A common skincare question is whether you need both a serum and a moisturiser, and which goes on first. The two do different jobs. A serum is lightweight and gives targeted care, such as extra hydration or a brighter-looking complexion. A moisturiser locks that hydration in. The general rule is to apply thinnest to thickest: cleanse, then serum, then moisturiser, then SPF in the morning. Always patch test a new product first. McKeevers Chemists, with stores in Northern Ireland and England, stocks face serums, face creams and body care from brands including L’Oréal, Garnier, Declaré and Palmer’s.