Collagen Serum
Collagen Serum
Product Description
Product overview
PUCA – Pure & Care Collagen Serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing anti-ageing serum built around soluble hydrolyzed collagen, sodium hyaluronate and skin-identical amino acids. Formulated by the Danish brand PUCA – Pure & Care, this 30ml fragrance-free serum is designed to flood skin with moisture, support firmness and elasticity, and visibly soften fine lines — all in a gentle, dermatologically tested formula suitable even for sensitive skin.
Multi-Layer Hydration
Sodium hyaluronate, glycerin and hydrolyzed collagen work together as humectants to attract and hold water in the upper skin layers for a plumper, smoother look.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMulti-Layer Hydration
Sodium hyaluronate, glycerin and hydrolyzed collagen work together as humectants to attract and hold water in the upper skin layers for a plumper, smoother look.
Firmness & Elasticity
A high content of soluble collagen and skin-identical amino acids targets the appearance of fine lines, helping skin look more even, firmer and supple over time.
Barrier Support
Corn gluten amino acids, beta-glucan and glycosphingolipids reinforce the skin's natural moisture barrier and help calm and soothe.
Gentle & Clean
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free and silicone-free, with proDERM dermatological testing showing very good tolerability — even on sensitive, allergy-prone skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens — the formula is built from hydrators and amino acids generally considered low-risk. Always confirm with your doctor.
Independently verified as malassezia-safe — no problematic fatty acids, esters, polysorbates or ferments that typically feed fungal acne.
proDERM patch testing on subjects including sensitive, atopic and allergy-prone skin showed no adverse reactions and "very good" tolerability.
A hydrating base layer that pairs comfortably with vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol or exfoliating acids — apply this before richer creams.
Contains phenoxyethanol and glycols (butylene/dipropylene/hexylene). Well tolerated by most, but very reactive skin should patch test first.
No animal-derived ingredients or testing, and free from reef-harming UV filters. Rated "A" (green) by Denmark's Kemiluppen / Think Chemistry.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHydrolyzed Collagen 3rd in list*Promising
The star of the formula and the 3rd-listed ingredient. Hydrolyzed collagen is collagen broken into smaller peptides that act as humectants and emollients, drawing in water and forming a light moisture-sealing layer for softer, plumper-looking skin.
- Function: Hydration, smoothing and surface conditioning.
- Research: A 2021 study of 1,125 participants linked collagen supplementation to improved elasticity and wrinkle appearance, though topical vs. oral effects are still debated.
Sodium Hyaluronate ~0.5–1%*Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid and one of the most reliable hydrators in skincare. It binds large amounts of water at the skin's surface for an immediate plumping, dewy effect that softens the look of fine lines.
- Function: Humectant that improves moisture retention and surface hydration.
- Source: Naturally present in skin; here it works alongside glycerin and collagen for layered hydration.
Corn Gluten Amino Acids 4th in list*Promising
Amino acids are natural moisturising factors (NMFs) found in skin. PUCA highlights this ingredient for supporting barrier function and helping skin feel moisturised, soothed and smooth.
- Function: Barrier support and NMF replenishment.
- Why it matters: A healthy barrier holds moisture better and is more resilient to irritation.
Beta-Glucan Soothing*Proven
A polysaccharide derived from oats, yeast or fungi that hydrates, calms and boosts the skin's natural barrier. It also acts as an antioxidant to help defend against free-radical stress.
- Function: Soothing, hydrating and antioxidant support.
- Research: Studies suggest it can penetrate skin and support wound healing and the look of wrinkles.
Portulaca Oleracea (Purslane) Extract Botanical*Promising
A traditional Korean medicinal succulent rich in omega-3 fatty acids, NMFs, vitamins and antioxidants. Valued for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and skin-soothing properties.
- Function: Calming and antioxidant botanical.
- Bonus: Works with prickly pear (Opuntia) and beta-glucan to reinforce the formula's soothing profile.
Morus Alba Root Extract Brightening*Promising
White mulberry root extract, traditionally used to help even and brighten the look of skin tone, supporting the serum's overall radiance-focused profile.
- Function: Tone-evening / brightening botanical.
- Note: Evidence is promising but concentration-dependent; expect gradual rather than dramatic results.
20 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Corn Gluten Amino Acids, Dipropylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Morus Alba Root Extract, Sodium Polyacrylate, Silk Extract, Glycosphingolipids, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Euglena Gracilis Polysaccharide, Glycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Hexylene Glycol, Propanediol, Beta-Glucan, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply onto clean skin before heavier creams. As a hydrating layer it slots in early in your routine, AM and PM, and locks in best when sealed with a moisturiser.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Wash your face thoroughly and pat dry, leaving skin slightly damp for better absorption.
Tone (Optional)
Follow with a hydrating toner or essence if it's part of your routine.
Apply 3–4 Drops
Dispense 3–4 drops onto the face and neck, avoiding the immediate eye area.
Massage In
Gently massage until the serum is fully absorbed — it sinks in within about 30 seconds.
Seal & Protect
Lock in hydration with a moisturiser. In the morning, always finish with SPF.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin feels dry, tired or dehydrated and needs a moisture boost
- You're starting to notice early fine lines and loss of bounce
- You have sensitive or reactive skin and want a fragrance-free formula
- You're fungal-acne prone and need a malassezia-safe serum
- You prefer vegan, cruelty-free and reef-safe skincare
- You want an affordable, lightweight everyday hydrator
Consider alternatives if:
- You expect a serum to "erase" deep wrinkles overnight
- You want clinically high, clearly disclosed active percentages
- You're after a treatment serum (retinol, acids, vitamin C) instead of hydration
- You prefer rich, cushiony cream textures over watery serums
- You need a large-size bottle (this is a compact 30ml)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free and fast-absorbing — hydrates without adding shine or heaviness.
Delivers strong surface hydration, but very dry skin should layer a richer moisturiser on top.
Balances hydration across drier and oilier zones without congesting the T-zone.
Fragrance- and alcohol-free with proDERM-tested "very good" tolerability, even on allergy-prone skin.
Supports firmness and plumpness through hydration; pair with retinol or peptides for stronger anti-ageing.
Low comedogenic rating and fungal-acne safe, with no pore-clogging oils or heavy esters.
Results timeline
6–12 WEEKSInstant Hydration & Softness
Skin feels quenched, soft and looks plumper as humectants draw in moisture from first use.
Instant hydration boostSmoother, Dewier Look
With daily use, skin texture appears smoother and surface dryness and tightness ease.
Builds with daily useImproved Suppleness
Skin looks more even and supple, and fine lines that were emphasised by dryness appear softened.
Visible with consistencyFirmer, More Resilient Feel
Firming and elasticity changes happen in deeper layers and take longer — consistent use over weeks gives the best results.
Long-term, with routineRatings by platform
REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle, fragrance- and alcohol-free formula
- Dermatologically tested with "very good" tolerability on sensitive skin
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing with a dewy, non-greasy finish
- Layered hydration from collagen, HA, glycerin and amino acids
- Vegan, cruelty-free, reef-safe and fungal-acne safe
- Affordable for an everyday hydrating serum
Criticized
- Exact active percentages aren't disclosed by the brand
- Topical collagen mainly hydrates rather than rebuilding collagen
- Compact 30ml size only
- Limited independent / mass-retailer reviews
- Not a substitute for stronger anti-ageing actives like retinoids
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Per SkinSort's matching, both are hyaluronic-acid serums that are fungal-acne and reef safe, sharing about 7 ingredients. Adds a subtle glow-priming finish but lacks the collagen and amino-acid focus.
A cruelty-free HA serum sharing around 6 ingredients and the same clean, allergen-free, fragrance-free profile. Simpler hydration play without the collagen and botanical extracts.
SkinSort's top community-liked dupe. Centres on mineralising water plus HA in a larger 50ml size; pricier and without the soluble collagen of the PUCA serum.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHSApproximately 12 months after opening — check the jar symbol on your packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap closed.
30ml dropper bottle for controlled, hygienic 3–4 drop dosing.
Yes — at 30ml it's well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters — the ingredients are hydrators, amino acids and soothing botanicals generally considered low-risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding. That said, no skincare brand can guarantee individual safety, so always confirm with your doctor or midwife before adding new products during pregnancy or nursing.
Yes. It has been independently verified as fungal-acne (malassezia) safe. It avoids the fatty acids, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients that typically trigger malassezia, making it a sensible choice if you're prone to fungal acne.
Yes. This is a gentle, hydrating serum with no active acids or vitamin C of its own, so it layers well with most actives. Apply it as a hydrating base before or after your treatment serum. Pairing it with retinol or exfoliating acids can actually help offset dryness. Introduce strong actives gradually and always wear SPF during the day.
It suits most skin types and performs especially well on oily, combination, sensitive and acne-prone skin thanks to its lightweight, oil-free, fragrance-free formula. Dry and mature skin will also benefit from the hydration but should layer a richer moisturiser on top for lasting comfort.
Hydration and softness are usually noticeable immediately. Smoother texture and a dewier look tend to appear within 1–2 weeks of daily use. Firmness and elasticity changes happen in deeper skin layers and take longer — expect to use it consistently for around 6–12 weeks for the best visible results.
After cleansing (and toning, if you tone), apply 3–4 drops to the face and neck before heavier creams. As a lightweight hydrating layer it goes on early in the routine, both morning and night, and is then sealed in with a moisturiser. In the morning, finish with SPF.
It's very unlikely to clog pores. The formula is water-based, oil-free and built around humectants, with an estimated comedogenic rating of around 1 out of 5. There are no heavy oils or pore-clogging ingredients, which is why it works well for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin.
Around 12 months after opening, in line with the period-after-opening (PAO) symbol on the packaging. Store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and keep the dropper clean to help it last its full shelf life.
Verdict: PUCA – Pure & Care Collagen Serum is a gentle, well-formulated everyday hydrator that punches above its affordable price. The blend of hydrolyzed collagen, hyaluronic acid, amino acids and soothing botanicals delivers reliable hydration, a smoother surface and a dewy, non-greasy finish, backed by dermatological testing that shows very good tolerability even on sensitive skin. It loses half a star for undisclosed active percentages and the realistic limits of topical collagen — this is hydration and barrier support rather than a deep-wrinkle treatment. If you want a clean, fragrance-free, fungal-acne-safe serum to layer under your moisturiser or alongside stronger actives, it's an easy, low-risk recommendation.
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 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrolyzed Collagen
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Corn Gluten Amino Acids
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|