Vitamin C 20% Brightening Face Serum

Skin Type: All skin types, especially normal to dry skin

Concerns: Dullness, uneven skin tone, dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles

Suitable for: Individuals seeking to brighten skin tone, reduce signs of aging, and improve overall skin radiance

• Size: 30 ml
• Fragrance-free
• Dermatologically tested
• Non-comedogenic
• Suitable for daily use, morning or night

• Vitamin C (20%): Brightens skin tone, reduces dark spots, and boosts collagen production.
• Ferulic Acid (0.5%): Stabilizes Vitamin C and enhances its effectiveness.
• Hyaluronic Acid (2%): Hydrates and plumps the skin.
• Vitamin E (1%): Provides antioxidant protection and nourishes the skin.
• Glycerin (3%): Retains moisture and softens the skin.
• Aloe Vera Extract (2%): Calms and hydrates the skin.
• Niacinamide (1%): Reduces pigmentation and refines skin texture.
• L-Ascorbic Acid (1%): Enhances brightness and reduces signs of aging.

The Vitamin C 20% Serum is meticulously formulated to deliver maximum antioxidant protection, brighten skin tone, and stimulate collagen synthesis by leveraging bioactive ingredients that work synergistically at the molecular level. This high concentration of Vitamin C is stabilized and enhanced by Ferulic Acid and Vitamin E, ensuring optimal efficacy and absorption.

1. Vitamin C (20%) and L-Ascorbic Acid (1%)

Vitamin C, primarily in the form of L-Ascorbic Acid, is a potent antioxidant and an essential cofactor in several enzymatic reactions. In this serum, Vitamin C is present at a high concentration of 20%, providing significant benefits to the skin.

• Collagen Synthesis: Vitamin C is a crucial cofactor for prolyl hydroxylase and lysyl hydroxylase, enzymes responsible for the hydroxylation of proline and lysine residues in collagen molecules. This hydroxylation is essential for the stable triple-helix formation of collagen, thereby enhancing skin firmness and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
• Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) by donating electrons, thereby protecting skin cells from oxidative stress induced by UV radiation and environmental pollutants. It regenerates Vitamin E from its oxidized form, enhancing the antioxidant network in the skin.
• Inhibition of Melanin Synthesis: Vitamin C inhibits tyrosinase activity, an enzyme critical in the melanogenesis pathway, by chelating copper ions at the active site of tyrosinase. This inhibition reduces melanin production, leading to a brighter and more even skin tone.
• Skin Brightening: By reducing oxidized melanin pigments and preventing new melanin formation, Vitamin C helps diminish hyperpigmentation and dark spots.

The inclusion of L-Ascorbic Acid (1%) in addition to the 20% Vitamin C ensures that the serum delivers both stabilized and pure forms of Vitamin C for enhanced efficacy.

2. Ferulic Acid (0.5%)

Ferulic Acid is a plant-based antioxidant known for its ability to stabilize Vitamins C and E, enhancing their photoprotection and efficacy.

• Stabilization of Vitamin C: Ferulic Acid helps stabilize L-Ascorbic Acid by reducing its oxidation rate, thereby prolonging its activity in the skin.
• Synergistic Antioxidant Effect: Ferulic Acid works synergistically with Vitamins C and E to neutralize free radicals, particularly superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, and nitric oxide, enhancing overall antioxidant protection.
• UV Protection: By absorbing UV radiation, Ferulic Acid provides additional protection against UV-induced skin damage, reducing photoaging effects.

3. Vitamin E (1%)

Vitamin E, primarily in the form of Alpha-Tocopherol, is a lipid-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from lipid peroxidation.

• Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin E scavenges lipid radicals in cell membranes, interrupting lipid peroxidation chain reactions and protecting skin cell integrity.
• Synergistic with Vitamin C: Vitamin E and Vitamin C work synergistically to regenerate each other from their oxidized forms, enhancing the antioxidant capacity of the skin.
• Skin Barrier Function: Vitamin E integrates into the lipid bilayers of the stratum corneum, enhancing barrier function and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

4. Hyaluronic Acid (2%)

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan composed of repeating disaccharide units of D-Glucuronic Acid and N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine.

• Hydration: HA's polyanionic nature allows it to bind and retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water, providing intense hydration to the skin.
• Plumping Effect: By increasing the water content in the extracellular matrix (ECM), HA enhances skin turgor and elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines.
• Cell Signaling: HA interacts with cell surface receptors like CD44, promoting keratinocyte proliferation and migration, which aids in skin repair.

5. Niacinamide (1%)

Niacinamide, or Vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that offers multiple skin benefits.

• Pigmentation Reduction: Niacinamide inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes by interfering with Protease-Activated Receptor-2 (PAR-2), leading to a reduction in hyperpigmentation and a more even skin tone.
• Barrier Function: Enhances the synthesis of ceramides and other lipids in the stratum corneum, strengthening the skin barrier and reducing TEWL.
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Modulates the Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β and TNF-α.

6. Aloe Vera Extract (2%)

Aloe Vera contains bioactive compounds such as Acemannan, a polysaccharide with hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties.

• Soothing Effects: Inhibits the Cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway, reducing the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins like PGE2, thereby soothing irritated skin.
• Hydration: The mucopolysaccharides in Aloe Vera help retain moisture in the skin, enhancing hydration.
• Wound Healing: Stimulates fibroblast activity and increases collagen synthesis, promoting skin repair.

7. Glycerin (3%)

Glycerin is a humectant that attracts water from the environment and deeper skin layers.

• Moisture Retention: Facilitates water transport via Aquaporin-3 (AQP3) channels, enhancing hydration in the stratum corneum.
• Skin Softening: By maintaining optimal hydration, Glycerin improves skin elasticity and softness.

This advanced formulation leverages the synergistic effects of its ingredients to provide maximum antioxidant protection, brighten the skin, reduce dark spots, and stimulate collagen production. The combination of high-concentration Vitamin C with Ferulic Acid and Vitamin E ensures stability and efficacy, resulting in a radiant and youthful complexion.

• Aqua (Water)
• Ascorbic Acid (20%) (Vitamin C)
• L-Ascorbic Acid (1%)
• Glycerin (3%)
• Hyaluronic Acid (2%)
• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (2%)
• Niacinamide (1%)
• Tocopherol (1%) (Vitamin E)
• Ferulic Acid (0.5%)
• Sodium Hyaluronate (0.5%) (Low molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid)
• Panthenol (0.5%) (Pro-Vitamin B5)
• Sodium PCA (Natural moisturizing factor)
• Caprylyl Glycol (Humectant and skin-conditioning agent)
• Phenoxyethanol (Preservative, considered safe in low concentrations)
• Ethylhexylglycerin (Preservative enhancer, safe and non-irritating)
• Carbomer (Viscosity enhancer)
• Triethanolamine (pH adjuster)
• Disodium EDTA (Chelating agent that stabilizes the formula)

After cleansing and toning, apply a few drops to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Gently massage until fully absorbed. Use once daily, preferably in the morning. Follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher during the day to protect the skin from UV damage and enhance the serum's effectiveness.

Note: A slight tingling sensation upon application is normal due to the high concentration of active ingredients. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency of use.

Why is sunscreen important when using this serum?

Vitamin C can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Applying sunscreen protects the skin from UV damage and maximizes the serum's benefits.

Can I use this serum if I have sensitive skin?

Due to the high concentration of Vitamin C, those with sensitive skin should perform a patch test before use. If irritation occurs, consider using a serum with a lower concentration of Vitamin C.

How long does it take to see results?

Visible improvements in skin brightness and reduction of dark spots may be noticed within 4–6 weeks of consistent use.

Can I use this serum with other active ingredients like Retinol or AHAs/BHAs?

It's recommended to use Vitamin C in the morning and Retinol or exfoliating acids at night to minimize potential irritation. Always monitor your skin's response when introducing new actives.

Is this serum suitable for acne-prone skin?

Yes, the serum is non-comedogenic and contains Niacinamide, which can help reduce acne and regulate oil production.

Does this serum help with fine lines and wrinkles?

Yes, Vitamin C boosts collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.

Is the Vitamin C in this serum stable?

The serum is formulated with stabilized forms of Vitamin C and includes Ferulic Acid and Vitamin E to enhance stability and efficacy.

Can I store this serum in the bathroom?

To maintain potency, store the serum in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is optional but can prolong shelf life.

Why does the serum change color over time?

Slight discoloration may occur due to oxidation of Vitamin C. If the serum turns dark brown, it may have lost potency and should be replaced.

Is this product vegan and cruelty-free?

Yes, the serum is formulated without animal-derived ingredients and is not tested on animals.