Gluta-Bright B3 Serum
Gluta-Bright B3 Serum
Product Description
The Originote Gluta-Bright B3 Serum is a lightweight, water-thin brightening serum from Indonesian skincare brand The Originote. It pairs 10% Niacinamide with 2% Glutathione, Tranexamic Acid and a soothing botanical blend to fade dark spots, even out tone and add a healthy glow โ all in a famously affordable 20ml dropper.
โจ Texture & Feel
Visible Brightening
10% Niacinamide + 2% Glutathione + Tranexamic Acid target dullness, dark spots and uneven tone.
Barrier Support
Ceramide NP, Cholesterol and Beta-Glucan help reinforce the skin barrier while you brighten.
Calming Botanicals
Centella Asiatica, Licorice Root and Chamomile soothe redness and support a more even complexion.
Wallet-Friendly
One of the cheapest niacinamide-glutathione serums on the market, making it ideal for beginners.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Core actives (niacinamide, glutathione, hyaluronic acid) are widely considered low-risk topically. However, it contains Salix Alba (willow bark) which yields trace salicin and Tranexamic Acid โ always confirm with your OB-GYN first.
Not fungal-acne safe. Contains Stearic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Hydrogenated Lecithin, which can feed malassezia yeast.
Hyaluronic acid, ceramide moisturizers, peptides and sunscreen. A great daily brightening base.
10% niacinamide is high. If you also use AHA/BHA or vitamin C, alternate AM/PM or different days to reduce irritation risk.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งฌ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~10% Proven
The headline active. Niacinamide brightens, fades dark spots, regulates oil, refines pores and strengthens the skin barrier โ a true multitasker tolerated by most skin types.
- Source: 5% niacinamide is well-documented to fade hyperpigmentation and improve barrier function.
- Source: It boosts ceramide synthesis, leading to better hydration and a stronger barrier.
โจ Glutathione ~2% Promising
A master antioxidant made of three amino acids. It protects against oxidative and UV-induced damage and is marketed for its skin-brightening, melanin-balancing reputation.
- Source: Glutathione is shown to protect skin from UVB-induced damage as an antioxidant.
- Source: Evidence for topical glutathione fading dark spots is still inconclusive and needs more research.
๐ฏ Tranexamic Acid ~2-3% Proven
A lysine-derived ingredient prized for tackling stubborn discoloration, melasma and post-acne marks by interrupting pigment transfer to skin cells.
- Source: Tranexamic acid is considered one of the most effective topicals for hyperpigmentation and melasma.
- Source: It also helps reduce UV-related inflammation and strengthen the barrier.
๐ฟ Centella Asiatica Extract Botanical Promising
The famous "cica" herb. Rich in madecassoside and asiaticoside, it soothes irritation, supports wound healing and offsets the potential sting of high-strength actives.
- Source: Centella is rich in antioxidants and amino acids that calm, hydrate and protect skin.
- Source: Traditionally used to treat burns, scratches and wounds.
๐งฑ Ceramide NP + Cholesterol Barrier Lipids Proven
Skin-identical lipids that rebuild the protective barrier. Ceramide NP (ceramide 3) plus cholesterol mimic the skin's natural mortar to lock in moisture and reduce sensitivity.
- Source: Ceramides are key building blocks of the skin barrier and help skin look firmer and more hydrated.
- Source: Cholesterol makes up about a quarter of the skin's outer barrier layer.
๐ง Sodium Hyaluronate + Beta-Glucan Humectants Proven
A hydration duo. Sodium hyaluronate (the salt form of HA) draws water into skin, while beta-glucan deeply hydrates, soothes and supports barrier repair.
- Source: Sodium hyaluronate holds water exceptionally well, acting as a strong hydrating humectant.
- Source: Beta-glucan deeply penetrates skin and has been studied as a wrinkle reducer and wound healer.
31 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Tranexamic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Allantoin, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Beta-Glucan, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Propylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Glutathione, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Hexylene Glycol, Stearic Acid, Cholesterol, Ceramide NP, Phenoxyethanol, Citrus Reticulata Peel Extract, Chlorphenesin.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after toner on clean skin, before heavier creams. Always finish with SPF in the morning โ brightening actives work best with daily sun protection.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Tone
Start with clean, towel-dried skin. Apply your usual toner first if you use one.
Dispense 2-3 Drops
Drip 2-3 drops onto your fingertips or palm โ a little goes a long way with this watery formula.
Pat Onto Face & Neck
Gently press and pat across the face and neck. Let it fully absorb before your next step.
Seal & Protect
Lock in with moisturizer. In the morning, always follow with broad-spectrum sunscreen.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have dullness, uneven tone or post-acne dark spots
- You want an affordable entry into niacinamide + glutathione
- You prefer lightweight, fragrance-free textures
- You have oily or combination skin
- You like layering brightening actives into a simple routine
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (malassezia)
- Your skin is very reactive to high-strength niacinamide
- You are pregnant and haven't cleared actives with your doctor
- You want a richer, more emollient serum for very dry skin
- You need clinically validated, high-dose glutathione results
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, watery formula absorbs fast and niacinamide helps regulate excess oil without greasiness.
Balances brightening and hydration across the T-zone and drier cheeks comfortably.
Ceramides and HA add hydration, but very dry skin will want a richer moisturizer on top.
Fragrance-free and soothing botanicals help, but 10% niacinamide is potent โ patch test first.
Low comedogenicity and oil control are pluses, but it is not fungal-acne safe.
๐ Results Timeline
Smoother, Hydrated Skin
Immediate hydration and a softer feel from HA and beta-glucan. Some users report an early "glow."
65% noticedBrighter, More Even Tone
Niacinamide and tranexamic acid begin smoothing overall radiance and calming redness.
58% noticedFading Dark Spots
Post-acne marks and uneven patches start to visibly lighten with consistent twice-daily use and SPF.
47% noticedClearer, Resilient Complexion
With ongoing use, tone looks more uniform and the barrier feels stronger and more balanced.
40% noticedโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Extremely affordable for the active lineup
- Visible brightening reported within a week by many
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing, fragrance-free
- Barrier-supporting ceramides + soothing cica
- Great beginner brightening serum
โ Criticized
- 10% niacinamide may irritate sensitive skin
- Not fungal-acne safe
- Small 20ml size runs out fast
- Glutathione brightening evidence is limited
- Dropper dosing can be messy
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Another ultra-cheap Indonesian 10% niacinamide brightening serum with a very similar ingredient profile. Adds pomegranate antioxidants but skips glutathione.
The classic 10% niacinamide reference. Adds zinc for oil control but has no glutathione, tranexamic acid or ceramides, and can feel slightly tacky.
Lower 5% niacinamide for sensitive skin, plus beet extract and ceramides. Gentler but slower brightening than the 10% Originote.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
The Originote Gluta-Bright B3 (Featured)
~$4.50Skintific 10% Niacinamide Brightening Serum
~$10.00The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
~$6.00Somethinc 10% Niacinamide Barrier Serum
~$8.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap closed tightly
Glass dropper bottle
Yes โ 20ml is well under the 100ml carry-on limit
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Its main actives โ niacinamide, glutathione and hyaluronic acid โ are generally considered low-risk during pregnancy. However, it also contains Tranexamic Acid and Salix Alba (willow bark, a salicin source), so we mark it "Caution." Always confirm with your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use while pregnant or nursing.
No. It contains Stearic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Hydrogenated Lecithin, which can feed malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne, choose a fully malassezia-safe niacinamide serum instead.
Niacinamide pairs well with retinol and most actives. To minimize irritation from the high 10% niacinamide, alternate strong acids (AHA/BHA) or vitamin C to a different time of day or alternate days, and introduce retinol slowly. Listen to your skin and patch test.
It performs best on oily and combination skin thanks to its lightweight, oil-regulating formula. Dry skin should layer a richer moisturizer on top, and very sensitive skin should patch test because of the 10% niacinamide.
Many users notice smoother, more hydrated, slightly brighter skin within the first 1-2 weeks. More even tone typically shows around 4 weeks, and dark spots begin fading around 6-8 weeks with consistent twice-daily use plus daily sunscreen.
Apply it after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer. Use 2-3 drops, pat into the face and neck, and let it absorb. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF.
It has a low comedogenic rating of about 1/5. The formula is largely water-based and lightweight, so it is unlikely to clog pores for most people, though it is not fungal-acne safe.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is around 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the dropper closed to preserve the actives.
Verdict: The Originote Gluta-Bright B3 Serum punches well above its price point. For just a few dollars you get a thoughtful brightening blend โ 10% Niacinamide, 2% Glutathione and Tranexamic Acid โ backed by ceramides and soothing cica, in a fragrance-free, lightweight texture that oily and combination skin will love. The trade-offs are real: the 10% niacinamide can irritate sensitive skin, it is not fungal-acne safe, and the 20ml bottle disappears quickly. But as an affordable, beginner-friendly daily brightener, it is one of the best value-for-money serums in its category.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid
Buffering
|
|