Freshly Juiced Vitamin Charging Serum
Freshly Juiced Vitamin Charging Serum
Product Description
Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Charging Serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing brightening serum built around a Dual Brightening Complex of 10% 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (a stable Vitamin C derivative) and Niacinamide. At a gentle pH of around 5.9, it targets dullness, uneven tone, dark spots, and early fine lines without the sting, oxidation, or flaking that pure Vitamin C can cause โ making it a friendly entry point for sensitive skin and Vitamin C beginners.
โจ Texture & Feel
Dual Brightening Complex
10% 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Niacinamide work together to brighten tone, fade dark spots, and boost radiance.
Gentle on Sensitive Skin
A higher pH (~5.9) than pure Vitamin C means little to no sting, flaking, or flushing for most users.
5 Antioxidants In One
Vitamins C, E, B3 and B5 plus madecassoside (Centella) help defend against daily environmental stress.
Quick AM Routine
One pump absorbs in seconds and layers smoothly under sunscreen and makeup without pilling.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Free of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Vitamin C derivative and niacinamide are generally considered pregnancy-friendly โ but always confirm with your doctor.
Contains linolenic acid (a fatty acid) and citrus fruit extracts, which can feed malassezia. Not recommended if you are actively managing fungal acne.
Both actives are already combined in one stable formula, so there is no need to worry about layering them separately.
Lemon, mandarin, and grapefruit extracts add antioxidants but can irritate very reactive skin. A patch test is recommended first.
Antioxidants help support your sunscreen's defense. Always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF in the morning.
No drying SD or denatured alcohol, so it is comfortable for dehydrated and barrier-compromised skin.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid 10% Proven
A stable, water-and-oil-soluble Vitamin C derivative and the star active. It brightens, helps fade pigmentation, and acts as an antioxidant without the rapid oxidation of pure ascorbic acid.
- Stability: Far more shelf-stable than pure L-ascorbic acid, so it stays effective longer.
- Conversion: Manufacturer data indicates it converts to pure Vitamin C in the skin, with a high ascorbic acid content (~86%).
- Evidence: In-vivo clinical data shows ethyl ascorbic acid can improve skin tone and brightness.
๐ Niacinamide Vitamin B3 Proven
A multi-tasking skincare superstar that partners with the Vitamin C derivative to even tone, refine texture, and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Brightening: Helps fade dark spots and improve overall radiance.
- Barrier: Boosts ceramide synthesis for a stronger barrier and better hydration.
- Oil & pores: Clinically supported for reducing the look of pores and balancing oil.
๐ง Sodium Hyaluronate Hyaluronic Acid Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid and a key humectant that plumps and hydrates, balancing the brightening actives so the formula stays comfortable.
- Hydration: Can hold many times its weight in water for a plumper look.
- Brand testing: Klairs reports a 20%+ improvement in skin hydration after two weeks of use.
๐ฟ Madecassoside Centella Asiatica Promising
A purified active from Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) that soothes, calms, and supports the skin while the actives work.
- Soothing: Well-established skin-calming and antioxidant activity.
- Tone: Research suggests it may help inhibit UV-induced melanin, supporting an even tone.
๐งช Panthenol Pro-Vitamin B5 Proven
A humectant and skin-soother that moisturizes and helps reduce irritation from more active ingredients.
- Moisture: Attracts and holds water, keeping skin soft and supple.
- Comfort: Anti-inflammatory and barrier-supporting, ideal for sensitive skin.
๐ก๏ธ Tocopherol Vitamin E Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that works in synergy with Vitamin C to boost antioxidant and photoprotective benefits.
- Synergy: Vitamin C and Vitamin E together provide stronger antioxidant defense than either alone.
- Protection: Offers meaningful protection against UVB-related free-radical damage.
25 ingredients
Aqua (Water), 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Panthenol, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tromethamine, Adenosine, Madecassoside, Sodium Phytate, Beta-Glucan, Tocopherol, Linolenic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply to slightly damp skin after toner and before heavier serums and moisturizer. Best used in the morning for its antioxidant boost โ always finish with SPF.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Tone
Start on freshly cleansed skin that is still slightly damp from your toner to aid absorption.
Apply 1โ2 Pumps
Dispense onto fingertips and gently spread over the entire face, avoiding the eye area.
Pat to Absorb
Press in gently for better absorption. A brief warm sensation is normal as the Vitamin C settles.
Seal & Protect
Follow with moisturizer. In the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You want brightening without the sting of pure Vitamin C
- You have sensitive, reactive, or Vitamin-C-beginner skin
- You are targeting dullness, dark spots, or early fine lines
- You want a fast, non-sticky serum that layers under makeup
- You prefer a fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free formula
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You are actively managing fungal acne (malassezia)
- You are sensitive to citrus fruit extracts
- You want maximum-strength pure L-ascorbic acid
- You need a minimalist, extract-free formula
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight and non-oily โ absorbs fast without adding shine or heaviness.
Hydrating thanks to HA and panthenol, but layer a richer moisturizer on top.
Balances brightening and hydration across different zones without feeling heavy.
Gentle pH and soothing actives suit most, but patch test for the citrus extracts.
Low comedogenicity and niacinamide help, but it is not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe.
๐ Results Timeline
Hydrated, smoother skin
Immediate plumping and a smoother feel as hyaluronic acid and panthenol get to work.
+20% hydration in 2 weeks (brand test)Brighter, revitalized tone
Brand testing reports visibly brighter, more radiant skin within roughly 14 days of daily use.
Visible glow by day 14Fading dark spots
Pigmentation and uneven tone start to soften as the Vitamin C derivative and niacinamide build up.
โ12.4% pigmentation (brand test)More even & firmer
Continued use supports a more uniform tone, improved smoothness, and a firmer, bouncier look.
โ9.7% unevenness (brand test)โญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Gentle โ little to no sting or flaking, great for sensitive skin
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-sticky under makeup
- Stable Vitamin C derivative resists quick oxidation
- Visible brightening and hydration within about two weeks
- Fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free
- Vitamin C and niacinamide combined in one stable formula
โ Criticized
- Not fungal-acne safe (linolenic acid + citrus extracts)
- Citrus extracts may bother very reactive skin
- Opaque pump bottle hides remaining product
- 30ml feels small for the price
- Derivative is milder than pure L-ascorbic acid for dramatic results
- Relatively short 6-month period after opening
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Also a stable Vitamin C derivative for brightening, at a fraction of the price. Lacks niacinamide and soothing actives, with a more basic, slightly tacky feel.
Multi-form Vitamin C plus antioxidants at a mid-range price. Slightly heavier feel and more extracts, but a comparable everyday brightening goal.
Higher percentage derivative plus EGF for added repair. Richer, oilier texture that can pill and is less focused on sensitive skin.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Klairs Vitamin Charging Serum (Featured)
$35.00Goodal Green Tangerine Vita C Serum
$26.00COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum
$24.00Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic
$25.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
6 months after opening (36 months unopened from manufacture)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to protect the Vitamin C
Opaque, airtight pump bottle that limits light and air exposure
Yes โ 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit
โ Frequently Asked Questions
It is generally considered pregnancy- and breastfeeding-friendly. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens, and its main actives โ a Vitamin C derivative and niacinamide โ are widely regarded as safe during pregnancy. As always, confirm with your own doctor or OB-GYN before adding any product during pregnancy.
No. The formula contains linolenic acid (a fatty acid) and citrus fruit extracts, which can potentially feed the malassezia yeast linked to fungal acne. If you are actively managing fungal acne, this serum is best avoided.
It already pairs a Vitamin C derivative with niacinamide, so there is no conflict between those. It layers well in the morning and works nicely alongside retinol used at night. If you also use strong AHAs or BHAs, alternate days or times to avoid over-exfoliation, since this gentle derivative is forgiving but layering many actives can still irritate.
It is formulated for all skin types and is especially well-suited to sensitive skin and Vitamin C beginners, thanks to its gentle pH and soothing actives. Oily and combination skin love the lightweight finish, while dry skin should layer a richer moisturizer on top.
Brand testing reports brighter, more revitalized skin in about 14 days, with a 20%+ improvement in hydration after two weeks. Dark spots and uneven tone typically soften over 4 to 8 weeks of consistent daily use, with firmness and smoothness improving over 8 to 12 weeks.
Use it after cleansing and toning, while skin is still slightly damp, and before your moisturizer. It is ideal in the morning for its antioxidant boost โ just remember to finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
It rates low on the comedogenic scale (around 1 out of 5). The formula is water-based, oil-free, and non-sticky, so it is unlikely to clog pores for most people. Note, however, that low comedogenicity is not the same as fungal-acne safe โ see the malassezia question above.
The period after opening (PAO) is 6 months, so aim to use it within six months of first opening. Unopened, it carries roughly a 36-month shelf life from the manufacture date. Storing it cool and away from sunlight helps keep the Vitamin C effective.
Verdict: Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Charging Serum is a standout entry-level Vitamin C serum. Its stable 10% 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and niacinamide brighten and even tone without the sting, oxidation, or flaking of pure Vitamin C, making it ideal for sensitive skin and Vitamin C beginners. The trade-offs are that it is not fungal-acne safe, the citrus extracts will not suit everyone, and the 30ml bottle feels small for the price. For gentle, reliable everyday brightening, it is an easy recommendation.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 7 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|