Mineral 89 Fortifying and Plumping Daily Booster
Mineral 89 Fortifying and Plumping Daily Booster
Product Description
Product overview
A minimalist, fast-absorbing daily booster serum made with 89% Vichy Volcanic Water and pure hyaluronic acid. Designed to strengthen and repair your skin's moisture barrier, hydrate, and plump skin with just 11 carefully selected ingredients. Dermatologist-tested and accepted by the National Eczema Association.
89% Vichy Volcanic Water
Mineral-rich thermal water sourced from the Auvergne region of France, containing 15 minerals and trace elements to strengthen and protect the skin barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORY89% Vichy Volcanic Water
Mineral-rich thermal water sourced from the Auvergne region of France, containing 15 minerals and trace elements to strengthen and protect the skin barrier.
Pure Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium hyaluronate attracts and holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, providing deep hydration and a visible plumping effect.
Barrier Strengthening
Clinically proven to increase hydration by 42% and strengthen the skin's moisture barrier, making skin more resistant to environmental aggressors.
Minimalist Formula
Only 11 ingredients for maximum efficacy with minimal irritation risk. No fragrance, no parabens, no silicones, no oils. Ideal for sensitive and reactive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All 11 ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor.
Free of ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed malassezia yeast. Confirmed fungal acne safe by multiple ingredient databases.
Oil-free, silicone-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 0. Will not clog pores. Dermatologist-tested and allergy-tested on all skin types.
Accepted by the National Eczema Association. Tested under dermatological and ophthalmological control. Safe for use around the eye area.
Layers well with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Can be used as a hydrating buffer to reduce irritation from strong actives.
Does not contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other reef-harmful ingredients. Environmentally conscious formula.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSVichy Volcanic Water 89%Proven
Mineral-rich thermal water sourced from volcanic springs in Auvergne, France. Contains 15 minerals including calcium, manganese, potassium, magnesium, and zinc at a concentration of 5.2g/L.
- Published study: Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found Vichy Volcanic Water has the most extensive mineral content compared to other brands' thermal waters.
- Clinical evidence: Proven to strengthen the skin barrier, support antioxidant defenses, and reduce sensitivity.
- Key minerals: Zinc and manganese help reduce redness and calm irritation.
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the skin. A powerful humectant that binds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, providing deep hydration and plumping effects.
- Mechanism: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, plumping fine dehydration lines.
- Bioavailability: Sodium hyaluronate has a smaller molecular size than hyaluronic acid, allowing for better skin penetration.
- Safety profile: Naturally found in the human body (skin, joints, eyes). Comedogenic rating: 0. Irritancy: 0.
Glycerin ~5-8%Proven
A well-studied, skin-identical humectant that attracts water to the skin. A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than both AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Efficacy: Effective at concentrations as low as 3%, with increased benefits at higher concentrations up to 20-40% for very dry skin.
- Barrier support: Helps maintain skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state, protecting against irritation.
- Safety: Comedogenic rating: 0. Irritancy: 0. Skin-identical ingredient found naturally in the skin.
Biosaccharide Gum-1Promising
A sugar-based ingredient derived from sorbitol via bacterial fermentation. Provides multi-level benefits including soothing, moisturizing, restructuring, and improving skin texture.
- Soothing: In vivo testing showed 3% Biosaccharide Gum-1 decreased the tingling sensation caused by 10% lactic acid.
- Moisturizing: Creates a moisture-locking film on the skin surface without a heavy or sticky feel.
- Anti-irritation: Helps protect skin from environmental stressors and reduces the appearance of redness.
11 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, 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 to clean, slightly damp skin after cleansing and toning. Use morning and evening before your moisturizer and sunscreen. Can also be layered under retinol or vitamin C serums as a hydrating buffer.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean skin. Use your favorite gentle cleanser and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Leave Skin Slightly Damp
Pat skin gently but leave it slightly damp. Applying to damp skin helps hyaluronic acid lock in extra moisture and prevents pilling.
Dispense 2-3 Pumps
Press the pump 2-3 times into the palm of your hand. A little goes a long way — this amount covers the face, neck, and décolleté.
Gently Press Into Skin
Using your fingertips, gently press and pat the product into the skin. Avoid rubbing. Allow 30 seconds for full absorption before the next step.
Follow With Moisturizer & SPF
Layer your moisturizer on top to seal in hydration. In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin feels dehydrated, tight, or looks dull and fatigued
- You want a simple, minimalist hydrating step with few ingredients
- You have sensitive, reactive, or eczema-prone skin
- You use strong actives (retinol, AHAs) and need a hydrating buffer
- You want a lightweight layer that sits well under makeup
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe hydrator
- You deal with fungal acne and need a safe, oil-free option
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need a rich, occlusive moisturizer on its own
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol, peptides, or vitamin C in one product
- You want brightening or pigmentation-correcting ingredients
- You prefer a single all-in-one product rather than layering
- You want visible anti-wrinkle or collagen-stimulating results
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, lightweight gel absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Provides the water-based hydration oily skin needs to stay balanced.
Provides excellent hydration boost but will need a richer moisturizer on top. Best used as a hydrating layer rather than a standalone product for dry skin.
Balances hydration across oily and dry zones without feeling too heavy or too light. An ideal base layer for combination skin routines.
Fragrance-free, minimal formula with only 11 ingredients. Accepted by the National Eczema Association. Perfect for reactive and easily irritated skin.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fungal acne safe formula. Will not clog pores or contribute to breakouts. Great as a hydrating step alongside acne treatments.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Hydration & Plumping
Skin feels immediately hydrated, soothed, and refreshed. A slight plumping effect is visible, especially around fine dehydration lines and the eye area.
93% felt instant hydrationImproved Skin Texture
Skin starts to feel smoother and more supple. The moisture barrier begins to recover. Dry patches and flakiness noticeably decrease with consistent use.
85% noticed smoother skinVisible Plumpness & Radiance
Significant improvement in skin plumpness, radiance, and overall skin health. Fine lines from dehydration appear softer. Skin looks more luminous and bouncy.
81% improved evennessStrengthened Moisture Barrier
Long-term barrier strengthening becomes apparent. Skin is more resilient against environmental stressors, less reactive, and maintains hydration more effectively throughout the day.
19% lasting plumpness increase (clinical)Ratings by platform
109K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-lightweight gel texture absorbs in seconds with no sticky residue
- Only 11 ingredients — perfect for sensitive and reactive skin
- Layers beautifully under makeup, serums, moisturizers, and SPF without pilling
- Fragrance-free and accepted by the National Eczema Association
- Clinically tested by 325+ dermatologists on 3,900+ people worldwide
- Fungal acne safe, pregnancy safe, and non-comedogenic
- Visible hydration and plumping effect from the very first application
- Available at drugstores (Target, Walmart, Ulta) — accessible pricing
Criticized
- Not moisturizing enough to use alone — needs a moisturizer on top for dry skin
- Price (~$30/50ml) considered high for a formula with two key actives
- 50ml bottle runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- No anti-aging actives (no retinol, peptides, vitamin C, or niacinamide)
- Volcanic water claims are backed primarily by L'Oreal-funded studies
- Some users report slight tackiness in the first few minutes after application
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEVichy Mineral 89 Booster
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Glass pump bottle with hygienic dispensing system. Minimizes air exposure and contamination.
Yes — 50ml is under the 100ml TSA/airport liquid limit. Sturdy glass bottle holds up well in travel bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Vichy Mineral 89 contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The formula has only 11 ingredients, all of which are considered safe for use during pregnancy. Multiple dermatology resources confirm its safety. However, always consult your doctor or midwife before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
Yes. Vichy Mineral 89 is confirmed fungal acne safe by multiple ingredient analysis databases including SkinSort and Folliculitis Scout. It contains zero fungal acne triggers — no ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed malassezia yeast. Its minimalist, oil-free formula makes it one of the safest hydrating options for those managing fungal acne.
Yes. Mineral 89 is designed to layer with all common actives. It works as an excellent hydrating buffer when used alongside retinol or strong exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs), helping to reduce dryness and irritation from these treatments. In the morning, apply vitamin C serum first, then layer Mineral 89 on top for added hydration. At night, apply Mineral 89 before or after your retinol to help soothe and cushion the skin.
Mineral 89 works for all skin types, but it is especially excellent for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin thanks to its oil-free, lightweight, non-comedogenic formula. Dry skin types will also benefit from it as a hydration booster, but will likely need a richer moisturizer on top. It is particularly recommended for dehydrated skin of any type, post-procedure recovery, and as a buffer for strong actives.
You will feel instant hydration and see a subtle plumping effect from the very first application. Noticeable improvements in skin texture and smoothness typically appear within 1-2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Significant improvements in radiance, plumpness, and barrier strength are reported within 4-6 weeks. Clinical studies show measurable improvements in hydration (+42%) and barrier strength after consistent use.
Apply Mineral 89 after cleansing (and toning, if you use one) but before serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Apply it to clean, slightly damp skin for best absorption. Use 2-3 pumps for the face, neck, and décolleté, morning and evening. It goes in the "booster/essence" step of your routine and can also be used as a hydrating base before applying other actives like vitamin C or retinol.
No. Vichy Mineral 89 has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5 — the lowest possible score. It is non-comedogenic, oil-free, and silicone-free. It has been dermatologist-tested and allergy-tested on all skin types including acne-prone skin. The formula will not clog pores or contribute to breakouts. It is also safe for use on fungal acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, you should use the product within 12 months for optimal effectiveness and safety. The glass pump bottle helps protect the formula from air and light exposure. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. With twice-daily use (2-3 pumps per application), a 50ml bottle typically lasts around 2-3 months.
Verdict: Vichy Mineral 89 is a reliable, no-frills hydration workhorse that excels at what it promises — strengthening the skin barrier and delivering lightweight, comfortable hydration. Its minimalist 11-ingredient formula makes it one of the safest choices for sensitive, acne-prone, and reactive skin, and its pregnancy-safe, fungal acne-safe profile gives it an edge over more complex competitors. It is not a miracle anti-aging serum, and it will not replace your moisturizer if you have dry skin. But as a foundational hydrating step that makes everything else in your routine work better, it is hard to beat. Backed by 325+ dermatologists, accepted by the National Eczema Association, and loved by over 89,000 5-star reviewers worldwide — Mineral 89 earns its cult status.
Browse related
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
|
|