Serums are super helpful for improving skin suppleness, repairing its lipid barrier function, and reducing dryness. And this homemade repair serum, in particular, has quickly become a staple in my daily skincare routine.
Thanks to a blend of rosehip, frankincense, and pumpkin seed oils, it helps combat free radicals and soothes irritation while also fading scars, sun spots, and discoloration over time.
Repair Serum Benefits
Iโm not sure when it happened, but Iโve officially become a hoarder of serums, salves, and other skincare potions. Okay, Iโm not being completely honestโI know exactly when it happened (6 weeks, 12 days, and ohโฆ about 8 hours ago, if youโre wondering).
I was at a restaurant with my mom, and after ordering a cocktail, I went to pull my ID from my wallet. Before I could get it out, the 19-year-old waitress laughed awkwardly and said, โOh, no… thatโs okay,โ before hurrying away.
And then, as if my ego wasnโt damaged enough, my mom uttered the words that will forever be etched in my brain, โshe must think weโre sisters.โ
That, my friends, was the not-so-subtle sign from the universe that I need a quality face serum. Like, yesterday.
Repair Serum Ingredients
While you can always buy a pricey one at the store, I love making my own. Iโve seen what oil cleansing can do for skin, so Iโm fully confident that slathering myself in brightening oils will do the trick on the cheap.
This serum packs a punch in the form of rosehip seed oil, which is chock full of vitamin C and other antioxidants [source], and pumpkin seed oil, which is loaded with vitamin E and carotenoids [source]. They both contain rich and essential fatty acids. Together, they help to hydrate skin, rejuvenate skin cells, and reduce discoloration.
Add in a little frankincense essential oil as a powerful anti-inflammatory [source] to lighten dark spots and heal sun damage. Then pour in some carrot seed [source] and lavender [source] essential oils for their antioxidant potential to reduce inflammation and brighten lackluster skin.
I also like to use vegetable glycerin to give this more of a serum-like consistency. To simplify things, you can leave the glycerin out and simply add more oils.
There you have it: an all-purpose skin serum thatโll make you look radiant and rejuvenatedโand fingers crossed, 10 years younger!
How to Make a DIY Repair Serum
Homemade facial serums sound pricey and complicated, but that couldnโt be further from the truth. This recipe involves little more than mixing a bunch of nourishing oils with some glycerin and pouring it into a dropper bottle.
While these ingredients add a little rejuvenating power to your serum, you donโt need them all to get good results. Feel free to leave out oils or add others depending on what you can easily find. And if an oil is out of your price range, leave it out altogether.
I find it best to apply this serum to clean and slightly damp skin twice a day. Since my skin is naturally dry, I slather it on right after rinsing my face in the morning and as part of my p.m. routine. I also swear by it after spending time in the sun.
Not only does the oil help trap moisture in the skin, but the water actually helps the oil absorb better, so it doesnโt just sit on my face, giving it a nice, oily sheen). For even better results, apply after using a toner like witch hazel, green tea, or apple cider vinegar to shrink pores and lock in vitamins and minerals.
And if you have a particular trouble spot, like a scar or burn, apply it 1 to 2 times a day directly to the area and massage it in. Massaging may help break down scar tissue and improve healing [source].
Repair Serum FAQs
Can I use almond oil as my carrier oil?
Yes, feel free to use almond oil or any other plant-sourced carrier oil you have on hand [source].
Will this repair serum make me break out?
It shouldnโt. But if you have sensitive skin, test the serum on a small patch of skin before applying it to your entire face.
What other essential oils are good for scars?
Anecdotally, hyssop, tea tree, geranium, and helichrysum oils may be helpful for scars.
Serum for Scars and Discoloration
Equipment
- 1-ounce amber dropper bottle
Materials
- 15 drops pumpkin seed oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 10 drops frankincense essential oil
- 20 drops carrot seed oil
- almost 1 ounce rosehip seed oil
- 1/2 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
Instructions
- In a small dropper bottle, combine your pumpkin seed, lavender, frankincense, and carrot seed oils.
- Add your vegetable glycerin. While this step isnโt necessary, I find that the glycerin helps give the serum some staying power to last all day.
- Finally, fill your dropper bottle to the top with rosehip seed oil. Screw the cap on and give it a gentle shake to mix the oils.
Notes
This post was medically reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Haley, a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience in medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology. Learn more about Hello Glowโs medical reviewers here. As always, this is not personal medical advice, and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
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Is it possible to add almond oil as your carrier oil.
I know its not funny for mom to suggest you look like sisters, but I had to LOL b/c I can so relate to your pain. It’s like it happens over night and then bam!…..things like ordering a drink is like an unwelcomed slap of reality :(