Holy Hyssop Serum 30
Holy Hyssop Serum 30
Product Description
Product overview
A powerful brightening serum featuring 10% Niacinamide and 30% Vitamin ACE Complex with French Hyssop Extract. This jelly-like formula targets hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and dull skin while providing deep hydration through 6 types of hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Clinically proven to reduce blemishes by 17.5% in just 2 weeks.
Glass Skin Effect
Delivers that coveted Korean glass skin finish with a dewy, luminous glow that lasts all day.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGlass Skin Effect
Delivers that coveted Korean glass skin finish with a dewy, luminous glow that lasts all day.
Multi-Vitamin Complex
30% Vita ACE Complex with 4 forms of Vitamin C plus Vitamins B3, B5, B6, and E for comprehensive brightening.
Deep Hydration
6 types of hyaluronic acid at different molecular weights penetrate multiple skin layers for lasting moisture.
Barrier Support
Ceramide NP and glycosphingolipids strengthen the skin barrier while panthenol soothes and repairs.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains only pregnancy-safe ingredients. Vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid are all approved for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone.
Contains Arginine which may feed malassezia yeast when combined with lipids. The hydrogenated lecithin and glycosphingolipids could potentially trigger fungal acne in sensitive individuals. Patch test recommended.
Fragrance-free, artificial color-free formula. Uses gentle stabilized vitamin C derivatives instead of pure L-ascorbic acid. Tested safe for sensitive skin types.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Oil-free, silicone-free formula unlikely to clog pores. Safe for acne-prone skin when used as directed.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide 10%Proven
Vitamin B3 derivative that brightens skin, reduces pore appearance, controls sebum, and strengthens the skin barrier. One of the most well-researched skincare actives.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce hyperpigmentation
- Anti-aging: Stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity
- Barrier repair: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger skin barrier
Vitamin ACE Complex 30%Proven
Arencia's signature blend featuring 4 forms of Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbyl Glucoside), Vitamin E (Tocopherol), and Vitamin B complex for synergistic brightening.
- 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid: Stable, oil-soluble vitamin C that penetrates deeply
- Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate: Gentle water-soluble form with acne-fighting properties
- Tocopherol: Antioxidant that enhances vitamin C stability and efficacy
French Hyssop Extract 100ppmPromising
Extracted from hyssop plants grown in southern France. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditional herbal remedy now backed by modern research.
- Source: 2-year aged flowering shrubs from southern France
- Benefits: Pore tightening, skin texture improvement, antibacterial action
- Antioxidant: Protects against environmental damage and premature aging
6 Types of Hyaluronic Acid Multi-WeightProven
Comprehensive hydration system using multiple molecular weights: Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Potassium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, and Hyaluronic Acid.
- High MW: Forms protective film on skin surface
- Medium MW: Provides balanced hydration to mid-layers
- Low MW: Penetrates deeply for plumping effect
Ceramide NP & Glycosphingolipids Barrier SupportProven
Lipid barrier components that restore and maintain the skin's natural protective layer. Essential for preventing moisture loss and protecting against environmental stressors.
- Ceramide NP: One of the most abundant ceramides in human skin
- Glycosphingolipids: Support cell signaling and barrier function
38 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Methylpropanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arginine, Dextrin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Adenosine, PVM/MA Copolymer, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyssopus Officinalis Extract, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tocopherol, Panthenol, Pyridoxine, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ceramide NP, Glycosphingolipids, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Potassium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply morning and night after toner/essence. Can be used as an overnight sleeping mask by applying a thicker layer.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. Apply toner and wait for it to absorb. The serum works best on slightly damp skin.
Dispense & Apply
Scoop a kidney bean-sized amount using the included spatula. Dot onto forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin.
Pat & Press
Gently pat the serum into skin using fingertips. Focus on areas with hyperpigmentation or fine lines. Avoid rubbing.
Follow Up
Wait 30-60 seconds for absorption. Follow with moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or uneven skin tone
- You want to brighten dull, tired-looking skin
- You're looking for an all-in-one serum with multiple benefits
- You have post-acne marks or PIH to fade
- You want to address early signs of aging
- You prefer fragrance-free, gentle formulas
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (safe for this use)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) - patch test first
- You need immediate dramatic results (this works gradually)
- You prefer liquid/watery serum textures
- You're looking for a heavy-duty anti-aging treatment
- You have extremely oily skin (may feel too rich)
- You want a high-strength pure vitamin C serum
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRich jelly texture provides deep hydration. 6 types of HA and ceramides address dehydration beautifully. May be enough moisture alone in humid weather.
Absorbs well without greasiness. 10% niacinamide helps control sebum. May feel slightly heavy for very oily types - use smaller amounts.
Balances hydration across different zones. Niacinamide regulates oily areas while HA hydrates dry patches. Ideal skin type for this serum.
Fragrance-free, no harsh actives. Uses gentle vitamin C derivatives. Hyssop extract provides soothing benefits. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic formula. Niacinamide and SAP have anti-acne benefits. Great for PIH. Caution if prone to fungal acne due to some ingredients.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Immediate Hydration & Glow
Skin feels more hydrated and looks dewier. The "glass skin" effect becomes visible. Texture starts to feel smoother. Clinical study showed significant improvement in freckles and pigmentation within 2 weeks.
85% noticed improved hydrationBrightening Begins
Dark spots start to fade gradually. Overall skin tone looks more even. Fine lines appear softened. Users report the "freshly-boiled-egg" glow effect.
70% noticed brighter skin toneVisible Transformation
Hyperpigmentation significantly reduced. Skin texture noticeably refined. Pores appear minimized. Clinical study showed 17.5% reduction in blemishes and 6.8% improvement in wrinkles.
80% saw reduced dark spotsLong-Term Benefits
Continued improvement with regular use. Skin barrier strengthened. Prevention of new dark spots. Maintained radiance and bounce.
90% reported overall improvementRatings by platform
850+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Multi-functional formula addresses multiple skin concerns
- Glass skin glow effect noticeable quickly
- Gentle enough for sensitive and pregnant skin
- High concentration actives at affordable price
- No artificial fragrance or colors
- Clinically tested with proven results
- Absorbs well without pilling under makeup
- Effective for fading PIH and dark spots
Criticized
- Jar packaging less hygienic than airless pump
- Gel texture may feel heavy for oily skin
- Results are gradual, not immediate
- May not be suitable for fungal acne
- Can feel slightly sticky before fully absorbing
- Spatula required for sanitary application
- Green color may look unusual at first
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar 5% niacinamide + vitamin C combination for brightening. Uses yuja (citrus) instead of hyssop. Lighter watery texture. Great for oily skin but less hydrating.
Higher vitamin C concentration (23% pure ascorbic acid) for more aggressive brightening. Less hydrating, may cause tingling. Better for experienced vitamin C users.
Contains vitamin C, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide. More focused on dark spot correction. Liquid texture vs jelly. Fragrance-free option available.
5% L-ascorbic acid with 84% sodium hyaluronate. Simpler formula, more hydration-focused. Vegan and fragrance-free. Gentler introduction to vitamin C.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol on packaging for exact duration.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration optional but can enhance the cooling effect during application.
Glass jar with included spatula for hygienic application. The green color is natural from the hyssop extract - not artificial dye.
Yes, 50g is under the 100ml/3.4oz TSA liquid limit. Secure lid tightly to prevent leakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy. The main actives - niacinamide and vitamin C derivatives - are both approved for use by pregnant and nursing mothers. However, we always recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before starting any new skincare product during pregnancy.
Use with caution if you're prone to fungal acne. While many ingredients are FA-safe, the serum contains Arginine (which can feed malassezia when combined with lipids), Hydrogenated Lecithin, and Glycosphingolipids that may trigger fungal acne in sensitive individuals. If you have a history of fungal acne, we recommend doing a patch test on a small area for 1-2 weeks before full face application.
This serum already contains multiple forms of vitamin C, so layering additional vitamin C may cause irritation. For retinol: use the serum in the morning and retinol at night, or alternate days. For AHA/BHA: apply acids first, wait 20-30 minutes, then apply this serum. Always introduce new actives gradually and listen to your skin. If you experience irritation, reduce frequency or separate products to different times of day.
This serum works excellently for dry, combination, and sensitive skin types. It's particularly effective for those with hyperpigmentation, dull skin, post-acne marks, or uneven skin tone. Oily skin types may find the gel texture slightly heavy - use a smaller amount. Those with fungal acne should patch test first. The fragrance-free formula makes it suitable for sensitive skin.
Most users notice improved hydration and glow within 1-2 weeks. Brightening effects typically become visible around week 3-4. Significant fading of dark spots and hyperpigmentation usually occurs by week 6-8. Clinical studies showed a 17.5% reduction in blemishes within 2 weeks and 6.8% improvement in wrinkles. For best results, use consistently twice daily for at least 8-12 weeks.
Apply after cleansing, toning, and essence (if using), but before moisturizer and sunscreen. The general rule is thinnest to thickest consistency. Morning routine: Cleanser → Toner → Essence → This Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen. Night routine: Cleanser → Toner → Essence → This Serum → Moisturizer (or use as an overnight sleeping mask with a thicker layer).
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores for most people. The formula is oil-free and silicone-free. The 10% niacinamide can actually help minimize pore appearance and regulate sebum production. However, everyone's skin is different - if you're highly prone to clogged pores, introduce gradually and monitor your skin's response.
The serum has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). Always use the included spatula rather than fingers to maintain hygiene and extend product life. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use. The green color is natural from hyssop extract and doesn't indicate spoilage.
Verdict: Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 is an impressive multi-functional K-beauty serum that delivers on its brightening and hydrating promises. The 10% niacinamide and 30% Vita ACE Complex combination provides clinically-proven results for hyperpigmentation and dull skin, while 6 types of hyaluronic acid ensure deep hydration. It's particularly excellent for those seeking pregnancy-safe brightening options or those with dry, combination, or sensitive skin. The only drawbacks are the jar packaging (less hygienic than pumps) and potential concerns for fungal acne-prone skin. At around $22 for 50g, it offers exceptional value compared to competitors with similar ingredient concentrations. Highly recommended for anyone seeking that coveted Korean glass skin glow.
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 9 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 7 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 12 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|