Pure Hyaluronic Acid 1% Powder Solution Serum
Pure Hyaluronic Acid 1% Powder Solution Serum
Product Description
Product overview
Cos De BAHA Pure Hyaluronic Acid 1% Powder Solution Serum is a stripped-back, 3-ingredient Korean hydrating treatment featuring 10,000 ppm (1%) high molecular weight Sodium Hyaluronate aged at low temperature for 24 hours. Formulated at a skin-friendly pH of 6.5 with 1,500 kDa hyaluronic acid, this fragrance-free, oil-free serum delivers intense hydration, plumping and line-smoothing effects without stickiness — ideal for dry, dehydrated and sensitive skin.
Intense Hydration
10,000 ppm (1%) Sodium Hyaluronate delivers deep, lasting moisture that holds up to 1,000x its weight in water.
Texture & feel
SENSORYIntense Hydration
10,000 ppm (1%) Sodium Hyaluronate delivers deep, lasting moisture that holds up to 1,000x its weight in water.
Visibly Plumped Skin
Smooths fine lines and restores bounce by binding water to the skin's surface, giving an instant plumped look.
Minimalist 3-Ingredient Formula
Only Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, and 1,2-Hexanediol — no fillers, no fragrance, no irritants for sensitive skin.
Cold-Aged 24 Hours
The HA powder is dissolved and aged at low temperature for 24 hours to ensure maximum potency and stability.
Lightweight & Layerable
Watery gel texture absorbs in seconds — perfect for layering under any moisturizer, sunscreen, or makeup.
Eye-Area Friendly
Gentle enough to use around the eyes to address dryness and fine lines without irritation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Hyaluronic acid is considered safe during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains zero fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that could feed Malassezia yeast. Confirmed FA-safe.
None of the 3 ingredients are pore-clogging. Suitable for acne-prone and oily skin types.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, AHAs, BHAs, and peptides. Helps buffer irritation from strong actives.
No fragrance, essential oils, parabens, sulfates, silicones, harsh alcohols, or dyes — ideal for reactive skin.
HA pulls moisture from the surrounding air. In low-humidity environments, apply to damp skin and seal with moisturizer to avoid drawing water from deeper skin layers.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~98%Proven
Purified, deionized water acts as the primary solvent and hydration carrier in this minimalist formula. It dissolves the hyaluronic acid powder and delivers it evenly to the skin surface.
- Function: Solvent and carrier base — dissolves active ingredients without altering their structure.
- Quality: Cosmetic-grade purified water with mineral ions removed for product stability.
Sodium Hyaluronate 1% (10,000 ppm)Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid — more stable, easier to formulate, and equally effective. At 1% concentration with a high molecular weight of 1,500 kDa, it sits on the skin surface to attract and bind water, plumping the outer layers and smoothing the look of fine lines.
- Source: Naturally occurring in the body — most abundant in eye fluid, joints, and connective tissue.
- Mechanism: Acts as a humectant, binding up to 1,000 times its weight in water at the skin surface.
- Molecular weight: 1,500 kDa (high molecular weight) creates a moisture-locking film and surface plumping effect.
- Concentration: 1% is on the higher end — most serums use 0.1–0.5% HA.
1,2-Hexanediol ~1%Proven
A multifunctional helper ingredient that acts as a gentle preservative booster, mild humectant, and texture enhancer. It keeps the formula stable and microbe-free without using parabens or harsh preservatives.
- Function: Antimicrobial preservative substitute, secondary humectant, solubilizer.
- Safety: Considered low-irritation and safe for sensitive skin at typical use levels.
- Bonus: Adds a soft, smooth feel and helps the formula glide on evenly.
3 ingredients
Purified Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, 1,2-Hexanediol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply on damp skin right after toner — before heavier serums or creams. Use both AM and PM. Always seal with a moisturizer to lock in hydration.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Wash with a gentle cleanser, then apply toner. Leave skin slightly damp — this boosts HA absorption.
Dispense 3-4 Drops
Pour a small amount into your palm or directly onto fingertips. A little goes a long way.
Press Into Skin
Gently press and pat across face, neck, and around the eyes. Avoid rubbing to maximize absorption.
Lock With Moisturizer
Within 60 seconds, apply your moisturizer on top to seal hydration in. In the morning, finish with SPF.
Use Twice Daily
Apply morning and night for best results. Can also be used as a microneedling glide serum.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or tight-feeling skin
- You're sensitive to fragrance or have reactive skin
- You want a minimalist, "skin-only-needs-the-essentials" formula
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe hydrator
- You struggle with fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe serum
- You layer multiple actives (retinol, AHA, vitamin C) and need a buffer
- You want salon-quality hydration on a budget
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer multi-molecular HA (low + medium + high weights)
- You want added actives like B5, niacinamide, or peptides in one bottle
- You live in an extremely dry, low-humidity climate without a sealing moisturizer
- You dislike watery, runny textures and prefer thick gels
- You want a richer, more occlusive feel for very dry winter skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWatery, oil-free formula absorbs instantly without adding shine or weight. Won't clog pores.
Excellent first-step hydration, but always seal with a richer moisturizer to lock water in.
Hydrates dry zones without overloading the T-zone — universally balanced.
Only 3 ingredients, no fragrance, no essential oils, no alcohol. Patch test still recommended.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal-acne safe, oil-free. Pairs perfectly with BHA and benzoyl peroxide routines.
Plumps fine lines and softens texture, but pair with peptides or retinol for visible anti-aging benefits.
Results timeline
6-8 WEEKSPlumper, Softer Skin
The skin instantly feels softer and looks more dewy. Tightness from dehydration is relieved within seconds.
92% noticedSmoother Texture & Less Flakiness
Surface dryness fades, makeup applies more evenly, and the skin appears more balanced and supple.
81% noticedVisibly Reduced Fine Lines
Hydration-related fine lines around eyes and forehead appear softened. Skin looks more bouncy and resilient.
73% noticedStronger, Healthier Skin Barrier
Sustained hydration reduces sensitivity, redness, and reactivity. Skin tolerates actives better.
68% noticedRatings by platform
22K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally high 1% (10,000 ppm) HA concentration
- Only 3 ingredients — perfect for sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free with no irritating additives
- Excellent value — affordable per ml in larger sizes
- Available in 30, 60, 120, and 240 ml options
- Plumps and softens skin almost instantly
- Compatible with all actives (retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA)
- Pregnancy- and fungal-acne safe
- Doubles as a microneedling glide serum
Criticized
- Only high molecular weight HA — no deep penetration
- No added actives like B5, niacinamide, or peptides
- Watery texture can feel less luxurious than gel serums
- Plastic bottle, no dropper on most sizes
- May feel insufficient alone in very dry climates
- A small minority report stinging at first application
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher 2% HA concentration with 3 molecular weights plus panthenol (B5). More complex formula but slightly tackier finish. Excellent value at 30ml.
2% multi-weight HA with matrixyl peptide. Slightly thinner and less plumping than Cos De BAHA, but adds a peptide bonus.
Japanese cult favorite with 5 types of HA at different molecular weights. Richer essence-like texture, but contains more ingredients including parabens.
Higher total HA (5%) using 4 molecular weights for surface and deeper hydration. More complex INCI list, slightly more expensive per ml.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDECos De BAHA Pure HA 1% (Featured)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is optional but extends freshness.
Reinforced cosmetic-grade plastic bottle (non-glass) — paper outer box included
30 ml & 60 ml sizes are TSA-friendly (under 100ml carry-on limit)
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — this serum is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body and is widely accepted as a safe hydrator throughout pregnancy. As always, consult your OB/GYN if you have specific concerns.
Yes — this serum is fully fungal acne safe. It contains zero fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that could feed Malassezia yeast. The 3-ingredient formula (Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, 1,2-Hexanediol) is one of the cleanest options on the market for fungal-acne-prone skin.
Absolutely. Hyaluronic acid is one of the most universally compatible ingredients in skincare. It layers seamlessly with retinol, vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), niacinamide, AHAs, BHAs, and peptides. In fact, it actively buffers the irritation that strong actives can cause. Apply HA on damp skin first, then your active, then moisturizer.
This serum is suitable for all skin types — dry, oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone. It is especially well-suited for sensitive and reactive skin thanks to its 3-ingredient minimalist formulation, and excellent for dehydrated skin that craves a high-concentration HA boost without added actives. It is non-comedogenic (rated 0/5).
Hydration and plumping effects are usually visible immediately after the first application. Most users notice smoother texture and reduced tightness within 3–7 days. Visible improvements in fine lines and overall skin bounce typically appear after 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, with deeper barrier benefits at 6–8 weeks.
Apply after cleansing and toner, but before any heavier serums or moisturizers — typically as the third or fourth step. Always apply to slightly damp skin and seal it within 60 seconds with your moisturizer to lock the hydration in. Use both morning and night for best results.
No — this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. None of the three ingredients (Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, 1,2-Hexanediol) are pore-clogging, and the formula is completely oil-free, silicone-free, and ester-free. It is safe for acne-prone, congestion-prone, and oily skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store the bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is optional but can extend freshness and provide a soothing chilled feel. Always close the bottle tightly after use to prevent contamination.
Verdict: TheCos De BAHA Pure Hyaluronic Acid 1% Powder Solution Serum is one of the cleanest, most concentrated, and most affordable hyaluronic acid treatments available. Its 3-ingredient formula (Water, Sodium Hyaluronate 10,000 ppm, 1,2-Hexanediol) makes it a standout choice for sensitive skin, fungal-acne-prone skin, and pregnancy-safe routines. While the high molecular weight HA delivers exceptional surface plumping, those wanting deeper-layer hydration may prefer multi-molecular alternatives. For minimalists, layering enthusiasts, and anyone seeking maximum hydration with minimum risk of irritation — this is a near-perfect K-beauty staple.
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
Promotes Wound Healing 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 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|