Mineral 89 Face Serum
Mineral 89 Face Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing hyaluronic acid serum formulated with 89% Vichy Volcanic Water and pure Sodium Hyaluronate to instantly hydrate, plump, and strengthen your skin barrier. Clinically tested by 175 dermatologists on 1,600 women worldwide.
89% Volcanic Water
Sourced from French volcanoes, enriched with 15 essential minerals that strengthen the skin barrier and protect against environmental aggressors.
Texture & feel
SENSORY89% Volcanic Water
Sourced from French volcanoes, enriched with 15 essential minerals that strengthen the skin barrier and protect against environmental aggressors.
Pure Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium Hyaluronate holds up to 1,000x its weight in water, delivering intense hydration and visible plumping effect.
Barrier Strengthening
Clinically proven to increase hydration by 42% after application while reinforcing the skin's moisture barrier.
Minimalist Formula
Only 11 clean ingredients. No fragrance, parabens, silicones, or alcohol. Safe for the most sensitive skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Free from fatty acids, fermented ingredients, oils, polysorbates, and esters that feed Malassezia yeast.
Oil-free, lightweight formula will not clog pores or contribute to acne breakouts.
Accepted by the National Eczema Association. Allergy tested and dermatologist approved for reactive skin.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and other actives. Actually helps buffer and hydrate skin when using potent treatments.
Gentle enough for use after chemical peels, laser treatments, and other cosmetic procedures. Always consult your dermatologist.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSVichy Volcanic Water 89%Proven
Mineral-rich thermal water sourced from the Auvergne region of France, naturally enriched with 15 essential minerals as it percolates through volcanic and magmatic rocks.
- Study: Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found Vichy Volcanic Water contains the most diverse mineral content compared to other thermal waters.
- Key Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Manganese, Selenium, Iron, Zinc, Copper, Silicon, and more.
- Benefit: Strengthens skin barrier, provides antioxidant protection, and defends against exposome factors.
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular size that penetrates deeper into the skin. A powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture.
- Mechanism: Holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, drawing moisture from the environment into the skin.
- Result: Immediate plumping effect, reduced appearance of fine lines, and long-lasting hydration.
- Safety: Naturally occurring in the body, extremely well-tolerated by all skin types.
GlycerinProven
One of the most effective and well-researched humectants in skincare. Draws water into the skin and helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier.
- Function: Humectant that attracts water molecules to the skin surface.
- Benefit: Improves skin hydration, softness, and barrier function.
Biosaccharide Gum-1Promising
A fermented sugar derived from sorbitol (potato starch). Works as a skin conditioning agent and provides additional moisture retention.
- Function: Skin conditioning and moisturizing agent.
- Note: Provides a smooth, non-sticky feel to the formula.
11 ingredients
Aqua/Water, PEG/PPG/Polybutylene Glycol-8/5/3 Glycerin, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Methyl Gluceth-20, Carbomer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Biosaccharide Gum-1
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as "Step 0" right after cleansing on damp skin. Can also be used alone as a lightweight moisturizer in humid climates or for oily skin types.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean skin. Pat face dry with a clean towel, leaving skin slightly damp for best absorption.
Dispense 2-3 Pumps
Press the pump 2-3 times to dispense product into your palm. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Apply With Outward Motions
Spread from the center of your face outward using gentle, sweeping motions. Avoid tugging or pulling at the skin.
Follow With Your Routine
Layer your treatment serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM) on top. Use morning and evening for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dehydrated or dull skin needing a hydration boost
- You want a simple, minimalist formula with proven ingredients
- You have sensitive, reactive, or eczema-prone skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe skincare
- You have fungal acne and need a safe hydrating serum
- You use retinol or acids and need barrier support
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy hydrator for oily skin
- You're new to skincare and want a simple starting point
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need heavy-duty moisture (add a rich cream on top)
- You want anti-aging benefits like wrinkle reduction (pair with retinol)
- You're looking for brightening or dark spot correction
- You prefer products with active ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide
- You're on a very tight budget (consider The Ordinary HA as alternative)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Oil-free formula won't clog pores.
Provides excellent hydration but may need a richer moisturizer layered on top for very dry skin.
Balances hydration across different face zones without making T-zone oily or dry patches drier.
Fragrance-free, minimal ingredients, and National Eczema Association accepted. Ideal for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and oil-free. Won't trigger breakouts or feed Malassezia.
Provides plumping hydration but pair with anti-aging actives like retinol for wrinkle reduction.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSInstant Hydration & Plumping
Skin feels refreshed, hydrated, and visibly plumped. The gel absorbs instantly without stickiness.
94% noticed immediate hydrationImproved Skin Texture
Skin feels softer, smoother, and more supple. Fine dehydration lines start to diminish.
89% reported healthier-feeling skinStronger Skin Barrier
Clinically proven 42% increase in hydration. Skin is more resilient to environmental stressors.
80% would switch from their current serumLong-Term Skin Health
Consistent hydration, improved barrier function, and visibly healthier, more radiant complexion.
Tested on 3,200+ patients by 325 dermatologistsRatings by platform
16K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Fast-absorbing, non-sticky, lightweight gel texture
- Minimal 11-ingredient formula is gentle and safe
- Dermatologist tested and eczema-approved
- Fragrance-free with no irritating ingredients
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal acne safe
- Works well under makeup without pilling
- Excellent for layering with other actives
- Visible plumping and hydration immediately
- Versatile for all skin types including oily
- Beautiful glass bottle with hygienic pump
Criticized
- May not be hydrating enough alone for very dry skin
- Price (~$30 for 50ml) feels high for simple formula
- Small bottle runs out quickly with twice daily use
- No additional active ingredients for anti-aging
- Some experience breakouts during initial use
- Effects don't last all day without moisturizer
- Glass bottle not ideal for travel
- Slight mineral scent that some dislike
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Simpler formula with multi-weight hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. Denser texture, may pill under products. Lacks the mineral-rich volcanic water but offers similar hydration at a fraction of the price.
Oil-free formula with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. Lightweight and fast-absorbing. More widely available in drugstores. Contains dimethicone (silicone) which Mineral 89 lacks.
Sister brand with thermal water + dual hyaluronic acid + vitamin B5 + madecassoside. More repairing benefits but contains fragrance. Better for anti-aging but slightly higher price point.
Japanese formula with 5 types of hyaluronic acid for multi-layer hydration. Thicker, more viscous texture. Incredible value but different application feel. Cult favorite in Asian beauty.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEVichy Mineral 89
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. No refrigeration needed.
Elegant glass bottle with hygienic airless pump dispenser that keeps formula fresh and bacteria-free.
Yes, 50ml is under 100ml TSA limit. Glass bottle - pack carefully in toiletry bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Vichy Mineral 89 is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy. The minimalist 11-ingredient formula consists of gentle, well-tolerated ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and volcanic mineral water. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before adding any new products to your routine during pregnancy.
Yes, Vichy Mineral 89 is fungal acne safe. The formula is free from fatty acids, fermented ingredients, oils, polysorbates, and esters that feed Malassezia yeast. Independent ingredient analyzers have confirmed it contains zero fungal acne triggers. This makes it an excellent hydrating serum option for those dealing with pityrosporum folliculitis.
Absolutely! Vichy Mineral 89 is designed to be used with other active ingredients. In fact, it's excellent for buffering potentially irritating actives. Apply Mineral 89 first on clean, damp skin to boost hydration, then layer your retinol, vitamin C, or acids on top. The hyaluronic acid helps your skin tolerate stronger actives while the volcanic minerals strengthen your barrier. This makes it a perfect "step 0" in any advanced skincare routine.
Vichy Mineral 89 is excellent for all skin types, but particularly shines for: oily skin (lightweight, oil-free, won't add shine), combination skin (balances hydration), sensitive skin (fragrance-free, eczema-approved), and acne-prone skin (non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe). For very dry skin, it works beautifully but should be topped with a richer moisturizer. It's also ideal for those new to skincare due to its simple, gentle formula.
You'll notice immediate results! Skin feels hydrated, plumped, and refreshed right after application. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, skin texture improves and feels softer. By 4 weeks, clinical studies show a 42% increase in hydration levels. For optimal long-term benefits including strengthened skin barrier, continue use for 8+ weeks. Most users report visible improvement in skin health and radiance within the first month.
Vichy calls this a "Step 0" product. Apply it right after cleansing, before toner (or instead of toner), and before any other serums. The ideal order is: Cleanser → Mineral 89 → Toner (optional) → Treatment Serums → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Apply to damp skin for best absorption. You can also use it alone as a lightweight moisturizer if you have oily skin or live in a humid climate.
No, Vichy Mineral 89 is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The oil-free, silicone-free formula will not clog pores or contribute to acne breakouts. It has been tested and approved for acne-prone skin. However, everyone's skin is different - if you experience breakouts, it may be a reaction to one of the ingredients (like butylene glycol) rather than pore-clogging. Patch test first if you have very reactive skin.
Vichy Mineral 89 has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The airless pump dispenser helps keep the formula fresh and free from contamination. The 50ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice daily use (2-3 pumps each time). Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. There's no need to refrigerate, though some prefer the cooling sensation of a chilled serum.
Verdict: Vichy Mineral 89 is a beautifully simple, dermatologist-backed hydrating serum that delivers on its promises. The 89% volcanic mineral water combined with hyaluronic acid provides instant, visible hydration while strengthening your skin barrier over time. Its minimal 11-ingredient formula makes it one of the safest options for sensitive, acne-prone, and reactive skin types. While the price may seem high for such a simple formula, the quality, safety testing (3,200+ patients), and elegant user experience justify the investment. It excels as a hydration booster and "step 0" product but isn't a miracle anti-aging serum - pair with other actives for those concerns. Overall, a solid staple that belongs in most skincare routines.
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG/PPG/Polybutylene Glycol-8/5/3 Glycerin
Humectant
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Methyl Gluceth-20
Humectant, Moisturising
|
|