Minimalist Hyaluronic + PGA 2% Face Serum

The Minimalist Hyaluronic + PGA 2% Face Serum is a hydrating serum for skin that feels dehydrated, looks dull, or develops fine dry lines even when you moisturise regularly. It pairs Hyaluronic Acid (which pulls water deep into skin layers) with Polyglutamic Acid (a natural biopolymer that holds up to four times more moisture than Hyaluronic Acid alone and forms a film that stops that moisture from evaporating after application). The Hyaluronic Acid comes in three molecular sizes to hydrate from the surface all the way to the deeper skin layers. Panthenol, Niacinamide 1%, and Allantoin add barrier support and skin-calming alongside hydration. Apply to slightly damp skin before moisturiser. Non-comedogenic. Fragrance-free. Paraben-free. BIS compliant. Part of the Minimalist skincare range.

Q1. What is PGA and why is it better than Hyaluronic Acid alone?

PGA (Polyglutamic Acid) is a natural biopolymer that holds up to four times more moisture than Hyaluronic Acid. HA pulls water into the skin. PGA forms a surface film that stops the moisture from evaporating. Together they hydrate deeper and retain it longer than either alone. For the Hair Growth Serum that also combines multiple actives for stronger results than any single ingredient achieves alone, a multi-active scalp growth serum uses the same multi-ingredient combined approach for follicle stimulation on the same daily routine.

Q2. Should I apply this on wet or dry skin?

Slightly damp skin, within 60 seconds of rinsing. Damp skin gives the humectants surface moisture to work with immediately, maximising the plumping effect. In very dry conditions, follow immediately with a moisturiser to seal the hydration in. For the Maleic Serum 5% that also relies on timed dry-hair application for best penetration, a timed hair treatment serum uses the same principle of timed application for maximum active penetration on the same wash days.

Q3. Is this suitable for Indian oily skin?

Yes, one of the most important serums for oily skin. Oily skin often overproduces sebum as a response to dehydration underneath. Water-based hydration from this serum can gradually reduce that compensatory oiliness. Oil-free and non-comedogenic so it adds no additional oiliness. For the SA LHA Cleanser that manages the surface oiliness this serum addresses at the hydration source, a pore clearing face wash manages surface sebum and congestion while this serum addresses the dehydration driving excess sebum production.

Q4. How is this different from a moisturiser?

This serum is water-based hydration applied first. A moisturiser is applied after to seal the serum's moisture in with lipids. They work together: the serum hydrates, the moisturiser seals. Using only a moisturiser skips the deep water hydration. Using only this serum without a moisturiser in dry conditions risks moisture loss. For the Glycolic Acid Liquid that is used in the evening after the serum primes skin, a skin renewal exfoliant clears dead cells on treatment evenings so this hydrating serum reaches fresh skin the next morning.

Q5. Can I use this with Retinol?

Yes, a specifically recommended pairing. Apply this serum on damp skin first, allow 30 seconds, then apply Retinol. The moisture cushion significantly reduces the dryness and irritation retinol causes on unprepared skin, making retinol much easier to tolerate for beginners. For the PHA Toner that also pairs well before this serum for better absorption on clear skin, a gentle exfoliating toner clears dead surface cells before this serum applies for maximum hydration penetration into fresh skin.