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Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Blue Serum

Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Blue Serum

Product Description

Product overview

Made in South Korea K-BEAUTY

An all-in-one lightweight hydrating serum featuring SKIN1004's signature Hyalu-Cica formula with 38% Centella Asiatica Leaf Water and 5 types of Hyaluronic Acid to deliver deep, long-lasting moisture while soothing and brightening the skin.

Dermatologically Tested Non-Comedogenic Fragrance-Free Alcohol-Free 5 Types of Hyaluronic Acid Vegan Friendly
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
Caution
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
50ml / 30ml
Price
$14-18
Key Active
38% Centella
pH Level
5.5-6.5
PAO
12 Months
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

5-Layer Hyaluronic Acid

Multiple molecular weights penetrate different skin layers for deep, long-lasting hydration from within.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Light Gel
Scent
Subtle Melon/Pear
Absorption
20-30 seconds
Finish
Dewy, Non-Sticky

5-Layer Hyaluronic Acid

Multiple molecular weights penetrate different skin layers for deep, long-lasting hydration from within.

Madagascar Centella Asiatica

38% Centella Leaf Water soothes irritation, reduces redness, and promotes skin healing.

Brightening Complex

Niacinamide and Adenosine work together to brighten skin tone and reduce fine lines.

Ceramide Barrier Support

Nano-sized Ceramide NP strengthens skin barrier and locks in moisture for lasting comfort.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Free from retinoids, salicylic acid, and hydroquinone. All key ingredients (Centella, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide) are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy.

Fungal Acne - Use With Caution

Contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Sorbitan Olivate which may feed malassezia. Patch test recommended for those prone to fungal acne.

Low Comedogenic Rating

Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Lightweight, non-greasy formula unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

No alcohol, artificial fragrance, or essential oils. Natural scent from melon and pear extracts. Dermatologically tested.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Centella Asiatica Leaf Water 38%Proven

SKIN1004's signature ingredient sourced from Madagascar. Rich in active compounds (asiaticoside, madecassic acid, asiatic acid) that calm inflammation, promote wound healing, and strengthen the skin barrier.

  • Clinical Evidence: Studies show Centella improves skin hydration and elasticity while reducing redness and irritation.
  • Key Benefit: Soothes sensitized skin and accelerates healing of acne marks and minor wounds.
Considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding when applied topically.

5 Types of Hyaluronic Acid Multi-weightProven

Includes Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, and Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate. Different molecular weights target multiple skin layers.

  • Large Molecules: Form a moisture-locking barrier on skin surface.
  • Small Molecules: Penetrate deeper to hydrate from within.
  • Crosspolymer: Provides long-lasting hydration and antioxidant benefits.

Niacinamide 2.8-4.3%Proven

A well-researched multi-tasking active that brightens skin, minimizes pores, regulates sebum, and supports the skin barrier without irritation.

  • Brightening: Inhibits melanin transfer to reduce dark spots and even skin tone.
  • Anti-Aging: Boosts collagen production and improves skin elasticity.
  • Oil Control: Regulates sebum production without drying the skin.

Ceramide NP Nano-sizedProven

An essential lipid naturally found in the skin barrier. Nano-sized particles penetrate deeply to restore barrier function and prevent moisture loss.

  • Barrier Repair: Fills gaps in the skin barrier to prevent transepidermal water loss.
  • Compatibility: Works synergistically with hyaluronic acid for enhanced hydration.

Adenosine 0.15-0.55%Proven

A naturally occurring compound with anti-aging and wound healing properties approved by KFDA for wrinkle improvement.

  • Anti-Wrinkle: Stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity.
  • Soothing: Reduces inflammation and supports skin healing.

36 ingredients

Water, Centella Asiatica Leaf Water (38%), Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Pantolactone, Hibiscus Esculentus Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Methylpropanediol, Panthenol, Cetearyl Olivate, Carbomer, Arginine, Sorbitan Olivate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Adenosine, Polyglutamic Acid, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract, Iris Florentina Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/Stem Extract, Sodium Phytate, Xanthan Gum, Maltodextrin, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ceramide NP, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate

FREE FROM: Alcohol, Artificial Fragrance, Essential Oils, Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones, Mineral Oil, Retinoids, Hydroquinone
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
This Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Apply after toner on slightly damp skin. Can be used morning and night. Layer under moisturizer for best results.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Prep

Start with clean skin. Apply your toner and leave skin slightly damp for better absorption.

2

Dispense

Pump 2-3 drops of serum onto fingertips. The 50ml bottle has a convenient pump dispenser.

3

Apply

Gently pat and press the serum into skin following your skin texture. Avoid rubbing harshly.

4

Follow Up

Wait 30 seconds for absorption, then apply moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have dehydrated or dry skin needing moisture boost
  • Your skin is sensitive, irritated, or redness-prone
  • You want a lightweight, non-sticky hydrating serum
  • You're looking for a pregnancy-safe hydrating option
  • You prefer fragrance-free, gentle formulas
  • You want to layer under makeup without pilling

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have active fungal acne (contains potential triggers)
  • You need heavy-duty anti-aging with retinoids
  • You prefer completely scent-free products (has subtle natural aroma)
  • You want a single-ingredient simple serum
  • You're looking for a thick, rich consistency
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. Can replace moisturizer in humid weather.

Dry Skin
Good

Provides excellent hydration boost. Best when layered with a heavier moisturizer on top for dry skin.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Centella soothes irritation and redness. No alcohol, essential oils, or harsh ingredients. Dermatologically tested.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Non-comedogenic and oil-free. Niacinamide helps with acne. Caution for fungal acne sufferers.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 8+
Week 1

Immediate Hydration Boost

Skin feels instantly plumper and more hydrated. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly without stickiness. Some users notice reduced tightness and discomfort.

90% noticed improved hydration
Week 2-3

Calming & Soothing Effects

Redness and irritation begin to subside. Skin feels calmer and more balanced. Texture starts to improve with consistent use.

75% noticed reduced redness
Week 4-6

Visible Brightening

Niacinamide delivers noticeable brightening effects. Skin tone appears more even, and dullness diminishes. Fine lines may appear softer.

65% noticed brighter complexion
Week 8+

Strengthened Barrier

Long-term use shows improved skin barrier function. Skin retains moisture better and becomes more resilient to environmental stressors.

70% noticed improved resilience
09

Ratings by platform

4K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.5
Rating
2,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users find the scent noticeable despite being "fragrance-free"
iHerb
4.7
Rating
850+
Reviews
Main complaint: 30ml size runs out quickly for daily use
YesStyle
4.6
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Dropper applicator on 30ml version is less convenient than pump
Ulta Beauty
4.4
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: May not be hydrating enough alone for very dry skin
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Lightweight, non-sticky texture that layers beautifully
  • Instant hydration boost without greasiness
  • Soothes redness and irritation effectively
  • Gentle enough for sensitive and reactive skin
  • Affordable compared to similar K-beauty serums
  • 50ml pump bottle is hygienic and convenient
  • Works well under makeup without pilling
  • Visible brightening effect with consistent use

Criticized

  • Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
  • Subtle natural scent may bother some users
  • May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin alone
  • 30ml dropper bottle less convenient than 50ml pump
  • Blue color from gardenia extract may concern some
  • Results take time - not an instant fix
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum
$6.80
Budget Pick

Simpler formula with multiple HA weights and panthenol. Lacks Centella and Ceramides but offers similar hydration at a fraction of the price.

80% Match
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
$21.00
Similar Price

Uses snail mucin instead of Centella for soothing and repair. Larger 100ml size offers better value. Different texture (more viscous).

75% Match
Wonder Releaf Centella Serum Unscented
$14.70
Similar Price

Higher Centella concentration (49%) with added peptides. Less focus on hyaluronic acid hydration. Contains fragrance-free formulation.

70% Match
Pure Fit Cica Serum
$13.19
Budget Pick

Focuses on Centella with peptides for anti-aging. Different approach with less emphasis on multi-weight hyaluronic acid hydration.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Wonder Releaf Centella Serum Unscented
Key Ingredients 49% Centella + Peptides
Size 60ml
Texture Watery Serum
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
Pycnogenol 5%
Key Ingredients 2% HA + Vitamin B5
Size 30ml
Texture Viscous Serum
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Key Ingredients 96% Snail Mucin
Size 100ml
Texture Slimy Essence
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Check the symbol on packaging for confirmation.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine; refrigeration optional but not required.

Packaging

50ml comes with hygienic pump dispenser. 30ml uses dropper bottle. Blue tinted glass protects formula from light degradation.

Travel Friendly

Yes, both sizes are under 100ml TSA limit. Pump bottle is more travel-friendly than dropper.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes, this serum is considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. All key actives (Centella Asiatica, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Ceramides) are well-tolerated and have good safety profiles for topical use during pregnancy. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

Use with caution if you're prone to fungal acne. The formula contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Sorbitan Olivate, which are fatty acid-based emulsifiers that may potentially feed malassezia yeast. While many users with fungal acne use this product without issues, those with active fungal acne or high sensitivity should patch test first or consider alternatives like COSRX Snail Mucin Essence which is fungal acne safe.

Yes! This serum pairs well with most actives. Use it before retinol to provide a hydrating buffer and reduce irritation. With Vitamin C, apply the serum after Vitamin C has absorbed (or use them at different times of day). With AHA/BHA, use this serum afterward to soothe and hydrate. The Centella and Hyaluronic Acid help calm potential irritation from active ingredients.

This serum is excellent for oily, combination, sensitive, and dehydrated skin types. The lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without adding greasiness, making it ideal for oily skin. Sensitive skin benefits from the soothing Centella. Dry skin types can use it but should layer with a richer moisturizer on top. It's particularly good for those with dehydrated-but-oily skin who need hydration without heaviness.

Hydration is immediate - you'll notice plumper, more comfortable skin from the first use. Soothing effects on redness typically show within 1-2 weeks. Brightening from niacinamide becomes visible around 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Barrier strengthening and long-term improvements in skin resilience develop over 8+ weeks. Consistency is key - use twice daily for best results.

Apply after cleansing and toner, before moisturizer. In the traditional Korean skincare routine order: Cleanser → Toner → THIS SERUM → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). For best absorption, apply to slightly damp skin. If using other serums, apply this one based on consistency (thinner textures first). This serum can be used both morning and night.

The serum has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. It's formulated to be non-comedogenic with a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture. The formula is oil-free and doesn't contain heavy occlusives that typically clog pores. Most users, including those with acne-prone skin, don't experience breakouts. However, everyone's skin is different - if you're concerned, patch test for a week before full face application.

The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. The 50ml pump bottle helps maintain hygiene and prevents contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture before the 12-month mark, discontinue use.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Blue Serum is an excellent multi-tasking hydrating serum that delivers on its promises. The combination of 38% Centella Asiatica and 5 types of Hyaluronic Acid provides impressive hydration and soothing benefits without the heavy, sticky feel common to many HA serums. At around $14 for 50ml, it offers great value compared to similar K-beauty serums. It's pregnancy-safe, gentle enough for sensitive skin, and layers beautifully under makeup. The only drawbacks are potential fungal acne triggers and the subtle natural scent. Overall, highly recommended for anyone seeking lightweight, effective hydration with skin-soothing benefits.

Browse related

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 5 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic Acid Adenosine Ceramide NP
brightening Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 10 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Sodium Hyaluronate Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic Acid Panthenol Arginine Adenosine Polyglutamic Acid Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
63% 36%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 36 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
0 Unknown
Centella Asiatica Leaf Water
Skin Conditioning
Redness
Irritation
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
1 A
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
1 A
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS