Hyaluronics Serum
Hyaluronics Serum
Product Description
Product overview
An intensive K-Beauty hydration serum by Mary & May, powered by 6 forms of hyaluronic acid across multiple molecular weights — delivering multi-layer moisture from the skin surface down to deeper layers for a visibly plump, supple, and dewy complexion. EWG Green Grade certified, fragrance-free, and vegan.
6-Layer Hyaluronic Acid Complex
Six different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid (5,102 ppm total) work simultaneously across all skin layers — from surface to deep dermis — for comprehensive, long-lasting hydration.
Texture & feel
SENSORY6-Layer Hyaluronic Acid Complex
Six different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid (5,102 ppm total) work simultaneously across all skin layers — from surface to deep dermis — for comprehensive, long-lasting hydration.
EWG Green Grade Certified
Every ingredient carries the EWG Green Grade rating, indicating the cleanest, safest formulation standard. Free from 16 potentially harmful ingredients including parabens, artificial fragrance, alcohol, and mineral oil.
Vegan & Cruelty-Free
Certified vegan with zero animal-derived ingredients and never tested on animals. Eco-friendly packaging uses 100% recycled paper and soybean oil ink.
Fast-Absorbing, Non-Greasy Formula
The ultra-lightweight watery gel texture absorbs within seconds without any sticky or greasy residue, making it ideal for layering under moisturizers, SPF, or makeup.
Moisture Barrier Reinforcement
High-molecular HA forms a protective film on the skin surface to lock in hydration and prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), while low-molecular forms penetrate deeply.
Hypoallergenic Formula
Dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic. Free from common sensitizers — no fragrances, no dyes, no essential oils — making it suitable for even the most reactive skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAll 10 ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. No retinoids, no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, no chemical sunscreens. Consult your doctor if in doubt.
Confirmed fungal acne safe. Contains no ferments, no fatty acids, no esters, no polysorbates, and no oils that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
All ingredients rate 0 on the comedogenic scale. Will not clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone and oily skin types without risk of breakouts.
Free from all 26 EU-regulated fragrance allergens, artificial colorants, and common irritants. Dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic-tested formula.
Hyaluronic acid serums pair excellently with retinol and vitamin C actives. Apply this serum first on damp skin, then layer actives on top, followed by moisturizer.
Safe to use alongside chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid. The humectant HA actually helps counterbalance dryness caused by exfoliants.
Contains no ethanol or denatured alcohol. Safe for rosacea-prone and barrier-compromised skin that reacts to alcohol-based products.
No silicones (dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane) and no sulfates. A true minimal-ingredient, clean beauty formulation with only 10 INCI entries.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate (High Molecular Weight) 5050 ppmStar Active
The primary active and highest-concentration hyaluronic acid in this formula. High-molecular weight HA remains on the skin's surface, forming a moisture-retaining film that prevents trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and delivers immediate plumping and softening effects.
- Function: Surface humectant, occlusive-like film former, immediate plumping
- Concentration: 5050 ppm (highest of all 6 HA forms in this serum)
- Research: High-molecular HA (1–2 million Da) is well-documented to hold up to 1,000× its weight in water, improving skin elasticity and barrier function
- Comedogenicity: 0 — will not clog pores
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer 22 ppmProven
A crosslinked, modified version of sodium hyaluronate engineered to stay in the skin's upper layers for significantly longer than traditional HA. This network structure provides sustained, time-released hydration rather than a quick-evaporate effect.
- Function: Long-lasting moisture reservoir, extended-release humectant
- Advantage over standard HA: The crosslinked structure resists degradation and maintains its moisture-binding capacity longer on the skin
- Research: Crosspolymer HA has been demonstrated in studies to provide superior sustained hydration vs. linear HA
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid 18 ppmProven
A low-molecular-weight, enzymatically fragmented form of hyaluronic acid (typically 50–300 kDa). Smaller size allows penetration into the upper layers of the epidermis, delivering moisture deeper than high-molecular HA can reach.
- Function: Deep epidermal hydration, anti-inflammatory, wound repair support
- Research: 100–300 kDa fragments may boost skin's self-defense mechanisms and are beneficial for sensitive/inflammatory conditions including rosacea and acne
- Anti-aging benefit: The 50 kDa version is associated with plumping fine lines from within
Hyaluronic Acid 8 ppmProven
Pure, free-acid form of hyaluronic acid — the naturally occurring polymer found abundantly in healthy skin. Acts as a classical humectant that draws atmospheric moisture to the skin and binds it effectively. Levels decline naturally with age, making topical supplementation valuable.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor), plumping agent
- Research: Multiple clinical studies confirm topical HA improves skin hydration, elasticity, and reduces the appearance of fine lines over consistent use
- Anti-inflammatory: Studies support mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate 1 ppmPromising
An ultra-low-molecular-weight fragment of sodium hyaluronate — the smallest HA form in this formula. Its tiny molecular size (around 10 kDa) is claimed to enable the deepest epidermal penetration of all HA types, providing micro-level hydration within the skin.
- Function: Deep-penetrating humectant, skin penetration enhancer
- Trade name equivalent: Similar in concept to Evonik's Hyalo-Oligo (10 kDa) — claimed to provide deep and long-lasting moisturization
Butylene Glycol ~2nd ingredientSupporting
A multifunctional glycol that acts as a humectant, solvent, and texture enhancer. Helps dissolve other ingredients, improves product spreadability, contributes moisture, and boosts the antimicrobial performance of preservatives.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, texture agent, preservative booster
- Safety: EWG rated 1 (safest) — well-tolerated by most skin types
Ethylhexylglycerin + Pentylene Glycol Preservative SystemSupporting
A gentle, paraben-free preservation system. Ethylhexylglycerin is a skin-conditioning preservative derived from glycerin. Pentylene Glycol is a bio-based humectant and antimicrobial agent. Together they ensure product safety and shelf life without harsh preservatives.
- Function: Preservation, antimicrobial, skin-conditioning
- Safety: Both are considered among the safest, most gentle preservative alternatives to parabens
- Fungal acne safety: Both are confirmed safe for fungal acne (Malassezia)-prone skin
10 ingredients — one of the most minimal, clean formulations in the hydrating serum category.
Water, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate (5050ppm), Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer (22ppm), Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (18ppm), Hyaluronic Acid (8ppm), Sodium Hyaluronate (3ppm), Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate (1ppm), Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentylene Glycol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to damp skin right after toning — apply moisturizer immediately on top to seal in the HA hydration. Use AM and PM.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Begin with a clean face using your preferred gentle cleanser. Pat skin mostly dry — leave skin slightly damp for best HA absorption results.
Apply Toner (Optional)
If you use a hydrating toner, apply it first. The Hyaluronics Serum layers beautifully over any alcohol-free toner or essence.
Dispense & Apply Serum
Use the dropper to dispense 2–3 drops (or a pea-sized amount). Gently press and massage into the face and neck following the skin's texture direction. Pay extra attention to dry areas around the eyes.
Allow to Absorb
Wait 20–30 seconds for the lightweight formula to fully absorb. It should leave no greasy or sticky residue — just a smooth, refreshed skin feel.
Seal with Moisturizer
Always follow with a moisturizer to lock in the hyaluronic acid hydration. Hyaluronic acid needs to be sealed in — especially in dry or air-conditioned environments where it could draw moisture from the skin instead of the air.
Use AM & PM
Safe for twice-daily use. In the morning, follow with SPF. In the evening, layer under your night cream or sleeping mask for intensive overnight hydration.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or combination skin craving deep moisture
- You want a minimal, clean-label serum with under 10 ingredients
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe hydration serum
- You have fungal acne or Malassezia-prone skin
- You're sensitive to fragrances, alcohol, or common irritants
- You're building a K-Beauty layering routine
- You want a serum that pairs with retinol, vitamin C, or AHAs
- You prefer vegan and cruelty-free beauty
Consider alternatives if:
- You need additional actives like niacinamide, peptides, or retinol in one product
- You live in a very dry, low-humidity climate and skip moisturizer (HA may pull moisture from skin)
- You're looking for anti-aging actives beyond hydration
- You prefer a rich, cream-based serum texture
- You want brightening or pore-minimizing effects from a single serum
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESUltra-lightweight and non-greasy. Absorbs instantly without adding shine or clogging pores. Provides deep hydration without worsening oiliness — often reduces excess sebum production caused by dehydration.
Multi-weight HA complex delivers both surface moisture and deep dermal hydration. Best results when sealed with a rich moisturizer. Visibly plumps and smooths dry, rough texture within days of consistent use.
Balances hydration across oily T-zone and dry cheek zones without disrupting the skin's natural oil balance. Lightweight enough for oily areas, effective enough for dry zones.
Completely free of fragrance, alcohol, dyes, and all 26 EU fragrance allergens. Dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic. One of the safest serums available for reactive or rosacea-prone skin.
Non-comedogenic rating of 0/5, confirmed fungal acne safe, and free from pore-clogging oils. Hyaluronic acid's anti-inflammatory properties may even help calm active breakouts while keeping skin hydrated.
Purpose-built for dehydrated skin. The 6-form HA complex with over 5,100 ppm total concentration is specifically designed to replenish trans-epidermal water loss and restore plumpness to dull, tight, dehydrated complexions.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+ · ONGOING USEInstant Plumping & Smoothness
Skin feels immediately softer, smoother, and more hydrated. Visible reduction in surface dryness and tightness. The watery-gel formula absorbs without residue, leaving a fresh dewy glow.
90% noticed immediate softnessSustained Hydration & Improved Texture
Skin maintains better hydration throughout the day. Fine lines from dehydration appear visibly reduced. Skin texture feels consistently smoother, and complexion looks more radiant and rested.
85% noticed improved texturePlump, Bouncy Skin & Barrier Strengthening
Noticeable improvement in skin elasticity and bounce. Skin appears plumper and more youthful. The moisture barrier becomes more resilient — skin is less prone to dryness or reactivity. Fine lines are visibly smoother.
95% reported plumper skinLong-Term Barrier Health & Anti-Aging Benefits
Consistent use supports the skin's natural hyaluronic acid production cycle. Long-term users report sustained improvement in skin hydration, elasticity, and overall complexion quality, with fine lines significantly less pronounced.
92% would repurchaseRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
STRONGPraised
- 6 molecular weights of HA for truly comprehensive hydration
- Only 10 ingredients — incredibly clean and minimal
- EWG Green Grade certified — trusted safety standard
- Fast-absorbing, non-sticky, non-greasy texture
- Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free
- Confirmed fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic
- Safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Vegan and cruelty-free with eco-friendly packaging
- Excellent value for the quality and concentration
- Layers seamlessly with any other skincare product
Criticized
- 30ml bottle is small and may not last long with generous use
- Pure hydration only — no actives (niacinamide, peptides, etc.)
- Must be sealed with moisturizer — ineffective if used alone in dry climates
- Total HA concentration (5,102 ppm) is relatively modest vs. some competitors
- Dropper packaging can feel less hygienic with repeated contact use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimpler formula using two molecular weights of HA plus vitamin B5. Very effective humectant but lacks the 6-weight complexity and EWG-certified clean formulation of Mary & May. More accessible price point, slightly tackier texture on some skin types.
Uses sodium hyaluronate as the primary active with a richer cream-gel texture. Good for dry skin but heavier than Mary & May's serum. Does not offer the same multi-molecular-weight layering system. Contains some additional film-forming agents.
A widely available Western drugstore alternative using hyaluronic acid in a lightweight gel formula. Effective surface hydration but uses fewer HA forms and contains dimethicone (silicone) which may not suit fungal-acne-prone users. Less clean ingredient profile.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDESkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within 12M of first opening for best efficacy and safety.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms — a bedroom shelf or vanity drawer is ideal.
Glass dropper bottle (30ml) or plastic bottle (80ml jumbo). The dropper allows precise dosage control — 2–3 drops per application is recommended. Eco-friendly box made from 100% recycled paper with soybean oil ink.
Yes — the 30ml bottle is well within TSA/airport carry-on liquid limits (under 100ml). Compact and lightweight for travel skincare routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Mary & May Hyaluronics Serum is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. All 10 ingredients are well-established, gentle compounds with no known pregnancy contraindications. The formula contains no retinoids, no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, no chemical UV filters, and no essential oils. It is fragrance-free and alcohol-free, making it one of the cleanest options available for expectant or nursing mothers. As with any skincare product during pregnancy, consulting your doctor or dermatologist before adding new products is always a good idea.
Yes — Mary & May Hyaluronics Serum is confirmed safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) prone skin. Multiple ingredient-checking resources (INCIDecoder, SkinSort) confirm this formula contains no ferments, no fatty acids, no plant oils, no esters, and no polysorbates — the ingredient types that feed Malassezia yeast. The preservation system (ethylhexylglycerin + pentylene glycol) is also fungal acne safe. This is one of the few serums you can use with complete confidence if you're managing fungal acne.
Yes — hyaluronic acid is one of the most universally compatible skincare ingredients and pairs excellently with all actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHA (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHA (salicylic acid). Apply the Hyaluronics Serum on slightly damp skin first, then layer your active serum on top before moisturizer. Hyaluronic acid actually helps counteract the dryness and irritation that can accompany strong actives like retinol, making this combination particularly beneficial for retinol beginners.
Mary & May Hyaluronics Serum is rated excellent for all skin types: oily, dry, combination, sensitive, acne-prone, and dehydrated skin. It is particularly ideal for dry and dehydrated skin needing deep, multi-layer hydration, and for sensitive skin that cannot tolerate fragranced or heavily formulated products. Its non-comedogenic (0/5 rating) and fungal acne safe status also makes it outstanding for acne-prone and Malassezia-prone skin.
Most users notice immediate softness and a dewy feel from the very first application. Visible improvement in skin texture and sustained hydration typically begins within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Significant plumping of fine lines, improved elasticity, and noticeably smoother skin are typically reported after 3–4 weeks. For maximum long-term benefit — including improved barrier function and lasting moisture retention — consistent daily AM and PM use over 4–8 weeks is recommended.
Apply the Hyaluronics Serum as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, before active serums and moisturizer. The correct order is: (1) Cleanser → (2) Toner → (3) Mary & May Hyaluronics Serum → (4) Active serum (retinol, vitamin C, etc.) → (5) Moisturizer → (6) SPF (AM only). Critically, always apply on slightly damp skin and immediately seal with a moisturizer — this is essential for hyaluronic acid to work effectively.
No — Mary & May Hyaluronics Serum is completely non-comedogenic with a rating of 0/5. All 10 ingredients score 0 on the comedogenic scale. The formula contains no oils, no waxes, no silicones, and no known pore-clogging agents. It is safe for acne-prone skin and has been confirmed non-comedogenic by ingredient analysis tools. Hyaluronic acid itself is a skin-identical ingredient that does not interfere with sebum production or pore function.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for Mary & May Hyaluronics Serum is 12 months. For typical twice-daily use, the 30ml bottle lasts approximately 4–6 weeks, while the 80ml jumbo bottle lasts approximately 3–4 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. The dropper packaging helps minimize contamination, extending the product's effective shelf life. Discard if you notice any change in color, smell, or texture.
Verdict: The Mary & May Hyaluronics Serum is an outstanding minimalist hydration serum that punches well above its price point. Its 6-form hyaluronic acid complex covering all molecular weights — from surface-film high-MW HA to deep-penetrating hydrolyzed fragments — delivers genuinely comprehensive multi-layer moisture that single-HA serums cannot match. With only 10 EWG Green Grade ingredients, it achieves what many overcomplicated serums fail to: delivering effective, science-backed hydration in the cleanest possible formula.Pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, vegan, and fragrance-free — this checks every box for sensitive, acne-prone, and clean-beauty conscious consumers. The only limitations are its purely hydration-focused function (no added actives) and the small 30ml bottle size. For anyone building a K-Beauty routine or seeking a reliable, daily-use hydration base layer, Mary & May Hyaluronics Serum is a highly recommended staple.
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.






