Collagen Hydrator
Collagen Hydrator
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, professional-grade moisturizer formulated to deeply hydrate, firm, and smooth dry and mature skin. Combines the nourishing power of shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant-rich fruit oils to replenish lost moisture while supporting collagen production for a more youthful, plump complexion.
Deep Hydration
Multi-humectant formula with hyaluronic acid and glycerin delivers intense, long-lasting moisture to parched skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Hydration
Multi-humectant formula with hyaluronic acid and glycerin delivers intense, long-lasting moisture to parched skin.
Antioxidant Protection
Vitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate) and Vitamin E neutralize free radicals and protect against environmental damage.
Firming Benefits
Sweet almond and olive fruit oils provide nutrients that help firm and condition the skin while improving elasticity.
Rich Nourishment
Shea butter softens and maintains moisture without greasiness, creating a protective barrier for dry skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Oil-soluble Vitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate) is considered safe during pregnancy.
Contains multiple malassezia triggers: isopropyl palmitate, polysorbate 60, glycol distearate, olive oil, sunflower oil, and sweet almond oil.
Rating 3/5. Contains isopropyl palmitate (4), cetyl alcohol (2), and olive oil (2). May not be suitable for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free formula with soothing aloe vera, chamomile, and allantoin. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSShea ButterProven
A rich emollient derived from the African shea tree that softens skin and maintains moisture without greasiness. Rich in fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Function: Occlusive moisturizer, skin softening, barrier repair
- Research: Studies show shea butter improves skin elasticity and reduces inflammation
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid that attracts and holds up to 1000x its weight in water. Smaller molecular size allows deeper penetration for plumping hydration.
- Function: Humectant, hydration, plumping
- Research: Clinically proven to improve skin hydration, reduce fine lines, and support wound healing
Tetrahexyldecyl AscorbateProven
A stable, oil-soluble form of Vitamin C that penetrates skin more effectively than L-ascorbic acid. Supports collagen production, brightens skin, and provides antioxidant protection.
- Function: Antioxidant, brightening, collagen support
- Research: Studies show it increases collagen synthesis and reduces melanin production
Sweet Almond OilPromising
Emollient oil rich in oleic acid, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids. Adds a smoothing film to skin that firms while infusing nutritive benefits.
- Function: Emollient, conditioning, firming
- Research: Contains vitamins A and E with skin-softening properties
Olive Fruit OilPromising
A rich source of powerful antioxidants including polyphenols and vitamin E. Provides deep nourishment and protection against environmental stressors.
- Function: Antioxidant, emollient, protective
- Research: Contains squalene and oleic acid for skin barrier support
31 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Isopropyl Palmitate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Cetyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Allantoin, Glycol Distearate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Sodium PCA, Tocopherol, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tetrasodium EDTA, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Hyaluronate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEBest used as a nighttime moisturizer. Can be used during the day when additional moisture is needed - follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Start with clean, freshly washed skin. Use a gentle cleanser appropriate for your skin type.
Apply Serums
Apply any treatment serums first and allow them to absorb for 1-2 minutes.
Apply Moisturizer
Take a pea-sized amount and smooth onto face and neck using gentle upward strokes. A little goes a long way.
Morning Routine
If using in the morning, always follow with a broad spectrum SPF product for sun protection.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry to very dry skin
- You have mature skin showing signs of aging
- You need a rich nighttime moisturizer
- Your skin feels tight or dehydrated
- You want antioxidant protection
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You prefer fragrance-free products
Consider alternatives if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with fungal acne (malassezia)
- You're prone to clogged pores or breakouts
- You prefer lightweight, gel-based moisturizers
- You have a wheat/gluten allergy (contains hydrolyzed wheat protein)
- You're on a tight budget
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Rich formula with shea butter and multiple humectants provides intense, lasting hydration for parched skin.
Specifically formulated for aging skin. Vitamin C and antioxidants help firm and support collagen production.
Fragrance-free with soothing aloe, chamomile, and allantoin. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
May be too rich for T-zone. Best used only on dry areas or as a nighttime treatment during winter months.
Not recommended. Rich formula with occlusive ingredients may feel heavy and could contribute to congestion.
Contains comedogenic ingredients (isopropyl palmitate, olive oil). Not fungal acne safe. May trigger breakouts.
Results timeline
8-12 WEEKSInstant Hydration
Skin feels softer, smoother, and more hydrated immediately after application. Tight, dry feeling is relieved.
95% noticedImproved Texture
Skin texture becomes smoother and more refined. Rough, flaky patches diminish with consistent use.
85% noticedPlumper, Firmer Skin
Fine lines appear less noticeable. Skin looks more plump and healthy with improved moisture retention.
75% noticedVisible Anti-Aging Benefits
With consistent use, skin shows improved elasticity, radiance, and overall healthier appearance.
70% noticedRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Rich, luxurious texture that absorbs without greasiness
- Provides long-lasting hydration overnight
- Fragrance-free and gentle formula
- Contains antioxidants and Vitamin C
- Professional-grade quality ingredients
- Safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Makes skin feel soft and plump
- A little goes a long way
Criticized
- High price point for 1.7 oz jar
- Too rich for oily or combination skin
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- Jar packaging not the most hygienic
- Contains potential comedogenic ingredients
- May not be moisturizing enough for very dry climates
- Contains wheat protein (allergen concern)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains ceramides, shea butter, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. Similar hydrating profile at 1/3 the price. Lacks Vitamin C but has niacinamide.
Features colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, and allantoin for deep hydration. Better for eczema-prone skin. Larger 6 oz size available.
Healing balm with shea butter, vitamin B5, and madecassoside. More occlusive texture, excellent for compromised skin barriers.
Hyaluronic acid-focused formula in a lighter gel-cream texture. Better for combination skin but less nourishing than PCA Skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Jar with screw-top lid. Use clean hands or spatula to maintain hygiene.
Yes, under 100ml TSA limit. Compact size fits easily in toiletry bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this moisturizer is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The Vitamin C used (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate) is an oil-soluble derivative that is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
No, this product is NOT safe for those with fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis). It contains multiple ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including: isopropyl palmitate, polysorbate 60, glycol distearate, glyceryl stearate, sunflower seed oil, olive fruit oil, sweet almond oil, and shea butter. If you struggle with fungal acne, consider alternatives like Malezia moisturizer or other fungal acne-safe products.
Yes, this moisturizer can be used with most active ingredients. It already contains a stable form of Vitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), so layering with other Vitamin C products is optional. For retinol: apply retinol first, wait 10-15 minutes, then apply this moisturizer. For AHA/BHA: use acids in your routine first, then follow with this moisturizer to help buffer any irritation. This rich formula is excellent for buffering stronger actives.
This moisturizer is best suited for dry to very dry skin and mature skin showing signs of aging. It's also good for normal skin types that need extra nourishment during winter months or in dry climates. It is NOT recommended for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin types due to its rich formulation and comedogenic potential. Sensitive skin types generally tolerate it well due to its fragrance-free formula and soothing ingredients.
You'll feel immediate hydration and softness after the first application. Improved skin texture typically becomes noticeable within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. For more significant benefits like improved firmness, plumpness, and reduction in fine lines, expect to see results after 4-8 weeks of daily use. Maximum benefits from the antioxidant and anti-aging ingredients may take 8-12 weeks to become fully visible.
Apply this moisturizer as the last step of your skincare routine (before sunscreen in the morning). The correct order is: cleanser → toner → serums → eye cream → PCA Skin Collagen Hydrator → SPF (morning only). It's designed primarily as a nighttime moisturizer but can be used during the day when additional moisture is needed. Always follow with SPF if using in your morning routine.
This product has a moderate comedogenic rating of 3/5. It contains several potentially pore-clogging ingredients including isopropyl palmitate (comedogenic rating 4), cetyl alcohol (rating 2), olive oil (rating 2), and glyceryl stearate (rating 3). While many users with dry skin have no issues, those prone to clogged pores or breakouts may want to patch test first or consider a lighter alternative. It is not recommended for acne-prone skin.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results and efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Since it comes in a jar rather than a pump, use clean hands or a spatula to scoop out product to maintain hygiene and extend shelf life. The antioxidant ingredients (Vitamin C and E) may degrade faster if exposed to air and light repeatedly.
Verdict: PCA Skin Collagen Hydrator is an excellent professional-grade moisturizer for dry and mature skin seeking deep hydration and anti-aging benefits. The combination of shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and stable Vitamin C delivers noticeable results for the right skin type. However, the premium price point ($37/oz), comedogenic ingredients, and unsuitability for fungal acne or oily skin limit its universal appeal. If you have dry, mature skin and can invest in quality skincare, this is a solid choice. For those on a budget or with acne-prone skin, alternatives like CeraVe or First Aid Beauty offer similar hydration at a fraction of the cost.
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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antimicrobial
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|