Jelly-like serum in a jar form? | Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 Review

Is your skin dry or dehydrated? If it's craving moisture and hydration, Arencia has a texture that's ready to quench your skin's thirst. Meet Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 - a jelly-textured serum powered by French hyssop.

Disclosure: The products featured in this post were gifted by Stylevana, but all opinions expressed are my own.

What's a serum?

A serum is a skincare product that is usually applied after toner and before moisturizer. Serums are typically formulated with a higher concentration of targeted or active ingredients, which is why they are sometimes simply referred to as "actives." Some brands distinguish between essences, serums, ampoules, and concentrates as separate product categories. However, these terms are often used interchangeably, and there is no universal definition that clearly separates one from another. The main differences usually come down to the product's formulation, texture, and the brand's marketing approach.

Is your skin dehydrated or just dry?

Dryness can be tricky because we sometimes think that a lack of moisture automatically means dry skin, while in many cases the skin is actually combination or oily but strongly dehydrated. So how can you tell if your skin is dry or dehydrated? Dry skin is a skin type that usually comes with flakiness. The pores are less visible, the skin naturally produces less oil, and fine lines and wrinkles may become more noticeable.

Dehydrated skin is not a skin type but a skin condition associated with a lack of water and a compromised skin barrier. The skin may become more prone to breakouts, and even if it's still oily or combination, it can become a bit flaky.

Your information is accurate overall, but I corrected the grammar, removed repetition ("still"), fixed a few scientific points, and made the wording flow more naturally while keeping your original structure and tone.

What hydrates skin the most?

Every skin reacts differently to the same ingredients, but certain ingredients are consistently recommended for improving skin hydration. At the same time, we have to remember that hydration without occlusion and a healthy skin barrier won't do much. Without occlusive ingredients, there's nothing to help trap water in the skin, and a compromised skin barrier is like a leaking wall - you can hydrate your skin as much as you want, but without repairing the barrier, the results will be limited.

For hydration, you need to include humectants in your routine. One of the most effective and well-studied ingredients for skin hydration is glycerin. Another popular humectant is hyaluronic acid, along with its related forms like sodium hyaluronate. Betaine and urea are also common hydrating ingredients.

Sugars like trehalose, sorbitol, and xylitol help attract and retain water in the skin. Amino acids such as serine, alanine, and valine also support skin hydration as part of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF).

And that's only a small part of the many humectants you can find in skincare products.

What’s Hyssop?

There's a group of Korean skincare products called hanbang (한방) skincare. The idea behind these products is to combine traditional Korean herbal ingredients and knowledge with modern cosmetic science and formulation technologies. Ingredients like ginseng, mugwort, licorice, and green tea are commonly associated with this approach.

When you see Hyssop in a product name, you might assume it's a hanbang ingredient - and you're not entirely wrong.

There's Korean mint (Agastache rugosa), also known as purple giant hyssop, which has been used in Korean folk medicine and traditional East Asian medicine for centuries. However, the hyssop that Arencia refers to is Hyssopus officinalis. Although it's also a member of the mint family, it's a different plant that's traditionally associated with the Mediterranean region, especially Greece, France, and other Southern European countries, where it has a long history of herbal use.

Arencia specifically states that it uses French hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) in this serum.

Meet the brand: Arencia

Arencia is a relatively young brand, but it has already gained a lot of love from skincare enthusiasts. The brand was established in 2017 by Joohyun Lim. Its story began at a small orphanage in Panama, where children were struggling with skin irritation. The solution to this problem was handcrafted cleansing bars made with natural ingredients.

Arencia uses many ingredients that may be unfamiliar to you, but they have been valued in traditional medicine for centuries - such as hyssop. The brand also incorporates various artisanal techniques, including the kneading method used in its cleansers, to help preserve the nutrients and beneficial properties of the ingredients throughout the production process.

One of Arencia’s biggest successes is the Rice Mochi series, which has become a favorite among many skincare lovers.

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30

It's a jelly-like serum enriched with French hyssop extract, niacinamide, and the Vitamin ACE Complex. It helps improve skin clarity, even out uneven skin tone, and enhance your skin's natural radiance. The lightweight jelly texture provides deep hydration without feeling heavy.

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 - Packaging

Arencia's packaging is delicate and minimalist. Inside the paper box, which feels thoughtfully designed with minimal excess packaging, you'll find a small 50 g jar. I was surprised by how much product it holds because it looks much smaller than it actually is. When you first open it, there's a white inner seal that protects the product and helps keep it fresh.

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 - Texture & Scent

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 really looks like blue jelly and reminds me of the ocean. It melts easily into the skin. Although the texture absorbs quickly, the serum leaves a lightweight moisturizing layer on the surface of the skin. The scent is delicate and herbal, and it seems to come naturally from the formula rather than from added fragrance.

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 - Vegetarian/Vegan-friendly & other claims

According to Arencia's website, the brand is cruelty-free, but there's no information about whether its products are vegan or vegetarian-friendly.

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 - Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Methylpropanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/​VP Copolymer, Acrylates/​C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arginine, Dextrin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Acrylate/​Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Adenosine, Pvm/​Ma Copolymer, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyssopus Officinalis Extract, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tocopherol, Panthenol, Pyridoxine, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ceramide NP, Glycosphingolipids, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Potassium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate

Water is typically listed in cosmetic products as "Aqua" or "Eau". It acts as a solvent, but it is not the same as ordinary drinking water. In skincare products, water must meet strict purity standards to ensure it is free from impurities, including minerals, microorganisms, and other contaminants. In most formulations, water makes up the largest proportion of the product. Butylene Glycol is a multifunctional ingredient commonly used in skincare and haircare products. It acts as a solvent and humectant, helping to dissolve ingredients while attracting moisture to the skin and hair. It can also enhance the penetration of active ingredients, improve a product's texture, and prevent formulations from drying out.

Propanediol, also known as a natural glycol, is a humectant and solvent commonly used as an alternative to propylene glycol. It helps dissolve ingredients, improves the texture and spreadability of formulations, and provides additional moisturizing benefits by attracting water to the skin. It can also enhance the delivery and performance of certain active ingredients. Glycerin, also known as Glycerol, is a humectant that helps attract and retain moisture in the skin. Depending on the product, it can be derived from natural sources or produced synthetically. It helps protect the skin from TEWL (transepidermal water loss), a natural process in which water evaporates from the skin's surface. Glycerin is one of the components of the NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor), which plays an important role in maintaining skin hydration. It is also widely used in hair care products due to its moisturizing properties. Glycerin is generally considered non-comedogenic and is unlikely to clog pores. Rather than irritating the skin, it can help support the skin barrier and reduce the feeling of dryness and irritation.

1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic solvent and preservative booster. It helps protect products from microorganisms by enhancing the effectiveness of other preservatives. It also has humectant properties, helping to keep the skin hydrated, and is generally well tolerated by the skin. Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, a water-soluble vitamin. It helps address issues such as wrinkles, acne, uneven skin texture, and enlarged pores, while promoting collagen synthesis. Niacinamide makes the skin barrier stronger. It might be handy in cellulite treatments. Do you want to fight pigmentation or uneven skin? Try mixing niacinamide with Kojic Acid, Arbutin, Vitamin C, Tranexamic Acid, or Retinol. 

Methylpropanediol is a synthetic solvent that helps dissolve other ingredients and improve the texture and spreadability of cosmetic formulations. It also has antimicrobial properties, which can support the preservation system of a product. Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer is a synthetic polymer primarily used as a thickening and stabilizing agent. It helps create a smooth, pleasant texture and improves the consistency of cosmetic formulations. Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic polymer with a high molecular weight. It is commonly used as a thickening and viscosity-controlling agent and helps stabilize emulsions in cosmetic formulations.

Arginine is an amino acid that plays an important role in protein production in the body. Research has also looked at the connection between arginine and HSV infections, suggesting that arginine levels may influence how the virus behaves in the body. Dextrin is a polysaccharide derived from starch. In cosmetics, it is primarily used as a stabilizer, binder, and viscosity-controlling agent. It can also help stabilize emulsions and improve the texture and consistency of skincare products. Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional ingredient used as a preservative and preservative booster in cosmetic formulations. It has mild moisturizing and antimicrobial properties, helping to keep products stable while supporting the effectiveness of other preservatives.

Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer is a synthetic polymer that acts as a humectant by helping to attract and retain moisture in the skin. It also forms a lightweight film on the skin, which helps reduce water loss and provides a smooth, hydrated feel. Adenosine naturally occurs in the skin and plays several roles in the body, including acting as a neurotransmitter. In skincare, it is valued for its anti-wrinkle and soothing properties. Adenosine has anti-inflammatory benefits, may support collagen production, and can help improve the appearance of fine lines, redness, and irritation. In hair care, adenosine is used in products designed to support hair growth and help reduce hair loss.

PVM/MA Copolymer is a synthetic film-forming ingredient. It creates a flexible film on the skin's surface, helping to improve product adherence, texture, and the long-lasting effect of cosmetic formulations. Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract is a plant extract that is primarily used to add natural color and a subtle scent to cosmetic products. It also has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from free radical damage and can act as a humectant, helping to attract and retain moisture in the skin. Sodium Hyaluronate is the sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid and a naturally occurring component of the skin. It has excellent water-binding properties, helping to attract and retain moisture for long-lasting hydration. By supporting the skin’s moisture balance, sodium hyaluronate helps maintain a plump and healthy-looking complexion. It can also form a lightweight moisturizing film on the skin’s surface and improve the stability of skincare formulations by preventing them from drying out.

Hyssopus Officinalis Extract is a plant extract rich in flavonoids, including quercetin, hesperetin, and kaempferol. It has antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and support anti-aging benefits. Thanks to its soothing and antimicrobial properties, it may also be beneficial for blemish-prone skin. 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (also known as Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) is a stable, oil- and water-soluble derivative of vitamin C. It acts as an antioxidant and skin-brightening ingredient. It can support collagen synthesis, including type I and type III collagen production. This form of vitamin C may help improve uneven skin tone, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and post-inflammatory erythema (PIE), as well as discoloration caused by UV exposure. Vitamin C derivatives are often recommended for use in the morning routine because they provide antioxidant protection and work alongside sunscreen to help defend the skin against UV-induced free radical damage. 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is considered one of the most stable vitamin C derivatives used in skincare and is generally better tolerated than pure L-ascorbic acid, making it a suitable option for some people with sensitive skin. It can be combined with ingredients such as niacinamide and vitamin E (tocopherol). One of its drawbacks is that it is usually more expensive compared with some other forms of vitamin C.

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) is a stable, water-soluble derivative of vitamin C that acts as an antioxidant and skin-brightening ingredient. It is more stable than pure L-ascorbic acid, but its ability to penetrate the skin is generally lower due to the need for conversion into active vitamin C. SAP supports collagen synthesis, including type I and type III collagen production. It can help improve uneven skin tone, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and post-inflammatory erythema (PIE). Additionally, it is particularly interesting for blemish-prone skin due to its antimicrobial properties and potential ability to help reduce acne-causing bacteria. Vitamin C derivatives are often recommended for use in the morning routine because they provide antioxidant protection and work alongside sunscreen to help defend the skin against UV-induced free radical damage. SAP can be combined with ingredients such as ferulic acid and vitamin E (tocopherol) for additional antioxidant benefits. Vitamin C plays an important role in wound healing and maintaining healthy blood vessels by supporting collagen formation. Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is generally considered a pregnancy-friendly vitamin C derivative when used in cosmetic products.

Ascorbic Acid is a powerful antioxidant that helps stimulate the production of type I and type III collagen while also supporting elastin synthesis. It can help improve hyperpigmentation, including both post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Vitamin C is often best used in your morning skincare routine, as it works alongside sunscreen to help protect the skin from UV-induced free radical damage. While it does not increase SPF, it enhances your skin's overall defense against oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals before they can damage skin cells. For enhanced antioxidant protection, L-ascorbic acid is commonly paired with vitamin E (tocopherol) and ferulic acid, as these ingredients help stabilize vitamin C and improve its photoprotective benefits. Vitamin C also plays an essential role in wound healing and maintaining healthy blood vessels by supporting collagen synthesis. For people with sensitive skin, rosacea, or some acne-prone skin, formulations containing more than 10% L-ascorbic acid may be irritating. In these cases, a lower concentration or a gentler vitamin C derivative may be a better choice.

Ascorbyl Glucoside is a stable, water-soluble derivative of Vitamin C. It has antioxidant and skin-brightening properties and can help improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. It may also support collagen synthesis, although the evidence varies between different forms of Vitamin C. Vitamin C can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and is often used in morning routines because its antioxidant properties can complement sunscreen. However, it should not replace sunscreen. Ascorbyl Glucoside can also be safely combined with niacinamide. Tocopherol is an antioxidant commonly known as Vitamin E. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps protect the skin from free radical damage and supports the skin's natural lipid barrier. It can also work synergistically with Vitamin C to boost antioxidant protection. Vitamin E may provide some photoprotective benefits, but it is not a substitute for sunscreen. Despite common claims, it does not act as a preservative or significantly improve scars. While some Vitamin E-rich formulations may feel too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin, Tocopherol itself is not universally considered pore-clogging.

Panthenol, also known as vitamin B5, is a humectant that helps retain moisture and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL). It has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting the skin barrier and helping with irritation and the healing process. It is especially useful for sensitive or damaged skin, including after sun exposure. In haircare, panthenol helps hydrate, soften, and improve hair manageability. Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) is a water-soluble vitamin that is mainly used in cosmetics for its skin-conditioning properties. It can help support balanced sebum production, making it a beneficial ingredient for oily and blemish-prone skin. It also has antistatic properties, which help reduce static electricity in hair and improve manageability. Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract is a plant extract rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols and other bioactive compounds. It helps protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals and supports overall skin health.

Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract is a plant extract rich in proteins, amino acids, vitamins (including vitamin E), minerals, and antioxidant compounds. It helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and supports skin health thanks to its moisturizing, soothing, and anti-aging properties. Rice extract may also help improve the condition of hair by supporting hydration, softness, and overall hair appearance. Hydrogenated Lecithin is a version of lecithin. It works as an emollient in the formulas. Ceramide NP (formerly known as Ceramide 3) is a skin-identical lipid that naturally occurs in the skin. Ceramides act like the "cement" between skin cells, helping to hold the skin barrier together. Ceramide NP strengthens the skin barrier, reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and helps keep the skin hydrated.

Glycosphingolipids are skin-identical lipids that help support and protect the skin barrier. They act as emollients, helping to soften the skin and reduce moisture loss. They also serve as precursors to ceramides, making them beneficial for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer is a cross-linked derivative of sodium hyaluronate. It forms a three-dimensional network that helps bind and retain water on the skin, providing long-lasting hydration. It acts as an effective moisturizer and can help reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by creating a protective, hydrating layer on the skin's surface.

Potassium Hyaluronate is a salt form of hyaluronic acid that acts as a humectant. As a hydrophilic ingredient, it attracts and binds water, helping to maintain skin hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL). It helps support the skin barrier and improves the skin's moisture retention. Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate is a modified form of hyaluronic acid that acts as a humectant. Due to its larger molecular size and positive charge, it forms a lightweight moisturizing film on the skin's surface, helping to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and provide long-lasting hydration. It also adheres well to the skin, making its moisturizing effects more durable than some other forms of hyaluronic acid.

Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate is a lower-molecular-weight form of sodium hyaluronate that acts as a humectant. Due to its smaller molecular size, it can penetrate the upper layers of the skin more effectively than regular sodium hyaluronate, helping to deliver moisture more efficiently. It binds water, helps maintain skin hydration, and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), leaving the skin feeling plump and hydrated. Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid is a lower-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that acts as a humectant. Thanks to its smaller molecular size, it can penetrate the upper layers of the skin more effectively than high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, helping to deliver moisture where it is needed. It is a naturally derived polymer that binds water, helps maintain skin hydration, and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

Hyaluronic Acid is an ingredient loved by many skincare enthusiasts. It naturally occurs in the skin, where it belongs to a group of molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). In simple terms, it is a long polysaccharide made of sugar molecules, which allows it to attract and hold water. Like other humectants, hyaluronic acid helps maintain skin hydration by binding moisture. One molecule of hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Hyaluronic acid is available in different molecular weights — smaller molecules can penetrate the skin more easily, while larger molecules mainly work on the skin’s surface, helping to reduce moisture loss and keep the skin hydrated. Pentylene Glycol is a multifunctional ingredient commonly used as a solvent and stabilizer in skincare formulations. It also has moisturizing properties, helping the skin retain water and improving the overall feel and performance of products. Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate is a modified form of Sodium Hyaluronate with moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties. It helps increase skin hydration, improve its suppleness and elasticity, and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

How to use Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30?

Scoop an appropriate amount of Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 from the jar and apply it to your skin. Use this serum after toner and before moisturizer. It can be used twice a day. Arencia also recommends applying a thicker layer as a sleeping mask during your evening routine.

How does Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 work?

This is my second jar of Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30, and I have to admit that I've tried quite a few Arencia products by now, yet I somehow keep forgetting to post about the brand here.

The main focus of this serum is French Hyssop and the Vita ACE Complex. Does that mean it's packed with vitamins? The formula contains vitamins C and E, although I couldn't spot vitamin A on the ingredient list. Instead, it includes vitamin B3, better known as niacinamide. According to Arencia, this 30% complex helps make dull, tired-looking skin appear brighter and more refreshed, while Hyssop Extract supports hydration and adds a healthy-looking glow.

I'm still not 100% convinced it makes a noticeable difference for pigmentation, but it definitely made my skin look more radiant. I used my first jar throughout spring and summer, and the lightweight jelly texture was perfect for warmer weather. It feels refreshing, absorbs quickly, and leaves my skin hydrated without feeling sticky.

The serum never irritated my sensitive skin, but the jar packaging is definitely unusual. It's probably the first serum in a jar I've seen in years. The last one I remember was from Blithe, and that was released around a decade ago. Overall, I'm pleasantly surprised by how versatile this serum is. It keeps my skin well hydrated, and I think it can work well for both dry and oily skin types thanks to its lightweight, moisturizing texture.

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 - Skin Compatibility

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 is recommended for all skin types.

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 - Pros & Cons

Pros:

+ Lightweight jelly texture that absorbs quickly + Hydrating without feeling sticky

+ Leaves skin looking more radiant

+ Gentle on sensitive skin

+ Suitable for all skin types

+ Works well under other skincare products

Cons:

- Jar packaging isn't the most hygienic or convenient

- Claims about pigmentation benefits may not be noticeable for everyone

- Vita ACE Complex name may be confusing since the formula doesn't appear to contain vitamin A despite the "ACE" branding

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 - Alternatives

For hydrating serums, you can try Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum - you can find a full review on Kherblog. Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum isn't primarily focused on hydration, but I actually find it more hydrating than anti-acne, so it's another one worth checking out. It also has a full review on Kherblog.

Two other serums that are generally loved for their hydrating properties are iUNIK Beta-Glucan Power Moisture Serum and Wellage Real Hyaluronic Blue 100 Ampoule.

Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 vs Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 12 - which is better?

Arencia also has another serum that comes in a dropper bottle called Holy Hyssop Serum 12. It contains the Vitamin ACE Complex as well, but at 12% instead of 30%. French Hyssop Extract remains the key ingredient, and the formula is fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin. What makes this serum particularly interesting is that it contains both kojic acid and peptides, giving it a slightly different focus from the 30 version. It’s hard to say which Arencia serum is better, as both formulas have a strong lineup of active ingredients. If your main concern is pigmentation rather than hydration, Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 12 may be the better choice.

Where to get Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 & how much does it cost?

I got Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30 from Stylevana. The regular price for 50g is $28.00, but it’s currently on sale for $22.00. You can also use my code INF10BETW to get an additional discount on your Stylevana purchase. Overall, I’m really enjoying Arencia Holy Hyssop Serum 30, especially when my skin needs extra hydration and a little boost of radiance. I like that the jelly texture feels lightweight but still leaves my skin comfortably hydrated, and the formula works well for me without causing irritation. If you’re mainly looking for hydration and glow, the Serum 30 is worth considering, while the Serum 12 may be more interesting if pigmentation is your main concern. Have you tried either of these Arencia serums?

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*** This post was created in collaboration with Stylevana ***