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Shop APLB Bee Pollen Propolis Ampoule Serum
Serum
APLB

Bee Pollen Propolis Ampoule Serum

~$19· 1.35 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

What it's good for

Key actives from our research database. Click any to read the full evidence dossier.

  • AdenosineModerate evidenceFull dossier ↗

    A Korean-approved anti-wrinkle ingredient that encourages collagen production for a smoother, firmer look.

    Good for: Anti-aging

  • AllantoinAnecdotal evidenceFull dossier ↗

    A gentle smoother and skin-soother. Reduces flakiness and helps the surface look more even.

    Good for: Anti-inflammatory, Hydrating

  • Centella AsiaticaModerate evidenceFull dossier ↗

    Also called "cica," it calms redness, repairs the skin barrier, and speeds up recovery. The go-to for irritated or reactive skin.

    Good for: Anti-inflammatory, Barrier repair

  • Copper PeptidesModerate evidenceFull dossier ↗

    A signal peptide that tells your skin to make more collagen and elastin. Quiet but consistent firmness support over months of daily use.

    Good for: Anti-aging

  • GlycerinModerate evidenceFull dossier ↗

    A workhorse hydrator that pulls water into your skin. In nearly every good moisturizer for a reason.

    Good for: Hydrating

  • HeartleafModerate evidenceFull dossier ↗

    A calming K-beauty botanical that's also antibacterial, so it pairs well for acne-prone, sensitive skin.

    Good for: Anti-inflammatory, Anti-acne

  • Hyaluronic AcidStrong evidenceFull dossier ↗

    A pure hydrator that holds water in your skin. Makes skin look plumper and smoother almost immediately.

    Good for: Hydrating

  • Hydrolyzed CollagenModerate evidenceFull dossier ↗

    The protein your skin loses with age, broken down small enough to absorb. Multiple meta-analyses of RCTs show measurable wins in wrinkles, elasticity, and hydration after ~12 weeks. Most evidence is oral, but topical helps surface hydration too.

    Good for: Anti-aging, Hydrating

  • NiacinamideStrong evidenceFull dossier ↗

    A multitasker that calms redness, evens out skin tone, and helps oily skin balance out. One of the safest do-a-little-of-everything ingredients.

    Good for: Brightening, Barrier repair, Anti-inflammatory

  • PropolisModerate evidenceFull dossier ↗

    A bee-made resin that's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Calms breakouts and hydrates at the same time.

    Good for: Anti-acne, Anti-inflammatory

  • SqualaneAnecdotal evidenceFull dossier ↗

    A lightweight oil that mimics what your skin already makes. Softens and seals in hydration without feeling greasy.

    Good for: Barrier repair, Hydrating

  • Vitamin CStrong evidenceFull dossier ↗

    Brightens dull skin and helps fade dark spots. Also defends against everyday UV and pollution damage when worn under sunscreen.

    Good for: Brightening, Antioxidant

New to this? Patch test on your inner arm for 24 to 48 hours before applying to your face. If you have sensitive skin or rosacea, start 2 to 3 times per week and build up slowly.

Evidence behind the ingredients

Real citations from our research database, one per tracked active in this product. Click any ingredient name to read its full evidence dossier.

AdenosineModerate evidence6 citations

A Korean-approved anti-wrinkle ingredient that encourages collagen production for a smoother, firmer look.

Yang HJ et al., Two-phase delivery using a horse oil and adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patch for skin barrier restoration, moisturization, and wrinkle improvement, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 2019;18(3):936-943 — Korean clinical study (n=20): adenosine microneedle patches improved elasticity, hydration, dermal density, wrinkles

2019Positive (efficacy)PMID:30160014View source ↗

Kang G et al., Adenosine-loaded dissolving microneedle patches to improve skin wrinkles, dermal density, elasticity and hydration, International Journal of Cosmetic Science 2018;40(2):199-206 — Korean-authored; adenosine microneedle patches matched or exceeded adenosine cream for multiple endpoints

2018Positive (efficacy)PMID:29574973View source ↗

Kim MY et al., Effect of adenosine on melanogenesis in B16 cells and zebrafish, Annals of Dermatology 2014;26(2):209-13 — adenosine suppresses pigmentation via negative regulation of tyrosinase in cellular and zebrafish models

2014Mechanism onlyPMID:24882976View source ↗
AllantoinAnecdotal evidence6 citations

A gentle smoother and skin-soother. Reduces flakiness and helps the surface look more even.

Xu Z et al., Efficacy and Safety of Topical Compound Heparin Sodium Allantoin Gel for the Treatment of Rosacea, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 2025;24(4):e70129 — RCT (n=82, 12 weeks): allantoin gel improved erythema and alleviated itching/burning vs traditional therapy

2025Positive (efficacy)PMID:40177799View source ↗

Tan C et al., The combination of allantoin, bisabolol, D-panthenol and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate mitigates UVB-induced PGE2 synthesis by keratinocytes, International Journal of Cosmetic Science 2024;46(5):691-701 — in vitro: allantoin combination reduced UVB-induced PGE2, IL-1α, IL-6, IL-8, TNFα

2024Mechanism onlyPMID:38433250View source ↗

Saucedo-Acuna RA et al. (Mexico), Characterization and In Vivo Assay of Allantoin-Enriched Pectin Hydrogel for the Treatment of Skin Wounds, International Journal of Molecular Sciences 2023;24(8):7377 — allantoin-pectin hydrogel reduced wound healing time by ~71% with complete closure at day 15 in rat model

2023Mechanism onlyPMID:37108540View source ↗
Centella AsiaticaModerate evidence6 citations

Also called "cica," it calms redness, repairs the skin barrier, and speeds up recovery. The go-to for irritated or reactive skin.

Hur N et al., A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial Assessing the Effects of Oral Centella asiatica Extract on Skin Aging-Related Parameters in Middle-Aged Korean Women, Nutrients 2026

2026Positive (efficacy)PMID:42196964View source ↗

Borowicz KK et al., Geroprotective Potential of Centella asiatica: Modulation of Cellular Aging, Nutrients 2026

2026Mechanism onlyPMID:42280293View source ↗

Witkowska K et al., Topical Application of Centella asiatica in Wound Healing: Recent Insights into Mechanisms and Clinical Efficacy, Pharmaceutics 2024;16(10):1252 — modern hydrogel and nanostructured Centella delivery systems accelerate wound healing across wound types

2024Meta-analysis (positive)PMID:39458583View source ↗
+9 more ingredients
Copper PeptidesModerate evidence7 citations

A signal peptide that tells your skin to make more collagen and elastin. Quiet but consistent firmness support over months of daily use.

Patel MN et al., An Assessment of the Safety, Efficacy, and Tolerability of a Novel Scalp Treatment Regimen Combining a Hydroxy Acid-Based Scrub and Copper Tripeptide Serum in the Management of Seborrheic Dermatitis in Adults, Cureus 2024;16(9):e70108 — 15-day interventional study: copper tripeptide regimen reduced flaking, improved hydration in seborrheic dermatitis

2024Positive (efficacy)PMID:39449909View source ↗

Jiang F et al., Synergy of GHK-Cu and hyaluronic acid on collagen IV upregulation via fibroblast and ex-vivo skin tests, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 2023;22(9):2598-2604 — in vitro + ex vivo: GHK-Cu + HA promoted collagen I, IV, and VII; 25.4-fold collagen IV increase in fibroblasts

2023Mechanism onlyPMID:37062921View source ↗

Dou Y et al., The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide, Aging Pathobiology and Therapeutics 2020;2(1):58-61 — narrative review of GHK-Cu's anti-inflammatory and tissue-remodeling mechanisms

2020Mechanism onlyPMID:35083444View source ↗
GlycerinModerate evidence6 citations

A workhorse hydrator that pulls water into your skin. In nearly every good moisturizer for a reason.

Danby SG et al., Different types of emollient cream exhibit diverse physiological effects on the skin barrier in adults with atopic dermatitis, Clinical and Experimental Dermatology 2022;47(6):1154-1164 — glycerol+urea emollient delivered superior barrier-strengthening and irritant protection

2022Positive (efficacy)PMID:35167133View source ↗

Youssef R et al., Glycerol 85% efficacy on atopic skin and its microbiome: a randomized controlled trial, Journal of Dermatological Treatment 2021;32(7):730-736 — topical glycerol 85% RCT on atopic skin

2021Positive (efficacy)PMID:31869257View source ↗

Evans NJ et al., Human axillary skin condition is improved following incorporation of glycerol into the stratum corneum from an antiperspirant formulation, Archives of Dermatological Research 2017;309(9):739-748 — 4% glycerol penetrated axillary SC, reduced irritation, improved hydration

2017Positive (efficacy)PMID:28889318View source ↗
HeartleafModerate evidence8 citations

A calming K-beauty botanical that's also antibacterial, so it pairs well for acne-prone, sensitive skin.

Song Z et al., Inhibition of LPS-Induced Skin Inflammatory Response and Barrier Damage via MAPK/NF-kB Signaling Pathway by Houttuynia cordata Thunb Fermentation Broth, Foods 2024

2024Mechanism onlyPMID:38790770View source ↗

Kwon N et al., Protective Effects of Fermented Houttuynia cordata Against UVA and H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress in Human Skin Keratinocytes, Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology 2023;195(5):3027-3046 — Korean-authored; fermented H. cordata showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection against UVA/H2O2 stress

2023Mechanism onlyPMID:36495375View source ↗

Rafiq S et al., Pharmacological Effects of Houttuynia cordata Thunb (H. cordata): A Comprehensive Review, Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022

2022Mechanism onlyPMID:36145299View source ↗
Hyaluronic AcidStrong evidence7 citations

A pure hydrator that holds water in your skin. Makes skin look plumper and smoother almost immediately.

Karabat MU, Tuncer MC. Effects of hyaluronic acid on skin at the cellular level: a systematic review. Rev Assoc Med Bras. 2025;71(8):e20250208. — Systematic review of 45 studies found low-molecular-weight HA stimulates keratinocyte proliferation and migration while high-molecular-weight HA drives skin hydration, supporting topical HA as an effective skin-hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredient.

2025Meta-analysis (positive)PMID:40990743View source ↗

Bravo B et al., Benefits of topical hyaluronic acid for skin quality and signs of skin aging: From literature review to clinical evidence, Dermatology and Therapy 2022;12(12):2657-2680 — HA-based cosmeceuticals reliably improve hydration and signs of skin aging

2022Meta-analysis (positive)PMID:36200921View source ↗

Lee SG et al., Hyaluronan Oligosaccharides Improve Rosacea-Like Phenotype through Anti-Inflammatory and Epidermal Barrier-Improving Effects, Annals of Dermatology 2020

2020Mechanism onlyPMID:33911737View source ↗
Hydrolyzed CollagenModerate evidence7 citations

The protein your skin loses with age, broken down small enough to absorb. Multiple meta-analyses of RCTs show measurable wins in wrinkles, elasticity, and hydration after ~12 weeks. Most evidence is oral, but topical helps surface hydration too.

Reilly DM, Kynaston L, Naseem S, Proudman E, Laceby D. A Clinical Trial Shows Improvement in Skin Collagen, Hydration, Elasticity, Wrinkles, Scalp, and Hair Condition following 12-Week Oral Intake of a Supplement Containing Hydrolysed Collagen. Dermatology Research and Practice. 2024. — Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial; 12-week oral collagen supplement showed 44.6% decrease in collagen fragmentation, +13.8% hydration, +22.7% elasticity, -19.6% wrinkle index vs placebo.

2024Positive (efficacy)PMID:39021368View source ↗

Demir-Dora D, Ozsoy U, Yildirim Y, et al. The Efficacy and Safety of CollaSel Pro® Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptide Supplementation without Addons in Improving Skin Health in Adult Females: A Double Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2024 Sep 11. — Double-blind RCT (n=112); significant improvements in skin elasticity (p=0.009), hydration (p<0.001), and roughness vs placebo.

2024Positive (efficacy)PMID:39336856View source ↗

Pu SY et al., Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, Nutrients 2023;15(9):2080 — 26 RCTs / 1,721 patients: hydrolyzed collagen significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity vs placebo across multiple collagen sources

2023Meta-analysis (positive)PMID:37432180View source ↗
NiacinamideStrong evidence10 citations

A multitasker that calms redness, evens out skin tone, and helps oily skin balance out. One of the safest do-a-little-of-everything ingredients.

Moro F et al., Skin Cancer Prevention and Antiaging: Role of Nicotinamide, International Journal of Molecular Sciences 2026

2026Mechanism onlyPMID:42278444View source ↗

Passeron T et al., An Investigator-Blinded, Randomized Trial of a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Containing Sclareolide and Niacinamide, Dermatology and Therapy (Heidelberg) 2026

2026Positive (efficacy)PMID:41240206View source ↗

Vergilio MM et al., Topical Formulation with Niacinamide Combined with 5 MHz Ultrasound for Improving Skin Ageing, Current Medicinal Chemistry 2025

2025Positive (efficacy)PMID:39171587View source ↗
PropolisModerate evidence6 citations

A bee-made resin that's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Calms breakouts and hydrates at the same time.

Chantadee T et al., In Situ Thai Apis mellifera Propolis Film as Potential Protective Phytopharmaceuticals Against UVB-Induced HaCaT Keratinocyte Damage, Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2026

2026Mechanism onlyPMID:42198354View source ↗

Effect of propolis on wound healing in sacrococcygeal pilonidal disease: a randomized controlled clinical trial, 2021 — accelerated wound healing from week 1 with greater effect days 14-28 vs control

2021Positive (efficacy)PMID:34602433View source ↗

Martin BA et al., A New Approach to Atopic Dermatitis Control with Low-Concentration Propolis-Loaded Cold Cream, Pharmaceutics 2021;13(9):1346 — low-concentration propolis cold cream reduced atopic-dermatitis severity

2021Positive (efficacy)PMID:34575421View source ↗
SqualaneAnecdotal evidence5 citations

A lightweight oil that mimics what your skin already makes. Softens and seals in hydration without feeling greasy.

Wolosik K et al., Squalane as a Promising Agent Protecting UV-Induced Inhibition of Collagen Biosynthesis and Wound Healing in Human Dermal Fibroblast, Molecules 2025;30(9):1964 — low-dose squalane (0.005-0.015%) restored collagen biosynthesis and wound healing in UVA-exposed human dermal fibroblasts

2025Mechanism onlyPMID:40363772View source ↗

Morgan AB et al., Explicating the multifunctional roles of tocotrienol and squalene in promoting skin health, Skin Health and Disease 2024;4(5):e448 — squalene/squalane promotes skin health via antioxidant, hydrating, emollient, anti-inflammatory mechanisms

2024Mechanism onlyPMID:39355739View source ↗

Fiume M et al., Safety Assessment of Squalane and Squalene as Used in Cosmetics, International Journal of Toxicology 2023;42(3_suppl):107S-109S — CIR expert-panel assessment concluding squalane is safe as a cosmetic ingredient

2023Safety assessmentPMID:37752766View source ↗
Vitamin CStrong evidence15 citations

Brightens dull skin and helps fade dark spots. Also defends against everyday UV and pollution damage when worn under sunscreen.

Krutmann J et al. PINGing Sunshine: A Review of the Evidence for Adding Non-Filtering Photoprotective Ingredients to Sunscreens. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2025;41(6). — Review of Photoprotective INGredients (PINGs); L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) identified as a top-ranked PING demonstrating efficacy across multiple photodamage endpoints.

2025Meta-analysis (positive)PMID:41152208View source ↗

Pullar JM et al., The roles of vitamin C in skin health, Nutrients 2017;9(8):866 — concluded topical efficacy "poorly understood"; supports dietary vitamin C

2017Mechanism onlyPMID:28805671View source ↗

Lee JH et al., Effects of VitabridC12 on Skin Inflammation, Annals of Dermatology 2017

2017Mechanism onlyPMID:28966510View source ↗

Sources: 10 clinical journals and regulatory databases across the US, EU, Korea, Japan, and China. Every entry points to a specific document. See methodology for the full list and what each outcome label means.

Layering conflicts

Ingredients in this product that can react with common actives. Avoid stacking unless noted.

  • Benzoyl peroxide breaks down vitamin C, making both less effective. Use one in the morning and the other at night.

  • Vitamin C and retinol work best at different pH levels. Use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night.

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