Mineral 89 Prebiotic Concentrate
Mineral 89 Prebiotic Concentrate
Product Description
Product overview
A concentrated prebiotic serum formulated with Vichy Volcanic Water, Vitreoscilla Ferment, and 4% Niacinamide to accelerate skin barrier repair, boost radiance, and defend against environmental stressors. Clinically proven to improve texture and reduce fine lines in just 4 weeks.
Vichy Volcanic Water
Rich in 15 essential minerals, clinically proven to strengthen skin barrier and protect against environmental aggressors.
Texture & feel
SENSORYVichy Volcanic Water
Rich in 15 essential minerals, clinically proven to strengthen skin barrier and protect against environmental aggressors.
Vitreoscilla Ferment
Prebiotic fraction grown in Vichy Volcanic Water that accelerates skin barrier recovery and supports healthy microbiome.
4% Niacinamide
Vitamin B3 that reduces moisture loss, brightens skin tone, and helps improve texture and fine lines.
Antioxidant Protection
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) provides antioxidant defense against free radical damage from pollution and UV exposure.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAll ingredients including niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and Vitreoscilla ferment are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains Vitreoscilla Ferment which may potentially feed fungal acne in some individuals. Patch test recommended if prone to FA.
Lightweight, non-occlusive formula. Oil-free and unlikely to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and dermatologist-tested. Contains soothing ingredients to calm reactive skin.
Can be used to soothe skin irritation from retinoids. Apply before retinol to buffer or after to calm.
Helps calm and promote repair for irritated skin after aesthetic procedures or harsh treatments.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) 4%Proven
A multi-functional powerhouse that strengthens skin barrier, reduces moisture loss, brightens skin tone, minimizes pores, and improves fine lines. One of the most well-researched skincare actives.
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger, healthier skin barrier
- Brightening: Effective at fading dark spots and evening skin tone at 4-5% concentration
- Anti-Aging: Clinically shown to reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity
Vitreoscilla FermentPromising
A prebiotic/probiotic fraction derived from non-pathogenic bacteria (Vitreoscilla filiformis) grown in Vichy Volcanic Water. Acts like a probiotic for skin, supporting microbiome balance and barrier function.
- Clinical Study: Shown to significantly reduce eczema symptoms in atopic dermatitis patients
- Barrier Recovery: Accelerates skin barrier repair and strengthens skin defenses
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms irritated skin
Vichy Volcanic WaterProven
Mineral-rich thermal water from the French Auvergne volcanoes, containing 15 essential minerals including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Used in dermatological spa treatments since the 17th century.
- 15 Minerals: Provides antioxidant protection and strengthens skin barrier
- Clinical Evidence: Proven to protect skin against exposome factors like pollution and UV
- Soothing: Known anti-pruritic (anti-itch) and anti-inflammatory properties
Sodium HyaluronateProven
Low molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into skin for intense, long-lasting hydration. Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water.
- Hydration: Attracts and retains moisture in the skin for a plump, dewy appearance
- Anti-Aging: Improves skin elasticity and reduces appearance of fine lines
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven
A powerful antioxidant that protects skin cells from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and pollution.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals and prevents oxidative stress
- Moisturizing: Supports skin barrier and locks in moisture
18 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Niacinamide, Propanediol, PEG-6, PEG/PPG/Polybutylene Glycol-8/5/3 Glycerin, Glycerin, Methyl Gluceth-20, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Carbomer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Citric Acid, Vitreoscilla Ferment, Caprylyl Glycol, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Maltodextrin, Butylene Glycol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the first serum step after cleansing on dry skin. Can be layered with other serums. Do not combine with the original Vichy Mineral 89 Booster in the same routine - alternate between products instead.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type.
Dispense 2-3 Drops
Use the dropper to apply 2-3 drops directly onto your fingertips or face.
Pat Gently Into Skin
Gently pat the serum into your face and neck with soft, pressured dabs. Allow skin to absorb fully.
Follow With Moisturizer
Layer additional serums if desired, then seal with moisturizer. In AM, always finish with SPF 30+.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin feels stressed, dull, or fatigued
- You want to strengthen a compromised skin barrier
- You experience redness or sensitivity
- You're looking for anti-aging benefits without irritation
- You use retinoids and need soothing support
- You want a fragrance-free, gentle formula
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe actives
- You want to prep skin before makeup for better glow
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer oil-based serums for very dry skin
- You want high-concentration actives (10%+ niacinamide)
- You're sensitive to PEG-based ingredients
- You prefer purely natural/organic formulas
- You need targeted treatment for severe acne or hyperpigmentation
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, fast-absorbing, oil-free formula. Won't add shine or feel greasy. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production.
Provides solid hydration with hyaluronic acid and glycerin, but very dry skin may need a richer moisturizer on top.
Balances well across oily T-zone and drier cheeks. Lightweight enough for oily areas, hydrating enough for dry patches.
Specifically designed for sensitized skin. Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, with soothing prebiotic and mineral-rich water.
Non-comedogenic with pore-minimizing niacinamide. Great for most acne-prone skin, but those with fungal acne should patch test first.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Immediate Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels instantly more hydrated and comfortable. Redness and irritation begin to calm. The serum absorbs quickly without stickiness.
Most users notice softer skinImproved Skin Texture
Skin starts to feel smoother and more balanced. Barrier function begins to strengthen. Less reactive to environmental triggers.
28% saw improved textureEnhanced Radiance & Reduced Fine Lines
Clinical results show visible improvements in radiance, elasticity, and reduction in fine lines. Skin looks healthier and more resilient.
45% saw enhanced radianceLong-Term Barrier Strength
Continued use maintains stronger skin barrier, improved tone, and ongoing protection against stress-induced aging. Best results with consistent daily use.
23% decrease in fine linesRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula
- Non-greasy, non-sticky finish
- Fragrance-free for sensitive skin
- Dermatologist and allergy tested
- Clinically proven results in 4 weeks
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Layers well under makeup and other products
- Helps calm retinol irritation
- Elegant French pharmacy formulation
- Good for post-procedure skin recovery
Criticized
- Small bottle size (30ml) for the price
- Natural ingredient scent may be off-putting to some
- Contains ferment that may trigger fungal acne
- Lower niacinamide concentration than some competitors
- Contains PEG ingredients some prefer to avoid
- Not as hydrating as the original Mineral 89 Booster for very dry skin
- Dropper packaging less hygienic than pump
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher niacinamide concentration (10% vs 4%) with added zinc for oil control. No prebiotic or volcanic water. More basic formula focused purely on niacinamide benefits. Best for oily, acne-prone skin.
Sister brand from L'Oréal group. Features hyaluronic acid + vitamin B5 (panthenol) instead of niacinamide + prebiotic. Great for hydration and soothing but different active approach.
Simpler hydration-focused formula with multiple molecular weights of HA. No niacinamide or prebiotic. More affordable option for basic barrier hydration without the complex skin defense benefits.
Drugstore alternative with hyaluronic acid and aloe vera. Missing niacinamide and prebiotic. More basic hydration without the clinical-strength barrier repair benefits.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Vichy Mineral 89 Booster (Original)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within one year of first use for optimal efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is ideal. No refrigeration required.
Glass dropper bottle with pipette dispenser. Blue-tinted glass helps protect formula from light degradation.
Yes, 30ml is under 100ml TSA limit. Glass bottle - pack carefully in checked luggage or use protective case.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, the Vichy Mineral 89 Prebiotic Concentrate is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The key active ingredient, niacinamide (Vitamin B3), is widely regarded as safe for topical use during pregnancy and is FDA approved. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens that are typically avoided during pregnancy. The Vitreoscilla ferment and hyaluronic acid are also considered safe. As always, consult with your healthcare provider before adding any new skincare products during pregnancy.
Use with caution if you have fungal acne. The formula contains Vitreoscilla Ferment, which is a fermented ingredient. While this specific ferment is derived from a non-yeast bacteria and is generally considered lower risk than yeast-based ferments (like Saccharomyces), some individuals with malassezia folliculitis may still experience sensitivity to any fermented ingredients. If you're prone to fungal acne, we recommend patch testing first or opting for a confirmed fungal acne-safe alternative.
Yes! This serum is excellent for pairing with active ingredients. Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated alongside retinol, vitamin C, and chemical exfoliants. In fact, many users apply this serum before or after retinol to help soothe potential irritation. For best results: apply this serum first, then layer retinol or other treatments on top. If using vitamin C, you can use them in the same routine or alternate (vitamin C in AM, this serum in PM). With AHA/BHA, use on alternate days if you experience any sensitivity, or apply this serum after exfoliating to calm the skin.
This serum is formulated for all skin types, but it's particularly excellent for sensitive, stressed, combination, and oily skin. The lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly without leaving residue, making it ideal for oily and combination skin. Sensitive skin benefits from the fragrance-free, allergy-tested formula with soothing prebiotic. Dry skin will find it hydrating, though very dry skin may need to layer a richer moisturizer on top. It's also great for mature skin looking for gentle anti-aging benefits.
Based on clinical studies: immediate hydration and comfort can be felt from the first use. By Week 2, many users notice improved skin texture and smoothness. At Week 4, clinical results show 45% enhanced radiance, 28% improved texture, and 23% reduction in fine lines. For optimal barrier repair and long-term benefits, continue consistent daily use for 8+ weeks. Individual results may vary based on skin condition and concerns.
Apply this serum as the first treatment step after cleansing (and toning if you use one). The order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → This Serum → Other Treatment Serums → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Apply 2-3 drops to dry skin and pat gently to absorb. Use both morning and evening for best results. Do not combine with the original Vichy Mineral 89 Booster in the same routine - alternate between them based on your skin's daily needs.
No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low) and is labeled as non-comedogenic by the brand. The lightweight, oil-free formula is specifically designed not to clog pores. The key ingredients like niacinamide, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid are all non-comedogenic. Niacinamide actually helps minimize the appearance of pores and regulate sebum. It's suitable for acne-prone skin, though those with fungal acne should patch test due to the fermented ingredient.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The glass dropper bottle helps protect the formula from light degradation. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. With twice-daily use of 2-3 drops, a 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months, well within the shelf life period.
Verdict: The Vichy Mineral 89 Prebiotic Concentrate is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a gentle, clinically-backed serum to strengthen their skin barrier and address stress-related skin concerns. The combination of 4% niacinamide, Vitreoscilla ferment prebiotic, and mineral-rich Vichy Volcanic Water delivers visible improvements in radiance, texture, and fine lines within 4 weeks. Its fragrance-free, pregnancy-safe formula makes it ideal for sensitive skin and those who prefer gentle actives. The main drawbacks are the relatively small bottle size for the price and potential concerns for fungal acne-prone individuals. Overall, it's a premium French pharmacy serum that lives up to its clinical claims and earns its spot as a skin barrier repair staple.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 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
|