Why This Vegan Serum Is the Answer For My Acne-Prone Skin

Ah, serums. There are so many in the beauty space that it can seem overwhelming to choose just one. If you’re looking to brighten your skin, there’s a serum for that. If you’re looking to help fight fine lines, there’s a serum for that, too. But if you really want to give your skin that extra je ne sais quoi and moisturizing glow, the Tarte SEA Mermaid Skin Hyaluronic H2O Serum has been a total game changer for my dry skin.

My love for this product first began about a year ago when I was struggling to clear up my adult acne.  I was looking for something that would keep my skin hydrated and protect against future blemishes. (FYI: Dry skin typically produces more oil, which can, in turn, clog your pores and lead to more breakouts, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.)

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Tarte SEA Mermaid Skin Hyaluronic H2O Serum — $42.00

Packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and marine extracts, this lightweight serum helps deeply nourish and moisturize dry skin.

Enter the Tarte SEA Mermaid serum. It contains a plethora of nourishing ingredients including vitamin B5 and marine extracts to help create more moisturized and supple-feeling skin. However, what truly makes it stand out is its use of hyaluronic acid, which is one of skin care’s buzziest ingredients right now because of its insanely good moisturizing powers.

“Hyaluronic acid is a great natural hydrator for the skin and works to draw in and lock in moisture,” Howard Sobel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, previously told Well+Good. “The ingredient is a potent, natural humectant that helps your skin hold water, so it looks smoother.”

The serum itself is pretty lightweight and takes only seconds to absorb into the skin. At the same time, you don’t have to worry about a greasy residue. I also love that it’s fragrance-free and vegan. Although I was initially concerned about how my skin would react (aka: Will I break out?), I’m happy to report that it didn’t appear to cause any irritation, which is all my acne-prone skin can ask for.

Please note: I did use this in combination with my CeraVe Hydrating Facial cleanser and a moisturizer to help balance out my regimen. But overall, I was impressed by the smooth consistency of the serum and how weightless it feels after you apply it. It’s simple yet effective, and not so heavy that it can’t be layered under makeup. Whether you’re someone with a 10-step skin-care routine or someone who loves a simple cleanser and an SPF like me, this is one product that may deserve a spot in your beauty cabinet.

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