Hydrating Serum
Hydrating Serum
Product Description
Product overview
An ultra-lightweight, moisture-boosting facial serum enriched with the Tri-Ceramide Complex (ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids) plus squalane and glycerin to deliver instant hydration, strengthen your skin barrier, and leave skin bouncy, glowing, and nourished. Clinically proven to lock in moisture for up to 24 hours.
Tri-Ceramide Complex
Proprietary blend of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids that mimic skin's natural lipids to rebuild and strengthen the barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTri-Ceramide Complex
Proprietary blend of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids that mimic skin's natural lipids to rebuild and strengthen the barrier.
24-Hour Hydration
Clinically proven to lock in moisture for up to 24 hours with a single application, minimizing trans-epidermal water loss.
Instant Radiance
Clinically proven to improve the appearance of skin radiance immediately after the first application.
Barrier Support
Glycerin and squalane work synergistically with ceramides to replenish moisture levels and support daily skin barrier function.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains oleic acid, stearic acid, glyceryl oleate, and sorbitan isostearate which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Non-comedogenic formula. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types. Contains no heavy oils or pore-clogging ingredients.
Dermatologist tested and approved. Free from fragrance, alcohol, parabens, sulfates, and common allergens.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTri-Ceramide Complex ProprietaryProven
BYOMA's signature complex containing Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, and Fatty Acids (Stearic + Oleic Acid) designed to mimic and replenish the essential lipids found in your skin's stratum corneum.
- Study: Ceramides make up ~50% of the skin barrier's intercellular lipids and are essential for moisture retention
- Mechanism: Fills gaps between skin cells, preventing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Research: Topical ceramides shown to improve skin barrier function in compromised skin (Journal of Clinical Investigation)
Glycerin 4.6-6.8%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Attracts and binds water molecules to keep skin hydrated from within.
- Study: 2016 research found glycerin to be the most effective humectant, outperforming hyaluronic acid
- Mechanism: Low molecular weight allows penetration into deeper skin layers for long-lasting hydration
- Benefits: Also has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, supporting wound healing
Squalane 2-4%Proven
A plant-derived emollient that mimics your skin's natural sebum. Helps prevent moisture loss while delivering antioxidant protection.
- Origin: Hydrogenated form of squalene, which naturally occurs in human sebum
- Safety: Non-irritating even at 100% concentration according to research
- Benefit: Lightweight, non-greasy hydration suitable for all skin types including oily
Phytosphingosine 0.45-1%Promising
A sphingoid base naturally found in skin that serves as a building block for ceramides. Has antimicrobial and cell-communicating properties.
- Study: 2007 research showed effectiveness against acne-causing P. acnes bacteria
- Function: Part of skin's natural defense system and natural moisturizing factor (NMF)
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and protect compromised skin
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate <1%Promising
Derived from licorice root, this ingredient offers soothing, anti-inflammatory, and brightening benefits.
- Benefits: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant properties
- Brightening: Contains liquiritin which helps prevent melanin production
- Soothing: Glycyrrhizin component helps calm redness and irritation
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) <1%Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin from free radical damage and supports the skin's lipid barrier.
- Mechanism: Helps protect skin's natural lipids from oxidative damage
- UV Protection: Provides some protection against UVB-induced damage (not a sunscreen replacement)
- Synergy: Works well with other antioxidants like Vitamin C for enhanced protection
28 ingredients
Aqua, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Squalane, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Dipropylene Glycol, Ceramide NP, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cholesterol, Phytosphingosine, Stearic Acid, Oleic Acid, Hydroxyacetophenone, Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Oleate, Lactic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydrogenated Rapeseed Alcohol, Sorbitan Isostearate, Sodium Phytate, Xanthan Gum, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tocopherol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizer. Use on damp skin for optimal absorption. Pairs excellently with BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream or Rich Cream.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with freshly cleansed skin. For best results, apply to slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture.
Dispense 4-6 Drops
Squeeze 4-6 drops into your palms. For drier skin, double the drops to 8-12 for an extra hydration boost.
Press & Pat
Gently press and pat the serum into your face and neck until fully absorbed. Avoid rubbing or dragging the skin.
Follow with Moisturizer
Seal in the hydration with your preferred moisturizer. Use morning and evening for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dehydrated or dry skin needing a moisture boost
- Your skin barrier feels compromised or damaged
- You want lightweight hydration without greasiness
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe skincare
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to fragrances
- You want an affordable ceramide serum
- You prefer a dewy, glowy finish
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) - contains triggering ingredients
- You prefer a completely matte finish
- You need very heavy-duty hydration (try a richer cream)
- You want hyaluronic acid as the hero ingredient
- You prefer a water-thin serum consistency
- You're sensitive to any oleate-based ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESCeramides and squalane provide deep nourishment. Layer with a rich moisturizer for extra hydration in winter.
Lightweight and oil-free formula absorbs quickly. Dewy finish may feel slightly rich for very oily skin.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone.
Fragrance-free, dermatologist tested, and formulated with soothing ingredients. Ideal for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic formula. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to oleate ingredients.
Ceramide and cholesterol levels decline with age. This serum helps replenish these essential lipids.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Instant Hydration & Radiance
Skin feels immediately plumped, soft, and smooth. Clinically proven to improve skin radiance after just one application.
95% noticed instant hydrationImproved Moisture Retention
Noticeable improvement in how well skin holds onto moisture. Less tightness and dryness throughout the day.
87% reported softer skinStrengthened Skin Barrier
Skin barrier function noticeably improved. Reduced sensitivity, less reactivity, and better resilience to environmental stressors.
82% noticed barrier improvementHealthy, Balanced Complexion
Consistently bouncy, glowing skin with minimized redness, dryness, and flakiness. Makeup applies more smoothly.
78% achieved their skin goalsRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent value for a ceramide serum at $15.99
- Lightweight texture absorbs quickly without residue
- Fragrance-free and gentle for sensitive skin
- Clinically proven 24-hour hydration
- Instant plumping and glow effect
- Works beautifully under makeup
- Pairs well with other skincare products
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and reef-safe
Criticized
- Small 30ml bottle runs out quickly
- Dropper mechanism can be finicky
- Not fungal acne safe
- May feel too dewy for very oily skin
- Milky texture takes adjustment if used to watery serums
- May need a heavier moisturizer on top for very dry skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 3% multi-ceramide complex plus 2.5% hyaluronic acid. Slightly thicker texture, includes jojoba oil. Recommended as overnight treatment.
Focuses more on hyaluronic acid with added ceramides. Lighter, more watery texture. Better for HA lovers who want some barrier support.
Simpler formula focused on hydration without ceramides. Ultra-affordable option for those prioritizing moisture over barrier repair.
Clean beauty alternative with ceramides and oat extract. Slightly more expensive but appeals to those wanting cleaner formulations.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature (59-77°F / 15-25°C) is ideal.
Glass dropper bottle with plastic cap. Refill pods available for sustainable repurchasing.
Yes - 30ml/1.01 fl oz is TSA-approved for carry-on luggage. Lightweight glass bottle.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, BYOMA Hydrating Serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters that are typically avoided during pregnancy. The formula consists of gentle, hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and squalane that are all pregnancy-safe. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this serum is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including oleic acid, stearic acid, glyceryl oleate, polyglyceryl-4 oleate, and sorbitan isostearate. If you're prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum or Paula's Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster which are formulated without these triggers.
Yes! BYOMA Hydrating Serum is an excellent companion to active ingredients. Apply the serum first to provide a hydrating, barrier-supporting base, then follow with your retinol, vitamin C, or chemical exfoliants. The ceramides and squalane can actually help buffer potential irritation from these actives. For AHA/BHA, you can use the serum after the acid has fully absorbed, or use them on alternate days if your skin is sensitive.
This serum works well for most skin types, but it's particularly excellent for: dry skin needing moisture replenishment, combination skin seeking balance, sensitive skin requiring gentle ingredients, mature skin with declining ceramide levels, and dehydrated skin of any type. Those with very oily skin may find the dewy finish slightly rich, and those with fungal acne should avoid it due to triggering ingredients.
Results vary by concern: Immediate hydration and radiance improvement is clinically proven from the first application. After 1 week, you'll notice improved moisture retention and softer skin. By 2-4 weeks, skin barrier function should be noticeably strengthened with reduced sensitivity. For full barrier repair and consistent results, allow 4-6 weeks of regular twice-daily use.
Apply as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums and moisturizer. The thin-to-thick rule applies - this milky serum should go before creams and oils. For optimal absorption, apply to slightly damp skin. Follow with your moisturizer to seal in the benefits. Use both morning and evening for best results.
BYOMA Hydrating Serum is labeled non-comedogenic by the brand and has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is oil-free and dermatologist tested. Most users, including those with acne-prone skin, do not experience clogged pores. However, individual reactions vary, so patch testing is recommended if you're concerned. Note: while non-comedogenic, it's not fungal acne safe.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. The 30ml bottle typically lasts 1-2 months with twice-daily use of 4-6 drops. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain stability. BYOMA offers refill pods for sustainable repurchasing once your bottle is empty.
Verdict: BYOMA Hydrating Serum delivers exceptional value as a ceramide-focused barrier repair serum. At just $15.99, it offers clinically-proven 24-hour hydration with a thoughtfully formulated Tri-Ceramide Complex that rivals more expensive alternatives. The lightweight, milky texture absorbs beautifully and works for most skin types. While it's not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin due to oleate ingredients, it's an excellent choice for anyone seeking affordable, effective barrier support. The main drawbacks are the small bottle size and occasionally finicky dropper - but these are minor compared to the impressive hydration and glow this serum delivers. Highly recommended for skincare minimalists and maximalists alike who want ceramide benefits without the premium price tag.
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Skin Conditioning, Surfactant, Emulsifying, Hair Conditioning
|
|