Merit Great Skin Priming And Firming Moisturizer With Peptides And Hyaluronic Acid
by Merit · skin_care
Editor's Take
A biomimetic lipid matrix carrying high-affinity hyaluronic acid and astaxanthin-rich extracts; the synthetic polymers at mid-list keep it from full clean certification, but the formula is quietly impressive.
Four-pillar formula scores
- Efficacy: 7.8 / 10
- Modern Tech: 7.5 / 10
- Clean Beauty: 8.5 / 10
- Sustainability: 9.1 / 10
The Verdict
This is a modern priming moisturizer that earns its efficacy score (7.8) and clean score (8.5) by leaning on professional-grade delivery lipids , Hydrogenated Lecithin and C12-16 Alcohols , that mimic the skin's own barrier structure. The formula uses Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, a high-affinity humectant that binds water more effectively than standard hyaluronic acid, and pairs it with Astaxanthin-rich Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract for antioxidant protection. The synthetic polymer Polyacrylate-13 at position 17 and trace petrochemical emollients lower the sustainability score to 9.1, but the core formula is biomimetic and competent. Worth it for daily use when you want a priming moisturizer that actually primes by improving barrier function, not just by adding slip.
Full INCI list
Water (Aqua/Eau), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Butter, Squalane, Propanediol, C12-16 Alcohols, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract, Hydrolyzed Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sclerotium Gum, Palmitic Acid, Polyacrylate-13, Hydrogenated Lecithin, 1, 2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Lysolecithin, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Pullulan, Xanthan Gum, Arginine, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Silica, Tocopherol, Caramel