Vichy Serums

Vichy Minéral 89

Cult hydrating booster with 89% Vichy volcanic thermal water

4.6
Excellent
Tested: 8 weeks Updated: 21.12.2024
Vichy Minéral 89 bottle

Vichy Minéral 89 became a phenomenon. It's Vichy's best-selling product and one of the most beloved hydrating boosters worldwide. 89% of the formula is volcanic thermal water from Vichy.

We tested it for 8 weeks on various skin types including sensitive. Result? We understood why one bottle sells every 8 seconds.

One bottle of Minéral 89 sells every 8 seconds. For good reason.

Minéral 89 isn't a traditional serum - it's a skin fortifier (booster) that prepares skin for further care.

Performance & Results

9.5/10

Vichy Minéral 89 excels at its purpose - strengthening and hydrating skin. After 8 weeks:

Hydration: Immediate and deep. Skin stays hydrated and fresh all day.

Barrier strengthening: Thermal water with 15 minerals strengthens skin's natural defense.

Glow: Skin looks healthier and more radiant.

Preparation: Improves efficacy of subsequently applied products.

Texture & Application

9.5/10

Light watery gel with instant absorption. Iconic texture that defined the category.

During application: Refreshing, cooling sensation. Instantly hydrates.

Layering: Ideal as first step after cleansing - prepares skin for other products.

Scent: Almost no scent - just light mineral smell of thermal water.

Packaging: Elegant bottle with dropper. Premium feel.

Formula & Ingredients

9/10

Minimalist but genius formula.

Key ingredients:

  • 89% Vichy volcanic thermal water (15 minerals)
  • Naturally-derived hyaluronic acid
  • No fragrance, alcohol, silicones, parabens

Philosophy: Less is more. Vichy bet on the power of their thermal water and won.

Comparison

vs. La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5: LRP has added madecassoside for repair. Vichy has higher thermal water content.

vs. The Ordinary HA: Minéral 89 is more elegant and contains minerals. The Ordinary has higher HA concentration and is cheaper.

vs. Avène Hydrance: Both from pharmacy brands. Vichy has more cult status and elegant texture.

Score Breakdown

Hydrating effect 9.5

Immediate and long-lasting hydration

Value for money 8.5

Premium quality at reasonable price + larger 50ml size

Texture 10

Iconic, light, refreshing

Formula 9

Minimalist with thermal water

Overall Score
4.6

Pros & Cons

Pros

Universal

Suitable for all skin types

Iconic texture

Light, refreshing, absorbs instantly

89% thermal water

15 minerals to strengthen skin

Larger size

50ml vs standard 30ml

Cons

Hydration only

No anti-aging actives

Higher price

Premium pharmacy category

Not treatment

Doesn't address specific concerns

How to Use

1 After cleansing as first skincare step
2 Apply 2-3 drops to face and neck
3 Gently press into skin
4 Follow with serum or cream
Routine Placement: Morning and evening before other products

Alternatives

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5

If you want repair effect too

The Ordinary HA 2% + B5

If looking for budget alternative

Final Verdict

Vichy Minéral 89 deserves its cult status. It's the perfect hydrating booster that works for everyone. Regardless of skin type or age - Minéral 89 will improve your skincare ritual. Only caveat? It doesn't address specific concerns - it's pure hydration and strengthening.

Buy if

  • Want universal hydration
  • Looking for skincare routine base
  • Have any skin type

Skip if

  • Need to address specific concerns
  • Looking for anti-aging actives
  • Want lowest possible price
9.2 /10

FAQ