Radiance+ 15% Vitamin C Serum
Radiance+ 15% Vitamin C Serum
Product Description
No7 Radiance+ 15% Vitamin C Serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing gel serum powered by 15% stabilised Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) plus hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing allantoin. This budget-friendly brightener targets dullness, dark spots and uneven tone for an instant dewy glow โ backed by over 85 years of No7 skincare expertise from the UK.
โจ Texture & Feel
15% Vitamin C
A concentrated dose of stabilised 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid works to visibly brighten, even tone and fade the look of dark spots and discoloration.
Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium hyaluronate draws moisture into the skin for a plump, hydrated, dewy finish โ without any heavy or greasy feel.
Soothing Allantoin
Added allantoin helps calm and comfort skin, balancing the active Vitamin C so it stays gentle enough for everyday use.
Glow on a Budget
A genuine drugstore-priced entry point into high-percentage Vitamin C โ brightening results without a luxury price tag.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Vitamin C derivatives like 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid are widely considered pregnancy-friendly, with no retinoids, salicylic acid or hydroquinone. Confirm with your doctor, as it does contain fragrance.
Contains Polysorbate 20 and PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, which can feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended if you are fungal-acne prone.
Includes Parfum plus Limonene and Linalool (recognised fragrance allergens). Patch test first if you have sensitive or reactive skin.
Plays well with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and most moisturisers. Avoid stacking directly with strong AHA/BHA or retinol in the same step.
Vitamin C works best alongside daily SPF. Always finish a morning routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
A mild tingle on application can be normal. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin, and discontinue if discomfort persists.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid 15% Proven
The star active โ a stable, water-soluble Vitamin C derivative that converts to pure Vitamin C deeper in the skin. It interferes with melanin production to fade hyperpigmentation and supports collagen for brighter, firmer-looking skin.
- Source: One of the more stable forms of Vitamin C, resisting oxidation far better than pure L-ascorbic acid.
- Function: Antioxidant that neutralises free radicals and helps reduce the look of dark spots and uneven tone.
๐ง Sodium Hyaluronate Hydrator Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid and a powerful humectant that can hold many times its weight in water, drawing hydration into the skin for a plump, dewy look.
- Source: A naturally occurring skin molecule prized for its moisture-binding capacity.
- Function: Boosts surface hydration and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines caused by dryness.
๐ฟ Allantoin Soothing Proven
A gentle soothing agent that helps calm, comfort and condition the skin, improving overall tolerance of the active formula.
- Source: Well documented as a skin-soothing and keratolytic ingredient that supports a healthy barrier.
- Function: Reduces the look of irritation and promotes smoother-feeling skin.
๐งด Propylene Glycol Humectant Promising
A humectant and penetration enhancer that keeps the formula hydrating while helping the actives absorb effectively into the skin.
- Source: Widely used cosmetic moisturiser and solvent.
- Function: Delivers water-soluble actives deeper and keeps the lightweight gel feel.
๐ Citric Acid Mild AHA Promising
A mild alpha-hydroxy acid that helps gently smooth the surface and refine tone, while also balancing the formula's pH for stability.
- Source: A naturally derived AHA that exfoliates the uppermost layer of skin.
- Function: Supports a more even-looking complexion and stabilises product pH.
๐ก๏ธ Ethylhexylglycerin Conditioner Promising
A skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster that improves the formula's feel, stability and shelf life.
- Source: A glycerin derivative commonly used to enhance preservative efficacy.
- Function: Adds mild humectant benefits while helping keep the formula fresh.
๐งช Polysorbate 20 Solubiliser Promising
A gentle non-ionic emulsifier and solubiliser that keeps the lightweight gel texture uniform and stable, dispersing the fragrance and oils evenly.
- Source: A widely used surfactant included in small amounts.
- Function: Helps water-based and oil-based components blend smoothly.
๐ธ Fragrance Blend (Parfum, Limonene, Linalool) Scent Caution
Parfum gives the serum its signature fresh citrus aroma, with Benzyl Alcohol acting partly as a preservative. Limonene and Linalool are the naturally derived scent components many reviewers love.
- Source: Limonene and Linalool are EU-recognised fragrance allergens.
- Function: Provide the uplifting citrus scent โ appealing to some, a drawback for others.
19 ingredients
Water (Aqua), 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Benzyl Alcohol, Allantoin, Xanthan Gum, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Citrate, Limonene, Dipropylene Glycol, Linalool, T-Butyl Alcohol, Parfum (Fragrance), Citric Acid, Denatonium Benzoate.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply to clean, toned skin before heavier creams. In the morning, always finish with SPF โ Vitamin C and sunscreen are a powerful daytime pair. Use once per day, morning or evening.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Tone
Start with freshly cleansed, toned skin. Use once per day, either morning or evening.
Apply 3โ4 Drops
Dispense 3โ4 drops into your palm and press evenly over face and neck, avoiding the eye and lip area. A little goes a long way.
Lock In Moisture
Follow with your moisturiser โ ideally the No7 Radiance+ Vitamin C Daily Brightening Moisturiser โ once the serum has settled.
Protect by Day
If using in the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF to protect newly brightened skin.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You want affordable, beginner-friendly Vitamin C
- You're targeting dullness, dark spots or uneven tone
- You like a hydrating, dewy gel finish
- You enjoy a light, fresh citrus scent
- You have normal, dry or combination skin
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You're fungal-acne (malassezia) prone
- You need a fragrance-free formula
- Your skin is highly sensitive or reactive
- You want a serum that layers invisibly under makeup
- You prefer pure, high-potency L-ascorbic acid
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight gel absorbs reasonably well, though the slightly tacky finish may bother very oily skin under makeup.
Hyaluronic acid adds welcome hydration, and the dewy finish actually suits drier skin well. Layer a richer cream on top.
Balances hydration and brightening across different zones โ a solid, versatile everyday option.
Fragrance plus Limonene and Linalool mean a patch test is essential; some users report tingling or redness.
Low comedogenic rating, but added fragrance and polysorbates make it less ideal for breakout- or fungal-acne-prone skin.
๐ Results Timeline
Instant Glow
Skin looks immediately dewier and more radiant. No7's consumer study reported brighter-looking skin in just 1 day.
70% noticedSmoother Feel
Texture feels softer and more hydrated with consistent daily use, and skin looks more awake.
60% noticedMore Even Tone
No7's 4-week UK consumer study reported visibly healthier, brighter and more even-looking skin.
65% noticedFaded Dark Spots
With patient, continued use the appearance of dark spots, sun spots and discoloration gradually softens.
55% noticedโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- High 15% Vitamin C at a true drugstore price
- Visibly brightens and evens tone with consistent use
- Hydrating, thanks to added hyaluronic acid
- Lightweight gel โ a little goes a long way
- Pleasant fresh citrus scent (for those who like fragrance)
- Helps soften the look of dark spots over time
โ Criticized
- Tacky / sticky finish that can pill under makeup
- Fragranced with Limonene & Linalool โ not for the scent-averse
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe
- Uses a Vitamin C derivative โ gentler but slower than pure forms
- Small 25ml bottle
- Results require weeks of patient, daily use
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Uses the identical hero active (15% ethyl ascorbic acid) but in a fragrance-free, oil-based formula. Heavier feel and can sting reactive skin, with no added hydrators.
Another 15% Vitamin C serum at a lower price, paired with EGF for brightening. Lighter, near fragrance-free formula and similar dewy goal.
10% pure L-ascorbic acid plus ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic โ a gentler, barrier-friendly choice for sensitive skin.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
No7 Radiance+ 15% (This Product)
$24.99The Ordinary Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15%
$16.90CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C
$19.97La Roche-Posay 10% Pure Vitamin C
$39.99๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap closed tightly to slow Vitamin C oxidation.
Glass bottle with dropper / pipette
Yes โ at 25ml it's well under the 100ml carry-on limit
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Generally yes. Its Vitamin C derivative (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid), hyaluronic acid and allantoin are not on common pregnancy-avoid lists, and it contains no retinoids, salicylic acid or hydroquinone. It does contain fragrance, so patch test and check with your doctor or midwife to be safe.
No. It contains Polysorbate 20 and PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, which can feed malassezia yeast. If you're prone to fungal acne, choose a polysorbate-free Vitamin C serum instead.
This is already your Vitamin C step, so you don't need another. It layers fine with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. A common approach is Vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night, and introducing AHA/BHA on separate days to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation.
It suits most skin types and is especially good for normal, dry and combination skin wanting brightness and hydration. Very sensitive or fungal-acne-prone skin should be cautious because of the fragrance and polysorbates.
Many people notice an instant dewy glow on day one. No7's UK consumer study reported brighter-looking skin within 4 weeks, and dark spots typically soften with around 8โ12 weeks of consistent daily use.
After cleansing and toning, and before moisturiser. Apply 3โ4 drops once a day. If you use it in the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF.
It rates low (about 1/5) for comedogenicity. It's a water-based gel with no heavy oils and is widely described as non-greasy, so it's unlikely to clog pores for most people โ though it isn't fungal-acne safe.
Around 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Because Vitamin C oxidises over time, store it cool, dark and tightly closed, and discard it if it turns a deep orange or brown colour.
Verdict: A genuinely affordable, beginner-friendly way to get a high 15% Vitamin C concentration alongside hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing allantoin. It reliably delivers an instant glow and gradually evens tone and fades the look of dark spots with consistent use. The trade-offs are real: a fragranced formula (with Limonene and Linalool) and a tacky finish that can pill under makeup, making it best as a standalone or night-time step. If you need fragrance-free or fungal-acne-safe Vitamin C, look elsewhere โ but for budget brightening, this No7 favourite earns its loyal following.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|