I'm a beauty editor, and this is the new $55 serum I've been using to tackle dehydrated skin

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If I’m being honest, it’s rare that I ever get excited about skincare launches. Don’t get me wrong, as a beauty editor, one of my favourite things about the job is learning about the science and inspiration behind new innovations and updated formulas — but when it comes down to me personally, I pretty much stick to the products I know and that have earned my trust over time.

My skin is a rollercoaster. It's a combination of an oil-slicked T-zone, enlarged pores and stubborn acne scars riddled with a side dryness around my mouth and undereye area — this all changes (and worsens) with the weather. While I recognize acne to be my most problematic concern, after years of trial and tribulations, I’ve learned that the best way to tackle my skin woes is to feed it with hydration first.

Often synonymous with dry and reactive skin, dehydration is a skin condition that affects all skin types. Dehydrated skin lacks water due to the dry environment — which is also why dehydration is typically associated with the harsh, dry weather we experience during the winter months — but dehydration can occur at any time of the year. When oily skin is exposed to a dry environment that lacks humidity, the skin naturally gets stripped of its water and its barrier will react by producing excessive amounts of sebum, which can lead to congestion. Stress, makeup, the misuse of skincare and indoor cooling/heating can also impact the skin’s water levels.

While Vichy’s Minéral 89 Fortifying Daily Skin Booster has been my tried and true go-to product for years, just when I was down to my last pump, I was coincidently introduced to a cult-favourite skincare brand’s newest super-hydrating serum. And with its delicious yummy scent and uber-cute packaging, it was one that I couldn’t resist trying. Enter the Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($55).

Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Serum

SHOP IT: Sephora, $55

What is it?

A lightweight serum made with plum and next-gen hyaluronic acid specially designed to lock in moisture and plump the skin layer by layer with hydration for a healthy, visibly plump and dewy effect. Also formulated with vitamin B5, the Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Serum works to soothe and repair. Its silky, instantly-absorbing texture delivers ultimate moisture and finishes the look of fine lines and wrinkles for a vibrant and glowing complexion.

How does it work?

Powered by three types of plum —Kakadu, Illawarra and Burdekin— this serum works as a powerhouse to rejuvenate, nourish, and boost skin for a youthful appearance. The four types and five different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid help deeply penetrate the skin while the vegan collagen and silk protein are plant-based ingredients that help strengthen the skin barrier by protecting against free radicals.

For the best results, apply one to two pumps of serum before moisturizer and gently pat the formula onto the face, neck until its fully absorbed.

What’s my verdict?

According to Glow Recipe, users should see instant results after just one use. While I didn’t quite notice the visible difference in my skin, my first impression of this serum goes far beyond my initial expectations. I immediately fell in love with its weightless texture and how quickly it absorbed into my skin, leaving it feeling clean and incredibly smooth — just as good as my beloved Vichy 89, but will a more energizing and refreshing kick. I then followed the serum with Glow Recipe’s bestselling Watermelon Pink Juice Moisturizer. The duo made my skin the perfect canvas for makeup: hydrated and smooth without the heavy feel of layering.

Over a week of daily use, I’ve noticed a drastic improvement in the tone and overall feel of my skin. The size of my pores have also shrunken and I can confidently say that it has helped control the oiliness along my t-zone. As for breakouts, I haven’t gotten any new additions since. So could this serum be the unsung hero of my K-beauty goals? Only time will tell. The true test will be when the cold weather arrives but until then, I’d say that this serum is definitely worth the try.

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