Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Blue Serum is SKIN1004's lightweight watery-gel serum for the step between toner and moisturiser. It sinks in within seconds and leaves no tacky film, so it layers cleanly under sunscreen in the morning or a richer cream at night.

The name describes the formula. Centella asiatica leaf water sits second on the printed ingredient list, directly after water, so the calming side of the product is not a trace addition. Beside it are five separate hyaluronic acid ingredients of differing molecular size, which lets moisture settle at more than one level of the surface instead of pooling on top. Ceramide NP, panthenol, niacinamide and adenosine complete it.

It suits oily, combination and normal skin particularly well, and with no fragrance or essential oils on the list it is an easy pick for skin that reacts to scent. Expect a plumper, calmer, more even-looking finish through the day rather than an overnight transformation.

One thing worth knowing before you buy: this is a hydrating layer, not a moisturiser. Very dry skin, or anyone running dry indoor heating, should seal it in with a cream on top to keep the effect from fading.