Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Serum
Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Serum
Product Description
An intensive hydrating serum featuring low-molecular hyaluronic acid for deep moisture penetration, enriched with vitamin C-rich acerola and antioxidant-packed blueberry extracts. Developed in collaboration with Seoul University dermatologists for clinically-backed hydration that plumps, smooths, and revitalizes dehydrated skin.
โจ Texture & Feel
Deep Hydration
Low-molecular hyaluronic acid penetrates deeply to deliver moisture to inner skin layers for long-lasting hydration.
Vitamin C Boost
Acerola fruit extract provides natural vitamin C for brightening benefits while enhancing moisture retention.
Antioxidant Protection
Blueberry and hibiscus extracts fight free radicals and environmental stressors to maintain youthful skin.
Soothing Formula
Portulaca oleracea (purslane) extract calms irritated and sensitive skin while strengthening the moisture barrier.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring and considered safe during pregnancy.
Contains potential FA triggers: isohexadecane, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, and PPG-26-buteth-26. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Rated 1/5 on comedogenic scale. Lightweight, water-based formula unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Includes parfum/fragrance with linalool and limonene. Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ง Sodium Hyaluronate High Position Proven
The star ingredient - a low-molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into skin layers. Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water for intense, multi-layer hydration.
- Function: Humectant that draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface
- Benefit: Plumps skin, reduces appearance of fine lines, improves skin elasticity
- Studies: Clinically proven to increase skin hydration and reduce wrinkle depth
๐ Malpighia Emarginata (Acerola) Fruit Extract Proven
A tropical fruit packed with natural vitamin C - containing 50-100x more vitamin C than oranges. Provides brightening and antioxidant benefits while supporting collagen synthesis.
- Function: Antioxidant and skin brightening agent
- Benefit: Evens skin tone, protects against oxidative stress, supports moisture retention
- Source: Natural extract from acerola cherries
๐ซ Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract Promising
Rich in anthocyanins and polyphenols, blueberry extract provides powerful antioxidant protection against environmental damage and premature aging.
- Function: Antioxidant protection
- Benefit: Fights free radicals, supports skin barrier, anti-inflammatory properties
๐ฟ Portulaca Oleracea (Purslane) Extract Promising
A powerful botanical known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Helps calm irritated skin and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Function: Soothing and anti-inflammatory agent
- Benefit: Reduces redness, calms irritation, protects skin barrier
๐บ Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract Promising
Known as the "Botox plant," hibiscus is rich in organic acids and antioxidants that help improve skin elasticity and firmness.
- Function: Antioxidant and firming agent
- Benefit: Improves elasticity, natural AHA content for gentle exfoliation
22 ingredients
Water, Cyclomethicone, Sodium Hyaluronate, Isohexadecane, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Malpighia Emarginata (Acerola) Fruit Extract, PEG-11 Methyl Ether Dimethicone, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Triethanolamine, Caprylyl Glycol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance, Carbomer, Laureth-8, Disodium EDTA, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier creams. Can be layered with other serums. Works best on slightly damp skin.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean skin. For best absorption, apply to slightly damp skin after toner while face is still moist.
Dispense
Pump 2-3 drops onto fingertips. The thick gel-serum texture allows for precise application.
Apply & Massage
Gently spread over face and neck using upward, circular motions. Pat lightly to encourage absorption.
Seal & Protect
Follow with moisturizer to seal in hydration. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- Your skin feels dehydrated, tight, or flaky
- You want a plumping, dewy effect
- You're looking for K-beauty hydration on a budget
- You need a pregnancy-safe hydrating serum
- You want antioxidant protection with hydration
- Your makeup tends to clump on dry patches
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) - contains FA triggers
- You're highly sensitive to fragrance
- You prefer fragrance-free formulas
- You want a completely silicone-free option
- You need a matte finish (this gives dewy results)
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal choice! Deep hydration replenishes moisture reserves and plumps dry, flaky skin beautifully.
Balances hydration across different zones without adding excess oil to T-zone.
Lightweight enough for oily skin, but the dewy finish may feel too rich for some. Use sparingly.
Generally well-tolerated, but contains fragrance. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5), but NOT fungal acne safe. Regular acne-prone skin should be fine.
Excellent for aging concerns! Hyaluronic acid plumps fine lines while antioxidants protect against further damage.
๐ Results Timeline
Instant Hydration Boost
Skin feels immediately softer, more supple, and plump. Dewy finish visible right after application.
95% noticedImproved Skin Texture
Dry patches diminish, skin feels consistently hydrated throughout the day. Makeup applies more smoothly.
80% noticedVisible Plumping Effect
Fine lines appear reduced, skin looks more youthful and radiant. Overall complexion improvement visible.
70% noticedLong-term Moisture Barrier Improvement
Skin's natural moisture barrier strengthened. Less prone to dehydration, improved resilience to environmental stressors.
65% noticedโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Excellent deep hydration that lasts all day
- Affordable K-beauty option vs high-end alternatives
- Visibly plumps skin and reduces dry patches
- Nice glass bottle with convenient pump dispenser
- Works well under makeup without pilling
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe formula
- Contains antioxidant-rich botanical extracts
- A little goes a long way - bottle lasts 2-3 months
โ Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe - contains FA triggers
- Contains added fragrance (not for sensitive noses)
- Thick texture may feel heavy for very oily skin
- 40ml bottle feels small compared to competitors
- Dewy finish not ideal for those wanting matte look
- Hyaluronic acid listed lower than expected in INCI
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Multiple molecular weights of HA plus vitamin B5. Fragrance-free, fungal acne safe. Simpler formula but equally effective hydration at half the price.
Fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested drugstore option. Contains trehalose for extra hydration. More widely available but less botanical extracts.
Higher 3% HA concentration with ceramides and NMF. Fragrance-free, more potent formula. Better for those wanting maximum hydration without botanicals.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
It's Skin HA Moisture Serum
~$16The Ordinary HA 2% + B5
$8.90COSRX HA 3% Serum
$25.00Neutrogena Hydro Boost Serum
$18.99๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Use within one year for best efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required but can be stored in fridge for cooling effect.
Glass bottle with pump dispenser for hygienic, precise application and product protection.
Yes - 40ml is under 100ml TSA limit. Glass bottle is sturdy but pack carefully to prevent breakage.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! This serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body and topical application does not significantly enter the bloodstream. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this serum is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including isohexadecane, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, and PPG-26-buteth-26. If you're prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like The Ordinary HA 2% + B5 or COSRX Hyaluronic Acid 3% Serum which are FA-safe.
Yes! Hyaluronic acid is compatible with most active ingredients. It actually pairs well with retinol and exfoliating acids as it helps counteract dryness these actives can cause. Apply this serum before retinol to buffer and hydrate, or after vitamin C to boost moisture. When using AHA/BHA, apply this serum after the acid has absorbed to replenish hydration.
This serum is excellent for dry, dehydrated, combination, and mature skin types. It works well for normal skin too. Oily skin types can use it but may find the dewy finish too rich - apply sparingly. Sensitive skin should patch test first due to the fragrance content. NOT recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Immediate: Instant hydration and dewy plumpness. 1-2 weeks: Improved skin texture, fewer dry patches. 4 weeks: Visible reduction in fine lines, more radiant complexion. 6-8 weeks: Strengthened moisture barrier with long-term benefits. For best results, use consistently morning and evening.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums, essences, and moisturizers. The rule is thinnest to thickest consistency. Apply to slightly damp skin for best absorption. Follow with moisturizer to seal in hydration, and sunscreen in the morning. Can be used both AM and PM.
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores for most people. The lightweight, water-based formula absorbs well without leaving heavy residue. However, individual reactions vary - if you're acne-prone, patch test first. Note: while it won't cause regular acne, it's NOT safe for fungal acne.
The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The glass bottle with pump dispenser helps maintain product integrity by limiting air exposure. Most users find the 40ml bottle lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use, so you should use it well before it expires.
Verdict: It's Skin Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Serum delivers solid K-beauty hydration at an accessible price point. The formula, developed with Seoul University dermatologists, combines low-molecular hyaluronic acid with antioxidant-rich botanicals like acerola and blueberry for comprehensive moisture care. It's pregnancy-safe, has low comedogenic potential, and provides visible plumping results. However, it's NOT suitable for fungal acne-prone skin and contains fragrance, which may not suit everyone. If you're looking for a no-frills, FA-safe option, The Ordinary offers better value. But for those wanting botanical benefits alongside hydration in a luxurious texture, this K-beauty gem delivers.
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 skinโs 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 ยซpromisesยป 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
Brightening from 1 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Cyclomethicone
Antistatic Agent, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Humectant, Solvent, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Isohexadecane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|