Serums vs Moisturisers: Do You Need Both in Your Skincare Routine?

When it comes to skincare, one of the most common questions is whether serums and moisturisers are interchangeable—or if both deserve a place in your daily ritual. The truth is that each plays a distinct and vital role in supporting your skin, and understanding these differences can completely transform how your products perform. At Pt78 Skin and Body, we proudly offer both our organic, Australian-made formulas and the globally renowned SkinCeuticals range. Together, they provide everything you need to nourish, protect, and restore your complexion.

In this article, we’ll explore what sets serums and moisturisers apart, why you should never skip either, and how to build an effective routine tailored to your skin’s needs.

What is a Serum?

Serums are lightweight formulations packed with highly concentrated active ingredients. Because of their smaller molecular structure, serums penetrate deep into the skin, delivering targeted results where they’re needed most. This makes them ideal for addressing concerns such as fine lines, pigmentation, dehydration, and uneven skin tone.

For example, the SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Serum combines hyaluronic acid with vitamin B5 for intense hydration, making it a cult favourite worldwide. Another powerhouse is the Phyto Corrective Gel, which calms redness and soothes irritation with botanical extracts. At Pt78, we complement these with our own natural innovations, such as the Brighten B Hydrate & Brighten Serum, formulated with niacinamide and panthenol to regulate sebum, minimise pores, and enhance radiance.

Whether it’s SkinCeuticals’ science-led serums or our organic blends, the goal of a serum is always the same: to act as a treatment step that delivers powerful actives directly into your skin.

What is a Moisturiser?

If serums are the specialists of skincare, moisturisers are the protectors. Their primary job is to strengthen and maintain the skin barrier by locking in hydration and preventing water loss. Moisturisers work on the surface layers of your skin, ensuring that all the beneficial ingredients from serums stay where they belong—while also shielding against environmental stressors.

For deep hydration and anti-ageing benefits, few products rival SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2, which replenishes essential skin lipids to improve elasticity and smoothness. For those with normal to dry skin, Emollience Rich Hydrating Moisturiser offers long-lasting hydration and a luxurious texture.

At Pt78, our Moisture+ Hydrating Moisturiser blends hyaluronic acid with antioxidant-rich botanicals to support hydration and resilience. For oilier or breakout-prone skin, the Matte+ Balancing Moisturiser provides hydration while controlling shine and congestion.

The bottom line? Moisturisers aren’t just about hydration; they’re essential for keeping your skin barrier intact and balanced.

Serums vs Moisturisers: Key Differences

Although both are integral to a healthy routine, serums and moisturisers aren’t interchangeable.

• Texture & Weight: Serums are lightweight and fast-absorbing, while moisturisers are richer and designed to stay on the surface.

• Function: Serums target specific concerns (like pigmentation or wrinkles), whereas moisturisers provide hydration and barrier protection.

• Molecular Structure: Serums contain smaller molecules that penetrate deeper, while moisturisers work on the surface to seal in benefits.

• Frequency: Most serums are used once or twice daily, layered under a moisturiser for optimal results.

When to Use Each

The golden rule of skincare layering is to apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency. That means serums first, moisturisers second.

• Morning: Start with a serum rich in antioxidants, like SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, followed by a hydrating moisturiser and sunscreen such as Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50.

• Evening: Incorporate corrective serums like the Retexturing Activator or Pt78’s Refine A Skin Enhancer, followed by nourishing moisturisers such as SkinCeuticals Renew Overnight Dry Hydrating Moisturiser.

By consistently layering serums under moisturisers, you give your skin both the targeted actives it needs and the long-lasting protection it deserves.

Best Pairings

Some of the most effective results come from pairing serums and moisturisers strategically. Here are a few combinations we recommend at Pt78:

1. Hydration Boost: Pair Hydrating B5 Serum with Pt78 Moisture+ Hydrating Moisturiser for plump, radiant skin.

2. Anti-Ageing Routine: Layer Pt78 Refine A Skin Enhancer under SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 for enhanced firmness and elasticity.

3. Brightening Duo: Combine Pt78 Highlight C Collagen Serum with SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense for glowing, even-toned skin.

Building Your Routine

Creating a balanced routine doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s a simple structure to follow:

Morning:

1. Cleanse with SkinCeuticals Soothing Cleanser or Pt78 Foaming Cleanser.

2. Apply an antioxidant serum, like Phloretin CF.

3. Moisturise with Pt78 Moisture+ Hydrating Moisturiser.

4. Finish with sunscreen, such as Ultra Facial Defense SPF 50.

Evening:

1. Cleanse with Pt78 Cream Cleanser.

2. Apply a corrective serum like Retinol 0.5 Night Cream or Pt78 Refine A.

3. Lock in results with SkinCeuticals Emollience or Pt78 Matte+ Balancing Moisturiser.

Conclusion

Serums and moisturisers aren’t competitors—they’re partners. While serums deliver potent actives to target specific concerns, moisturisers keep your skin barrier strong and resilient. By combining both, you’re giving your skin everything it needs: hydration, protection, and correction.

At Pt78 Skin and Body, we’re proud to offer both SkinCeuticals—one of the world’s most trusted clinical skincare brands—and our own line of organic, vegan, Australian-made products. Whether you’re building your first routine or refining an advanced regimen, we’re here to help you find the perfect balance.