Hydration Booster 10X
Hydration Booster 10X
Product Description
Product overview
An intensely hydrating serum powered by sodium hyaluronate, a triple-ceramide complex, and three peptides to restore moisture, plump skin, and visibly reduce fine lines. Lightweight, fragrance-free, and designed for all skin types including post-procedure recovery.
Deep Hydration Without Oiliness
Sodium hyaluronate draws and locks moisture into the skin, delivering intense hydration without a heavy or greasy residue.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Hydration Without Oiliness
Sodium hyaluronate draws and locks moisture into the skin, delivering intense hydration without a heavy or greasy residue.
Triple-Ceramide Barrier Repair
A trio of ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) paired with cholesterol and phytosphingosine strengthens the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Peptide Complex for Firmness
Three palmitoyl peptides signal collagen production, helping to visibly firm skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Post-Procedure Soothing
Aloe vera and green tea extract soothe and cool irritated skin after laser treatments, chemical peels, or exfoliation procedures.
Antioxidant Defense
Green tea (Camellia Oleifera) and soybean extracts provide powerful antioxidant protection against environmental stressors and free radicals.
Dermatologist-Developed Formula
Created in collaboration with board-certified dermatologists and manufactured in FDA-regulated facilities in California.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Polysorbate 20 and palmitoyl peptides (fatty acid esters) which can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you are prone to fungal acne.
Very low risk of clogging pores. Oil-free, lightweight formula is suitable for acne-prone skin types.
Fragrance-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free, and dermatologist-tested. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Includes methylparaben as a preservative. While considered safe at cosmetic concentrations by the FDA and CIR, some users prefer to avoid parabens.
Safe to layer with retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA, and niacinamide. Ideal as a hydration buffer before stronger actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium HyaluronateProven
A lower molecular weight salt form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin compared to standard HA. Acts as a powerful humectant, binding up to 1,000 times its weight in water to keep skin plump and hydrated.
- Mechanism: Draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the epidermis, maintaining hydration levels
- Benefit: Visibly plumps skin, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and improves skin elasticity
- Research: Extensively studied humectant recognized as a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan in human skin
Ceramide Complex (NP, AP, EOP)Proven
Three types of ceramides that mimic the lipids naturally found in the skin barrier. Ceramides make up approximately 50% of the intercellular lipids in the stratum corneum and are critical for maintaining barrier integrity.
- Ceramide NP: Helps retain moisture and maintain healthy barrier lipid structure
- Ceramide AP: Supports skin barrier repair and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Ceramide EOP: Long-chain ceramide that reinforces the skin's lipid matrix for comprehensive barrier protection
- Synergy: Combined with cholesterol and phytosphingosine in an optimal ratio for enhanced barrier repair
Palmitoyl Peptide ComplexPromising
A trio of signal peptides — Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 — that work together to stimulate collagen synthesis and reduce visible signs of aging.
- Tripeptide-1: Signal peptide that encourages fibroblasts to produce collagen, improving skin firmness
- Tetrapeptide-7: Helps reduce inflammation-mediated skin damage associated with aging
- Tripeptide-5: Mimics the action of thrombospondin-1 to stimulate collagen production
Green Tea Extract (Camellia Oleifera)Proven
Rich in polyphenol antioxidants, particularly EGCG, that help protect the skin from UV damage and environmental stressors while reducing inflammation.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals that contribute to premature aging
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms irritated skin and reduces redness, making it ideal for post-procedure recovery
Soybean Extract (Glycine Soja)Promising
An amino acid-rich botanical extract that softens the skin, supports wound healing, and contains antioxidant phenolic acids and isoflavones.
- Emollient: Smooths and conditions the skin surface for a softer texture
- Brightening: Studies suggest soy isoflavones may help reduce hyperpigmentation from UVB-induced inflammation
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceProven
A time-tested botanical known for its exceptional soothing and moisture-binding properties. Helps calm irritated skin and supports the natural healing process.
- Soothing: Reduces redness and irritation, particularly beneficial after cosmetic procedures
- Hydrating: Binds moisture to the skin and enhances overall hydration levels
24 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Tetrasodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizers. Use both AM and PM. Acts as a hydration primer that boosts the absorption of products layered on top.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with a clean, slightly damp face. Toning beforehand is optional but can help prepare the skin to receive hydration.
Dispense 4–5 Drops
Place 4 to 5 drops of the serum onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Apply to Face & Neck
Gently smooth the serum over your face and neck using upward motions. Avoid the immediate eye area.
Wait & Layer
Allow the serum to fully absorb for 30–60 seconds before applying your next product — serum, moisturizer, or sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dehydrated or chronically dry skin that needs intense moisture
- You want to plump fine lines and improve skin elasticity
- You need a soothing serum for post-procedure recovery (lasers, peels)
- You prefer a lightweight, non-greasy hydrating step
- You want a fragrance-free, dermatologist-developed formula
- You are looking for a hydration booster to layer under moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (Malassezia) — this formula is not FA-safe
- You strictly avoid all parabens (contains methylparaben)
- You need a heavy-duty occlusive moisturizer — this is a lightweight serum, not a cream
- You want a vegan-certified product — DRMTLGY is not fully vegan-certified
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel-serum absorbs instantly without adding shine or oiliness. Oil-free formula won't overload already active sebaceous glands.
Delivers deep hydration with sodium hyaluronate and ceramides. For very dry skin, layer with a richer moisturizer on top to seal in moisture.
Balances well across different face zones — hydrates dry patches without overloading the T-zone. Non-comedogenic formula works everywhere.
Fragrance-free and dermatologist-tested with soothing aloe and green tea. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin due to methylparaben.
Non-comedogenic (1/5) and oil-free — safe for acne-prone skin. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20 and palmitoyl peptides.
Results timeline
8–12 WEEKSInstant Hydration & Plumping
Skin feels noticeably softer and more supple right after application. Fine lines appear temporarily plumped due to intense moisture delivery.
90% noticed immediate hydrationImproved Moisture Retention
Consistent use allows ceramides to begin repairing the moisture barrier. Skin feels less tight and dehydrated throughout the day.
75% noticed less drynessVisible Fine Line Reduction
Peptide complex begins to show cumulative effects on skin firmness. Dehydration lines appear softer and less pronounced.
65% reported smoother skin textureEnhanced Elasticity & Radiance
Sustained barrier repair and collagen-supporting peptides contribute to visibly firmer, more resilient, and radiant-looking skin.
55% noticed improved firmnessRatings by platform
920+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instant hydration that visibly plumps fine lines on first use
- Lightweight gel texture absorbs fast with no sticky or greasy residue
- Advanced formula with ceramides and peptides — not just basic HA
- Excellent post-procedure recovery serum (soothes and cools)
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin types
- Layers beautifully under makeup and sunscreen
- 126K+ units sold — a proven best-seller
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Polysorbate 20 and palmitoyl peptides)
- Contains methylparaben — a deal-breaker for paraben-free seekers
- Price-to-size ratio feels steep at $41 for 53 mL
- May not be hydrating enough alone for very dry climates — needs a moisturizer on top
- Dropper bottle is not the most hygienic packaging format
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A straightforward HA serum with multiple molecular weights and vitamin B5. Lacks the ceramide complex and peptides found in Hydration Booster 10X, but provides solid basic hydration at a fraction of the price.
Features a ceramide complex with cholesterol for barrier repair. Richer texture designed for night use, but lacks the peptides and lightweight serum format of Hydration Booster 10X.
Combines hyaluronic acid with three essential ceramides and vitamin B5 in a similar approach. Does not include peptides, but offers comparable hydration and barrier support at a lower price point.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required, but refrigerating can enhance the soothing cooling effect.
Glass dropper bottle with pipette applicator for precise dispensing
Yes — 53 mL (1.8 fl oz) is under the 100 mL / 3.4 oz TSA carry-on limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Hydration Booster 10X does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. All 24 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, as with any skincare product, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist if you have specific concerns.
No. This serum contains Polysorbate 20 (an emulsifier) and three palmitoyl peptides that are based on palmitic acid — a fatty acid ester that can feed Malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 which has a simpler, FA-safe formula.
Yes. Hydration Booster 10X is a hydrating serum without any active exfoliants or pH-dependent actives, making it compatible with virtually all other skincare actives. It actually works well as a hydration buffer when applied before retinol or after acids to reduce irritation and dryness. Apply the Hydration Booster first, let it absorb, then follow with your active.
Hydration Booster 10X is formulated for all skin types. It works exceptionally well for dry, dehydrated, and combination skin. Oily skin types appreciate the lightweight, oil-free formula that hydrates without adding shine. Sensitive skin can also benefit from the fragrance-free, soothing formula, though a patch test is recommended.
You will notice immediate hydration and plumping effects after the first application. For longer-term improvements in moisture retention and barrier strength, allow 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Visible improvement in fine lines and firmness from the peptide complex typically takes 6–12 weeks of continued use.
Apply Hydration Booster 10X after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. It is a water-based hydrating serum that should go on before oil-based or occlusive products. Use it both morning and evening for best results. Apply 4–5 drops to face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
No. Hydration Booster 10X has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, which is very low. The formula is oil-free, lightweight, and was designed to hydrate without clogging pores. It is non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin. The brand specifically describes it as a formula that does not leave an oily feel or clog pores.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store the bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. The product is preserved with phenoxyethanol, methylparaben, and ethylhexylglycerin to ensure stability throughout its shelf life. The 53 mL bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use.
Verdict: DRMTLGY Hydration Booster 10X is a well-formulated hydrating serum that goes beyond basic hyaluronic acid. The combination of sodium hyaluronate, a triple-ceramide complex, and three signal peptides provides multi-layered hydration, barrier repair, and anti-aging benefits in a single lightweight product. It earns high marks for its clean, fragrance-free formula and proven soothing capabilities for post-procedure skin. Where it loses points is its lack of fungal acne safety (Polysorbate 20 and palmitoyl peptides), the inclusion of methylparaben, and a price-to-size ratio that feels premium. For those without FA concerns, this is one of the best dermatologist-developed hydrating serums in the $30–$50 range.
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
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.