COSRX The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum

COSRX

The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum

face neck serum

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Fit by skin type

General, ingredient-based — not your personalized match.

Dry
59%
Combination (dry)
59%
Balanced
80%
Combination (oily)
90%
Oily
90%

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43
Ingredients
4
Benefits
3
Actives
Find Dupes

The COSRX The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum is a lightweight, hydrating serum that is formulated with three types of hyaluronic acid, which are known for their ability to attract and retain moisture. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps to keep it hydrated, plump, and youthful-looking. However, as we age, our skin's natural hyaluronic acid levels decrease, which can lead to dryness, fine lines, and other signs of aging. The three different types of hyaluronic acid in this serum work together to provide different levels of hydration to different layers of the skin. This means that the serum can help to hydrate the deeper layers of the skin, as well as the surface, leaving it looking and feeling more supple. This serum is suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

Key Insights

Benefits

4
Anti-Aging
Evens Skin Tone
Hydration
Soothing

Active Ingredients

3
AHA Ceramides Hyaluronic acid

Risks

3
Alcohol
Silicone
Synthetic polymer

About The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum

Overview

The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum is a lightweight serum from COSRX, a brand based in Korea. The formula is built mainly around hydration. The ingredient list runs to 43 ingredients, each broken down in full below.

Texture and finish

By its ingredient list the formula reads as light: water and humectants lead, with emollients kept lower in the order. Silicones in the formula tend to give a smooth, blurred finish and help it grip under makeup. Hydration is handled by Butylene Glycol, Propanediol and Glycerin, humectants that pull water into the upper layers of skin rather than sealing it there.

What the formula does

Hydration: Very high. Ingredients that pull and hold water in the upper layers of skin, and here that comes from Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate.

Soothing: Moderate. Ingredients aimed at visible redness and reactivity, and here that comes from Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium PCA and Tocopherol.

Who it suits

On richness alone it suits Combination (oily) and Oily skin best, and is the least natural fit for Dry and Combination (dry) skin. Nothing in the list is flagged as a common irritant, which is a reasonable starting point for reactive skin — though a patch test is still the only way to know.

What it does not target

The formula contributes little or nothing on antioxidant protection, oil control and firmness signalling. That is not a fault — most products are not meant to do everything — but if one of those is your priority, this is not the product that will address it.

What is not in it

Reading the full list, the formula is fragrance-free, essential-oil-free, paraben-free, microplastic-free, sulfate-free and dye-free. Those claims come from the ingredient list itself, not from the packaging. It does contain drying alcohol, worth knowing if your skin reacts to any of them.

Where it fits in a routine

It can be used morning and evening. In a routine it goes after toner, before moisturiser. Apply to clean, dry skin and give it a minute to absorb before the next layer. Introduce one new treatment at a time so you can identify what is working.

This summary is generated from the product's ingredient list. It is not a review, it is not the brand's own marketing claims, and it does not replace advice from a dermatologist.

Pros and cons

Drawn purely from the ingredient list

Pros

  • No fragrance or declared allergens
  • No essential oils
  • No microplastics
  • Strong humectant content for hydration
  • No common irritants flagged in the list

Things to know

  • Contains drying alcohol high in the list
  • One ingredient could feed malassezia (fungal acne)

Which skin types it suits

Scored on how rich or light the formula reads from its INCI order.

Suitable for

  • Combination (oily) skin
  • Oily skin

May suit

  • Balanced skin

Less suitable for

  • Dry skin
  • Combination (dry) skin

Sensitive skin

No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.

Skin concerns

Based on the curated benefits documented for this product's ingredients.

Helps with

  • Hydration 27 ingredients

    Attracts and locks in moisture to keep skin plump and dewy

  • Anti-Aging 12 ingredients

    Boosts collagen and cell turnover to reduce fine lines and wrinkles

  • Soothing 3 ingredients

    Calms redness, irritation, and inflammation for sensitive skin

  • Evens Skin Tone 2 ingredients

    Brightens and balances complexion for a more uniform appearance

Does not target

Anti-Acne Blackhead Reducing Dark Spot Fading Oil Control Pore Minimizer Smooths Bumpy Skin

None of the ingredients in this formula are associated with these benefits. This is not unusual, as most products are designed to target a limited number of concerns.

Key ingredients

The actives, UV filters and benefit-carrying ingredients in this formula, in the order they are listed.

1st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 30–80% of the formula.

Aqua (EU),Deionized Water,Distilled Water,Micromatrix Fractile AN,Onsen-Sui (JPN),Purified Water

Hydration

2nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Butane-1,3-diol (CAS No. 107-88-0/ EC No. 203-529-7) (R)-(-)-butane-1,3-diol” (CAS No. 6290-03-5/ EC No. 228-532-0)

Hydration

3rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

1,3-dihydroxypropane

Hydration

4th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Glycerine ;Glycerol (INN); Glycerol (RIFM); Glycerolum (EP); Glycyl Alcohol; 1,2,3-Propanetriol; 1,2,3-Trihydroxypropane

Hydration Anti-Aging
Sodium Hyaluronate Hyaluronic acid

5th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Hyaluronic acid, sodium, salt

Hydration Anti-Aging Soothing

6th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

1,2-Dihydroxypentane

Hydration

10th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Methanaminium, 1-carboxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-, hydroxide, inner salt

Hydration

12th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Dimethicone

Hydration

14th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sodium 5-oxo-2-pyrrolidinecarboxylate

Hydration Soothing

15th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sodium lactate

Hydration

16th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

L-2-Pyrrolidone-5-carboxylic acid

Hydration

18th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Lecithins, hydrogenated

Hydration

Formula analysis

Each axis is scored from the ingredients present and how high up the list they sit.

Hydration Very high

Ingredients that pull and hold water in the upper layers of skin

Barrier support Low

Lipids and repair signals that support skin barrier integrity

Antioxidant support None

Ingredients that mop up free radicals from UV and pollution

Oil control None

Ingredients that moderate sebum or absorb shine

Brightening Low

Ingredients that act on uneven tone and post-inflammatory marks

Soothing Moderate

Ingredients aimed at visible redness and reactivity

Cell renewal Low

Retinoids, acids and enzymes that speed surface turnover

Firmness signalling None

Peptides and growth factors that signal for collagen support

Active and supporting ingredients

"Active" here means an ingredient carrying a recorded active type or a recognised UV filter.

Active ingredients (4)

Supporting ingredients (39)

Solvents, emollients, texture agents and preservatives — the formula that carries the actives.

Water Butylene Glycol Propanediol Glycerin Pentylene Glycol 1,2-hexanediol Diethoxyethyl Succinate Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate Betaine Xanthan Gum Dimethicone Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer Sodium PCA Sodium Lactate PCA Glyceryl Acrylate/acrylic Acid Copolymer Hydrogenated Lecithin Ethylhexylglycerin Serine Alanine Glycine Sodium Phytate Sorbitan Isostearate Pvm/ma Copolymer Glutamic Acid Lysine HCL Threonine Arginine Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate Proline Cholesterol Caprylic/capric Triglyceride Phytosphingosine Stearic Acid Oleic Acid Alcohol Tocopherol Caprylyl Glycol Caprylhydroxamic Acid

What is and is not in it

Read from the full ingredient list. A brand's own claim may differ.

Free from

  • Fragrance-free
  • Essential-oil-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Microplastic-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Dye-free
  • Oil-free
  • No animal-derived ingredients

Contains

  • Drying alcohol

    Alcohol

  • Silicones

    Dimethicone

What to layer it with

Judged by the same curated rules our routine checker uses. It reads the ingredients, not the label.

Compatible with

  • Azelaic acid
  • Copper peptides
  • Bakuchiol
  • Niacinamide
  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Ceramides
  • Signal peptides
  • Panthenol
  • Sunscreen

Use with caution

  • Retinoids (retinol, retinal)

    Best kept to separate routines — one in the morning, one at night, or on alternate days.

  • Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • AHAs (glycolic, lactic)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • BHA (salicylic acid)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • PHAs (gluconolactone)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • Benzoyl peroxide

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

Where it fits in a routine

Morning Evening
  1. Cleanse
  2. Toning
  3. Treat
  4. Moisturise
  5. Protect

This product is the "Treat" step.

  • Apply to clean, dry skin and give it a minute to absorb before the next layer.
  • Introduce one new treatment at a time so you can identify what is working.

Safety and suitability

Flags to check, not verdicts. None of this is medical advice — if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or treating a skin condition, ask a doctor.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Nothing in this formula is on the standard pregnancy-caution list. That is not clearance — ask your doctor about anything you use daily.
Fungal acne (malassezia)
1 ingredient could feed malassezia: Sorbitan Isostearate. That is about the yeast's food supply, not a prediction that you will break out.
Sensitive and reactive skin
No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.
Recorded ingredient risks
Alcohol, Silicone, Synthetic polymer

Ingredients by function

Most ingredients do more than one job, so these counts add up to more than the 43 ingredients on the label.

12
Texture agent

Sets the thickness, spread and stability of the formula

10
Humectant

Draws water into the upper layers of skin

8
Solvent

Dissolves and carries everything else

7
Surfactant

Lifts oil and dirt, or holds oil and water together

5
Emollient

Softens and smooths by filling gaps between skin cells

4
Active

Changes how skin behaves rather than how it feels

4
pH adjuster

Sets the acidity the formula needs to work

3
Chelator

Binds trace metals that would otherwise spoil the formula

3
Occlusive

Forms a film that slows water loss

1
Antioxidant

Neutralises free radicals from UV and pollution

1
Exfoliant

Loosens or dissolves dead surface cells

1
Preservative

Keeps the product free of microbial growth

Ingredient breakdown

Every ingredient on the label, in order, with what it does and roughly how much of it is likely to be there.

1 Water Solvent
Estimated level
30–80%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

1st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 30–80% of the formula.

Aqua (EU),Deionized Water,Distilled Water,Micromatrix Fractile AN,Onsen-Sui (JPN),Purified Water

Hydration
3 scientific references
  • Skin Research and Technology, May 2015, pages 131-136
  • Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, November-December 1999, pages 344-351
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, September-October 1993, pages 249-262
2 Butylene Glycol Humectant
Estimated level
5–20%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Texture agent, Solvent

2nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Butane-1,3-diol (CAS No. 107-88-0/ EC No. 203-529-7) (R)-(-)-butane-1,3-diol” (CAS No. 6290-03-5/ EC No. 228-532-0)

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • CosmeticsInfoorg, Accessed March 2021, ePublication
  • US Food and Drug Administration Code of Federal Regulations</em>, Accessed March 2021, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2011, pages 5S-16S
  • Skin Research and Technology, November 2007, pages 417-24
  • Journal of the American College of Toxicology, September 1985, pages 223-248
3 Propanediol Texture agent
Estimated level
5–20%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Solvent

3rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

1,3-dihydroxypropane

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • PubChem Compound Summary, April 2021, ePublication
  • SpecialChem, Accessed April 2021, ePublication
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, June 2018, pages 1-73
  • Cosmetics & Toiletries, May 2013, pages 81-86
4 Glycerin Humectant
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Occlusive, Texture agent, Solvent

4th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Glycerine ;Glycerol (INN); Glycerol (RIFM); Glycerolum (EP); Glycyl Alcohol; 1,2,3-Propanetriol; 1,2,3-Trihydroxypropane

Hydration Anti-Aging
6 scientific references
  • Journal of Pharmaceutical Investigation, March 2021, pages 223-231
  • International Journal of Toxicology, November/December 2019, Volume 38, Supplement 3, pages 6S-22S
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2016, ePublication
  • British Journal of Dermatology, July 2008, pages 23-34
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2007, pages 75-82
  • Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, June 2003, pages 7, 360-7, 365
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Active

5th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Hyaluronic acid, sodium, salt

Hydration Anti-Aging Soothing
5 scientific references
  • Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und Verwandte Gebiete, December 2017, pages 987-993
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, July 2014, pages 277-287
  • Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, October 2012, pages 20-23
  • DermatoEndocrinology, July-December 2012, pages 253-258
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, September 2011, pages 990-1000
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

6th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

1,2-Dihydroxypentane

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • https://thedermreviewcom/pentylene-glycol/
  • Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, July 2017, pages 106-111
  • Prospector, June 2015, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, October 2012, pages 147S-168S
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

7th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

8th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Butanedioic acid, bis(2-ethoxyethyl) ester

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

9th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2,2-Dimethyl-2-(2'-propenamido)ethanesulfonic acid, sodium salt, homopolymer

10 Betaine Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Texture agent

10th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Methanaminium, 1-carboxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-, hydroxide, inner salt

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2018, pages 28S-46S
  • Food Science and Biotechnology, October 2017, pages 1391-1397
  • The Journal of Chemical Physics, June 2015, ePublication
  • The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, September 2004, pages 539-549
  • Skin Research and Technology, February 2003, pages 50-58
11 Xanthan Gum Surfactant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant, Texture agent

11th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Xanthan gum

12 Dimethicone Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Occlusive

12th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Dimethicone

Hydration Silicone
7 scientific references
  • FDA Code of Federal Regulations, April 2020, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2014, pages 65S-115S
  • The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, May 2014, pages 36-44
  • Dermatologic Therapy, May 2012, pages 229-233
  • Clinics in Dermatology, May-June 2012, pages 345-348
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, January 2008, pages 19-33
  • Skin Research and Technology, May 2000, pages 77-80
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

13th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a copolymer of sodium hydroxyethyl acrylate and acryloyldimethyl taurate monomers

Synthetic polymer
14 Sodium PCA Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant

14th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sodium 5-oxo-2-pyrrolidinecarboxylate

Hydration Soothing
4 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2019, ePublication
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, April 2018, pages 138-144
  • IFSCC Conference 2005 Research Paper
  • Bio-Medical Materials and Engineering, 1995, pages 9-20
15 Sodium Lactate Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Exfoliant, pH adjuster

15th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sodium lactate

Hydration
6 scientific references
  • Nutrition Reviews Advance Article, July 2020, pages 1-16
  • Code of Federal Regulations, April 2020, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, March 2014, pages 321-326
  • Materials Sciences and Applications, January 2012, pages 18-23
  • Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, February 2007, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, January 1998, pages 1-241
16 PCA Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant

16th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

L-2-Pyrrolidone-5-carboxylic acid

Hydration
3 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2019, pages 5S-11S
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, February 2017, pages 2-10, and December 2016, pages 567-575
  • Journal of Dermatological Science, December 2014, pages 231-239
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Texture agent

17th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer is a copolymer of glyceryl acrylate and acrylic acid

Synthetic polymer
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

18th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Lecithins, hydrogenated

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2020, pages 5S-25S
  • Nanocosmetics, June 2019, pages 95–140
  • Current Drug Delivery, 2016, pages 111–120
  • Pharmaceutical Research, February 2013, pages 538–55
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

19th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,2-Propanediol, 3-(2-ethylhexyloxy)

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • PLoS One, October 2016, ePublication
  • Contact Dermatitis, May 2016, pages 281-288
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2013, pages 5S-21S
  • Personal Care, 2008, pages 1-4
  • Cosmetic Science Technology, 2006, pages 1-11
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

20th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2-Amino-3-hydroxypropanoic acid

Hydration Anti-Aging
4 scientific references
  • Amino Acids in Nutrition and Health, August 2020, pages 187-199
  • Current Medicinal Chemistry, December 2018, pages 5, 512-5, 527
  • PLoS ONE, February 2018, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2009, pages 327-345
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

21st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Alanine

Anti-Aging Hydration
5 scientific references
  • Amino Acids in Nutrition and Health, August 2020, pages 187-199
  • Current Medicinal Chemistry, December 2018, pages 5, 512-5, 527
  • Marine Drugs, March 2018, ePublication
  • PLoS ONE, February 2018, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2009, pages 327-345
22 Glycine pH adjuster
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
pH adjuster

22nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Glycine

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • Amino Acids in Nutrition and Health, August 2020, pages 187-199
  • Current Medicinal Chemistry, 2018, pages 5, 512-5, 527, ePublication
  • PLoS ONE, February 2018, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2009, pages 327-345
23 Sodium Phytate Chelator
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Chelator

23rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Myo-Inositol, hexakis(dihydrogen phosphate), sodium salt

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

24th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sorbitan, isooctadecanoate

25 Pvm/ma Copolymer Occlusive
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Occlusive, Texture agent

25th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2,5-Furandione, polymer with methoxyethene; copolymer of methyl vinyl ether and maleic anhydride

26 Glutamic Acid Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant

26th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

(S)-2-Aminopentanedioic acid

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • Malaysian Applied Biology, May 2018, pages 113–117
  • Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, April 2014, pages 153-158
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2013, pages 41S-64S
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, June 2003, pages 1, 023-1, 029
27 Citric Acid Active
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Active, Chelator, pH adjuster

27th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2-Hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

28th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

29th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2-Amino-3-hydroxybutanoic acid

Anti-Aging Hydration
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

30th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

L-Arginine

Hydration Anti-Aging
6 scientific references
  • Biobased Surfactants (Second Edition), 2019, pages 413-445
  • Scientific Reports, February 2016, pages 1-10
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, October 2012, pages 1-35
  • Journal of Advanced Research, July 2010, pages 169–177
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2005, page 139
  • Wound Repair and Regeneration, November-December 2003, pages 419-423
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

31st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sodium 2-[methyl(1-oxooctadecyl)amino]ethanesulphonate

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

32nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2-Pyrrolidinecarboxylic acid, (S)-

Hydration Anti-Aging
4 scientific references
  • Amino Acids in Nutrition and Health, August 2020, pages 187-199
  • Current Medicinal Chemistry, December 2018, pages 5, 512-5, 527
  • PLoS ONE, February 2018, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2009, pages 327-345
33 Ceramide NP Active
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Active

33rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Ceramide NP,1,3,4-Octadecanetriol, 2-Octadecanamide,Stearoyl-C18-Phytosphingosine,Stearoyl-4-Hydroxysphinganine

Hydration Anti-Aging
11 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2020, pages 5S-25S
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, August 2019, pages 1-15
  • Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2016, pages 135-147
  • Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, October 2014, pages 2473-2483
  • Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, July 2014, pages 177-184
  • Journal of Lipid Research, July 2008, pages 1, 466-1, 476
  • Journal of Lipid Research, September 2007, pages 1936-1943
  • American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2003, pages 107-129
  • Contact Dermatitis, June 2002, pages 331-338
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, November 2001, pages 1, 126-1, 136
  • Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, September-October 2001, pages 261-271
34 Cholesterol Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Surfactant, Texture agent

34th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Cholest-5-en-3-ol (beta)-

Hydration Anti-Aging
4 scientific references
  • Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, August 2015, pages 1-6
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, July 2007, pages 239-242
  • Journal of Structural Biology, June 2007, pages 386-400
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2006, pages 1-89
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

35th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Decanoic acid, ester with 1,2,3-propanetriol octanoate; Glycerides, mixed decanoyl and octanoyl

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2020, pages 34-35
  • Periodica Polytechnica Chemical Engineering, 2014, pages 43-48
  • International Journal of Toxicology, January 2003, pages 4-5
  • Food and Chemical Toxicology, January 2000, pages 79-98
  • Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, August 1985, pages 303-311
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

36th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,3,4-Octadecanetriol, 2-amino-, (2S, 3S, 4R)-

Anti-Aging Hydration
6 scientific references
  • Journal of Dermatological Science, January 2020, Volume 97, Issue 1, pages 2-8
  • Archives of Dermatological Research, December 2017, Volume 309, Issue 10, pages 795-803
  • Biochimica et Biophysica Acta: Biomembranes, May 2017, Volume 1859, Issue 5, pages 824-834
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, June 2007, Volume 29, Issue 3, pages 181-190
  • Molecular Medicine, January-March 2006, pages 17-24
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, October 2003, issue 5, pages 1135–1137
37 Stearic Acid Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Surfactant, Texture agent

37th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Stearic acid

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, May 2019, pages 1-61
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2008, page 310
  • Therapeutics for the Clinician, May 2005, pages 317-324
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2003, pages 559-568
38 Oleic Acid Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Surfactant

38th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

9-Octadecenoic acid (9Z)-

39 Alcohol Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Solvent, Preservative

39th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Ethanol

Hydration Alcohol
40 Tocopherol Antioxidant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

40th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-2H-benzopyran-6-ol; .alpha.-tocopherol; Vitamin E

Anti-Aging Evens Skin Tone Soothing
4 scientific references
  • Journal or Agricultural and Food Chemistry, June 2010, pages 7013-7020
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, November 2001, pages 1212-1217
  • Canadian Family Physician, July 2006, pages 855-856
  • Dermatologic Surgery, April 1999, pages 311-315
41 Lactic Acid Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Active, pH adjuster

41st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-

Anti-Aging Evens Skin Tone Hydration
9 scientific references
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2020, pages 116-126
  • International Journal of Dermatology, March 2019, ePublication
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, October 2018, pages 491-497
  • International Journal of Dermatology, September 2018, ePublication
  • Molecules, April 2018, ePublication
  • Journal of the American Dental Association, April 2016, pages 255-263
  • Cutis, January 2016, pages E9-E11
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, November 2010, pages 135-142
  • The Journal of Dermatology, January 2006, pages 16-22
42 Caprylyl Glycol Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

42nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Octane-1,2-diol

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Chelator

43rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Octanamide, N-Hydroxy-

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Frequently asked questions

What ingredients are in The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum?

WATER, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, PROPANEDIOL, GLYCERIN, SODIUM HYALURONATE, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, DIETHOXYETHYL SUCCINATE, SODIUM POLYACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE, BETAINE, XANTHAN GUM, DIMETHICONE, HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER, SODIUM PCA, SODIUM LACTATE, PCA, GLYCERYL ACRYLATE/ACRYLIC ACID COPOLYMER, HYDROGENATED LECITHIN, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, SERINE, ALANINE, GLYCINE, SODIUM PHYTATE, SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE, PVM/MA COPOLYMER, GLUTAMIC ACID, CITRIC ACID, LYSINE HCL, THREONINE, ARGININE, SODIUM METHYL STEAROYL TAURATE, PROLINE, CERAMIDE NP, CHOLESTEROL, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, PHYTOSPHINGOSINE, STEARIC ACID, OLEIC ACID, ALCOHOL, TOCOPHEROL, LACTIC ACID, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, CAPRYLHYDROXAMIC ACID.

What are the active ingredients in The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum?

SODIUM HYALURONATE, CITRIC ACID, CERAMIDE NP, LACTIC ACID.

How do I use The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum?

After cleansing, during the serum phase, apply a few drops to the skin. Use fingertips to gently massage and absorb the serum, starting from the center of the face working towards the edges

What skin types is The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum good for?

Judged on how rich the formula reads from its ingredient list, it suits Combination (oily), Oily skin best. It is the least natural fit for Dry, Combination (dry) skin.

Is The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum good for sensitive skin?

No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.

Is The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum fungal acne safe?

One ingredient could feed malassezia: Sorbitan Isostearate. That describes the yeast's food supply, not a prediction that it will cause a breakout.

Can I use The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum while pregnant?

Nothing in this formula is on the standard pregnancy-caution list. That is not medical clearance — check anything you use daily with your doctor or midwife.

Is The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum fragrance free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is fragrance-free.

Does The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum contain alcohol?

Yes — it contains Alcohol.

Is The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum silicone free?

No — it contains Dimethicone.

Does The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum contain essential oils?

No. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is essential-oil-free.

Is The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum paraben free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is paraben-free.

What can I layer with The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum?

It layers well with Azelaic acid, Copper peptides, Bakuchiol, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic acid, Ceramides. Take more care combining it with Retinoids (retinol, retinal), Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic), BHA (salicylic acid), PHAs (gluconolactone), Benzoyl peroxide — use them in separate routines or on alternate days.

When should I apply The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum?

Use it morning and evening, after toner, before moisturiser.

How many ingredients does The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum have?

It lists 43 ingredients, of which 4 are recorded as actives.

Who makes The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum?

COSRX, a brand based in Korea.

Brand
COSRX
Country
Korea

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