10% Vitamin C Face Serum with 5% Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid
10% Vitamin C Face Serum with 5% Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid
Product Description
Product overview
A powerful multi-action brightening serum combining 10% stabilized Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) with 5% Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Ferulic Acid. This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula targets dark spots, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone while boosting hydration and collagen production for visibly radiant, youthful skin in 3-8 weeks.
Brightening Power
10% Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) inhibits melanin production to fade dark spots and even skin tone for a luminous complexion.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBrightening Power
10% Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) inhibits melanin production to fade dark spots and even skin tone for a luminous complexion.
Stabilized Formula
Uses stable Vitamin C derivative that won't oxidize quickly, ensuring potency throughout the product's shelf life.
Collagen Boost
Stimulates collagen synthesis to improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and create a firmer, more youthful appearance.
Deep Hydration
Hyaluronic Acid attracts and retains moisture, keeping skin plump and hydrated while improving overall texture.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Vitamin C and Niacinamide are considered safe during pregnancy and nursing. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Free from fatty acids, oils, and esters that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Lightweight, oil-free formula rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Won't clog pores or cause breakouts.
Vitamin C can increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day when using this product.
First-time users should perform a patch test. Some may experience initial tingling or mild purging as skin adjusts.
Can be used with retinoids but introduce gradually. Consider using Vitamin C in AM and Retinol in PM to avoid irritation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTS3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid 10%Proven
A stabilized, water-soluble form of Vitamin C with 86% pure Vitamin C content. Penetrates skin effectively and converts to ascorbic acid within the skin for maximum brightening benefits.
- Function: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin production and fade hyperpigmentation
- Research: Studies show significant improvement in skin brightness and reduction of dark spots within 8-12 weeks
- Stability: More stable than pure L-Ascorbic Acid, less prone to oxidation at pH ~4.0
Niacinamide 5%Proven
Vitamin B3 derivative that works synergistically with Vitamin C to enhance brightening effects while strengthening the skin barrier and controlling oil production.
- Function: Reduces inflammation, controls sebum, minimizes pores, and prevents UV-induced pigmentation
- Research: Clinical studies show 4% niacinamide reduced wrinkle depth by 9% after 8 weeks (Kawada et al.)
- Compatibility: Safe for all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone skin
Sodium Hyaluronate ~1%Proven
The salt form of Hyaluronic Acid that attracts and holds up to 1000x its weight in water, providing intense hydration and plumping effects.
- Function: Attracts moisture to skin, reduces fine lines, improves skin texture and elasticity
- Penetration: Smaller molecular weight allows better penetration into skin layers
- Benefits: Normalizes skin pH and prevents ceramide loss for healthier barrier function
Ferulic Acid ~0.5%Proven
A plant-based antioxidant that stabilizes and enhances the efficacy of Vitamin C while providing additional protection against free radical damage.
- Research: 2005 study showed adding 0.5% Ferulic Acid to Vitamin C + E doubled photoprotection
- Function: Neutralizes free radicals, prevents premature aging, boosts Vitamin C stability
- Source: Naturally found in plant cell walls including rice bran, wheat, and oats
11 ingredients
Purified Water, Propanediol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Niacinamide, Ethoxydiglycol (Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether), Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Ferulic Acid, Sodium Gluconate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based toners/essences and before heavier serums or moisturizers. Use twice daily (AM & PM) for best results. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with a clean, dry face. If using a toner, apply and let it absorb first.
Apply Serum
Dispense 3-5 drops onto your fingertips. Apply to face and neck in upward circular motions.
Gentle Massage
Massage gently until fully absorbed. Wait 30-60 seconds before applying next product.
Moisturize & Protect
Follow with moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dull, uneven skin tone or hyperpigmentation
- You're dealing with dark spots, acne scars, or sun damage
- You're new to Vitamin C and want a gentle introduction
- You need a multi-tasking serum for brightening + hydration
- You want to prevent early signs of aging
- You're pregnant/breastfeeding and need a safe brightening option
- You have fungal acne and need FA-safe products
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a higher concentration Vitamin C (15-20%+)
- You're looking for pure L-Ascorbic Acid formula
- You have extremely sensitive skin that reacts to most products
- You prefer luxury/prestige skincare brands
- You need anti-aging as primary concern (consider retinoids)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly. Niacinamide helps control sebum production and minimize pores.
Hyaluronic Acid provides hydration but may need a richer moisturizer on top for very dry skin types.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without adding excess oil to T-zone.
Stabilized Vitamin C is gentler than L-Ascorbic Acid. Patch test first; some may experience initial tingling.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe formula. Niacinamide helps reduce inflammation and fade post-acne marks.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Initial Hydration & Glow
Skin feels more hydrated and supple. Subtle improvement in overall radiance. Some users may experience mild purging.
70% noticed immediate glowVisible Brightening
Skin tone appears more even. Fine lines look softer. Dark spots begin to fade noticeably.
80% reported brighter skinSignificant Improvement
Pigmentation visibly reduced. Acne scars appear lighter. Overall complexion looks clearer and more luminous.
80% said pigmentation fadedOptimal Results
Maximum brightening achieved. Skin texture significantly improved. Continued use maintains results and prevents new dark spots.
90% satisfied with overall resultsRatings by platform
73K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Affordable price point for multi-active formula
- Visible brightening and dark spot fading
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Clean formula - free from harmful ingredients
- Combines 4 powerful actives in one serum
- Pregnancy and fungal acne safe
- Gentle enough for Vitamin C beginners
- Dermatologically tested
Criticized
- May cause initial breakouts/purging
- Some users report tingling/irritation
- Results take 4-8 weeks to show
- 30ml size runs out quickly with twice daily use
- Dropper packaging can be inconvenient
- Not ideal for those wanting pure L-Ascorbic Acid
- International availability can be limited
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 10% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid concentration with added PHA for gentle exfoliation. Contains Centella Water instead of Ferulic Acid. Very similar results, slightly different supporting ingredients.
Uses different Vitamin C derivative (Ascorbyl Glucoside). Water-based, lightweight formula. Missing Niacinamide and Ferulic Acid but stable and gentle.
Higher concentration pure L-Ascorbic Acid but gritty texture and can cause irritation. Water-free formula. Missing Niacinamide. Better for experienced users.
Contains Niacinamide and 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid in toner format. Lighter concentration but good for layering. Different product type (toner vs serum).
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEThe Derma Co 10% Vitamin C
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within one year for optimal potency and effectiveness.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can extend stability but is not required.
Glass dropper bottle with protective outer box. Airless pump version (C-Cinamide) also available for better oxidation protection.
Yes, 30ml is under 100ml TSA liquid limit. Glass bottle - handle with care during travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this serum is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy. Both Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) and Niacinamide are pregnancy-safe ingredients. The FDA considers Niacinamide Category A (safe) for pregnancy. However, always consult your healthcare provider before starting new skincare products during pregnancy or nursing.
Yes, this serum is fungal acne safe. The formula is free from fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and ferments that feed Malassezia yeast. All 11 ingredients have been verified as safe for those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis. The lightweight, oil-free formula won't trigger or worsen fungal acne conditions.
Yes, but with caution. This serum can be used with retinol - consider using Vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night to minimize potential irritation. With AHAs/BHAs, introduce gradually and monitor for sensitivity. The stabilized Vitamin C in this formula is gentler than pure L-Ascorbic Acid, making it more compatible with other actives. Start by alternating days before using together, and always listen to your skin.
This serum works well for all skin types but is particularly excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its lightweight texture and oil-controlling Niacinamide. Dry skin types will benefit from the Hyaluronic Acid but may need additional moisturizer. Sensitive skin users should patch test first - the stabilized Vitamin C is gentler than L-Ascorbic Acid but some tingling may occur initially.
Most users notice initial hydration and subtle glow within 1-2 weeks. Visible brightening and evening of skin tone typically appears at 3-4 weeks. Significant improvement in dark spots and pigmentation is usually seen at 6-8 weeks. For optimal results, consistent use for 12+ weeks is recommended. Results vary based on individual skin concerns, severity of pigmentation, and consistent use with sunscreen.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizer. The general order is: Cleanser → Toner → This Vitamin C Serum → Other Serums → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Use twice daily - morning and night. In the morning, always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ as Vitamin C can increase photosensitivity.
No, this serum is non-comedogenic with a rating of 1/5. The lightweight, oil-free formula is specifically designed not to clog pores. None of the 11 ingredients are known pore-cloggers. The Niacinamide actually helps minimize pore appearance and control oil production. This makes it suitable for acne-prone and oily skin types.
The serum has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. However, for optimal potency, try to use within 6 months of opening. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the serum turns orange or brown, it has oxidized and should be discarded. The stabilized 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is more stable than pure Vitamin C but will still degrade over time.
Verdict: The Derma Co 10% Vitamin C Face Serum offers exceptional value as a multi-active brightening serum. The combination of stable Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Ferulic Acid addresses multiple skin concerns in one product. Its pregnancy-safe, fungal acne-safe, and non-comedogenic formula makes it accessible to a wide range of users. While not as potent as pure L-Ascorbic Acid formulas, it's an excellent choice for Vitamin C beginners and those with sensitive skin. Results require patience (4-8 weeks), but consistent use delivers visible brightening, faded dark spots, and improved skin texture. A solid budget-friendly option in the crowded Vitamin C market.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Ethoxydiglycol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Emulsion Stabilising, Stabilising
|
|