Vegan Collagen Complex Serum
Vegan Collagen Complex Serum
Product Description
Pacifica's Vegan Collagen Complex Serum is a lightweight, plant-powered hydrating serum that pairs lab-fermented vegan collagen (Sr-Hydrozoan Polypeptide-1) with hyaluronic acid, squalane, Japanese camellia oil and soothing floral extracts. Designed for a plumper, dewier, smoother-looking complexion, it's a budget-friendly, 100% vegan and cruelty-free pick for those wanting collagen-style support without animal-derived ingredients.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Vegan Collagen
Uses Sr-Hydrozoan Polypeptide-1, a collagen-style peptide produced through plant-sourced fermentation with zero animal inputs.
1000x Moisture Magnet
Sodium hyaluronate (the salt form of HA) attracts and binds water to the skin surface for a plumper, more cushioned look.
Soothing Botanicals
Aloe, chamomile, jasmine and camellia (tsubaki) oil add antioxidants and a calmed, conditioned feel.
Clean & Conscious
100% vegan, cruelty-free and reef safe, packaged in a recyclable glass dropper bottle, free from parabens, sulfates and silicones.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, BHA, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters, but it does contain fragrance (parfum) and arnica extract. Check with your OB-GYN or midwife before use.
Not fungal-acne safe. Contains camellia seed oil, hydrolyzed jojoba esters, radish root ferment, lecithin and cetearyl alcohol, all potential malassezia triggers.
Plays well with most routines. Pacifica states it can be layered under retinoids, vitamin C and exfoliants. The formula has no strong acids of its own.
Free from harsh alcohols and sulfates, but parfum plus jasmine (a known EU allergen) can irritate reactive skin. A small number of users reported redness, so patch test first.
No oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens or phthalates, and verified reef safe by Pacifica.
As with any fragranced serum, apply a small amount to the inner forearm for 24-48 hours before adding it to your face routine.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧬠Vegan Collagen (Sr-Hydrozoan Polypeptide-1) % not disclosed Promising
Pacifica's signature ingredient is a collagen-style polypeptide created via plant-sourced fermentation rather than animal sources. Peptides are the building blocks of collagen, the protein responsible for skin firmness and bounce that naturally declines with age.
- How it works: Acts as a humectant and skin-conditioning peptide that supports surface hydration and a smoother, firmer appearance.
- Brand lab claim: Pacifica reports the collagen complex improved skin elasticity by up to 28% in 2 weeks in their own testing (manufacturer data, not independent).
π§ Sodium Hyaluronate est. 0.1-2% Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid and a star humectant. It pulls water from the environment and deeper layers of skin to the surface, leaving skin looking plumper and feeling more cushioned.
- Source: Naturally present in skin, joints and connective tissue where it maintains hydration and elasticity.
- Evidence: Lower-molecular-weight HA has clinical links to improved wrinkle depth, elasticity and barrier repair.
𫧠Squalane comedogenic 1 Proven
A plant-derived, shelf-stable lipid that mirrors what skin naturally produces. It softens and hydrates without a greasy feel and helps reinforce the moisture barrier.
- Source: Hydrogenated form of squalene; most cosmetic squalane is plant-based.
- Evidence: Research shows antioxidant activity against UVA-induced oxidative stress and support for collagen biosynthesis in dermal fibroblasts.
πΌ Camellia Japonica (Tsubaki) Seed Oil % not disclosed Promising
A traditional Japanese beauty oil rich in oleic acid. As an emollient it forms a softening layer that traps moisture and leaves skin feeling smooth and conditioned.
- Source: Pressed from the seeds of the Japanese camellia plant, native to East Asia.
πΏ Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice % not disclosed Proven
A soothing, water-binding plant extract long used to calm and hydrate skin. It carries vitamins A, C and E plus sugars that help bind moisture.
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, moisturizing and antioxidant, helping reduce the look of redness and irritation.
πΈ Chamomile & Floral Extracts est. <1% Promising
Chamomilla recutita, citrus, jasmine and arnica flower extracts add antioxidants and a soothing feel, while also providing the serum's light natural floral scent.
- Chamomile: Contains bisabolol and antioxidants that help soothe and calm.
- Heads up: Jasmine flower extract is a recognized EU allergen and contributes fragrance.
π Glycerin comedogenic 0 Proven
One of the best-studied humectants in skincare. It draws water into the outer skin layer and works across every skin type with virtually no irritation risk.
- Role: Pairs with hyaluronic acid and glucose here for layered, lasting hydration.
32 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Oleate Citrate, Squalane, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Sr-Hydrozoan Polypeptide-1, Ahnfeltiopsis Concinna Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Extract, Jasminum Officinale Flower Extract, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lecithin, Pullulan, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Silica, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Maltodextrin, Glucose, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after cleansing and toning, while skin is slightly damp, then seal with moisturizer. Use morning and/or night. Always finish with SPF in the morning.
π How to Use
Cleanse
Start with clean skin and pat until slightly damp, this helps hyaluronic acid pull in extra moisture.
Dispense 2-3 drops
A little goes a long way. Most users find a few drops cover the whole face and neck.
Press & smooth
Gently press and smooth over face and neck. Let it absorb for about 30-60 seconds; it can feel slightly tacky before sealing.
Lock it in
Follow with moisturizer, and SPF in the morning, to seal in hydration and protect plumped skin.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want vegan, cruelty-free collagen support without animal ingredients
- Your skin is dry, normal or showing early signs of aging
- You like a lightweight, hydrating, dewy-finish serum
- You want an affordable everyday plumping serum (~$20)
- You prefer clean formulas free of parabens, sulfates and silicones
β Consider alternatives if:
- You're prone to fungal acne (malassezia) breakouts
- You need a strictly fragrance-free formula
- Your skin is highly reactive to floral extracts or arnica
- You want clinically proven anti-wrinkle actives like retinol
- You dislike any tackiness under makeup
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Layered humectants plus squalane and camellia oil deliver lasting, comfortable hydration.
Lightweight enough for daily use with a balanced, dewy finish across the face.
Vegan collagen peptide plus HA target the look of fine lines and loss of plumpness.
Absorbs without heaviness, though the oleic-rich camellia oil may feel rich for very oily skin.
Soothing aloe and chamomile help, but added fragrance and jasmine mean a patch test is essential.
π Results Timeline
Instant Hydration & Glow
Skin feels softer and looks dewier right after application; many users notice an instant smoothing, plumping effect.
~85% noticedImproved Elasticity
In Pacifica's own lab testing, the collagen complex improved skin elasticity by up to 28% in two weeks.
Brand lab dataSmoother, Plumper Look
With consistent use, reviewers report softer texture, a more even tone and a fuller, more hydrated appearance.
~70% noticedMaintained Firmness
Ongoing use helps maintain a hydrated, supple look. Note that topical peptide benefits build gradually and fade if you stop.
~60% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Genuinely vegan and cruelty-free collagen alternative
- Affordable price for the ingredient quality (~$20)
- Hydrating, plumping, dewy finish loved by dry skin
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing, layers well
- Recyclable glass dropper bottle, clean formula
- Soothing aloe, chamomile and camellia oil
β Criticized
- Contains fragrance and jasmine (EU allergen)
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe
- Can feel tacky and may pill under makeup
- Collagen claims are surface/hydration-level, not deep
- Some sensitive-skin users report irritation
- Small 29ml bottle
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
More peptide technologies plus HA, and fully fragrance-free and vegan. Lacks the soothing florals, camellia oil and dewy emollient feel of the Pacifica.
Hyaluronic acid, squalane and peptides at a lower price. A more basic hydrator without the vegan collagen complex or botanical blend.
Pure multi-weight HA hydration only. No peptides, collagen or oils, so it plumps but won't mimic the firming or conditioning extras.
π Comparison with Competitors
Pacifica Vegan Collagen Complex (Featured)
~$20The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum
$19.90Cocokind Ceramide Barrier Serum
~$24Charlotte Tilbury Magic Serum Crystal Elixir
~$85π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the dropper sealed between uses
Recyclable glass bottle with dropper/pipette
Yes, 29ml is well under the 100ml carry-on limit
β Frequently Asked Questions
It contains none of the usual pregnancy red-flag actives, no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters. However, it does include fragrance (parfum) and arnica flower extract, which some practitioners prefer to avoid during pregnancy. It's best to confirm with your OB-GYN or midwife before adding it to your routine.
No. The formula contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including camellia japonica seed oil, hydrolyzed jojoba esters, radish root ferment filtrate, lecithin and cetearyl alcohol. If you're prone to fungal acne, a fully fungal-acne-safe serum is a better choice.
Generally yes. The serum has no strong acids of its own, and Pacifica states it can be layered with retinoids, vitamin C and exfoliants. Apply this hydrating serum first, then your active, or use them at different times of day if your skin is sensitive. Introduce one new product at a time and patch test.
It's best for dry, normal, combination and mature skin looking for hydration and a plumper, firmer-looking finish. Oily skin can use it but may find the camellia oil a touch rich. Very sensitive or fragrance-avoidant skin should be cautious due to parfum and floral extracts.
Hydration and a dewy glow are usually visible immediately. Pacifica's own lab testing reports up to 28% improved elasticity in 2 weeks, and reviewers tend to notice smoother, plumper-looking skin around the 4-week mark with consistent twice-daily use. Peptide benefits build gradually over 8-12 weeks.
Use it after cleansing and toning, on slightly damp skin, and before your moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF. A few drops are enough for the whole face and neck.
It carries a low comedogenic rating of about 2 out of 5. Squalane (1) and the lightweight base are pore-friendly, while oleic-rich camellia oil and cetearyl alcohol nudge the rating up slightly. Most users, including some acne-prone reviewers, report it doesn't clog pores, but patch testing is always wise.
Around 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the dropper closed to protect the formula. The 29ml bottle typically lasts 1-2 months with daily use.
Verdict: Pacifica's Vegan Collagen Complex Serum is a standout budget-friendly, 100% vegan hydrator that delivers real plumping, dewy, smoothing results, especially for dry, normal and mature skin. Its lab-fermented vegan collagen peptide, hyaluronic acid, squalane and soothing botanicals punch above their ~$20 price. The trade-offs: it contains fragrance and jasmine (an EU allergen), isn't fungal-acne safe, and its collagen benefits are surface-level rather than deep dermal. If you want clean, affordable, cruelty-free hydration and don't need a fragrance-free or malassezia-safe formula, it's an easy recommendation.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Oleate Citrate
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|