Anua 7 RICE CERAMIDE HYDRATING BARRIER SERUM 50ML
A milky, deep-hydrating serum formulated with 7 types of Rice Extract and Ceramide NP to repair compromised skin barriers. Rebuilds the lipid matrix while brightening dullness via Niacinamide. Absorbs rapidly without stickiness in Mauritius humidity, preventing transepidermal water loss. Fragrance-free. Safe for daily use on sensitive, over-exfoliated skin.
At-a-Glance (Is this for you?)
100% Genuine | Fragrance-Free | Vegan-Friendly* | Cruelty-Free*
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Anua |
| Product Type | Barrier Serum |
| Net Volume | 50ml |
| Key Actives | Rice Extract (Oryza Sativa), Ceramide NP, Niacinamide |
| Skin Types | Dry, Dehydrated, Combination, Sensitive |
| Routine Complexity | Straightforward β use anytime |
If your skin stings when you apply a basic moisturizer β that burning is not "sensitivity." It is your barrier asking for help. Your stratum corneum has micro-tears that require lipid reinforcement.
If your skin feels oily on the surface but tight underneath, you are dehydrated-oily β not simply oily. Your skin is overproducing oil to compensate for water loss. This product addresses the underlying dehydration, which reduces surface oiliness over time.
Pros: Delivers instant relief to irritated skin, plumps dehydration lines, and restores the skin's lipid barrier without heavy occlusion. Caveats: May be slightly rich for extremely oily skin in peak summer; requires an occlusive moisturizer to seal in the ceramides effectively.
*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No animal-derived ingredients detected. This is NOT a formal vegan certification.
*Brand states cruelty-free, but sells products in Mainland China where post-market animal testing may be required by law.
The Over-Cleansing Cycle (Why your skin feels worse)
That grimy feeling in Mauritius heat is not dirt β it is sebum and sweat doing their protective jobs. Washing more than twice daily strips your acid mantle (target pH 4.5-5.5), which triggers compensatory sebum overproduction, creating the very oiliness you are trying to eliminate.
This serum breaks the cycle by immediately replenishing the ceramides lost during harsh cleansing. By restoring the lipid matrix, it signals to your sebaceous glands that the skin is protected, naturally down-regulating excess oil production.
Quick Start (60-Second Essentials)
Step 1: Use AM and PM after cleansing and toning.
Step 2: Dispense 2-3 drops (about a pea-sized puddle).
Step 3: Press gently into slightly damp skin until fully absorbed.
Introduce this as the ONLY new product in your routine. Wait a full 14 days before adding anything else. This isolation window ensures you can identify whether any reaction is caused by this specific product.
AM Routine Guide (Morning sequence)
1. Rinse with water or use a gentle cleanser.
2. Apply a hydrating toner.
3. Apply Anua 7 Rice Ceramide Hydrating Barrier Serum.
4. Seal with a lightweight moisturizer.
5. Apply SPF 50+.
In Mauritius morning humidity, humectants (HA, glycerin) work exceptionally well because they draw water from the humid air rather than from deeper skin layers.
PM Routine Guide (Evening sequence)
1. Double cleanse (oil cleanser followed by water-based cleanser).
2. Apply a hydrating or soothing toner.
3. Apply Anua 7 Rice Ceramide Hydrating Barrier Serum.
4. Apply your active treatment (e.g., Retinoid or AHA/BHA) if scheduled.
5. Seal with a nourishing moisturizer or sleeping mask.
This serum acts as an excellent buffer. If your skin is sensitive to retinoids, apply this serum first, let it dry down, and then apply your retinoid to reduce irritation.
How to Use (Amounts, technique, and tips)
| Area | Amount | Pumps/Drops |
|---|---|---|
| Face | Pea-sized puddle | 2-3 drops |
| Neck (Optional) | Small pearl | 1-2 drops |
Pat/Press (do not rub) the serum into your skin. Friction degrades formulas and increases physical irritation on an already compromised barrier.
Apply to slightly damp skin. Ceramides and humectants bind more effectively when there is existing moisture on the epidermis.
Hands deliver 100% of product. Cotton pads absorb approximately 30-40%. Use hands to prevent product waste.
Wait 30-60 seconds before applying your next product to ensure the emulsion has fully settled into the stratum corneum.
The Full Routine Encyclopedia (All product types, all steps)
This is an encyclopedia map of all product types. You do not use all of these daily. You select modules based on your skin state.
Viscosity ladder: thinnest β thickest; water-phase before oil-phase; treatments before seals.
Wait-time defaults: watery layers 10-20s; serum layers 30-60s; before sunscreen 10-15 min if going outdoors or applying makeup.
Amount defaults (unless brand-specific instructions override):
Watery toner/essence: 5-8 drops per layer (or "coin-size puddle in palm")
Serum/ampoule: 2-3 drops or 1 pump (face), add +1 drop for neck if used
Eye product: Β½ rice-grain per eye (very small)
Gel moisturizer: 1 pea-1.5 peas; Cream: 1-2 peas
Occlusive seal: rice-grain to pea-size max (thin film)
Sunscreen: 2-finger rule for face; +1 finger for neck
Skin state rules:
Hydrators (toners/essences/HA): best on slightly damp skin.
Retinoids: best on fully dry skin; if sensitive, wait 10 minutes after cleansing.
Exfoliating acids: apply to dry or lightly damp depending on irritation; keep to one lane.
Hard cap rule: If routine pills, stings, or feels heavy β reduce layers, not increase.
AM (maximum map):
- Rinse / Gentle Cleanse (optional) - Amount: 1-2 pumps (or pea-size gel). Wait: rinse, pat to slightly damp (don't fully dry unless using LAA or retinoid later). Use when: oily waking skin, heavy night occlusion, or sweat buildup.
- pH-Prep / Balancing Toner (optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops (hands). Wait: 10-20s. Purpose: comfort + reduce tightness; not mandatory.
- Hydrating Toner Layers (1-3 layers, optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops per layer. Wait: 10-20s between layers. Rule: in high humidity, often 1 layer is enough.
- Essence (optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops. Wait: 10-20s. Note: choose either toner layering or essence stacking if you pill easily.
- Mist / Thermal Water (optional micro-step) - Amount: 1-2 light sprays. Wait: 10s. Use for: re-dampening between hydrating layers (avoid soaking).
- Booster / Soothing Serum (optional) - Amount: 2-3 drops / 1 pump. Wait: 30-60s. Best for: redness, sensitivity, post-acne inflammation.
- Antioxidant Lane (optional, choose ONE) - Option A: L-Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C serum. Skin state: dry skin. Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 1-3 minutes before next step. Option B: Gentler antioxidant. Skin state: damp or dry. Wait: 30-60s. Rule: pick one antioxidant product, not two.
- Pigment Support Lane (optional, choose ONE) - Amount: 2-3 drops / 1 pump. Wait: 30-60s. Dependency: pigmentation routines fail without daily SPF.
- Hydration Serum Lane (optional) - Skin state: slightly damp. Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 30-60s. Seal rule: must be sealed with moisturizer, especially if spending long hours in AC.
- Oil-Control / Sebum-Regulating Lane (optional, choose ONE) - Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 30-60s. Rule: if using strong actives elsewhere, keep this gentle.
- Peptides / Growth-Factor / Repair Lane (optional) - Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 30-60s. Conflict note: if you use pure LAA, keep peptides in PM if sensitive.
- Eye Serum/Cream (optional) - Amount: Β½ rice-grain per eye. Wait: 10-20s. Placement: before moisturizer (unless very thick eye balm).
- Moisturizer (gel-cream or cream) - Amount: gel 1-1.5 peas / cream 1-2 peas. Wait: 1 minute before sunscreen if pilling-prone. Climate rule: humid climate often prefers gel textures.
- Optional Sealing Layer (only if dry/AC) - Amount: rice-grain to pea-size max. Wait: 1-2 minutes. Avoid if: clog-prone, oily, or fungal-risk.
- Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ (non-negotiable) - Amount: 2-finger rule face (+1 finger neck). Wait: 10-15 minutes before makeup/outdoor sweat. Reapply: every 2 hours of sun exposure.
- Lip SPF (optional but ideal) - Amount: 1 swipe, reapply like sunscreen.
In AM, prioritize comfort + SPF adherence over stacking. In high humidity, fewer layers often perform better.
PM (maximum map):
- Micellar (optional pre-cleanse) - Amount: enough to saturate cotton; gentle swipe. Use when: heavy makeup, stubborn sunscreen, or sensitive to double cleanse oils.
- Oil Cleanser / Balm (if SPF/makeup) - Amount: 1-2 pumps (or grape-size balm). How: massage on dry skin 30-60s β add water to emulsify until milky β rinse. Wait: proceed immediately.
- Water Cleanser (second cleanse) - Amount: 1-2 pumps. How: gentle 30-60s, rinse. Skin state after: choose fully dry if using retinoids; otherwise slightly damp is fine.
- pH-Prep Toner (optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops. Wait: 10-20s. Use for: comfort, reduce tightness.
- Hydrating Toner Layers (1-3 layers, optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops per layer. Wait: 10-20s. Rule: stop early if you start to feel tacky.
- Essence (optional) - Amount: 5-8 drops. Wait: 10-20s.
- Soothing / Barrier Serum (optional) - Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 30-60s. Best for: buffering active lanes.
- [Anchor Product] - Amount: use product-type default unless brand guidance overrides. Wait: If anchor is retinoid: apply on fully dry skin; wait 2-5 minutes before moisturizer if sensitive. If anchor is acid/exfoliant: wait 1-3 minutes. Otherwise: wait 30-60 seconds.
- Targeted Serum (optional, ONLY if not conflicting) - Amount: 2-3 drops. Wait: 30-60s. Rule: only add if it's a different pathway and doesn't increase irritation.
- Moisturizer - Amount: gel 1-1.5 peas / cream 1-2 peas. Wait: 1 minute.
- Sleeping Mask (optional) - Amount: thin layer. Use when: dry, dehydrated, or barrier-support nights.
- Occlusive Seal (optional; avoid if clog-prone) - Amount: rice-grain to pea-size max. Use when: very dry/AC-heavy lifestyle or barrier repair phase.
- Spot Treatment / Pimple Patch (as needed) - Spot gel: rice-grain amount only on lesion. Patch: apply on clean, dry skin; press 5 seconds.
- Lip Sleeping Mask (optional) - Amount: thin swipe.
Do not layer retinoids with AHA/BHA in the same night; keep 'one lane' per night.
One-lane rule: Retinoid OR Exfoliation OR Strong Vitamin C (LAA) OR Acne-control active per routine; barrier/hydration can always accompany.
If unsure: default to the safest lane = barrier/hydration, and reduce layers.
Viscosity and Layering Science (Where it fits)
This serum sits on Rung 3 of the Viscosity Ladder (Medium Emulsion fluid). It should be applied after thin, watery toners and essences, but before thicker lotions and creams.
Because it is an emulsion containing both water-phase hydrators and oil-phase ceramides, it acts as a bridge in your routine, helping subsequent thicker layers adhere properly to the skin.
The ceramides in this formula have a molecular weight over 500 Daltons; they do not penetrate into the deep dermis, but rather slot perfectly into the extracellular matrix of the stratum corneum to patch micro-tears on the surface.
What to Expect (Results timeline)
| Phase | Timeframe | What You Will Notice |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 β Immediate | 0-24h | Skin feels softer, less tight after cleansing. Transient sensory effects; not structural change. |
| Phase 2 β Adjustment | Week 1-2 | Reduction in redness and stinging from other products as the barrier begins to stabilize. |
| Phase 3 β Epidermal Turnover | Week 4-6 | First real results. Skin appears more luminous and resilient to environmental triggers. Aligns with one complete epidermal turnover cycle (28-60 days depending on age). |
| Phase 5 β Maintenance | Ongoing | Results stabilize. Continued use maintains improvements but does not produce further gains. Do NOT increase dosage seeking additional results. |
Who Should Use This (Clinical triage)
Before starting this product, your routine MUST already include: a gentle cleanser and a reliable SPF. Without these foundations, attempting barrier repair is futile as environmental UV damage will continue to degrade lipids.
| Condition | Action |
|---|---|
| PROCEED IF: | Barrier is compromised, skin feels tight or dehydrated, dealing with dullness, or using strong retinoids/acids that require buffering. |
| PAUSE IF: | You have an active fungal acne flare (ferments/oils can trigger), or you are not consistently removing your nighttime skincare correctly. |
| STOP / CONSULT IF: | You experience persistent hives, known allergy to rice or niacinamide, or have open, weeping eczema wounds requiring medical attention. |
Skin Type Compatibility
| Skin Type | Compatibility | Specific Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dry / Alipidic | Excellent | Provides essential ceramides. Must be sealed with a thicker cream. |
| Dehydrated-Oily | Excellent | Breaks the overproduction cycle by deeply hydrating. Use a light gel moisturizer over it. |
| Combination | Very Good | Apply evenly. May suffice as a standalone moisturizer in the AM under SPF for the T-zone. |
| Sensitive / Compromised | Excellent | Specifically formulated to rebuild the lipid barrier without irritating actives. |
Targeted Concerns (What it treats)
Barrier Compromise: Ceramide NP directly slots into the stratum corneum's lipid matrix, physically repairing micro-tears and stopping transepidermal water loss.
Dullness and Uneven Tone: Niacinamide inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, while Rice Extract provides antioxidant smoothing for a glass-skin finish.
Cannot physically shrink pores. Cannot lighten your natural skin tone β 'brightening' means fading excess pigment and increasing light reflection off a smooth, repaired barrier, not changing your natural complexion.
Best Paired With (Synergistic pairings)
Dr.Althea 345 RELIEF CREAM 50ML: The ultimate barrier-sealing cream. Use PM to lock in the ceramides from the Anua serum without feeling heavy.
Anua BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner 150ml: The BHA clears the pore lining of excess sebum, allowing the rice ceramides to absorb efficiently. Use BHA first, wait 2 minutes, then apply this serum.
Beauty of Joseon RELIEF SUN AQUA FRESH RICE + B5 50ML: A perfect AM pairing. The rice extracts in both products compound their brightening effects, while the SPF protects the newly repaired barrier.
Stress, Cortisol and Your Skin
Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which breaks down collagen, increases TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss), and compromises barrier function. This manifests as sudden dryness, dullness, and increased sensitivity.
This serum actively counters the physical manifestations of cortisol spikes by artificially supplying the ceramides your stressed skin has stopped producing efficiently. By halting TEWL, it prevents the cascade of secondary inflammation caused by a breached barrier.
Wudu and Prayer Compatibility
Water-Permeable (wudu-compatible). This serum is a water-based emulsion that absorbs fully into the stratum corneum. It does not contain heavy silicones or form an impenetrable occlusive film on the skin's surface.
Because it leaves no physical barrier, water can reach the skin without obstruction during ablution.
Adilsons provides this assessment based on the product's physical properties. Rulings on wudu validity vary between scholars. Consult your own trusted Islamic authority.
Myth Replacement (Common misconceptions)
MYTH: 'Ceramides are only for dry winter skin.' REALITY: Ceramides are structural components of your skin barrier. In Mauritius summer, UV exposure and AC environments rapidly deplete your natural ceramides, making supplementation essential year-round to prevent heat-induced dehydration.
MYTH: 'If my skin is oily, I don't need a barrier serum.' REALITY: Many oily skin types are actually dehydrated. A damaged barrier leaks water, prompting the skin to pump out excess oil as an emergency seal. Repairing the barrier with ceramides often reduces overall oiliness.
Climate Fit for Mauritius
| Season | Conditions | How to Adjust |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Dec-Mar) | High humidity, intense UV | Use 1-2 drops AM. May replace a heavy moisturizer entirely for oily/combination skin before applying SPF. |
| Winter (Jun-Sep) | Cooler, drier trade winds | Use 3-4 drops AM and PM. Always follow with a thicker occlusive cream to lock in the ceramides. |
In air-conditioned environments, humectants can draw moisture FROM your deeper skin layers instead of from the air. ALWAYS seal this serum with an occlusive moisturizer when in AC for extended periods.
Mauritius tap water hardness varies by region. Hard water leaves a calcium stearate film after cleansing that causes tightness. Applying this serum immediately to damp skin helps mitigate that post-wash tightness.
Complete Ingredient Transparency
| Ingredient | Evidence Grade | Mechanism | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Water | Moderate | Provides amino acids and vitamins for antioxidant smoothing and brightening. | Plant |
| Ceramide NP | Strong | Rebuilds the lipid matrix of the stratum corneum, halting TEWL. | Synthetic/Bio-ferment |
| Niacinamide | Strong | Inhibits melanosome transfer; supports natural ceramide synthesis. | Synthetic |
| Panthenol | Strong | Converts to Vitamin B5, soothing inflammation and promoting fibroblast proliferation. | Synthetic |
Full INCI List: Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Water, Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Dipropylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Methyl Gluceth-20, Panthenol, [--- Estimated 1% Line ---] Ceramide NP, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Alpha-Arbutin, Allantoin, Betaine, Carbomer, Arginine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA.
The preservative system relies on 1,2-Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin (gentle, paraben-free booster preservatives).
Allergens and Fragrance Disclosure
Fragrance-Free. Formulated without synthetic Parfum or essential oils to minimize irritation on compromised barriers.
No detectable scent. Any faint aroma is purely the natural characteristic of the rice bran water and will dissipate instantly.
None detected in declared INCI based on the EU 26 allergen screen.
Alcohol-Free. Contains no drying alcohols (like Alcohol Denat or Ethanol) that would strip the barrier.
Conscious and Permissible Formulation
Halal-Friendly.*
Vegan-Friendly.*
Cruelty-Free Status: Brand states cruelty-free, but sells products in Mainland China where post-market animal testing may be required by law. Cross-border e-commerce sales may be exempt.*
Microplastic-Free: Yes. Relies on Carbomer as a thickening agent, avoiding controversial microplastic polymers.
*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No ethanol from fermentation, no porcine-derived ingredients, and no haram animal-derived ingredients detected in the declared ingredient list. This is NOT a formal Halal certification. Muslims with stricter requirements should consult their own scholars.
*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No animal-derived ingredients detected. This is NOT a formal vegan certification by The Vegan Society or equivalent body.
Evidence, Regulation and Claims
MFDS Classification: Functional Cosmetic for Brightening (due to Niacinamide concentration).
The Korean 'λ―Έλ°±' (mibaek) classification means regulation of melanin production β fading dark spots to reveal your natural tone. It does NOT bleach or change your natural complexion.
Evidence Confidence: High. The combination of Niacinamide, Ceramides, and Panthenol is one of the most exhaustively studied and proven triads in dermatological science for barrier repair.
Product Identity and Provenance
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| English Name | Anua 7 Rice Ceramide Hydrating Barrier Serum |
| Brand | Anua |
| Country of Manufacture | South Korea |
| Net Volume | 50ml |
| PAO (Period After Opening) | 12 months |
Sensory and Chemical Profile
| Attribute | Profile |
|---|---|
| Texture | Milky Emulsion |
| pH | ~5.5 (Acid Mantle Optimized) |
| Absorption Speed | Under 30 seconds |
| Finish | Slightly dewy, non-sticky |
Fungal Acne Safety: FA-Conditional. Formulations containing complex plant extracts like Rice Bran and certain lipids can sometimes feed Malassezia. Monitor closely if you are prone to Seborrheic Dermatitis or Malassezia Folliculitis.
Delivers ceramides in partial alignment with the skin's natural lipid bilayer, focusing heavily on the structural repair aspect of Ceramide NP.
Pilling Risk and Texture Mechanics
Pilling Assessment: Low.
Because it is a stable emulsion, it layers exceptionally well under both silicone-based sunscreens and heavy makeup. It does not contain high levels of incompatible film-formers.
To ensure zero pilling: apply to slightly damp skin, press gently, and wait a full 60 seconds before applying heavy SPF or foundation.
Stability, Spoilage and Oxidation
Fresh color is opaque milky white. This formula is highly stable and not prone to rapid oxidation like L-Ascorbic Acid serums.
In Mauritius, store away from direct sunlight and heat. Bathroom cabinets are fine, provided they do not experience extreme temperature fluctuations from hot showers.
Spoilage signs include a shift in color towards yellow/brown, a sour or rancid smell, or severe phase separation that does not remix upon shaking. When in doubt, discard.
Safety and Patch Test Protocol
Always patch test: apply a small amount to your inner forearm for 24h, then behind your ear for 24h, before beginning facial use.
If adverse reaction: STOP ALL ACTIVES. For 72 hours, use ONLY gentle cleanser + plain moisturizer + mineral SPF. NO acids, retinoids, Vitamin C, exfoliants, or essential oils. After 72h, reintroduce ONE product per 14 days.
Emergency stop signals: Hives, swelling, blistering, persistent burning, breathing difficulty (seek emergency care).
Troubleshooting Guide
| If You Experience | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pilling | Incompatible layers or excess product | Reduce amount to 2 drops. Wait 60s before next layer. Pat, do not rub. |
| Increased oiliness | Barrier stripping from cleanser, or skipped moisturizer | Ensure you seal this serum with a moisturizer. Unsealed humectants can increase oil production. |
| Smell changed | Spoilage | Discard product. |
| No results after 8 weeks | Wrong concern targeted | If treating dark spots (PIH), ensure you are using consistent daily SPF. No brightening serum works without sun protection. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Applying to bone-dry skin. Ceramides and hyaluronic acid perform best when binding to existing moisture. Always apply to damp skin.
2. Skipping moisturizer afterward. This is a serum, not a standalone occlusive. In Mauritius AC, the water will evaporate if not sealed.
3. Rubbing vigorously. Friction exacerbates barrier damage. Gently press the milky fluid into the skin.
4. Expecting overnight hyperpigmentation clearing. Niacinamide and rice extract take 4-6 weeks (a full epidermal cycle) to show visible brightening.
Maximum safe continuous use: Can be used twice daily indefinitely. It is a supportive, non-exfoliating product.
Usage Economics (How long it lasts)
Volume: 50ml. Recommended amount per use: 0.5ml (approx 2-3 drops). Uses per container: approximately 100 applications.
At recommended dosage (once daily): approximately 100 days (3.3 months). At recommended dosage (twice daily): approximately 50 days (1.6 months). Correct dosage is better for your skin AND extends product life.
Reorder in approximately 1.5 months if using AM and PM. We recommend reordering 2 weeks before estimated depletion for shipping time.
Complete Your Routine (Exact routine + pairings)
The ultimate gentle repair routine for a compromised, stinging barrier.
Anua 7 Rice Ceramide Hydrating Barrier Serum replenishes the lipid matrix and sits at Rung 3 (Medium Emulsion fluid) on the viscosity ladder.
AM Routine:
- Water Rinse (Skip cleanser if barrier is severely damaged)
- Anua 7 Rice Ceramide Hydrating Barrier Serum (2-3 drops, press into damp skin)
- Dr.Althea 345 RELIEF CREAM (1 pea size, wait 60s)
- Beauty of Joseon RELIEF SUN AQUA FRESH RICE + B5 (2 fingers worth, wait 10-15m)
PM Routine:
- Gentle Oil Cleanser
- Gentle Water Cleanser (wait 10s)
- Anua 7 Rice Ceramide Hydrating Barrier Serum (2-3 drops, press into damp skin)
- Dr.Althea 345 RELIEF CREAM (2 pea sizes)
If you are in AC all day, then apply a slightly thicker layer of the Dr.Althea cream over the Anua serum to prevent moisture loss to the dry air.
If you are actively experiencing stinging or redness, then skip all morning cleansers and active treatments until your skin tolerates this serum and moisturizer without burning.
Barrier Rescue Bundle: Pair this Anua serum with the Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream. Apply the serum to damp skin to supply ceramides, then immediately lock it down with the Dr.Althea cream to simulate a healthy acid mantle.
After purchasing, you will receive our skincare education email series covering this product in depth.
The recommendations above are based on formulation synergy with Anua 7 Rice Ceramide Hydrating Barrier Serum, not on margin or stock levels. If a pairing does not exist in our catalog, we say so. If you already own a product that fills the same role, use what you have first.
The No-Buy Redundancy Check
This product's PRIMARY function is: barrier repair and hydration via ceramides. You do NOT need this if you already own: a dedicated ceramide serum or a heavy ceramide-based moisturizer that successfully repairs your skin. Finish your current product before purchasing.
Check your current shelf. Do you have an open product with the same primary active? Skincare products lose efficacy after opening (PAO = 12 months). Buying new while old expires is waste.
Combining with a similar product: No Benefit (same mechanism). Using multiple ceramide serums in the same routine offers no added clinical benefit and wastes product.
Sourcing and Authenticity
This product is sourced through authorized Korean distributors β primarily Craver Co., Ltd (South Korea), alongside other verified distribution partners. Craver is a major Korean beauty distributor and the parent company of SKIN1004, handling authorized distribution for multiple K-beauty brands. All products are shipped directly to Mauritius via verified channels.
For comprehensive information about how we verify authenticity, our layered verification system, and how to check your product at home, visit our dedicated Authenticity and Trust page.
Quick Verification Tips: Check the holographic authenticity seal (if present on the box) and verify the batch code embossed on the bottom of the bottle. Differences in batch font thickness are common between manufacturing runs.
About Anua
| Brand Profile | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Anua |
| Headquarters | South Korea |
| Philosophy | Keep things simple. Formulate with potent, minimal ingredients to soothe irritated skin. |
| Hero Product | Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner |
Anua focuses on the therapeutic potential of singular, high-concentration plant extracts rather than overwhelming the skin with complex chemical cocktails. Their formulations are designed for hypersensitive skin, utilizing pure, locally sourced Korean ingredients like Heartleaf and Rice Bran to reset stressed skin barriers.
Genuine Community Experiences
A user with combination skin on r/AsianBeauty noted that this serum absorbed beautifully without the greasy film often left by heavier ceramide creams, making it perfect for summer.
A dry-skinned reviewer on YesStyle praised its ability to instantly plump fine dehydration lines, mentioning it gave a "glass skin" effect when layered twice.
A critical review on a beauty forum mentioned that while it was hydrating, those with severely dry, mature skin felt it wasn't thick enough on its own and required a very rich sleeping mask over it.
Common Praise: Lightweight milky texture, instant plumping, no sticky residue, great for sensitive skin.
Common Complaints: May not be occlusive enough for extreme dryness; dropper can sometimes struggle with the thicker milky emulsion.
Packaging and Practical Details
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Packaging | Glass/Heavy Plastic Bottle |
| Closure Type | Dropper Dispenser |
| Hygiene Rating | High (do not touch dropper to skin) |
| Travel-Friendly | Yes (50ml is TSA-approved) |
Recyclability: Separate the glass/plastic body from the dropper mechanism before recycling. Rinse the bottle thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this if I have oily skin?
Yes. Many oily skin types are actually overproducing sebum to compensate for a damaged, dehydrated barrier. This lightweight milky serum provides necessary ceramides without heavy, pore-clogging waxes.
Will this lighten my skin?
No. The rice extract and niacinamide help fade hyperpigmentation (dark spots) and improve overall luminosity, returning your skin to its natural, even tone. It does not bleach the skin.
Can I use this with Vitamin C or Retinol?
Absolutely. Because it contains no strong exfoliating acids, it acts as an excellent calming buffer. Apply this serum before or after your actives to reduce irritation and support the skin barrier.
Why does the texture look cloudy?
This is a milky emulsion. The cloudiness is the physical suspension of oil-phase ceramides within the water-phase rice extract. It is a sign of a well-formulated barrier product, not spoilage.
Is it safe for fungal acne?
It is FA-Conditional. While it lacks many common triggers, complex plant oils and extracts can sometimes exacerbate Malassezia. Monitor your skin if you are highly prone to fungal breakouts.
Glossary
- Ceramide NP
- A lipid (fat) naturally found in high concentrations in the uppermost layers of the skin. It acts like the mortar between your skin cells, preventing moisture from escaping.
- Skin Barrier / Acid Mantle
- The outermost layer of your skin. When healthy, it keeps water inside and bacteria/irritants outside. When damaged, skin feels tight, red, and stings.
- Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL)
- The process where water passively evaporates from your skin into the air. High TEWL leads to dehydration and is worsened by AC and damaged barriers.
- Niacinamide
- Also known as Vitamin B3. A versatile ingredient that helps fade dark spots, regulates oil production, and supports the skin's natural production of ceramides.
- Panthenol
- Pro-Vitamin B5. A powerful humectant that draws water into the skin while actively soothing redness and aiding in wound healing.
- Emulsion
- A mixture of water-based and oil-based ingredients stabilized together. This gives the serum its milky appearance and allows it to deliver both hydration and moisture.
- Humectant
- An ingredient (like Glycerin or Panthenol) that acts like a sponge, drawing water from the environment into the upper layers of the skin.
- Occlusive
- An ingredient or product that forms a physical seal over the skin, locking in the water that humectants have gathered. This serum needs an occlusive moisturizer over it.
The Adilsons Promise
Every product sold by Adilsons Beauty is 100% genuine, sourced through authorized Korean distribution channels. Full details on our verification system: Authenticity and Trust.
Our team is available to help you build a routine, troubleshoot reactions, and answer ingredient questions. WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.
For in-depth skincare education, visit our blog at adilsons.mu/blogs/k-beauty or subscribe to our email to get our guided education series delivered to your inbox.
Delivery and Returns β Mauritius
Coverage: Island-wide delivery (Mauritius).
Processing and Timing: Orders process in 1-2 business days; usually ready by Day 3 for pickup by our delivery partners/regional team. Partner collection can take up to 1 week. After pickup, delivery typically takes 1-5 business days (weekdays only).
Express: May be available by region; request on WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.
Liquids/Sensitive Items: Serums, toners, liquid makeup (and kits containing liquids) are pickup or door-to-door only; checkout enforces this.
Scheduling: Deliveries run by region on set schedules; we will contact you the evening before.
Pickup: Citadelle Mall pickup available.
Returns: No change-of-mind exchanges.
Refunds (Summary): For defective/damaged on receipt (report within 48h), wrong item, or manufacturing defect within 6 months. Refunds via bank transfer (7-10 business days); card refunds may incur a 5% processor fee (fee not charged for defects/order errors). Opened skincare/personal-care items are non-returnable (except if damaged on delivery).
Source of Truth: This is a quick snapshot. If anything differs, the policy pages are final.
Store Policies: For the most up-to-date information, please review our Shipping Policy and Refund Policy.
The Final Verdict
Best For: Anyone dealing with a compromised skin barrier, dehydration, or dullness who finds traditional ceramide creams too heavy for the Mauritius climate. It serves as an excellent calming buffer for active routines.
Key Benefits: Instantly soothes stinging and redness. The combination of Ceramide NP and Panthenol physically patches micro-tears in the stratum corneum. Niacinamide and Rice Extract work synergistically to brighten and even out skin tone over time.
Keep In Mind: It is a serum, not a moisturizer; you must seal it with a cream to prevent evaporation. While highly soothing, the complex plant extracts mean it is not completely risk-free for severe fungal acne sufferers.
Oncology and Treatment-Sensitized Skin
Assessment: Suitable.
This serum is fragrance-free, free of essential oils, and devoid of chemical exfoliants or retinoids. Its primary function is gentle lipid replenishment, making it highly appropriate for skin barriers compromised by medical treatments.
Consult your oncology care team before introducing any new skincare products during treatment.
Environmental Defense and Lifestyle Factors
AC / Humidity Swing Interaction: This formula relies on humectants (Panthenol, Hyaluronic Acid) to hydrate. In high outdoor humidity, these draw moisture from the air beautifully. However, when moving into intense air-conditioning, the vapor pressure deficit reverses. You MUST seal this serum with an occlusive moisturizer if you work in an AC environment to prevent it from pulling water out of your skin.