Sébium Serum
Sébium Serum
Product Description
A dermatological anti-imperfection serum that targets adult acne while addressing early signs of aging. Powered by Salicylic Acid, Acetyl Glucosamine, and Hyaluronic Acid, this lightweight concentrate reduces pimples, minimizes pores, fades acne marks, and smooths fine lines with Bioderma's patented Fluidactiv technology.
✨ Texture & Feel
Anti-Imperfections
Salicylic acid exfoliates skin surface to quickly reduce pimples while Fluidactiv technology prevents sebum oxidation and new blemishes.
Anti-Marks
Acetyl Glucosamine biologically promotes cell renewal from within, helping fade existing acne marks and preventing new ones.
Smoothing Effect
Hyaluronic acid hydrates skin surface while Acetyl Glucosamine boosts internal HA synthesis to reduce fine lines long-lastingly.
Fluidactiv Technology
Bioderma's patented technology biologically normalizes sebum quality to prevent pore-clogging and formation of new imperfections.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Contains salicylic acid (~0.5-1.2%). While low-dose topical salicylic acid (under 2%) is generally considered safe by ACOG, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contains Polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Clinically tested to not clog pores. Low comedogenic rating (1/5) makes it suitable for acne-prone skin.
High tolerance formula tested under dermatological control. May cause initial mild tingling on active breakouts.
BHA can increase sun sensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ during the day when using this product.
Use caution when combining with other exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA), retinoids, or benzoyl peroxide. May increase irritation.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🧪 Salicylic Acid ~0.5-1.2% Proven
Oil-soluble BHA that penetrates pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and debris. Provides both exfoliation and anti-inflammatory benefits for clearer skin.
- Function: Keratolytic exfoliant that unclogs pores and treats acne
- Research: FDA-approved for OTC acne treatment at 0.5-2%
- Benefits: Reduces blackheads, whiteheads, inflammation, and prevents new breakouts
🍬 Acetyl Glucosamine ~1.7-2.5% Proven
Amino sugar naturally found in skin that serves as a precursor for hyaluronic acid biosynthesis. Promotes cell renewal and helps even skin tone.
- Function: Stimulates natural HA production and promotes skin renewal
- Research: Clinical studies show 2% can improve wrinkles and fade hyperpigmentation
- Synergy: Enhanced brightening effects when combined with niacinamide
💧 Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid ~0.1-0.35% Proven
Low molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into skin layers. Provides multi-level hydration and plumping effects.
- Function: Humectant that attracts and retains moisture in skin
- Research: Hydrolyzed form penetrates better than regular HA
- Benefits: 8-hour hydration claim supported by clinical testing
🧴 Glycerin ~2.9-4.3% Proven
Powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Studies show it's more effective than AHAs and hyaluronic acid for hydration.
- Function: Draws moisture to skin and strengthens barrier
- Research: 2016 study found superior hydration vs. other humectants
- Benefits: Antimicrobial properties, wound healing support
17 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Propanediol, Acetyl Glucosamine, Pentylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Citrate, Mannitol, Sodium Hydroxide, Propyl Gallate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Metabisulfite, Aminoethanesulfinic Acid, Fragrance (Parfum)
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after cleansing, before moisturizer. Can be used alone on oily skin or layered under hydrating products for dry skin. Always follow with sunscreen in the morning.
📝 How to Use
Cleanse First
Start with clean skin. Use Sébium Gel Moussant or H2O Micellar Water to remove makeup, oil, and impurities.
Apply a Few Drops
Dispense 2-3 drops onto fingertips. Gently massage onto face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
Let It Absorb
Wait 30 seconds for full absorption. The lightweight texture sinks in quickly without residue.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your daily moisturizer. In the AM, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You have adult acne with early signs of aging
- You struggle with enlarged pores and blackheads
- You want to fade post-acne marks
- You have oily or combination skin
- You prefer lightweight, non-greasy textures
- You want a multi-tasking serum (acne + anti-aging)
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're sensitive to fragrance
- You need higher strength BHA (2%+)
- You're already using multiple exfoliating acids
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. Lightweight formula controls sebum, minimizes shine, and prevents clogged pores without adding greasiness.
Balances oily T-zone while hydrating drier areas. Perfect for addressing mixed skin concerns.
Specifically formulated for adult acne. Non-comedogenic formula treats and prevents breakouts effectively.
High tolerance formula, but contains fragrance. Patch test recommended. May cause initial tingling.
Provides 8-hour hydration but may need heavier moisturizer on top. Salicylic acid can be drying.
Addresses fine lines with acetyl glucosamine and hyaluronic acid. Good for adult acne + anti-aging needs.
📈 Results Timeline
Initial Adjustment
Skin begins adjusting to salicylic acid. Some may experience mild purging or dryness. Immediate hydration and softer texture noticed.
70% noticed softer skinVisible Pore Reduction
Pores appear visibly smaller and cleaner. Active breakouts start clearing. Skin texture improves noticeably.
91% reduced pore appearanceAcne Lesion Reduction
Significant decrease in pimples and inflammatory acne. Post-acne marks begin fading. Overall skin clarity improves.
41% reduction in acne lesionsFine Lines & Marks Improvement
Expression lines appear smoother. Acne marks continue fading. Skin looks more even-toned and radiant.
82% reduced expression lines⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Multi-tasking: treats acne AND fine lines
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Visible pore reduction in 2-4 weeks
- Non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested
- 8-hour hydration despite being a treatment
- Effective at fading post-acne marks
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Trusted French pharmacy brand
❌ Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Polysorbate 20)
- Contains fragrance (may irritate sensitive skin)
- Can be drying without proper moisturizer
- Small bottle (30ml) for the price
- May cause initial purging
- Sticky texture reported by some users
- Lower salicylic acid concentration than some competitors
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Higher salicylic acid concentration (2% vs ~1%). Simpler formula without anti-aging benefits. Fragrance-free but may be more drying.
Gold standard BHA with 2% salicylic acid. Larger size (118ml). Contains green tea. Fragrance-free but lacks hyaluronic acid.
Contains glycolic acid + salicylic acid + niacinamide. More aggressive exfoliation. Higher price point but multi-acid formula.
Uses Betaine Salicylate (4%) - gentler BHA derivative. Larger 100ml bottle. K-Beauty formula, fragrance-free.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Bioderma Sébium Serum (This Product)
$27-28Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid
$35The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2%
$8La Roche-Posay Effaclar Serum
$40📦 Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed.
Glass dropper bottle with controlled dispensing for hygienic application
Yes, 30ml is under 100ml TSA carry-on limit. Glass bottle - pack carefully.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. This serum contains salicylic acid (~0.5-1.2%), which is a BHA. While low-dose topical salicylic acid (under 2%) is generally considered safe by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, high doses should be avoided during pregnancy. The amount in this serum is within the typically accepted range, but we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, which is known to feed Malassezia yeast and can worsen fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like The Ordinary's Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution (oil-based formula) or treatments specifically formulated to be FA-safe.
Use caution when combining with other actives. This serum already contains salicylic acid (BHA), so layering additional BHA isn't recommended. You can use vitamin C in the morning and this serum at night. Avoid using with retinol on the same night initially - alternate days until your skin builds tolerance. Using with AHA can increase irritation; if needed, use on alternate days. Always introduce new combinations gradually.
This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types, particularly adults dealing with both breakouts and early signs of aging. It's excellent for those with enlarged pores, blackheads, and post-acne marks. Those with dry or very sensitive skin may find it slightly drying and should use with a good moisturizer. Not recommended for those with fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20 content.
Results timeline varies: Immediate hydration and softer skin texture within days. Pore reduction visible in 2-4 weeks (91% of users in clinical trials). Acne lesion reduction of 41% seen after 4 weeks. Fine line improvement (82% of users) typically appears around 6-8 weeks. Some users may experience initial purging in weeks 1-2 as the BHA clears existing congestion.
Apply after cleansing (and toning if you use a toner) but before moisturizer. The order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Sébium Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). Can be used both morning and evening. In the morning, always follow with SPF 30+ as BHA can increase sun sensitivity.
No, this serum is non-comedogenic with a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It has been clinically tested under dermatological control to ensure it won't clog pores. In fact, the salicylic acid actively works to unclog pores and prevent future blockages. It's specifically designed for acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use (2-3 drops per application).
Verdict: Bioderma Sébium Serum is an excellent multi-tasking treatment for adults dealing with both acne and early signs of aging. Its combination of salicylic acid, acetyl glucosamine, and hyaluronic acid effectively targets pimples, enlarged pores, acne marks, and fine lines in one lightweight formula. Clinical results are impressive (91% pore reduction, 41% fewer acne lesions, 82% smoother fine lines). The main drawbacks are its small size for the price, presence of fragrance, and unsuitability for fungal acne. For oily and combination skin types struggling with adult acne, this French pharmacy favorite delivers visible results within 2-4 weeks.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Acetyl Glucosamine
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
|