Anti-aging for all skin types – the Hylamide SubQ Anti-Age Serum review
Written By Jenny Wu on
You don’t have to be old with shriveled-prune skin to start using anti-aging products, nor should you, because by then it’d be a tad too late. So why is it that so many brands seem to create anti-aging products that are waaaay too thick and heavy for people with combo/oily skin? We need our anti-aging goodies too!
Hylamide SubQ Antiage Serum Overview
- What is it
- A super light serum full that aims to hydrate and plump our skin while minimizing the appearance of fine lines. Aka the standard anti-aging serum claim.
- How I use it
- 3-5 drops right after toning, twice a day
- Best suited for
- All skin types, but combo/oily skin folks will especially appreciate the water-like texture!
- Key ingredients
- Peptides, amino acid complexes, 5 forms of hyaluronic acid, and several fermented extracts (full ingredient list)
- Irritants
- None. It’s silicone-free, oil-free, fragrance-free, vegan, and has a comfortable pH range of 5.5-6.5
- Packaging
- A frosted glass bottle with a dropper
- Scent
- Like wet rags (which in case you’re wondering, is not very pleasant), though it’s not noticeable once you apply it
- Texture
- Like water. Honestly I have toners that feel heavier than this.
- Finish
- Just the smallest hint of stickiness at first that disappears after a few seconds
- What I love
- It’s incredibly light texture that makes layering with other products a dream. The ingredient list is solid as well, with barely any filler ingredients
- What I dislike
- The scent. It also doesn’t work overnight, so you definitely need to be patient.
- Size & Price
- $38/30ml
- Where to buy
- CVS (US, frequent 30% off sales), Beauty Bay (UK), Escentuals (UK and worldwide)
Closer look at the Hylamide brand
One of the brands under the oh-so-hot Deciem company (others include Niod and The Ordinary) whose mantra is “skincare for every depth of your skin“. With technologically advanced ingredients and delivery mechanisms, their products are designed to not just reach the surface, but all layers of our skin.
If you’re looking for something a little fancier than The Ordinary, but aren’t quite ready to splurge on Niod products, Hylamide is a great brand to consider.
Closer look at the SubQ Anti-age ingredients
Copper Lysinate/Prolinate – helps improve overall skin conditions by promoting collagen synthesis within our skin. This and methylglucoside phosphate (another key ingredient) form the anti-aging complex Neodermyl™. (source)
Nonapeptide-3 Retino-Complex – A new technology that delivers better(?) anti-aging results than Retinol with less irritation
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 – Aka Matrixyl Synthe’6™, an ingredient that helps to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles (source)
5 forms of hyaluronic acid – they work together to target surface hydration and promote rehydration from within, helping the skin look plump and healthy
Multi-functional saccharide – identical in form to skin carbohydrates that offers lasting rehydration, improves skin texture, and supports healthy skin barrier functions
Antarctic and Hawaiian algae complex – supports renewal and help prevent moisture loss
Skin binding glycoprotein – helps optimizes skin exposure to active ingredients for a boosted effect
I was deciding between this and The Ordinary’s “Buffet”, but ultimately decided on this one due to a few negative comments about Buffet’s texture, and I’m all about the nice texture. That and The Ordinary website recommended the Hylamide SubQ Anti-age as a stronger alternative, so I was sold (I’m very easily persuaded in case you haven’t noticed).
I’m not sure why there aren’t that many reviews for this product, as I think it’s fantastic. Impressive ingredient list aside (which I won’t even bother analyzing because Deciem already did a fab job at it), it works for all skin types and all ages. Anti-aging should be a preventive measure, not a reactive treatment, so don’t think it’s too early to start adding anti-aging products in your routine! From the bright pop of purple on the packaging to the super-light texture, I feel like this serum was made for the younger crowd that find traditional anti-aging serums off-putting.
As someone with combo (and now slightly sensitive) skin, this serum works beautifully with my skin and with other products. I did experience a bit of redness and tingling with this when my skin was irritated from Curology, but that’s more due to my comprised skin barrier than the serum itself.
Now for the million dollar question: does it work? I do have a few fine lines around my eyes (only visible when I squint) and one pesky smile line that’s a result of me sleeping on my side, but I haven’t noticed any significant improvements. At the same time, I haven’t noticed any new lines appearing either, and I’ve found my concealer creases less around the eye area. So while the results aren’t significant, there are definitely small improvements that I’m hoping will be more obvious as I continue using the product.
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Packaging7.5
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Ingredients9.5
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Texture/Application9.5
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Performance7.5
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Price8
As long as you keep in mind that anti-aging products in general take time to show their results and that they're often preventive rather than reactive (especially when you start young), you won't be disappointed with the lack of WOW factor. Instead, you'll appreciate the Hylamide SubQ Antiage for what it is - a beautifully light serum packed with great ingredients that will work for all skin types.
While I won't be repurchasing immediately (sorry, there are way too many products I want to try!), this will stay on my list as a solid anti-aging option that I can always count on. If you're thinking about adding an anti-aging product to your routine, this is an excellent option - you really can't go wrong with its elegant texture!
Hope you enjoyed this review, and let me know if you’ve have a favorite anti-aging serum you love or if you’ve ever tried any of Hylamide’s products before! I also have their C25 (vitamin C) and Low Molecular HA (hyaluronic acid) boosters that I’m testing out now, and will review those shortly!
Also, a big thank you to everyone who commented on my last post!! I was feeling pretty down when I wrote it, but it was comforting to know that I’m not alone in my struggles. So thank you! *kisses*
Passionate about science-based skincare. Tested hundreds if not thousands of products since my 20's. Working regularly with brands like iHerb, Ulta, CurrentBody, and MedStar Health to share my knowledge and experience in all things beauty. Learn more.
Skin profile: 35+, dry/combination, focused on well-aging, hydration, and a healthy glow ✨
Comments & Questions
Face to Curls
This does sound lovely and I agree, anti-aging products in general take time to show their results so we must be patient with it. Too many times people will say something doesn't work but it's because they are not being patient and giving the product the time it need to work it's magic although I admit there are some products out there that are just dud and no matter how long you use it, will do nothing for your skin. I will add this to a list of serums to try in the future. xx
Ann-Marie | http://facetocurls.com
Jenny Wu
I totally agree Ann-Marie! Usually I try to finish at least half of the bottle to see if I notice anything at all, and if by the time I finish the entire bottle there aren't any significant changes, I won't repurchase. With anti-aging it's especially difficult if you don't have a lot of lines or wrinkles, because then there's really no way to tell if it works or not!
Cat L.
Hi Jenny, thank you for bringing us this review! I've had my eyes on this serum for some time now (IG can be very persuasive) as I simply adore peptides and hyaluronic acid in skincare. As with most serums, I would expects the results not to be drastic overnight, it just takes some time and commitment. I also really like that this is available at CVS. Will most definitely give it a try! Thank you Jenny!
~ Cat L.
www.CatsDailyLiving.com
Jenny Wu
You're so welcome Cat, thank you for reading! Definitely make sure to get it when CVS is having a sale, as the bottle goes quite fast with daily usage!
LindaLibraLoca
Another brand that has been on my list to check out, but like you already said: So many products, so little time! I will keep it in mind for later, even though at my age anti-ageing skincare is no longer preventive only.
Linda, Libra, Loca: Beauty, Baby and Backpacking
Jenny Wu
That's got to be one of the most common struggles with beauty bloggers! The biggest selling point for this serum is its texture, so it's definitely worth checking out if you're looking for something light :)
Laura
Hi Jenny! I purchased this product last year and used it all up, but I didn't notice any difference in my skin. On paper the ingredients were very promising, but the performance didn't impress me. Wouldn't repurchase. I get a better plumping effect from my Asian essences, although they are much more expensive. I gotta say I love the look of your blog and clarity of this post though! xxx
Laura / Laurantaina Beauty Blog
Jenny Wu
Thanks so much Laura! :) Sorry to hear that the product didn't work though, it's extra disappointing when the ingredients look so good too! But I'm glad you found better luck with other products, though I'm now curious, which Asian essences in particular gives you the best plumping effect?
Stephanie | thefantasia.com
Jenny, you're really selling me on this! We have a new Deciem store opening right around where I live now so it's been hard on my self-control to only buy a few things at a time! I'm going to give this a go soon - the SA recommended this to me as well!!
Jenny Wu
Ooo, that's awesome! I would love to visit one of their stores and see all these products in person! They do have so many product, it's hard to just pick a few!
Shireen L. Platt
Hmm, this sounds really lovely but the price...eek! I'll let you in on a little secret or maybe not so secret of mine, I have been using The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA around my eye areas, leave it for about two minutes or so before layering my normal eye cream on top of it and I swear my eye areas are looking brighter and fresher. I got the tip from Gothamista which my new skincare guru. LOL!
Jenny Wu
Yeah, $38 for 30ml is a lot, so thank goodness for the frequent 30% off deals! Thank you for the amazing tip, but darn it now I need to get The Ordinary Matrixyl 10%!
Maggie Krol
Thank you for the detailed review! I agree, everything takes time. I am still on the search for a good eye/anti-aging cream as well.
Thank you for sharing.
Xoxo, Maggie
http://www.maggiekrol.com/beauties-who-brunch/
Jenny Wu
You're welcome Maggie, thank you for reading! I'm also on the search still for a good anti-aging eye cream - the good ones I've tried so far are moisturizing only :(
Blush Canvas
I pretty much use up whatever skincare product I'm using before I jump into another but I've been wanting to try stuff from Deciem for so long. I just don't know where to start! I find there's a lot of overlap with the brands and products. I'll have to set some time aside to research it properly (which happens to be one of my fave things to do).
Advaita | Blush Canvas
Jenny Wu
I try to use up my products first before purchasing a new one, but sometimes I just give in to the temptation, haha. I agree that Deciem has a lot of similar products across their different lines, and from what I've read online, the key difference seems to be the potency of the ingredients used, though it doesn't necessarily correlate with its effectiveness (at least according to reviews). Definitely recommend reading lots of reviews before deciding which one you want :)
Lyosha
sounds very interesting. serums are very useful indeed! thanks for sharing the post and opinion!
Lyosha
Inside and Outside Blog
P.S. would you like to follow each other?
Jenny Wu
Thank you Lyosha! Followed your blog on bloglovin :)
Mili
Thank you soo much for this review! I was just contemplating this serum at CVS the other day lol. The wet rag smell sounds... unpleasant to say the least but I'm glad to hear that it works ;) I'm so impressed at the ingredient list aaaaand the fact that it has a nice pH. I'll definitely need to keep my eye on this :D
Mili | Sharmtoaster
Jenny Wu
You're welcome Mili! Haha, the smell isn't too in your face and it does go away after you start massaging it in, otherwise this would be way too painful for twice a day use!
Kathryn
This is such a great review, I love that you broke it down into a rating for each specific feature it has. It seems like this really would be the perfect product for layering...especially with that light weight texture! I guess you can get past the unpleasant smell if it's effective!
Kathryn • simplykk.com
Jenny Wu
Thank you Kathryn! Even though I'm trying to minimize my routine, adding this serum doesn't feel like an extra step at all because it's so light! Luckily the unpleasant scent is very brief, otherwise I wouldn't be able to use it twice a day ????????
Bernadette
I am so keen on trying out this brand. There are many things from hylamide that sound good to me. This serum being one of those products. Great post, loved your detailed review.
www.themakeupaficionado.com
Jenny Wu
Thank you Bernadette! Though I'm still testing out the vitamin c and hyaluronic boosters from Hylamide, I can tell you that this serum is by far my favorite out of the 3. Makes me want to try their SubQ anti-age eye serum now!
Tara
Bleghhhh. I think the scent alone would instantly turn me off! I can't stand things that smells horribly. :( I am okay with the Missha one I use, but if I want a new one, I am steering clear of this one ^^;; Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this product :)
Jenny Wu
Haha, I may have made the scent out to be worse than it really is, but once you get used to it it's not that bad? XP I have a love hate with Missha products - they contain so many ingredients in their products, it's impossible to figure out the cause of an allergic reaction when one does happen :/
Naya // The Party Parrot Blog
Thanks a lot for such a detailed review Jenny! I have never heard about this product before, but now am curious to try it!
Jenny Wu
You're welcome Naya, it's definitely a solid serum that will play nicely with your existing routine :)
Marina Rosie
Can't believe I haven't read this yet though Jenny, Imma try to keep up to date from now on! xx What a fabulous review, this seems like a product that my mother dearest would like! x
Lots of love,
Marina Rosie xx
http://marinawriteslife.blogspot.fr/
Jenny Wu
Thank you for your kind comment Marina! If your mother does end up buying this I hope she enjoys it as much as I did :)