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Serums & Concentrates

Serums & Concentrates

Face serums are lightweight, concentrated formulas that deliver a higher proportion of active ingredients than most moisturisers. They are applied after cleansing and before moisturiser, and their thin texture makes them easy to layer within a morning or evening routine. A few drops pressed into clean skin is usually enough. Concentrates work in a similar way but are often more potent, so they tend to be used in smaller amounts or on selected days.

At Muse, our serums and concentrates span several goals, including:

  • Hydrating serums that help skin look plump and feel comfortable
  • Brightening serums that help improve the look of dullness and uneven tone
  • Smoothing serums that help refine the look of texture and fine lines
  • Antioxidant serums that help skin look healthy and resilient

Not sure which face serum to choose? Book a visit and our clinicians can recommend one to suit your skin.

Why choose Muse Institute of Aesthetic Medicine

Muse is a doctor-owned practice in Crows Nest under the medical direction of Dr Stephen Lowe (MED0001207553). A Fellow of the Australasian College of Aesthetic Medicine and a Global Key Opinion Leader for Merz Aesthetics and Sciton, Dr Lowe has published research on skin quality and teaches other medical professionals the frameworks our clinicians follow. That clinical lens guides which serums we stock and how we advise you on using them.

FAQs

What is the difference between a face serum and a brightening serum?

“Face serum” is the broad category for any serum-style step in skincare, whether its focus is hydration, texture or the look of firmness. A brightening serum is one type within that group, formulated specifically to help skin look more radiant and even. If dullness is your main concern, a brightening serum is a sensible place to start. If not, a hydrating serum is a versatile option.

What makes a serum “medical-grade”?

There is no official definition of “medical-grade” skincare in Australia. The term generally refers to professional ranges distributed through doctors and skin clinics rather than retail stores, often formulated to complement in-clinic procedures. The face serums we carry at Muse sit within this space.

What ingredients are commonly found in brightening serums?

Common choices include vitamin C (often listed as ascorbic acid or a derivative), niacinamide, alpha arbutin and liquorice root extract. Many formulas combine two or more for a broader effect. Some of these ingredients can be sensitising, so it is worth patch testing a new serum on a small area first. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Can I use a vitamin C serum and a niacinamide serum together?

For most people, yes. The idea that these two ingredients cancel each other out comes from older research using unstable forms of vitamin C, and modern products are generally made to work together. Many people apply vitamin C in the morning and niacinamide at night, or layer them, starting with the thinner one. If your skin feels warm or flushed, try using them at different times of day. If it continues, discontinue both and touch base with a clinician.

How do I choose the right serum for my skin type?

Start with your main goal, whether that is hydration, a brighter-looking complexion, smoother texture or everyday antioxidant support. Then consider how your skin behaves: oily skin often prefers water-based serums, dry skin tends to suit formulas with humectants such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin and sensitive skin usually does better with fragrance-free options and fewer actives. If you have treatments planned, check with your clinician before adding something new. 

Book a consultation for a recommendation based on an assessment of your skin.