FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about The Cerum

Who can use The Cerum?

Exclusively For All.

The Cerum is designed for everyone — regardless of age, gender, or how involved your current skincare routine is. If you have skin, you're in.

If you're a someone who has never used a skincare product in their life, The Cerum is the perfect place to start. One step, four ingredients, no complicated routine required. Apply after washing your face and you're done.

If you're 18 or 80, just getting started or deeply invested in your routine — The Cerum fits in seamlessly. Hydrated skin isn't a trend. It's the foundation of healthy skin at every age.

Simple ingredients. Zero barriers. The Cerum is for you.

What are the 4 ingredients in The Cerum?

The Cerum contains just four ingredients: purified water (the base that carries and delivers everything), a dual-weight hyaluronic acid blend (both low and high molecular weight), vegetable glycerin (a humectant that draws and holds moisture), and a preservative (phenoxyethanol, to keep the formula safe and stable). That's it — nothing else.

Why does The Cerum use two types of hyaluronic acid?

Not all hyaluronic acid molecules are the same size — and size determines how deeply they work. High molecular weight (HMW) hyaluronic acid sits on the surface of the skin, sealing in moisture and creating a plumping, softening effect you feel immediately. Low molecular weight (LMW) hyaluronic acid has a smaller molecule that penetrates deeper into the skin, delivering hydration at a cellular level for lasting results. By combining both, The Cerum hydrates at every layer — surface and deep.

What does vegetable glycerin do?

Vegetable glycerin is a powerful humectant — meaning it actively draws moisture from the air into your skin and helps lock it there. It improves skin softness, smoothness, and supports a healthy skin barrier. It's naturally derived, non-irritating, and works beautifully alongside hyaluronic acid to keep skin continuously hydrated throughout the day.

Is the preservative safe?

Yes. The Cerum uses phenoxyethanol, a widely used cosmetic preservative approved by the FDA and considered safe at concentrations up to 1%. Without a preservative, any water-based formula is vulnerable to bacterial and microbial growth — especially after opening. It's what keeps your serum effective and safe from first use to last drop.

Why only 4 ingredients? Isn't more better?

Not when those four are doing everything your skin needs. Most serums are packed with fillers, fragrances, and extras that add complexity — not results. The Cerum keeps it simple on purpose: fewer ingredients means less risk of irritation, easier skin compatibility, and total transparency about what you're putting on your face. Each ingredient earns its place.

How do I use The Cerum?

Apply The Cerum to clean, slightly damp skin — right after washing your face, before it fully dries. This is key: hyaluronic acid draws moisture from its environment, so applying to damp skin gives it water to pull in rather than drawing from your skin itself. Use 3 drops (dropper) or 2 pumps, press gently into face and neck, then follow with your moisturizer to seal everything in.

When in my routine should I apply it?

The Cerum is a step 2 product. Apply it after cleansing and any toners, but before heavier creams, oils, or SPF. Serums are always thinnest-to-thickest — The Cerum is lightweight and water-based, so it goes on early to deliver active hydration before your moisturizer seals it in. It can be used both morning and night.

How much should I use per application?

A little goes a long way. For the 1 oz dropper, use 3 drops to cover the face and neck. For the 2 oz pump, 2 pumps is all you need. You don't need to saturate your skin — a thin, even layer applied to damp skin is all it takes for full effect.

What are other ways to use The Cerum?

The Cerum was designed for your face, but its simple, skin-friendly formula makes it incredibly versatile. A few favorite ways to use it beyond your morning routine:

All-over body hydration after a shower. Step out of the shower and, while your skin is still damp, apply the 2 oz pump all over your body before your lotion or body butter. The pump makes it effortless to cover more surface area quickly — just like on your face, damp skin lets the hyaluronic acid pull in moisture immediately, and your lotion seals it all in. The result is noticeably softer, more supple skin from head to toe.

On-the-go hand hydration. Keep the 2 oz pump in your car or at your desk for a quick, no-fuss moisture hit whenever your hands need it. One press of the pump is all it takes — no fumbling, and it absorbs instantly with no greasiness so you can get right back to what you were doing.

Anywhere your skin feels tight, dry, or in need of a refresh — The Cerum works.

Is The Cerum suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid is generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin, and The Cerum is formulated with that in mind — it's fragrance-free, dye-free, and free from common irritants. The minimal ingredient list means fewer potential triggers, making it a good fit for reactive skin types. Formulas with fewer, purposeful ingredients tend to offer the best experience for sensitive skin.

A note on skin reactions: As with any skincare product, results vary by individual. If you experience redness, itching, burning, or any sign of irritation, discontinue use immediately and consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider before resuming.

Can I use it if I have oily or acne-prone skin?

Absolutely. Oily skin still needs hydration — in fact, dehydrated skin can overproduce oil as a compensation response. The Cerum is completely oil-free and non-comedogenic (it won't clog pores). Hyaluronic acid hydrates with water, not oil, making it one of the best ingredients for oily and acne-prone skin types.

Is it safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding?

The ingredients in The Cerum are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Hyaluronic acid and vegetable glycerin are both well-regarded as low-risk topical ingredients. That said, we always recommend consulting your healthcare provider before adding any new skincare products to your routine during pregnancy.

What does hyaluronic acid serum do?

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that helps draw water into the skin and retain it. In a serum, it works to:

  • Improve hydration levels
  • Smooth the appearance of the skin
  • Support a softer, more supple texture

The result is skin that feels hydrated, balanced, and more comfortable throughout the day.

Is hyaluronic acid good for your skin?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid is widely regarded as one of the most effective and well-tolerated hydrating ingredients in skincare. It is:

  • Suitable for most skin types
  • Non-irritating for the majority of users
  • Compatible with nearly all skincare routines

Because it hydrates with water — not oil — it supports the skin without feeling heavy or congestive.

Can you use hyaluronic acid every day?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid is designed for daily use, both morning and night. Consistent use helps maintain hydration levels and supports overall skin comfort and appearance over time.

Can hyaluronic acid dry out your skin — and why is my skin still dry after using it?

Hyaluronic acid does not inherently dry out the skin — but application technique matters. Because it draws moisture from its environment, applying it to completely dry skin or skipping moisturizer afterward can lead to a feeling of dryness, particularly in low-humidity conditions. Common causes include:

  • Applying to dry rather than damp skin
  • Not following with a moisturizer to seal hydration in
  • Using too little or too much product

For best results, apply to slightly damp skin and always follow with a cream to lock everything in.

Do you need moisturizer after hyaluronic acid?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid hydrates by attracting water — but it does not seal it in. Following with a moisturizer helps:

  • Lock in hydration
  • Prevent moisture loss
  • Support the skin barrier

This step is essential for optimal results.

What goes first: hyaluronic acid or moisturizer?

Hyaluronic acid should be applied before moisturizer. As a lightweight, water-based serum, it is designed to go on early in your routine so it can deliver hydration before heavier products are applied.

Can I use hyaluronic acid with vitamin C?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid pairs well with vitamin C. It can help:

  • Support hydration
  • Improve overall skin comfort
  • Balance the feel of more active formulations

Apply hyaluronic acid first, then follow with vitamin C.

Can I use hyaluronic acid with retinol?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid is commonly used alongside retinol. It helps:

  • Reduce the feeling of dryness
  • Support skin hydration
  • Improve overall tolerance of stronger actives

Apply hyaluronic acid before retinol, unless otherwise directed by your product instructions.

Why is our blend of hyaluronic acid serum special?

The best hyaluronic acid serum is one that prioritizes effective hydration without unnecessary additives. The Cerum uses:

  • Multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid
  • Minimal, purposeful ingredients
  • A formula that supports both immediate and lasting hydration

A well-formulated serum should feel lightweight, absorb easily, and integrate seamlessly into your routine.

Can hyaluronic acid cause breakouts?

Hyaluronic acid itself is non-comedogenic and does not clog pores. Breakouts can happen when you layer products that don't suit your skin. Choosing a minimal, well-balanced formula like The Cerum helps reduce this risk.

What's the difference between the 1 oz and 2 oz sizes?

Same formula, different packaging. The 1 oz comes with a dropper for precise, controlled application — great for your daily facial routine. The 2 oz comes with a pump, making it ideal for quick, consistent doses whether you're using it on your face, all over your body after a shower, or keeping it handy in the car. The 2 oz also offers more value per ounce.

How long does a bottle last?

Used twice daily (morning and night), the 1 oz bottle lasts approximately 1–2 months depending on how much you apply. The 2 oz bottle lasts around 2–4 months with the same usage. Because a little goes a long way, The Cerum stretches further than expected.

How should I store The Cerum?

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The bathroom shelf is fine for most climates — just avoid prolonged heat exposure. No refrigeration required, though some customers enjoy using it slightly chilled. Once opened, use within 6–12 months for best results.

Is The Cerum cruelty-free?

We do not test on animals.