What is a serum? Do I need one?

[Acunningruse]

I keep reading on here about serums. Would that be instead of a moisturiser, or as well as? My skin is sensitive and my foundation isn't lasting in warm weather so I am wondering if a serum would be better-but would it hydrate enough?

Im 32 with skin that is sensitive and tends to dull if that makes a difference.

Tips and recommendations gratefully received.

Serums are a nice but completely unnecessary step of a skincare routine imo.

I use them after cleansing and before moisturisers. I have normal/slightly dry skin so the extra moisture feels lovely. But I haven't noticed any improvement in my skin (which has always been pretty good) at all.

TLDR: they're nice but not essential.

My skin is dry/dehydrated. My current serum has helped to improve the condition of my skin.

With my previous one, I didn't notice a difference in terms of how my skin looked, but my beautician said that what she did a test on the computer, my skin was more hydrated once I was using the serum.

If your skin is sensitive, I wouldn't go near them.

Serums are treatments and you can get all kinds depending on your skin type. IMO (and many of the experts/facialists agree) a serum does far more than your moisturiser will. Basically any old moisturiser will be fine, but spend time seeing what serum will work for you.
Most have silicones so give an instant smoothing base.

I really prefer serums and essences to creams. They suit my skin and the water/silicone based ones are not greasy. Dull skin - Vitamin C serum and/or hydrating ones? I'm into Korean routines and there most treatment products are liquid, I really like them.

I have sensitive skin and always broke out with moisturisers. I now use a serum and my skin is really soft. Have been using Balance Me serum for the last year which is 100% natural and my skin loves it.