean we’re thinking about how to maintain our glow. After all, we’re feeling like wonder-men and women, but our skin isn’t always keeping up. On top of our epic days, the cool bursts of early morning air and overnight heat are showing their effects on our skin: dullness, fine lines and discoloration that is our souvenir from time spent outdoors in the summer. 

Our first line of defense? That would be a light overnight application of Deep Moisture Mask. Nothing works as instantaneously to revive dull, dry, stressed skin. It’s no wonder that friends like Daniel Martin (Megan Markle’s makeup artist) reach for this mask as a quick pick-me-up. But, what does it take to save our skin on a deeper level? That’s where serums come in. 

Serums are one of the more advanced products to adopt into any skincare routine. In fact, one of the most common questions we receive is: why should I invest in a serum? And the answer is pretty simple: Serums are lightweight, highly concentrated formulas that are specifically designed to penetrate deeper into the skin than a moisturizer. As a result, they will give you some of the best results of any skincare product. 

Want to get savvier on Serums? Here’s the scoop on each of our formulas straight from Francesco and his sister, Dr. Charlotte Clark, MD: 

Nourishing Youth Serum 

This lotion-y formula uses neuropeptides (small protein-like molecules) to calm down muscles that cause wrinkles. Think of them like a hot iron to a wrinkled shirt. This non-occlusive, oil-free formula penetrates skin, plumps fine lines and wrinkles, and boosts the complexion. Francesco recommends massaging the product into areas of concern for 20 seconds. Our friend, makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes, raves that it is the perfect base for a dewy look. 

Retinol Rescue Eye Serum 

This formula has lots of botanical actives like rare Swiss Apple Stem Cells and extract of White Bird of Paradise Plant, yet is gentle enough for the delicate eye area. We call it our Spanx because it immediately lifts and perks. Sodium Hyaluronate (that holds 900x weight in water) plumps up fine lines and wrinkles. Massage around the eye area with the cooling applicator under or over makeup--and pop it in your bag for an awakened effect any time of day. 

Retinol Rescue Face Serum 

This creamy formula features two types of Retinol and Colloidal Oatmeal to increase cell turnover, boost collagen, minimize the appearance of pores and improve the look and overall tone of skin. A true multi-tasker just like we are. The formula is gentle enough to be worn up to 2X a day. Just be sure to follow with SPF 30 or higher in the AM. Retinol Rescue Face Serum is oil-free and fast-absorbing. The matte finish is especially great for men or women who don’t want to look like they’re wearing any product at all. 

Now that you’ve passed Skincare 201, pick the formula that’s right for you, or layer them for bonus points.