Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid
Product Description
Product overview
A clean 14-ingredient serum from Spanish brand beauty drops that combines low-molecular-weight Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid with Rosa Damascena Flower Water, BHA (Salicylic Acid), and PHA (Gluconolactone) to deliver deep hydration, gentle exfoliation, and pore refinement in one lightweight, fast-absorbing formula. Free from oils, parabens, silicones, and sulfates.
Deep Hydration with Hydrolyzed HA
Low-molecular-weight Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid penetrates beyond the skin surface to attract and bind moisture at a deeper level, visibly plumping fine lines and improving elasticity.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Hydration with Hydrolyzed HA
Low-molecular-weight Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid penetrates beyond the skin surface to attract and bind moisture at a deeper level, visibly plumping fine lines and improving elasticity.
Rosa Damascena Flower Water
Real Damascus rose flower water replaces plain water as the solvent base, bringing natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties alongside a delicate, clean floral note.
BHA + PHA Dual Exfoliation
Salicylic Acid (BHA) unclogs pores and controls excess sebum, while Gluconolactone (PHA) gently resurfaces dead cells with significantly less irritation than traditional AHAs.
Konjac Root + Betaine Barrier Support
Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder adds film-forming hydration and soothing benefits, while Betaine acts as an osmolyte protecting skin proteins and boosting overall formula stability.
Only 14 Clean Ingredients
A minimalist, intentional formula — no fillers, no oils, no silicones. Every ingredient earns its place with a specific function, making this ideal for ingredient-savvy and sensitive skin users.
Multi-Concern in One Step
Simultaneously targets dehydration, dullness, enlarged pores, uneven texture, and early signs of aging — replacing multiple single-target serums in your routine.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThis serum contains Salicylic Acid (BHA). Most dermatologists advise avoiding leave-on salicylic acid formulations during pregnancy, particularly in higher concentrations. Consult your OB-GYN before use. Gluconolactone and all other ingredients are generally considered safe.
This formula contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. It is fully fungal acne safe and suitable for those managing pityrosporum folliculitis.
Free from oils and heavy emollients. All humectants used (Glycerin, Betaine, Hydrolyzed HA, Propanediol) score 0–1 on the comedogenic scale, making this highly unlikely to clog pores.
Contains Benzyl Alcohol (a common allergen in some individuals), Salicylic Acid (potential irritant at higher concentrations), and Sorbic Acid. Those with reactive skin should patch test on the inner forearm for 48 hours before full-face use.
Can be used in the same routine as Vitamin C — apply Vitamin C first, then this serum. Avoid layering same-session with other BHA or AHA products to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation.
Not recommended in the same application as retinol/retinoids due to the presence of Salicylic Acid, which can amplify irritation. Use this serum in the morning and retinol at night, or on alternate nights.
Contains no oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other reef-toxic chemical filters. Fully reef-safe formulation.
Preservative system relies on Sodium Benzoate, Sorbic Acid, and Benzyl Alcohol — a clean-label alternative to traditional parabens commonly used in European cosmetics.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~55–60%Base
The universal solvent and base of the formulation. Provides the medium in which all water-soluble actives dissolve and function optimally. High-quality purified water ensures formula stability.
- Function: Solvent, carrier medium for all active ingredients
- Note: Positioned first in the INCI list, indicating the highest concentration in the formula
Glycerin ~5–10%Proven
One of the most well-researched humectants in skincare. Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum. A 2016 study found glycerin to outperform both AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a standalone humectant.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning, antimicrobial
- Source: Typically plant-derived (soybean or palm)
- Comedogenic rating: 0/5
Rosa Damascena Flower Water ~8–15%Proven
Steam-distilled Damascus rose water that replaces plain water in this formula. Rich in natural phenylethanol and rose-specific flavonoids, it delivers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-soothing benefits while imparting a delicate, natural floral scent.
- Function: Soothing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, mild toning
- Origin: Rosa Damascena (Damask Rose) — traditionally cultivated in Bulgaria and Turkey
- Skin benefit: Clinically shown to reduce redness and support sensitive skin
Propanediol ~3–5%Proven
A plant-derived (corn-sourced) glycol that serves as both a humectant and penetration enhancer, helping actives like Salicylic Acid and Hydrolyzed HA absorb more effectively. Less controversial than propylene glycol.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, penetration enhancer
- Source: Fermentation of corn-derived glucose (bio-based)
- Comedogenic rating: 0/5
Betaine ~1–3%Proven
A sugar beet-derived amino acid derivative and natural osmolyte. Regulates cellular water balance (osmoprotection), guards proteins against denaturation, improves skin softness, and enhances formula sensory feel. Also demonstrates mild anti-irritant properties.
- Function: Osmolyte, humectant, skin-conditioning, anti-irritant
- Source: Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) — renewable crop
- Additional benefit: Helps mitigate potential irritation from BHA in the same formula
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid ~0.1–1%Proven
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid (created by enzymatic hydrolysis) that penetrates beyond the skin's surface into the upper dermis. Studies indicate it provides superior wrinkle reduction and long-lasting moisturization compared to standard high-molecular-weight HA. Versions around 50 kDa are specifically linked to plumping fine lines and improving skin thickness.
- Function: Deep humectant, anti-aging, elasticity improvement
- Molecular weight: Low MW (<50 kDa) — penetrates deeper than standard HA
- Study finding: Associated with increased skin thickness and reduced wrinkle depth with consistent use
- Rosacea benefit: Research suggests potential calming effects for rosacea-prone skin
Salicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.5–1%Proven
The gold-standard BHA exfoliant. Oil-soluble, it penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, reduce comedones, and exfoliate from within. Also carries anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties relevant to acne management.
- Function: Chemical exfoliant (BHA), anti-acne, pore-refining, anti-inflammatory
- Mechanism: Loosens desmosome connections between dead skin cells, allowing controlled shedding
- Effective range: 0.5–2% at pH 3–4 for optimal exfoliation
Calcium Gluconate ~0.5–1%Promising
Calcium salt of gluconic acid functioning as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent. Helps maintain electrolyte balance in skin cells and supports barrier integrity. Also acts as a mild chelator, stabilizing the formula.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning, electrolyte stabilizer
- Bonus: Contributes to overall moisture retention alongside glycerin and Hydrolyzed HA
Sodium Phytate ~0.1–0.3%Proven
Synthetic sodium salt of phytic acid (found in plant seeds). A chelating agent that binds and neutralizes metal ions in the formula — particularly trace metals from water — preventing oxidation and formula degradation over time. Also demonstrates antioxidant properties.
- Function: Chelating agent, antioxidant, formula stabilizer
- Benefit: Extends shelf life and maintains efficacy of active ingredients
Gluconolactone (PHA) ~0.5–2%Promising
A Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) and the gentler next-generation alternative to traditional AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid. Promotes desquamation of dead surface cells to reveal smoother skin while simultaneously attracting moisture. Shown to stimulate the skin's own hyaluronic acid production and demonstrated efficacy against acne and clogged pores with 12 weeks of consistent use.
- Function: Chemical exfoliant (PHA), humectant, antioxidant, brightening
- Advantage over AHAs: Larger molecular weight = slower penetration = significantly less irritation and photosensitivity
- Long-term benefit: Stimulates endogenous HA synthesis, compounding the hydration benefits of Hydrolyzed HA
Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder ~0.1–0.5%Promising
Derived from the konjac plant (Elephant Yam), this ingredient is rich in Glucomannan — a water-soluble polysaccharide with strong film-forming and moisture-binding properties. Creates a light protective veil on the skin, helping to lock in active ingredients and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Function: Film-former, humectant, soothing agent, barrier support
- Glucomannan content: ~40–60% glucomannan by dry weight
- Texture contribution: Adds the characteristic silky slip without silicones
14 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Rosa Damascena Flower, Propanediol, Betaine, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Calcium Gluconate, Sodium Phytate, Gluconolactone, Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder, Sodium Benzoate, Sorbic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning to clean, slightly damp skin. Follow with moisturizer to seal in actives. Always finish morning routines with SPF 30+ due to the BHA content.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Begin with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove makeup, SPF, and environmental debris. Pat skin dry leaving it slightly damp — this amplifies humectant absorption.
Apply Toner (Optional)
If using a hydrating or balancing toner, apply first and allow to absorb for 30 seconds before proceeding.
Dispense 3–5 Drops
Shake gently if needed. Dispense 3 to 5 drops onto fingertips or directly onto cleansed face and neck. A small amount goes a long way.
Press & Pat — Do Not Rub
Using fingertips, gently press and pat the serum into skin starting from the center of the face outward. Avoid harsh rubbing, which can reduce absorption efficiency.
Wait 60 Seconds
Allow the serum to fully absorb before applying the next product. The lightweight gel formula sinks in within 20–30 seconds.
Lock In with Moisturizer + SPF
Seal the actives with your regular moisturizer. In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher — Salicylic Acid can increase photosensitivity with extended use.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or congested skin
- You want lightweight hydration without heaviness or greasiness
- You're looking for a multi-tasking hydration + exfoliation serum
- You prefer clean, minimalist formulas with <15 ingredients
- You're managing enlarged pores or uneven skin texture
- You're fungal-acne safe formulas due to folliculitis concerns
- You want a fragrance-free-adjacent, oil-free daily serum
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (due to Salicylic Acid)
- You have extremely sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-severe skin
- You are highly allergic to Benzyl Alcohol
- You need a rich, occlusive moisturizing treatment for severely dry skin
- You are already using high-concentration BHA or AHA products daily
- You prefer a silicone-based primer-like serum for smoother makeup application
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe BHA component directly targets excess sebum and congestion. Lightweight gel texture adds hydration without adding shine or heaviness.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, contains BHA for pore clearing and PHA for gentle resurfacing. A strong daily serum choice for breakout-prone skin.
Hydrates dry zones while the BHA manages oilier T-zone areas. Balances well across different face regions in a single step.
Provides daily hydration maintenance and gentle preventative exfoliation. Works well as a simple, all-in-one routine serum.
Provides humectant hydration, but very dry skin types will likely need a richer moisturizer layered over this serum. Not sufficient as a standalone moisturizer in dry climates.
Rosa Damascena and Betaine offer soothing benefits, but Salicylic Acid and Benzyl Alcohol may cause reactions in very reactive skin. Patch test strongly recommended.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Immediate Hydration Boost
Skin feels noticeably softer and more plump immediately after application. The Hydrolyzed HA and Glycerin provide rapid moisture binding on first use.
90% noticed improved softnessBrighter, Smoother Texture
Gluconolactone begins revealing fresher skin cells as surface dead skin is gently shed. Complexion appears more radiant and texture feels more even to the touch.
75% noticed improved textureReduced Congestion & Fewer Breakouts
Salicylic Acid's pore-clearing action becomes more visible. Blackheads and whiteheads begin to diminish. Pores appear tightened and sebum production more balanced.
65% reported fewer breakoutsVisible Fine Line Reduction
Low-molecular-weight Hydrolyzed HA and Gluconolactone's HA-stimulating effect begin improving skin thickness and elasticity, with noticeable reduction in superficial fine lines and dehydration creases.
55% noticed softer fine linesSustained Skin Health Improvement
Long-term consistent use delivers cumulative anti-aging, brightening, and pore-minimizing benefits. Sustained gluconolactone exfoliation and HA synthesis support progressively improved skin tone and resilience.
80% would repurchaseRatings by platform
200+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-clean formula with only 14 ingredients
- Genuinely multitasking: hydration + BHA + PHA in one step
- Lightweight gel absorbs instantly — no stickiness or grease
- Rosa Damascena base adds real soothing and antioxidant benefit
- Fungal acne safe — no oils, esters, or polysorbates
- Free from parabens, silicones, sulfates, and harsh drying alcohols
- Excellent value for a European multi-active serum
- Suitable for vegans and cruelty-free
Criticized
- Small 30 ml size may not last long with daily use
- Salicylic Acid makes it unsuitable for pregnancy
- Contains Benzyl Alcohol — a potential allergen for sensitized skin
- Irritation potential is "high" per WIMJ scientific analysis
- Not ideal for very dry skin without a rich moisturizer over it
- Should not be used with retinol or high-concentration AHAs on same night
- Limited global availability — primarily available in European markets
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESShares the core hydration goal with Sodium Hyaluronate and B5 but lacks the BHA/PHA exfoliation and Rosa Damascena premium base. A simpler, single-focus hydration serum with fewer active ingredients.
Covers the exfoliation angle with AHA (glycolic acid) rather than BHA+PHA. Good for texture and brightening but uses AHA instead of the gentler PHA, making it potentially more irritating. No HA hydration complex included.
The gold standard dedicated BHA serum with a higher, more potent Salicylic Acid concentration. Better for serious acne management but lacks the hydrolyzed HA hydration stack and PHA gentleness of the beauty drops formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if texture, color, or scent changes before this period ends.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms — a bedroom shelf or medicine cabinet is ideal. Do not freeze.
Glass dropper bottle (30 ml). The dropper design allows precise dosing and minimizes contamination. Keep cap tightly closed after use to prevent oxidation of actives.
Yes — 30 ml is under the 100 ml carry-on liquid limit. The glass dropper bottle is compact, though glass requires careful packing to prevent breakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis serum isnot recommended during pregnancy due to its Salicylic Acid (BHA) content. Most dermatologists and OB-GYNs advise against leave-on salicylic acid products during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, because of potential systemic absorption concerns at higher doses. The other 13 ingredients — including Glycerin, Rosa Damascena Water, Hydrolyzed HA, Gluconolactone, and Betaine — are generally considered pregnancy-safe. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult your healthcare provider before use, or opt for a salicylic acid-free hydrating serum instead.
Yes, this serum is fully fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. The humectants used (Glycerin, Betaine, Hydrolyzed HA, Propanediol) are all confirmed safe for fungal acne-prone skin. The BHA (Salicylic Acid) component may actually provide additional benefit in managing Malassezia by helping clear follicular debris.
Vitamin C: Yes, compatible. Apply Vitamin C first (as it needs the lowest pH), let it absorb, then apply this serum.Retinol/Retinoids: Not recommended in the same application due to combined irritation risk. Use retinol at night and this serum in the morning, or alternate nights.AHA products (glycolic/lactic acid): Avoid same-session layering as this product already contains both BHA and PHA exfoliants — over-exfoliation and sensitization risk is real. Use this serum on AHA-free days, or alternate your exfoliant evenings.
This serum isbest suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The BHA addresses excess sebum and clogged pores; the PHA provides gentle exfoliation; and the Hydrolyzed HA delivers hydration without heaviness. Normal skin also benefits well from daily use. Those withdry skin can use it but will likely need a richer occlusive moisturizer layered over.Very sensitive skin should patch test first due to Salicylic Acid and Benzyl Alcohol content.
Results vary by concern.Hydration is noticeable from the very first application.Texture improvement and brightening typically appear within 1–2 weeks of daily use as the PHA (Gluconolactone) removes surface dead cells.Pore refinement and acne reduction from the BHA are generally visible within 3–4 weeks.Fine line softening from Hydrolyzed HA's deep moisturization is typically noted around weeks 6–8. Full cumulative results are best assessed at the 3-month mark with consistent daily use.
Apply this serum asstep 3 in your routine: after cleanser and toner, and before moisturizer. As a water-based, lightweight serum, it should go on before heavier creams or facial oils. In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen as the final step, since Salicylic Acid can increase UV photosensitivity with extended use. Apply to clean, slightly damp skin for best humectant performance.
No — this serum is non-comedogenic with an overall rating of 1/5. It contains zero oils, waxes, or heavy emollients. All humectants in the formula (Glycerin, Betaine, Propanediol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Calcium Gluconate) score 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. Furthermore, the BHA (Salicylic Acid) actively works to prevent pore blockages by dissolving sebum and dead cell buildup within the follicle — making this one of the more anti-comedogenic serum options available.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is12 months. Once opened, store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. The 30 ml bottle will last approximately 2–3 months with daily use (3–5 drops per application, once or twice daily). The glass dropper packaging helps minimize air exposure between uses, extending active ingredient stability. If the serum develops an unusual smell, changes color, or separates, discontinue use even within the 12-month window.
Verdict: The beauty drops Hyaluronic Acid serum is a smart, minimalist Spanish formula that punches well above its ingredient count. By combining low-molecular-weight Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid with BHA (Salicylic Acid) and PHA (Gluconolactone) on a Rosa Damascena Flower Water base, it delivers genuine multi-benefit results — deep hydration, gentle exfoliation, pore refinement, and early anti-aging support — in a single lightweight daily serum. It is oil-free, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, and free from parabens, silicones, and sulfates. The main cautions are its pregnancy incompatibility due to BHA, the presence of Benzyl Alcohol for allergic individuals, and the small 30 ml size. For oily, combination, and acne-prone skin seeking an all-in-one actives serum at a reasonable European price point, this is an excellent, underrated choice.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Rosa Damascena Flower
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|






