Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A silky, watergel serum supercharged with 5 molecular weights of next-generation hyaluronic acid and three antioxidant-rich plums — Kakadu, Illawarra and Burdekin — to flood every layer of skin with intense, bouncy hydration. Vegan collagen and silk proteins support the skin barrier while Vitamin B5 soothes and rejuvenates for an immediately plump, dewy glow.
5 Molecular Weights of Hyaluronic Acid
Ultra-low to ultra-high molecular weight HA targets every skin layer simultaneously — from the surface to the deeper dermis — for comprehensive, lasting plumpness.
Texture & feel
SENSORY5 Molecular Weights of Hyaluronic Acid
Ultra-low to ultra-high molecular weight HA targets every skin layer simultaneously — from the surface to the deeper dermis — for comprehensive, lasting plumpness.
Triple Plum Antioxidant Complex
Kakadu Plum (highest natural Vitamin C), Illawarra Plum (7× more anthocyanins than blueberries), and Burdekin Plum deliver powerful free-radical defense and a radiant, lit-from-within glow.
Vegan Silk Protein (sr-Spider Polypeptide-1)
Plant-derived spider silk protein forms a protective, moisture-locking film on skin — supporting barrier function and skin elasticity without any animal-derived ingredients.
Tremella Mushroom HA
Snow Fungus polysaccharide acts like nature's hyaluronic acid — forming a moisture-binding film on the skin surface to significantly reduce transepidermal water loss.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
A proven skin-soother and hydration booster that helps repair the skin barrier, calm redness, and enhance the absorption of other moisturising actives.
Acacia Seyal Gum Extract
A natural bio-polymer that forms a breathable hydrating film on skin while delivering immediate tightening and smoothing effects for a visibly plumper complexion.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. All key actives — hyaluronic acid, Vitamin B5, plum extracts — are considered safe during pregnancy. Consult your OB/GYN if in doubt.
Contains Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Phospholipids, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, and Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate — ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast. Those with pityrosporum folliculitis should avoid or patch test.
The formula is oil-free and water-based with no known pore-clogging oils or waxes. Glycerin, propanediol, and hyaluronic acid are all rated 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Contains Parfum listed as natural fragrance — no synthetic fragrance chemicals. Generally tolerated well, but those with extreme fragrance sensitivity may wish to patch test first.
Free from ethanol, denatured alcohol, and isopropyl alcohol. Contains 1,2-Hexanediol and Caprylyl Glycol which are glycols, not drying alcohols — these act as preservative boosters.
No pH-sensitive actives that would conflict with exfoliants or retinol. Can be layered under or between exfoliating serums. Apply thinnest to thickest consistency for optimal absorption.
All ingredients are plant-derived or synthetically produced. The sr-Spider Polypeptide-1 is a vegan silk protein — no spiders harmed. Certified cruelty-free with no animal testing.
The formula is very gentle with no exfoliating acids or high-irritant actives. However, it does contain natural fragrance (Parfum) and preservatives (Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin). Patch test recommended for reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate & Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate Multi-WeightProven
The hero complex of this serum: four types of hyaluronic acid across five molecular weights (ultra-low, low, medium, high, ultra-high). Lower molecular weights penetrate deeper into the dermis for long-term hydration; higher weights sit on the surface to reduce moisture evaporation and plump skin instantly. Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate (FlashFill HA) is a next-gen acetylated form with improved bioavailability and longer skin residence time compared to standard HA.
- Mechanism: HA binds up to 1,000× its own weight in water, acting as a molecular sponge within the skin matrix.
- Multi-weight benefit: Different molecular sizes hydrate different skin layers simultaneously for a 3D plumping effect.
- Acetylated form: Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate shows enhanced skin affinity and longer-lasting moisturisation versus standard sodium hyaluronate.
Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide Snow Mushroom HAProven
Extracted from the Silver Ear mushroom, this large sugar molecule rivals hyaluronic acid in its water-binding capacity. Its smaller particle size compared to standard high-MW HA allows it to penetrate more effectively. Tremella polysaccharides form a highly effective moisture-retention film on the skin surface, significantly reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and maintaining surface hydration.
- Molecular composition: Rich in glucuronic acid — a building block shared with hyaluronic acid — giving it comparable hydrating properties.
- Film-forming: Creates a breathable hydration barrier on the skin surface that locks in moisture throughout the day.
- Antioxidant: Contains polyphenols that help defend skin against oxidative damage from UV and pollution.
Triple Plum Complex (Kakadu, Illawarra & Burdekin) Antioxidant TrioProven
Three Australian native plum extracts working synergistically. Kakadu Plum (Terminalia Ferdinandiana) holds the world record for natural Vitamin C content — up to 100 times that of oranges — delivering potent brightening and collagen-supporting antioxidant activity. Illawarra Plum (Podocarpus Elatus) is packed with anthocyanins (7× more than blueberries) to fight free radicals. Burdekin Plum (Pleiogynium Timoriense) contributes minerals and combined anthocyanins plus natural Vitamin C for comprehensive skin defence.
- Kakadu Plum: Among the richest natural sources of Vitamin C known to science — up to 7,000 mg/100g fresh weight.
- Anthocyanins (Illawarra): Water-soluble pigments with strong antioxidant activity — documented to reduce UV-induced oxidative damage.
- Vitamin C activity: Supports collagen synthesis and inhibits melanin production for a brighter, more even complexion over time.
sr-Spider Polypeptide-1 (Vegan Silk Protein) Barrier SupportPromising
A bioengineered, 100% vegan spider silk protein that mimics the remarkable properties of natural spider silk — extreme tensile strength, elasticity, and moisture regulation — without harming any animals. It forms a protective, flexible film on the skin surface that helps retain moisture and guards against environmental aggressors.
- Film-forming: Creates an elastic, breathable barrier on skin that locks in moisture and provides a subtle smoothing, plumping effect.
- Barrier function: Supports the skin's natural lipid barrier by reinforcing the protective film between skin and environment.
- Vegan credential: Produced via biotechnology — identical in structure to spider silk protein with zero animal involvement.
Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) ~0.5%Proven
A water-soluble vitamin that functions as a powerful humectant and skin-repairing agent. Pantothenic acid (provitamin B5) is converted to panthenol in formulations, deeply hydrating skin while accelerating wound healing, reducing inflammation, and supporting barrier repair. It enhances the skin's natural moisture retention and soothes sensitised or compromised skin.
- Hydration: Increases skin hydration by up to 45% versus untreated skin in clinical studies on panthenol derivatives.
- Barrier repair: Stimulates proliferation of skin cells (fibroblasts and keratinocytes) to accelerate barrier regeneration.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and irritation, making it suitable for sensitised or post-procedure skin.
Acacia Seyal Gum Extract Film-FormerPromising
A natural biopolymer derived from the African Acacia tree. It forms a flexible, breathable hydrating film on the skin surface that delivers an immediate tightening and smoothing effect while boosting long-term moisture retention. Works synergistically with hyaluronic acid to extend hydration benefits.
- Immediate effect: Provides a visible tightening and pore-minimising effect within minutes of application.
- Synergy: Enhances the moisture-retention performance of hyaluronic acid when co-formulated.
35 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract, Podocarpus Elatus Fruit Extract, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide, Acacia Seyal Gum Extract, sr-Spider Polypeptide-1**, Pantothenic Acid, Phospholipids, Sodium Hydroxide, Spirulina Platensis Extract, Raphanus Sativus Root Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Potassium Sorbate, Propylene Glycol, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxyacetophenone, Carrageenan, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Glycolate, Sodium Formate, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance/Parfum* — *Natural Fragrance, **Vegan Silk Protein
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to slightly damp skin for maximum HA performance. Always follow with a moisturiser — especially in dry or air-conditioned environments — to seal in hydration and prevent evaporation.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. After applying toner or essence, leave skin slightly damp — this is key for hyaluronic acid to work at its best, as it draws in the ambient moisture.
Dispense 1–2 Pumps
Pump 1–2 times onto fingertips or directly onto the face. A little goes a long way — start with 1 pump and add a second if needed for neck coverage.
Pat Gently into Skin
Using fingertips, gently pat — do not rub — the serum across the face and neck until fully absorbed. Patting improves absorption and minimises potential for pilling under moisturiser.
Follow with Moisturiser
Immediately layer a moisturiser on top to occlude the hyaluronic acid and lock hydration into the skin. Skipping this step in dry environments can cause HA to draw moisture out of deeper skin layers.
AM: Finish with SPF
In the morning, complete your routine with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. This protects the Vitamin C from plum extracts from photodegradation and preserves your hydration investment.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or dull skin that lacks bounce
- You want a lightweight, fast-absorbing serum that won't feel heavy
- You're building an anti-ageing routine and want to reduce fine lines caused by dehydration
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a pregnancy-safe hydrating serum
- You layer multiple serums and need a hydrating base step
- You love K-beauty-inspired, fruit-powered, clean formulations
- Your skin is acne-prone or combination and you want oil-free hydration
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed Malassezia folliculitis (fungal acne) — contains ferments and esters
- You are extremely sensitive to any fragrance, even natural
- You need active treatment (e.g. brightening, acne-fighting) and want a single-step serum
- You are on a very tight budget and prefer a no-frills HA serum
- You live in a very dry climate and need a rich, occlusive moisturiser rather than a serum
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe multi-weight HA complex delivers deep and surface hydration simultaneously, making it particularly effective for dry or chronically dehydrated skin. Layer with a rich moisturiser for best results.
Completely oil-free and silicone-free formula absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Hydrating oily skin can actually help regulate sebum overproduction over time.
Lightweight enough for oily T-zones while delivering the hydration that dry cheeks and patches need. Balances the different zones of the face beautifully.
Very gentle formula with no harsh actives. Contains natural fragrance (Parfum) which may occasionally trigger sensitivity in the most reactive skin types — patch test recommended.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and silicone-free. Works well for regular acne-prone skin. Note: not suitable for Malassezia (fungal acne) due to ferments and fatty acid esters in the formula.
Multi-depth hydration visibly plumps dehydration lines and fine wrinkles. The antioxidant plum complex provides additional anti-ageing benefits by protecting collagen from free radical damage.
Results timeline
6–8 WEEKSInstant Plumping & Dewy Glow
Within minutes of application, skin feels instantly bouncy, supple, and more hydrated. The combination of surface-acting high-MW HA and Acacia Seyal Gum provides a visible tightening and smoothing effect that shows up immediately.
92% noticed skin felt supple & plump after 1 day*Consistent Hydration & Reduced Tightness
Skin maintains hydration throughout the day more effectively. Dehydration fine lines become visibly softer. The skin barrier begins to strengthen through regular delivery of Vitamin B5 and phospholipid support.
~85% report noticeably softer, more comfortable skinVisibly Plumper Skin & Improved Texture
Sustained use of multi-weight HA progressively improves the skin's natural hyaluronic acid matrix. Skin appears fuller, fine lines caused by dehydration are significantly reduced, and overall texture looks smoother and more refined.
~78% see visible improvement in fine linesLong-Term Glow & Barrier Strength
The cumulative antioxidant activity of the triple plum complex becomes more evident — skin looks brighter, more even in tone, and more resilient. Barrier function is measurably improved, with reduced sensitivity and TEWL.
~70% report brighter, more radiant skin tone*Based on a consumer use study of 36 participants conducted by Glow Recipe after 1 day of use.
Ratings by platform
7K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instant plumping and hydration noticeable from first use
- 5 molecular weights of HA — arguably the most comprehensive HA coverage available
- Silky, watergel texture that absorbs beautifully without greasiness
- Layers perfectly under other serums and moisturisers — no pilling when applied correctly
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe — a rare high-performance serum with no off-limits actives
- Vegan and cruelty-free with clean, thoughtfully chosen ingredients
- Triple plum antioxidant complex adds brightening and anti-ageing benefits beyond basic HA
- Gorgeous, award-winning packaging — plum-shaped glass bottle with pump
- Dewy finish that photographs beautifully and gives a natural, lit-from-within glow
Criticized
- Price — $42 for 30ml is expensive compared to simpler HA serums
- Not fungal acne safe — contains ferment filtrate and fatty acid esters
- Contains natural fragrance (Parfum) — a potential irritant for very sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin
- Hydration may not last all day in very dry environments without a good occlusive moisturiser on top
- Some users report slight tackiness if more than 2 pumps are applied
- 30ml bottle can run out quickly if 2 pumps twice daily are used
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESDelivers multi-weight HA (low and high molecular weights) plus Vitamin B5 at a fraction of the price. Lacks the triple plum antioxidant complex, vegan silk protein, and Tremella HA. Texture is more watery; no natural fragrance. Excellent value if you want core HA hydration without extras.
A classic drugstore HA serum with a gel-water texture and broad availability. Single-weight HA without the multi-depth layering approach. Fragrance-free, making it better for sensitive skin. No antioxidant botanical complex. More accessible but less innovative in formulation.
Contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and a blend of skin-loving botanical extracts. Very affordable entry point to HA serum territory. Lacks the 5-weight HA system and plum antioxidant complex but still delivers solid hydration for the price. Fragrance-free formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDESkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the PAO symbol (open jar icon) on the packaging for confirmation. Discard if the texture, colour or smell changes before then.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Room temperature (15–25°C / 59–77°F) is ideal. Refrigerating is optional but can enhance the soothing, plumping sensation on application.
Housed in a charming plum-shaped glass bottle with an airless pump dispenser. The pump protects the formula from oxidation and contamination, extending the product's shelf life and potency.
Yes — the 30ml / 1 fl oz size is within TSA carry-on liquid limits (under 100ml). The pump dispenser prevents spillage. Perfect for travel skincare routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Serum is considered pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical UV filters — the ingredients most commonly flagged during pregnancy. The hero actives (hyaluronic acid, Vitamin B5, plum extracts, vegan silk protein) are all generally regarded as safe during pregnancy. It does contain natural fragrance (Parfum); while typically well-tolerated, if you have heightened fragrance sensitivity during pregnancy, patch test or consult your OB/GYN for personalised advice.
No — this serum is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Phospholipids, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, and Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate. Ferments and fatty acid esters are known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast, which causes pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne). If you have confirmed Malassezia folliculitis, you should avoid this product or consult a dermatologist. For fungal acne-safe HA alternatives, consider The Ordinary HA 2% + B5 or The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
Yes — this serum layers well with most active ingredients. It contains no pH-sensitive actives that would interfere with exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs) or vitamin C serums. Apply this serum first (thinnest to thickest rule), then layer retinol, vitamin C, or exfoliating serums on top, followed by moisturiser. Many users incorporate it as a hydrating base step to buffer the potential irritation of stronger actives like retinol, making it an excellent companion in an anti-ageing routine. Avoid mixing directly with very high-concentration acids in the same step.
This serum works well for all skin types except those with confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). It is particularly beneficial for dry and dehydrated skin, where the 5-weight HA complex delivers the most noticeable plumping and hydration results. Oily and combination skin types benefit from its oil-free, fast-absorbing formula that hydrates without adding grease. Sensitive skin types generally tolerate it well, though the presence of natural fragrance warrants a patch test. Mature skin sees excellent results in terms of reduced dehydration fine lines and improved elasticity.
Results are noticeable immediately — skin feels plumper, bouncier, and more hydrated after the very first application. According to a consumer use study by Glow Recipe, 92% of participants agreed their skin felt supple and plump after just 1 day of use. Over 1–2 weeks of consistent use, hydration becomes sustained throughout the day. Fine lines caused by dehydration visibly soften within 2–4 weeks. The full antioxidant benefits of the triple plum complex — brightening, tone evening — become more apparent with 6–8 weeks of regular use.
Apply this serum as Step 3 in your routine — after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturiser. The key tip from Glow Recipe is to apply it to slightly damp skin, as this maximises hyaluronic acid's ability to draw in and lock moisture. Always follow with a moisturiser to seal in hydration — especially important in dry or air-conditioned environments to prevent the HA from drawing moisture out of deeper skin layers. In the morning, finish with broad-spectrum SPF.
No — this serum has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, which is considered very low-risk for pore clogging. The formula is oil-free and silicone-free, with a water-based, gel texture. The key hydrating ingredients — hyaluronic acid, glycerin, propanediol — all have comedogenic ratings of 0–1. There are no heavy oils, waxes, or high-comedogenic emollients. It is suitable for acne-prone skin. Note: comedogenic ratings are guidelines, not guarantees — individual skin reactions can vary.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — you have one year from the date you first open the bottle to use it. This is printed as the open jar symbol on the packaging. At 1–2 pumps twice daily, a 30ml bottle typically lasts approximately 4–6 weeks with regular use. The pump dispenser helps preserve the formula by limiting air and contaminant exposure. Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Discard if the texture becomes lumpy, colour changes significantly, or the smell alters.
Verdict: The Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Serum earns its cult status with a genuinely innovative formulation.Five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid in a single serum is a real differentiator — not marketing fluff — delivering layered, multi-depth hydration that visibly plumps skin from the first use. The triple Australian plum antioxidant complex elevates it well beyond a basic HA serum, adding meaningful brightening and skin-protective benefits. It's pregnancy-safe, silicone-free, oil-free, and layers beautifully under any moisturiser. The main drawbacks are the price ($42 for 30ml), the presence of natural fragrance that may not suit extreme sensitivities, and the fact it's not fungal-acne safe. For anyone seeking a premium, high-performance hydrating serum that truly delivers visible plumpness and a dewy, healthy glow, this is one of the best options on the market.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
|







