From the No1 skincare brand at Boots, No7 Core Serum range has a new look – and the same tried-and-trusted formulas. But why use a serum? We’re short of time, and don’t want a lengthy skincare routine – won’t a moisturiser do the job? No7 scientific advisor Dr Ellie Bradley is involved from the very early stages of creating the products. She explains: “Serums are the most active forms of skincare, and can target specific skin concerns with powerful age-defying ingredients.”

The fact is, if you don’t already include a serum in your skincare regime, you’re missing a trick. Serums are an important part of your daily routine as they are the most highly concentrated in active ingredients. Rather than just moisturising, these lightweight formulas target specific skin concerns, from fine lines to uneven skin tone. The No7 core serum range has an option for different ages and skincare needs.

One of the things that makes No7 serums special is the number of trials they are put through. No7 serums have been tested on more than 5,000 women, so that Boots labs have regular feedback on how the products perform. And they use this information to make clinical improvements over time, constantly upgrading the formulas.

Choose from the three No7 core serum options:

For ages 30-45 (or those who want to try a serum in their 20s), No7 PROTECT & PERFECT INTENSE ADVANCED SERUM features anti-wrinkle peptide technology and a combination of antioxidant complex and hyaluronic acid – all combining to reduce the appearance of fine lines, boosting and smoothing the skin. €35

For ages 45-60, or those looking for brighter, more radiant skin, NO7 LIFT & LUMINATE TRIPLE ACTION SERUM works on both skin firmness and skin tone, featuring a vitamin-rich brightening complex along with Boots No7’s line-smoothing peptide technology. €36

For mature skin, particularly at ages 60-plus, No7 RESTORE & RENEW FACE & NECK MULTI-ACTION SERUM is formulated to firm, even, brighten and lift skin on both face and neck. That’s due to the skin-nourishing complex of calcium, amino acids and ceramides. €37.50

PANEL FEEDBACK

We sent Boots No7 serums to our The GLOSSiest beauty panel to try out and give their honest feedback. We suited the serum to the testers’ age profile; the skin types varied from dry and combination to sensitive and hormonal, with 24 per cent describing their skin as dry. Over three weeks, our 30 testers used a No7 core serum as part of their routine.

Most of the panellists, who are big beauty lovers, had previously used a serum in their routine: as one commented, “I have used serums before and find them generally a smarter bet than spending big money on moisturisers.” Another says: “I’ve always used a serum morning and evening. As I’ve aged, my skin really needs the extra boost of lovely ingredients that a serum delivers.” Others, meanwhile, felt they didn’t have the time for another skincare step, or didn’t see the benefits.

Here’s some feedback from our independent testers:

“I think it’s a great price point; I think everyone regardless of age should introduce this into their skincare regime.”

“I can’t believe how much brighter my face is. I usually only wear moisturiser but this seems to be a game-changer.”

“You would think an extra step (in an already extensive skin routine) would be annoying or forgotten about but it’s quick and easy with this product. No sticky feeling after applying.”

“Sometimes I find a serum a little harsh and skin can feel tight, but for me this serum did not feel like that and I used it religiously every morning and night for three weeks.”

“I have to be honest and say that I began applying this to the backs of my hands too … I have it by my computer so it goes on first thing in the morning at 9am with a cup of coffee!”

“Super value for money – I will definitely purchase and recommend to others.”

Overall, 93 per cent of our testers said that the No7 serum they tried out would encourage them to use a serum every day. Some 82 per cent found it worked well under make-up and other skincare products, while 79 per cent would recommend it to others and 65 per cent said they would buy the serum again.

The older age category seemed to see the best results overall. One tester aged 71 thought she was “past an age to use a serum” but loved the texture and subtle scent and found her skin smoother while using Restore & Renew serum.

YOUR SUMMER SKIN ROUTINE

Morning Routine

Cleanse skin, apply your No7 age-defying serum, followed by your No7 eye cream and No7 day moisturiser. Apply serum and day cream evenly over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Remember to wear a separate SPF, too. As Dr Bradley notes: “You also need to use an SPF daily all year round since 80 per cent of signs of facial ageing are caused by UV.”

Night Routine

Cleanse skin, and then to give your skin an extra helping hand, use your No7 age-defying serum, followed by your No7 eye cream and No7 night moisturiser. Apply serum and night cream evenly over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.

The No7 age-defying serums range is available in most Boots stores and on www.Boots.ie where you can save now and shop 3 for 2 on Core Serums. Exclusions apply and cheapest item free. Offer ends 27th July. Also receive a free No7 Summer Gift worth over €31 when you buy 2 selected No7 Cosmetics or Accessories.

Follow Boots on social media at @Boots.Ireland

*Boots ROI EPOS data from ABACUS database sales value and volume data for total facial skincare category. 52 weeks ended 31 October 2020