The Difference Between a Serum, Cream and Lotion – Explained in Simple Words

 The Difference Between a Serum, Cream and Lotion – Explained in Simple Words

By Dr. Rizwan Khan | Dr. Rizwan’s Skin Cosmetic and Laser Clinic, Shahjahanpur

📅 24 June 2025

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Ever stood in front of a skincare shelf and thought:

“Serum bhi lagana hai? Cream bhi? Lotion bhi? What’s the difference?”

You’re not alone.

Many patients ask me:

“Doctor, kya mujhe teenon lagani chahiye?”

“Kya cream aur lotion same hota hai?”

“Serum pehle lagayein ya baad mein?”

Let me explain all this in very simple and practical language.

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🧴 First Things First: Why So Many Products?

Each product type—serum, cream, lotion—has its own job.

They differ by:

• Texture

• Purpose

• Skin penetration

• When to use them

Think of it like this:

• Serum = Medicine

• Lotion = Light moisturiser

• Cream = Heavy moisturiser

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💧 1. What is a Serum?

• Very light and watery OR gel-like

• Has powerful active ingredients (like Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Retinol)

• Absorbs deep into your skin

• Comes in small bottles, usually with a dropper

🟢 Used for:

• Pigmentation

• Acne

• Fine lines

• Dullness

• Dehydration

⏱️ Apply after face wash and before moisturiser.

Example:

Vitamin C serum in morning, Retinol serum at night.

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🧴 2. What is a Lotion?

• Thinner than cream, usually white and runny

• Gives light moisturising

• Feels less oily

• Absorbs quickly

🟢 Best for:

• Normal to oily skin

• Summer season

• Daytime use

• People who don’t like sticky feeling

Example:

Aloe vera lotion or moisturising lotion with niacinamide.

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🧴 3. What is a Cream?

• Thicker and richer than lotion

• Gives deep moisturising

• Leaves a slightly heavier feel

• Takes longer to absorb

🟢 Best for:

• Dry or sensitive skin

• Winter season

• Night time repair

• People who feel “skin khinch rahi hai”

Example:

Night cream, barrier repair cream, cold cream.

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👨‍⚕️ Dr. Rizwan’s Simple Order of Application:

If you’re using all three:

1. Cleanser

2. Serum (only 2–3 drops)

3. Lotion or Cream (depending on your skin)

4. Sunscreen (if morning)

💡 Lightest to heaviest is the rule. Serum always goes first.

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❓ Do You Need All Three?

Not always.

It depends on your skin needs.