Serum vs Moisturizer: Do You Need Both? Here’s the Real Answer

Why using both a serum and a cream matters

Healthy, radiant skin comes from a routine that does three things well: treats, hydrates, and protects. That’s why serums and creams are a powerful pairing. A serum delivers concentrated actives to target specific concerns, while a cream supports the skin barrier and helps seal in hydration for longer-lasting comfort and results. Used together, they create a balanced routine that’s effective, consistent, and easier for skin to tolerate.

What a serum does

Serums are lightweight formulas made with a high concentration of active ingredients. Their texture is designed to absorb quickly and help deliver targeted benefits—making them ideal for concerns like dehydration, dullness, uneven tone, fine lines, breakouts, and barrier support.

Because serums are built for treatment, they’re often formulated with ingredients such as:

hyaluronic acid to attract and hold moisture for plumper-looking skin
vitamin c or other brightening antioxidants to support glow and improve the look of discoloration
peptides to support the look of firmness and elasticity
clarifying ingredients to help with congestion and the appearance of breakouts

A serum is where you “aim” your skincare—choosing what your skin needs most right now.

What a cream does

A cream (moisturizer) is the step that supports and protects. It helps reinforce the skin barrier and reduces moisture loss throughout the day or night. Most creams use a blend of:

humectants (like glycerin) to draw water into the skin
emollients (like squalane or plant oils) to soften and smooth
barrier-supporting ingredients (like ceramides) to help reduce dryness and sensitivity

Many creams also include antioxidants and soothing ingredients to help skin feel calmer and more resilient against environmental stressors like cold weather, pollution, and daily exposure.

Why they work better together

Serums and creams are designed to be complementary:

a serum targets; a cream supports
a serum can’t always provide enough comfort on its own, especially for dry, sensitive, or mature skin
a cream alone may hydrate, but it may not address deeper concerns like uneven tone, fine lines, or persistent congestion as efficiently

When you layer a serum and then a cream, you get the best of both: targeted treatment plus the barrier support that helps skin hold onto the benefits.

How to apply serum + cream for best results

cleanse to remove buildup so products absorb evenly
apply serum to slightly damp skin (face and neck)
follow with cream to lock in hydration and support the barrier
in the morning, finish with broad-spectrum spf to protect your results

Tip: start simple. If you’re introducing new actives, add one at a time and give your skin a few weeks to adjust.

A serum and a cream aren’t “extra steps”—they’re a smart structure. Serums deliver concentrated, targeted support. Creams help reinforce the barrier, seal in hydration, and improve comfort. Together, they create a routine that’s easier to stay consistent with—and consistency is what transforms skin over time.

optional moirai-style closing line (if you want it more branded)

At Moirai, our Duo approach pairs a serum and a cream designed to work in harmony—so your routine feels simple, supportive, and easy to repeat every day.