Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum

Some years ago, I decided that I would work on getting my skin to a point where I could stop wearing foundation and I was able to do it. Aside from all the money and time I've saved, it's honestly it's one of the best things I've done for my skin along with giving up sugar, That said, I do use concealer as needed and I'm a big fan of skincare products that provide a touch of extra radiance like this Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment SPF 30 (reviewed here) and I am always on the lookout for similar skincare products with skin enhancing properties. When I first heard about this Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum, I was pretty sure it would fit the bill.

Merit Beauty Great Skin Instant Glow Serum

$38 (1.7 oz / 50 mL)

The Product

With a powerhouse formulation that includes 2% niacinamide, 4 types of hyaluronic acid and caffeine-rich cacao, Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum is a lightweight, bi-phase serum that works to hydrate and visibly plump skin while helping to support a healthy skin barrier over time for a visibly brighter, balanced and more even-looking complexion. This serum took nearly 5 years of meticulous development and immediately sold out upon release. It is now more readily available. This product doesn't contain any parabens, sulfates phthalates, silicones or added fragrance and is vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free, and suitable for normal, dry, and combination skin types. 

Key Ingredients/Benefits

• 2% Niacinamide helps to visibly brighten skin and refine texture

• 4 types of Hyaluronic Acid targets multiple layers of skin to lock in hydration for all day hydration

• Cacao Seed Extract helps to stimulate blood flow for a plumping effect

• Japanese Goldthread Root soothes and provide antioxidant protection

Full Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isononyl Isononanoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract, Tocopherol, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Dextrin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate.

The Packaging
Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum is packaged in a weighty, semi-translucent, recycled glass bottle with a pump dispenser.

How To Use

Shake well. After cleansing and before moisturizer, warm serum in hands and apply by pressing into skin. It can also be applied following active serums to help lock in hydration and help improve texture over time

My Experience

Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum is a silky, watery, golden liquid with no discernible fragrance that feels more like an essence than a serum. Upon application, it has a slightly tacky feel that disappears when absorbed.  I don't use this every day but on days that I go out. I apply it in the morning as directed, following toner, layering my serum, moisturizer and sunscreen on top. I'm currently using this with the Augustinus Bader Rich Cream (reviewed here). I have found that this product works well in combination with all the other skincare I've used it with. For me, this functions as a hydrating primer with the benefits of a serum and it feels like I'm applying a little skincare cocktail. I like the extra dose of moisture it provides and my skin always seems to have an extra glow when I use it. While it's lovely to use, I wouldn't say this product is a necessity but it is a solid addition to my routine with viable skincare benefits and is affordable enough to use on the regular. The one thing I do dislike about it is the pump dispenser that sends the product flying out at times which is a little annoying and messy. The pump could definitely use improvement or be switched to a dropper. I would say this is worth trying.

Merit Great Skin Instant Glow Serum can be purchased from Sephora and Merit Beauty.

Have you tried any Merit Beauty products? Do you still wear foundation?

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