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DictionaryserumSkin-care liquid
noun

serum

A skin-care liquid with concentrated active ingredients.

She applies a few drops of serum to her face.

Etymology
serumLatinwhey; watery fluid

Serum originally named a watery fluid or separated liquid. Skin care borrowed the term for a concentrated fluid preparation applied to the skin.

More examples

  • The serum comes in a small glass bottle.
  • He added a moisturizing serum to his skin-care routine.
  • The label lists the serum's active ingredients.

Forms

serum · serums · sera

Similar words

lotion
Usually a more emulsion-like preparation, with less emphasis on concentrated ingredients.
cream
Usually thicker, with less emphasis on a concentrated liquid formulation.