AH Aloe Leaf Ext Hyaluronic Acid Serum
AH Aloe Leaf Ext Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing hydrating serum featuring 92.5% organic aloe vera leaf extract combined with hyaluronic acid and allantoin. This minimalist K-beauty formula delivers instant soothing hydration while calming irritated, sun-stressed, or dehydrated skin without any stickiness or residue.
92.5% Organic Aloe Vera
Made from 20,000ppm certified organic California aloe for intense, natural hydration and soothing benefits.
Texture & feel
SENSORY92.5% Organic Aloe Vera
Made from 20,000ppm certified organic California aloe for intense, natural hydration and soothing benefits.
Multi-Level Hydration
Hyaluronic acid attracts and binds moisture while aloe vera and betaine provide deep, lasting hydration.
Skin Barrier Support
Allantoin promotes cell regeneration and wound healing while betaine strengthens the protective barrier.
Minimalist Formula
Only 5 essential ingredients with no unnecessary fillers, making it ideal for sensitive and reactive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast.
Comedogenic rating of 0/5. Oil-free, silicone-free formula will not clog pores or cause breakouts.
Hypoallergenic formula free from fragrance, alcohol, dyes, and common irritants. Patch test recommended.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA, and niacinamide. Apply this serum first, then layer actives.
High-concentration serum. The brand recommends a patch test before first use, especially for very sensitive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract 92.5%Proven
The star ingredient derived from organic California aloe vera. Rich in polysaccharides, vitamins A, C, E, and B12, amino acids, and minerals that provide deep hydration and skin-soothing benefits.
- Hydration: Contains mucopolysaccharides that act as humectants, binding moisture to skin
- Soothing: Anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness, sunburn, and irritation
- Healing: Promotes collagen and elastin production for skin repair
- Research: Studies show aloe increases water content of the stratum corneum
Sodium Hyaluronate Effective LevelProven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, known for its exceptional ability to attract and retain moisture. Can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
- Molecular Weight: Standard molecular weight for surface and mid-level hydration
- Function: Draws water from environment and deeper skin layers to hydrate upper epidermis
- Research: Proven to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and reduce fine line appearance
Betaine SupportingProven
A natural amino acid derivative from sugar beets. Functions as an osmolyte that helps maintain cell-water balance and protects proteins from denaturation.
- Osmoprotectant: Helps cells maintain hydration under stress conditions
- Barrier Support: Strengthens skin barrier and prevents moisture loss
- Soothing: Anti-irritant properties help calm stressed skin
Allantoin SupportingProven
A gentle, non-irritating compound known for its skin-soothing, protective, and wound-healing properties. Often used in products for sensitive skin.
- Cell Regeneration: Promotes keratinocyte proliferation and tissue repair
- Soothing: Reduces inflammation and calms irritated skin
- Softening: Keratolytic properties help smooth rough skin texture
1,2-Hexanediol Preservative BoosterFunctional
A multifunctional ingredient that serves as a solvent, humectant, and preservative booster. Helps maintain product stability and extends shelf life.
- Antimicrobial: Boosts preservative efficacy for product safety
- Humectant: Provides mild moisturizing benefits
- Sensory: Creates a pleasant, light feel on skin
5 ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract*, Betaine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin
*Organic Ingredients 92.5%
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to slightly damp skin after toner for best absorption. Can also be used as a soothing treatment for sunburn, razor burn, or irritation on face and body.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with clean skin. Apply your toner if using one, leaving skin slightly damp for better serum absorption.
Dispense Product
Pump 2-3 drops into your palm. The lightweight gel-serum consistency spreads easily with minimal product.
Apply & Pat
Gently pat the serum onto face, neck, and décolletage. Use pressing motions rather than rubbing for optimal penetration.
Layer & Lock
Wait 15-30 seconds for absorption, then follow with treatment serums and moisturizer to lock in hydration.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dehydrated or chronically dry skin
- You need a soothing serum for sensitive or reactive skin
- You want a fungal acne-safe hydrating product
- You prefer minimal, clean ingredient lists
- You need post-sun or post-procedure soothing care
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe hydration
- You want a versatile serum for face, neck, and body
- You love K-beauty's lightweight, hydrating textures
Consider alternatives if:
- You need anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides
- You prefer very thick, occlusive formulas
- You want a product with multiple molecular weights of HA
- You need targeted treatment for hyperpigmentation
- You dislike gel textures on skin
- You want a scented skincare experience
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free formula absorbs instantly without adding shine or congesting pores. Perfect water-based hydration.
Provides excellent hydration but may need a richer moisturizer or facial oil on top for very dry skin types.
Balances hydration across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without making oily zones greasy.
Fragrance-free, minimal formula with soothing aloe and allantoin. Ideal for reactive skin. Patch test first.
Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating), oil-free, and fungal acne safe. Won't clog pores or trigger breakouts.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Soothing & Hydration
Skin feels immediately refreshed, cooled, and hydrated. Visible plumping effect as hyaluronic acid draws in moisture. Redness and irritation noticeably calmed.
95% noticed immediate hydrationImproved Skin Texture
Consistent use leads to smoother, softer skin texture. Dry patches and flakiness begin to diminish. Skin appears more supple and bouncy.
85% reported softer skinStrengthened Barrier
Skin barrier shows improvement with reduced sensitivity and better moisture retention. Skin looks healthier and more resilient to environmental stress.
78% noticed improved resilienceLong-Term Hydration Balance
Sustained improvements in overall hydration levels. Fine dehydration lines appear diminished. Skin maintains a healthy, dewy glow throughout the day.
72% achieved lasting resultsRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-minimal 5-ingredient formula
- 92.5% organic aloe vera concentration
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Non-sticky, dewy finish
- Fragrance and alcohol-free
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Excellent value (120ml size)
- Multi-use for face, body, and hair
- Calms sunburn and razor irritation
Criticized
- May not be hydrating enough alone for very dry skin
- No additional anti-aging actives
- Single molecular weight HA only
- Pump packaging can be wasteful
- Some batches may have slightly thicker consistency
- Not suitable for those wanting scented products
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Features multiple molecular weights of HA plus vitamin B5. More focused on HA than aloe, slightly stickier texture. Better for pure hydration seekers.
Similar aloe concentration at 92%. Contains alcohol and fragrance unlike Cos De BAHA version. Larger 300ml tub but not fungal acne safe.
Triple molecular weight HA formula with panthenol. More advanced hydration but no aloe vera. Higher price point for smaller 40ml size.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDECos De BAHA AH Aloe Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within one year of first use for optimal freshness and efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly sealed after each use. Room temperature (15-25°C) is ideal.
Pump bottle dispenser for hygienic, easy application. Plastic bottle protects formula from light degradation.
Yes, but exceeds 100ml carry-on limit. Transfer to smaller container for flights or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this serum is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients flagged as potentially harmful during pregnancy. The simple formula of aloe vera, betaine, sodium hyaluronate, and allantoin are all considered safe for expecting and nursing mothers. However, always consult your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
Yes, this serum is fungal acne safe. It does not contain any ingredients that feed malassezia yeast, including fermented ingredients, fatty acids (C11-C24), esters, polysorbates, or oils. The minimal 5-ingredient formula avoids all common fungal acne triggers, making it an excellent choice for those struggling with pityrosporum folliculitis or malassezia-related skin conditions.
Yes, this aloe-HA serum is compatible with most active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply this serum first to provide a hydrating base, wait 1-2 minutes for absorption, then apply your active treatments. The soothing aloe vera can actually help buffer potential irritation from strong actives. For sensitive skin, consider using actives and this serum on alternate days until your skin adjusts.
This serum works excellently for all skin types but is especially well-suited for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin due to its lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic formula. Those with very dry skin may find it provides insufficient moisture on its own and should layer a richer moisturizer on top. It's particularly beneficial for anyone seeking clean, minimal-ingredient skincare or dealing with irritated, sun-damaged, or reactive skin.
Immediate results include instant hydration, plumping, and soothing of the skin. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, you should notice improved skin texture, reduced dryness, and better overall hydration levels. After 3-4 weeks, expect to see strengthened skin barrier function and reduced sensitivity. For optimal results, use twice daily (AM and PM) as part of a consistent skincare routine.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Following the thin-to-thick rule, apply water-based products first. This serum should be applied to slightly damp skin for optimal absorption. In the morning: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Treatments → Moisturizer → Sunscreen. At night: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Actives → Moisturizer.
No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5 and will not clog pores. It is completely oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no ingredients known to cause comedones or acne. The lightweight gel-serum texture absorbs quickly without leaving any pore-clogging residue. It's an excellent choice for those prone to blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores.
This serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness, efficacy, and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight with the cap tightly sealed. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use. The 120ml size typically lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use on face and neck.
Verdict: The Cos De BAHA AH Aloe Leaf Ext Hyaluronic Acid Serum delivers exceptional value with its high-concentration (92.5%) organic aloe vera formula and minimalist 5-ingredient list. It excels at providing lightweight, soothing hydration without any unnecessary additives, fragrances, or potential irritants. The fact that it's both fungal acne safe and pregnancy safe makes it a versatile choice for almost anyone. While it may not offer the multi-molecular weight HA technology of premium serums or provide sufficient moisture for extremely dry skin types alone, the combination of efficacy, safety profile, generous size, and affordable price point makes this an outstanding everyday hydrating serum. Highly recommended for sensitive, oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types seeking clean, effective hydration.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Allantoin
Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Soothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|