I don’t like switching up my skin-care routine. That might sound weird coming from someone who tests beauty products for a living, but I have sensitive, acne-prone skin, so while I do swap things around every so often, it often comes at a cost. I either break out with pimples, get dermatitis, or wind up with a weird looking rash.
When my editor asked me to try out the Mother Science Molecular Hero Serum ($89), I was skeptical. Not only because changing things up makes me nervous, but also because all I knew about the Mother Science brand was that it was founded by Mike Einziger, the lead guitarist for Incubus, and his wife, violinist Ann Marie Einziger. Yes, I love the song “Wish You Were Here” just as much as the next person, but did I want to mix my musical interests and my skin-care regimen? Well, considering the fact that Mike went to Harvard and Ann Marie once taught physics and chemistry, meanwhile I went to little old Chico State, I was hesitant but not completely opposed.
Turns out, Ann Marie and Mike know their sh*t. Not only did this product hydrate and improve my skin’s texture, but it’s also started fading dark spots I’ve been dealing with for years. Keep scrolling to read my full review of the Mother Science Molecular Hero Serum.
About the Mother Science Molecular Hero Serum
- This serum is suitable for all skin types but specifically addresses dark spots, sun damage, and fine lines.
- The key active is malassezin, a novel ingredient rich in antioxidants 10 times more powerful than vitamin C.
- It is also formulated with niacinamide to hydrate and alpine rose extract to help reduce redness.
- It’s vegan and cruelty-free.
What I Like About the Mother Science Molecular Hero Serum
When I received this product in the mail, the first thing I noticed was that the bottle read “Molecular Hero Serum with Malassezin.” I had not a single clue what malassezin was, but it sounded like something straight out of a Harry Potter novel. Luckily for me, I’m a big Harry Potter fan, so the idea of a magical skin-care ingredient intrigued me. After a little research, I learned it was a potent antioxidant, and the brand had conducted two clinical trials published in peer-reviewed journals proving it can help fade dark spots and brighten skin dramatically.
I have a lot of hyperpigmentation from too many hours in the sun without SPF, and although lots of dudes love to tell me my freckles are “cute,” I find them annoying. I’ve been using this serum for about two months (although, disclaimer, I did take a short break after a microneedling treatment), and I’ve noticed a huge difference in the amount of dark spots on my face. The texture of the serum is lightweight, it doesn’t have a strong scent, and it absorbs quickly.
I started testing this right as summer ended, when my freckles were at their most noticeable. The spots are still there, but they’ve faded a lot, especially on my cheeks. I’ve also noticed a huge improvement in the texture of my skin. It’s less bumpy and a lot smoother, not to mention much more hydrated.
How to Use the Mother Science Molecular Hero Serum
The brand recommends applying two pumps daily, one in the morning and one at night, on dry, clean skin. It’s meant to be used in place of your typical vitamin C serum, but it can be combined with other serums and treatments as long as you wait for the product to absorb. From there, they suggest following up with a moisturizer and SPF.
Since I have sensitive skin, I started introducing this product into my routine slowly. I’m honestly never sure which products will break me out or cause dermatitis, so I like to be cautious when trying something new. For the first week, I applied it once a day in the morning. When things seemed OK after a full seven days, I started using it at night as well.
What to Consider Before Trying the Mother Science Molecular Hero Serum
As with any product targeting hyperpigmentation, it takes time to see results, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t notice a difference in your skin immediately. I’d suggest taking photos of your skin every so often so you can compare the before and afters. I look at my skin closely every single day (yeah, I’m that vain), and even after a few months, some of the improvements are only really visible to me.
Rating:
