When it comes to skincare, most of us have the basics covered.

Cleanse. Tone. Moisturise.

But there’s one step that so many people either skip… or aren’t quite sure how to use properly.

And honestly, it can make the biggest difference of all.

Serum.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you really need one, the answer is yes… and your future skin will thank you for it.

So what actually is a serum?

Think of a serum as your skin’s support system.

It’s lightweight, usually water-based, and packed with highly concentrated active ingredients that can travel deeper into the skin than your moisturiser can.

That means instead of just sitting on the surface, it’s actually working within the skin.

Helping with things like:

• Fine lines and loss of firmness
• Dehydration
• Dull or tired-looking skin
• Breakouts or congestion
• Uneven tone or pigmentation

So rather than just maintaining your skin, it’s actively improving it.

Do you still need a moisturiser?

Yes… and this is where people sometimes get confused.

A serum and a moisturiser do completely different jobs.

Your serum goes deeper and does the work.
Your moisturiser sits on top and protects, hydrates and locks everything in.

It’s not one or the other. It’s both.

And when you use them together properly, that’s when you really start to see a difference.

Why I always recommend a serum

If you were only going to upgrade one thing in your skincare routine, this would be it.

Because:

• You’re getting a much higher concentration of active ingredients
• It absorbs beautifully with no heaviness
• It targets exactly what your skin needs
• And it supports long-term skin health, not just how it looks today

It’s a small step, but it’s a powerful one.

To be honest, any well-formulated serum used consistently will benefit your skin. The key is choosing the right one and using it properly.

The ones I use and recommend in My Retreat are from Temple Spa, because I know how they perform, how they feel on the skin, and the results they deliver.

Choosing the right serum for your skin

One of the reasons I love the Temple Spa serums is because they’re so easy to understand.

Each one has a clear purpose, so you can choose what your skin needs… and even switch things up depending on how your skin is feeling.

If your skin needs comfort and support

Temple Spa Be Strong Serum

This is the one I’d suggest if your skin feels a little dry, sensitive or out of balance.

It’s a silky gel-cream that helps strengthen the skin barrier, boost hydration and bring everything back to a calmer, more settled place.

If you’re thinking about firmness and lift

Temple Spa Be Firm Serum

A beautiful option if you’re starting to notice changes in firmness or elasticity.

It’s light, velvety and works to support the structure of the skin, helping it feel smoother and a little more lifted.

If your skin is looking a bit tired or dull

Temple Spa Let's Concentrate Serum

This is your glow-giver.

It helps to refine and brighten, giving your skin that fresher, more radiant look… the kind where people say you look well but can’t quite put their finger on why.

If you’re dealing with breakouts or oiliness

Temple Spa Clear to Me Serum

Lightweight, fast-absorbing and really helpful if your skin feels congested or unsettled.

It works to rebalance and clarify, leaving your skin looking clearer and calmer over time.