Green Lemon Vita C Blemish Serum
Green Lemon Vita C Blemish Serum
Product Description
Anua Green Lemon Vita C Blemish Serum is a high-potency K-beauty brightening treatment powered by 56% green lemon extract (560,000 ppm) and 20% pure Vitamin C / L-ascorbic acid (200,000 ppm), stabilized with Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid. Designed to fade dark spots, even skin tone and restore radiance to dull, blemish-prone skin in a lightweight, non-greasy formula.
β¨ Texture & Feel
56% Green Lemon Extract
A whopping 560,000 ppm of Vitamin C-rich green lemon extract delivers natural antioxidants to revive dull, fatigued skin.
20% Pure Vitamin C
200,000 ppm of L-ascorbic acid, the gold-standard form of Vitamin C, targets hyperpigmentation and supports collagen.
Vita-Barrier Capsules
Panthenol, glutathione and alpha-bisabolol are encapsulated to help carry water-soluble vitamins through the skin barrier.
Antioxidant Trio
Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid work together to boost stability and shield skin from free-radical damage.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Vitamin C itself is considered safe, but this serum contains citrus essential oils and natural fragrance compounds. Check with your doctor before use.
Contains fatty-acid esters and plant oils (sucrose stearate, glyceryl stearates, sunflower oil). Not recommended for malassezia-prone skin.
High 20% Vitamin C plus citrus oils and fragrance (limonene, linalool, citral) can sting or irritate. Patch test first.
Brand-tested as non-comedogenic with a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture that has a low pore-clogging risk.
Brightening citrus actives can make skin more sun-reactive. Always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF in the morning.
Avoid using at the same time as strong retinoids or AHA/BHA exfoliants to reduce irritation. Alternate AM/PM instead.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 20% Proven
Pure L-ascorbic acid is the most studied and effective form of topical Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that brightens, supports collagen and fades pigmentation marks.
- Source: L-ascorbic acid at 10β20% is the clinically established range for brightening and collagen support.
- Note: It is water-soluble and oxidizes quickly with air and light, so freshness matters.
π Citrus Limon Fruit Extract (Green Lemon) 56% Promising
Green lemon extract is naturally rich in Vitamin C, flavonoids and phenolics that add antioxidant support and contribute to the serum's signature citrus character.
- Source: Citrus fruits are complex blends of Vitamin C, flavonoids and essential oil compounds.
- Note: Citrus extracts can be photosensitizing, reinforcing the need for daily SPF.
πΏ Ferulic Acid ~0.5% Proven
A plant-derived antioxidant best known for stabilizing Vitamin C and Vitamin E, extending their effectiveness while adding its own free-radical defense.
- Source: The classic C + E + Ferulic combination is widely documented to boost antioxidant stability and photoprotection.
β¨ Tocopherol (Vitamin E) ~1% Proven
A lipid-soluble antioxidant that complements Vitamin C, helps neutralize free radicals and supports the skin barrier for softer, more resilient skin.
- Source: Vitamin E works synergistically with Vitamin C to enhance overall antioxidant protection.
π Niacinamide <1% Proven
Present further down the list, niacinamide is a well-studied brightening and barrier-supporting ingredient that helps even tone and calm the look of redness.
- Source: Niacinamide is shown to help reduce the appearance of blemishes, uneven tone and fine lines.
𫧠Glutathione & Bisabolol Capsule Promising
Part of Anua's "vita-barrier capsules" alongside panthenol. Glutathione is an antioxidant linked to skin lightening, while alpha-bisabolol soothes and calms.
- Source: Glutathione may help neutralize free radicals and reduce melanin; bisabolol is valued for its soothing properties.
67 ingredients
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract (560,000 ppm), Ascorbic Acid (200,000 ppm), Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Sodium Hydroxide, C12-14 Alketh-12, Bisabolol, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Water, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Glycerin, Glutathione, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Flower Oil, Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, Adenosine, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Disodium EDTA, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Tocopherol, Ferulic Acid, Barosma Betulina Leaf Extract, N-Butyl Alcohol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Sorbitol, Panthenol, Beta-Glucan, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Sucrose Stearate, Glyceryl Stearates, Beta-Carotene, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Niacinamide, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Thioctic Acid, Lycopodium Clavatum Extract, Equisetum Arvense Extract, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Pyridoxine, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Folic Acid, Biotin, Ceramide NP, Ubiquinone, Cyanocobalamin, Thiamine HCl, Riboflavin, Linoleic Acid, Hesperidin, Ergothioneine, Limonene, Linalool, Citral
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Best used in the morning after toner and before moisturizer. Apply to clean, dry skin and always finish with SPF. Can also be used at night, but avoid layering directly with strong retinoids or acids.
π How to Use
Patch Test First
Because of the high 20% Vitamin C concentration, apply a small amount to your inner arm or jaw and wait 24 hours before full use.
Cleanse & Tone
Start with cleansed skin and your usual hydrating toner so the serum applies to a clean, slightly damp base.
Apply 2β3 Drops
Smooth a thin layer over the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. A little goes a long way; let it fully absorb.
Moisturize
Seal in the serum with your favorite cream or moisturizer to support the barrier and lock in hydration.
SPF (Morning)
If using in the AM, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Vitamin C boosts daytime antioxidant protection.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dull skin that needs a radiance boost
- You want to fade dark spots, post-acne marks or uneven tone
- You have normal, combination or oily skin
- You want a high-strength Vitamin C at an accessible price
- You don't mind storing skincare in the fridge
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive or easily reactive skin
- You are sensitive to fragrance or citrus essential oils
- You are dealing with fungal acne (malassezia)
- You want a long shelf life and can't refrigerate
- You prefer a gentle, low-percentage Vitamin C derivative
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, fast-absorbing and non-greasy, so it brightens without adding shine.
Balances brightening and hydration across both oily and drier zones of the face.
A great all-round brightening serum that layers easily under SPF and makeup.
Provides antioxidant and HA hydration but pair with a richer moisturizer on top.
Non-comedogenic and helps fade marks, but not malassezia-safe and may need slow introduction.
High Vitamin C plus citrus oils and fragrance can sting; patch test and introduce slowly.
π Results Timeline
Initial Glow
Skin starts to look fresher and more luminous. Many users report a visible "glow" within the first two weeks of consistent use.
62% noticedSmoother, More Even Tone
Texture feels smoother and overall tone looks more even as the antioxidant complex works on dullness.
71% noticedDark Spots Begin to Fade
Post-acne marks, freckles and hyperpigmentation start to look lighter and less noticeable with daily use.
68% noticedBrighter, More Refined Skin
With continued use and daily SPF, complexion looks brighter, clearer and more refined overall.
74% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- High 20% Vitamin C at a budget-friendly price
- Visibly brightens and fades dark spots over time
- Lightweight, non-greasy and absorbs fast
- Layered antioxidants (Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid)
- Opaque dropper bottle helps limit oxidation
β Criticized
- Strong citrus/lemongrass scent some find off-putting
- Small 20ml bottle relative to the price
- Short shelf life; requires fridge storage after opening
- Can oxidize and darken if not stored cold
- High % plus fragrance may irritate sensitive skin
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Nearly the same active concept: 20% L-ascorbic acid with Vitamin E and ferulic acid in a larger 30ml size. Fragrance-free and no citrus oils, so it's gentler for sensitive noses.
A much cheaper, lower-strength Vitamin C with alpha arbutin for pigmentation. Less potent and missing the citrus/ferulic profile, but very wallet-friendly to start.
A much gentler 5% Vitamin C aimed at sensitive skin and beginners. Lower brightening power but far less likely to sting than the 20% Anua formula.
A cult J-beauty Vitamin C essence with ascorbic acid and tocopherol. Affordable and effective on spots, though it has its own strong citrus scent.
π Comparison with Competitors
Anua Green Lemon Vita C Serum (Featured)
$25.00Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic
$25.00Rohto Melano CC Essence
$13.00SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
$182.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
Approximately 3 months after opening. Pure Vitamin C degrades quickly once exposed to air and light.
Store in the refrigerator (3β10Β°C) after opening. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat.
Opaque glass bottle with a dropper to minimize oxidation and protect the formula from light.
Yes β at 20ml it's well under the 100ml limit, but keep it cool and use promptly while traveling.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Vitamin C is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and this serum contains no retinoids, salicylic acid or hydroquinone. However, it does include several citrus essential oils and natural fragrance compounds (limonene, linalool, citral), which some prefer to avoid while pregnant. We recommend checking with your doctor or OB-GYN before adding it to your routine.
No. The formula contains fatty-acid esters and plant oils such as sucrose stearate, glyceryl stearates, polyglyceryl-10 stearate and sunflower seed oil, which can feed malassezia yeast. If you are managing fungal acne, this serum is not recommended.
It's best not to layer this directly with strong retinoids or AHA/BHA exfoliants in the same routine, as the combination can be irritating with a 20% Vitamin C. Use them at different times (for example, Vitamin C in the AM and retinol in the PM). You don't need a second Vitamin C product on top, since this is already a high-strength formula.
It performs best on normal, combination and oily skin thanks to its lightweight, non-greasy texture. It's a strong choice for anyone targeting dullness, dark spots and uneven tone. Dry skin can use it under a richer moisturizer, while very sensitive or fragrance-sensitive skin should patch test and introduce it slowly.
Many users notice an initial glow within the first 1β2 weeks. More even tone and smoother texture typically appear around weeks 3β4, while dark spots and post-acne marks usually start fading around weeks 6β8. Consistent daily use plus SPF gives the best results by the 10β12 week mark.
Apply it after cleansing and toning, before your moisturizer. Anua suggests using it as the first or second step after toner. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, since Vitamin C boosts daytime antioxidant protection and citrus actives can increase sun sensitivity.
Anua markets the formula as non-comedogenic, and we'd rate it around 2 out of 5 for comedogenicity. The texture is lightweight and fast-absorbing, so pore-clogging risk is low for most people. That said, it is not fungal-acne safe, so malassezia-prone skin may still react.
About 3 months after opening. Because it uses pure L-ascorbic acid, it oxidizes quickly once exposed to air and light. Store it in the fridge (3β10Β°C), keep the dropper sealed, and use it up promptly. If the serum turns deep orange or brown, the Vitamin C has degraded and is less effective.
Verdict: The Anua Green Lemon Vita C Blemish Serum delivers high-strength brightening at an impressively accessible price, pairing 20% pure Vitamin C with 56% green lemon extract and a stabilizing Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid trio. It's a standout for dull, blemish-prone, normal-to-oily skin chasing a glow and fading dark spots. The trade-offs are real, though: a strong citrus scent, a small 20ml bottle, a short fridge-stored shelf life, and a fragrance/essential-oil profile that isn't ideal for very sensitive or fungal-acne-prone skin. For everyone else, it's one of the best value high-percentage Vitamin C serums in K-beauty.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 10 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 7 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 12 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Citrus Limon Fruit Extract
Masking, 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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 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
|
|