Deep Vita C Ampoule
Deep Vita C Ampoule
Product Description
MediCube Deep Vita C Ampoule is a high-strength Korean brightening treatment powered by 14.5% pure vitamin C (ascorbic acid), supported by glutathione and soothing bisabolol. Housed in a clever 3-vial, light-shielding system that keeps the notoriously unstable vitamin C fresh, it targets dark spots, post-acne marks, and dullness for a visibly more even, radiant tone โ with a noticeable tone-up the brand says you can see in as little as 7 days.
โจ Texture & Feel
Potent 14.5% Vitamin C
Pure ascorbic acid at 145,000 ppm brightens, fades pigmentation, and helps support collagen.
Light-Shielding Vials
Three opaque, two-tier stability bottles protect the unstable vitamin C from light and oxidation.
Glutathione Glow
Pairs vitamin C with glutathione, a master antioxidant, to amplify the tone-evening effect.
Calming Bisabolol
Chamomile-derived bisabolol helps buffer the acidity so the high dose stays comfortable.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Topical vitamin C and glutathione are generally low-risk, but the formula contains fragrance and a trace chemical UV filter (octinoxate). Check with your doctor first.
Contains polysorbate 60, sunflower seed oil, and esters that can feed malassezia yeast.
MediCube advises NOT using this at the same time as retinol, AHA, BHA, or niacinamide โ split them between AM and PM.
Hypoallergenic-certified and bisabolol-buffered, though pure vitamin C may sting on first use.
Vitamin C can increase photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential while using it.
High-strength actives warrant a 24-hour patch test, especially for reactive or first-time vitamin C users.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ Ascorbic Acid (Pure Vitamin C) 14.5% Proven
The gold-standard brightening antioxidant. At 145,000 ppm this is a high, treatment-level dose that helps inhibit melanin production, fade dark spots, and support the skin's own collagen.
- Source: L-ascorbic acid is the most-researched topical vitamin C, shown to brighten hyperpigmentation and aid collagen synthesis.
- Source: The effective topical range is generally cited as 8โ20%; this formula sits at the strong end.
๐ Glutathione Booster Promising
A master antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitor frequently paired with vitamin C for a clearer, more even, "lit-from-within" complexion.
- Source: Studies suggest glutathione can lower melanin and shift skin toward a lighter, brighter pigment.
- Source: It works synergistically with vitamin C, which helps keep glutathione in its active reduced form.
๐ Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Soothing Proven
A soothing humectant that calms, hydrates, and supports the skin barrier โ useful for buffering the intensity of a strong vitamin C.
- Source: Panthenol is well documented for anti-inflammatory, barrier-supporting, and wound-healing benefits.
๐ง Sodium Hyaluronate Hydration Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid; it draws water into the upper layers of skin for a plumper, hydrated, comfortable feel.
- Source: A proven humectant that can hold many times its weight in water for surface-level hydration.
๐พ Beta-Glucan Barrier Promising
A soothing, hydrating polysaccharide that helps calm reactive skin and reinforce a healthy moisture barrier.
- Source: Research links beta-glucan to soothing, moisturizing, and barrier-reinforcing effects on skin.
๐ซ Terminalia Ferdinandiana (Kakadu Plum) Antioxidant Promising
One of the richest natural sources of vitamin C, reinforcing the formula's overall brightening and antioxidant punch.
- Source: Kakadu plum is among the highest known botanical sources of vitamin C, valued for antioxidant support.
37 ingredients
Water, Ascorbic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Propanediol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate, Isopropyl Oleate, Isopropyl Sorbate, Polysorbate 60, Glutathione, Glycerin, Alpha-Ionol, Glyceryl Stearate, Panthenol, Citric Acid, Chitosan, Pullulan, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Dimethicone, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Cetrimonium Chloride, Sodium Chloride, Vigna Radiata Seed Extract, Hydrolyzed Grape Fruit Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Extract, Prunus Serotina Fruit Extract, Beta-Carotene, Daucus Carota Sativa Seed Oil, Oak Root Extract, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Beta-Glucan, Betula Alba Bark Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Sodium RNA.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Best used in the morning after toner and before moisturizer. Always finish with SPF โ vitamin C boosts daytime UV defense but also raises sun sensitivity.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Tone
Start on clean skin and apply your usual toner so the ampoule absorbs evenly.
Dispense
Use the shared dropper to apply 3โ4 drops across the face, avoiding the eye area and any broken skin.
Pat In
Gently press into skin until absorbed. A mild tingle is normal; if you're new to vitamin C, start every other day.
Seal & Protect
Follow with moisturizer, and never skip broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have dark spots, post-acne marks, or uneven tone
- You want a high-strength (14.5%) pure vitamin C
- You prefer a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- You like fresh single-vial packaging that resists oxidation
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You're prone to fungal (malassezia) acne
- You react badly to fragrance or pure vitamin C
- You specifically need a fragrance-free formula
- You'd rather have one large bottle than small vials
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight and water-based, it absorbs fast without adding shine or greasiness.
Brightens and hydrates without overwhelming the oilier zones of the face.
Provides surface hydration, but layer a richer moisturizer on top to lock it in.
Bisabolol soothes, but pure vitamin C plus fragrance can sting โ patch test and ease in slowly.
Helps fade post-acne marks and is low-comedogenic, but it is not fungal-acne safe.
๐ Results Timeline
Initial Glow
Skin looks fresher and more radiant; the brand highlights a visible tone-up in 7 days.
~60% noticedBrighter Tone
Dullness begins to lift and the overall complexion appears more even and luminous.
~70% noticedFading Spots
Dark spots and post-acne marks start to visibly fade with consistent daily use.
~65% noticedEven & Firm
Sustained use supports a smoother, firmer, more uniform tone over the longer term.
~58% noticedโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- High 14.5% pure vitamin C concentration
- Lightweight, non-sticky, fast absorption
- Light-shielding vials keep the vitamin C fresh
- Visible brightening and spot-fading for many users
- Hypoallergenic-tested and cruelty-free
โ Criticized
- Contains fragrance โ not for fragrance-averse skin
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe
- Pure vitamin C can sting on first use
- Small vials feel pricey per ml
- Best refrigerated; oxidizes if neglected
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Even higher pure vitamin C, but in a gritty silicone-suspension texture with no glutathione or soothing extras. Far cheaper per use and fragrance-free.
A Japanese cult brightener with pure vitamin C plus derivatives. Similar spot-fading goal and also fragranced, but with an oilier feel.
Gentler tangerine-derived vitamin C with niacinamide and arbutin. Milder and better for sensitive skin, but lower in raw active strength.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
MediCube Deep Vita C Ampoule (Featured)
$33.00Goodal Green Tangerine Vita C Serum
$20.00Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop
$23.00The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23%
$11.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
Use each opened vial within about 3 months โ pure vitamin C oxidizes over time.
Keep away from heat and light; refrigerating the vials helps preserve potency. Discard if it turns deep yellow or brown.
Three opaque, light-shielding 10g vials plus one shared dropper.
Yes โ each 10g vial is well under the 100ml carry-on limit.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Topical vitamin C and glutathione are generally considered low-risk during pregnancy, and this formula has no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. However, it does contain fragrance and a trace chemical UV filter (ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate / octinoxate) that some people prefer to avoid while pregnant. As with any active, confirm with your OB/GYN or dermatologist before use.
No. The formula contains polysorbate 60, sunflower seed oil, and several esters that can feed malassezia yeast. If you're prone to fungal acne, this is not an ideal pick โ a stripped-back, ester-free vitamin C would be safer.
MediCube specifically recommends NOT using this ampoule in the same routine as retinol (vitamin A), AHA, BHA, or niacinamide. The simplest approach is to use this vitamin C in the morning and save those other actives for the evening to avoid irritation and reduced efficacy.
It shines on oily, combination, and normal skin that wants brightening and dark-spot fading. Dry skin should layer a richer moisturizer on top, while very sensitive or fragrance-averse skin should patch test and introduce it slowly.
MediCube highlights a visible tone-up in about 7 days, with many users reporting brighter, more even skin within 2โ4 weeks. Fading of stubborn dark spots and post-acne marks typically takes around 4โ12 weeks of consistent daily use.
Use it in the morning after cleansing and toner, and before moisturizer. Always finish with sunscreen, since vitamin C increases sun sensitivity while also boosting your daytime antioxidant and UV defense.
It's lightweight and water-based with a low comedogenic profile (roughly 2/5). Most acne-prone users tolerate it well, though it isn't fungal-acne safe because of its oils and esters.
Pure vitamin C oxidizes over time, so aim to finish each opened vial within about 3 months and store it cool and dark โ refrigeration helps. The clever 3-vial system lets you keep the unopened bottles fresh until you need them. If the liquid turns deep yellow or brown, its potency has dropped and it's time to replace it.
Verdict: MediCube's Deep Vita C Ampoule is a genuinely high-strength vitamin C treatment that punches above many pricier rivals. The 14.5% pure ascorbic acid, glutathione pairing, and smart light-shielding vials deliver real brightening and dark-spot fading for most users, while the lightweight, fast-absorbing, hypoallergenic-tested feel makes it an easy daily AM brightener. Just go in informed: it's fragranced, not fungal-acne safe, can sting at first, and is best kept cool to fight oxidation. If you want a potent, results-driven K-beauty vitamin C and don't mind a citrusy scent, it's a strong recommend. (Prices and platform ratings are approximate and vary by retailer and region.)
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 skinโs 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 ยซpromisesยป 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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|