Regena C30 Pro Vitamin C Serum
Regena C30 Pro Vitamin C Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A potent, anhydrous (water-free) vitamin C serum delivering 30% ethyl ascorbic acid in an ultra-minimal 5-ingredient formula. Designed to brighten dull and uneven skin, fade hyperpigmentation, fight signs of ageing, and provide powerful antioxidant protection without oxidising.
30% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
The highest concentration available from FaceTheory. A stable vitamin C derivative that brightens skin, fades dark spots, and boosts collagen production without oxidising.
Texture & feel
SENSORY30% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
The highest concentration available from FaceTheory. A stable vitamin C derivative that brightens skin, fades dark spots, and boosts collagen production without oxidising.
Anhydrous Formula
Water-free formulation means this serum will not oxidise or turn brown over time, unlike many L-ascorbic acid serums. Longer shelf life and consistent potency.
Minimalist 5-Ingredient Formula
Only five carefully chosen ingredients with zero fillers, fragrances, or preservatives. Reduced risk of irritation and ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.
Antioxidant Protection
Shields skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and pollution, helping to prevent premature ageing and environmental skin stress.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The brand confirms this product is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-4 Esters, an olive-oil derived ester that may feed malassezia yeast. Those prone to fungal acne should patch test or consider alternatives.
Formulated without known pore-clogging ingredients. The lightweight base of propanediol and amino acid gelling agents is unlikely to cause breakouts for most users.
No parabens, sulfates, silicones, fragrance, drying alcohols, PEG, gluten, or coconut derivatives. Allergen-free and suitable for sensitive skin.
At 30% concentration, this is a high-strength vitamin C serum. Always patch test before first use. If new to vitamin C, consider starting with a lower concentration (e.g., 20%).
Ethyl ascorbic acid is gentler than pure L-ascorbic acid. It does not require an extremely low pH to penetrate, making it more tolerable for most skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTS3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid 30%Proven
A highly stable vitamin C derivative that is both water- and oil-soluble. It penetrates the skin and is converted into pure ascorbic acid within the epidermis, delivering brightening, antioxidant, and collagen-boosting benefits.
- Stability: Does not oxidise in water-free formulas, maintaining potency far longer than L-ascorbic acid.
- Conversion: Contains 86.4% ascorbic acid content, higher than most vitamin C derivatives (typically 50–60%).
- Clinical data: In-vivo studies show 2% ethyl ascorbic acid improves skin tone; this formula uses 30% for maximum effect.
- Anti-bacterial: Clinical studies indicate it can inhibit acne-causing bacteria.
Propanediol BaseProven
A plant-derived humectant produced sustainably from corn sugar. Serves as the main solvent and vehicle for delivering the active vitamin C, while also providing light hydration and improving the sensory feel of the formula.
- Source: Ecocert-approved, natural alternative to propylene glycol.
- Function: Acts as humectant, solvent, and absorption enhancer for the ethyl ascorbic acid.
- Safety: Well-tolerated, non-sensitising, and suitable for all skin types.
Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-4 Esters SupportingPromising
A vegetable-derived emulsifier made from olive oil and polyglycerin. Helps stabilise the anhydrous formula and gives the serum its smooth, spreadable texture while contributing mild conditioning benefits.
- Function: Emulsifier that blends the oil-soluble and gel components into a uniform, stable formula.
- Skin feel: Provides a luxurious, non-greasy glide during application.
Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide & Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide SupportingProven
A pair of amino acid-based (L-glutamic acid) gelling agents that transform liquid oils into elegant gels. These are responsible for the serum's unique thick, non-sticky texture and help keep the formula stable.
- Function: Oil gelling agents that control viscosity and create the gel-like consistency.
- Safety: Amino acid-derived, well-tolerated, and non-irritating.
- Synergy: Commonly paired together in cosmetic formulations for optimal texture control.
5 ingredients
Propanediol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-4 Esters, Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide, Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, before moisturiser. Use both morning and evening. Always follow with SPF in the morning for optimal results and to protect against UV-induced pigmentation.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with clean skin. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and apply toner if desired. Pat skin until slightly damp.
Dispense 2–3 Drops
Using the glass pipette, place 2–3 drops of serum onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way due to the high concentration of actives. For full-face coverage, you may need up to 4–5 drops.
Apply & Massage
Gently press and massage the serum into your skin, focusing on areas with hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or uneven tone. Avoid the eye area.
Follow with Moisturiser & SPF
Allow 1–2 minutes for absorption, then layer your moisturiser on top. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to fade dark spots, sun spots, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- You prefer a minimalist, clean ingredient list with no fillers
- You have experienced oxidation issues with L-ascorbic acid serums
- You need a stable vitamin C serum that won't turn brown
- You want a pregnancy-safe brightening treatment
- You value vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainably packaged skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (contains olive oil-derived esters)
- You prefer a lightweight, watery serum texture (this is thicker and gel-like)
- You want additional actives like hyaluronic acid, ferulic acid, or niacinamide in one product
- You are new to vitamin C and want to start at a lower concentration
- You need a large bottle size for daily full-face use (30ml is compact)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe anhydrous base leaves a slight sheen that oily skin types may find too dewy. Use sparingly and follow with a mattifying moisturiser.
The oil-based gel texture provides a nourishing feel. Propanediol adds hydration. Layer with a rich moisturiser for best results.
Works well across different zones. Apply more on dry areas; use sparingly on the T-zone. Absorbs well on balanced skin.
Ethyl ascorbic acid is gentler than L-ascorbic acid. However, 30% is still a high concentration. Patch test first and build tolerance gradually.
Low comedogenic rating and vitamin C can help with post-acne marks. However, those with fungal acne should be cautious due to the olive oil ester.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Immediate Glow & Hydration
Skin appears more luminous and hydrated immediately after application. The dewy finish gives a healthy, radiant look. Some users may experience mild tingling as skin adjusts to the 30% concentration.
70% noticed an instant glowImproved Skin Tone
Complexion begins to look more even and unified. Early signs of dark spot fading become visible, particularly on areas of recent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
60% noticed improved evennessVisible Brightening & Dark Spot Fading
Noticeable reduction in hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Skin texture appears smoother and more refined. Fine lines around the eyes and forehead begin to soften.
75% noticed significant brighteningLong-Term Anti-Ageing & Firmness
Continued collagen support leads to firmer, plumper skin. Cumulative antioxidant protection helps prevent new pigmentation from forming. Best results seen with consistent daily use and SPF.
80% reported overall skin improvementRatings by platform
410+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- High 30% concentration of stable ethyl ascorbic acid delivers real results
- Anhydrous formula will never oxidise or turn brown in the bottle
- Ultra-minimal 5-ingredient formula with no unnecessary fillers
- Noticeable improvement in skin brightness and dark spot fading
- Fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Glass bottle with recyclable packaging
- Leaves a healthy, dewy glow
Criticized
- Texture is thicker and more oily than expected for a "serum"
- 30ml bottle is small and runs out quickly with full-face daily use
- Takes 1–2 minutes to absorb; can feel heavy under makeup
- No supporting actives like ferulic acid, vitamin E, or hyaluronic acid
- Olive oil ester makes it unsuitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- High price-per-ml compared to competitors with more complex formulas
- May tingle or cause mild irritation for first-time vitamin C users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses 20% L-ascorbic acid instead of ethyl ascorbic acid, plus vitamin E and ferulic acid for enhanced stability. Watery texture absorbs faster. More research-backed but less stable and may oxidise over time.
Multi-form vitamin C complex (L-ascorbic acid + sodium ascorbyl phosphate) with hyaluronic acid, glutathione, and Kakadu plum. More ingredients and a broader approach but uses a different type of vitamin C derivative.
Uses sodium ascorbyl phosphate (a gentler vitamin C derivative) with vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and botanical extracts. Much lighter texture. Great for sensitive skin but lower potency than 30% ethyl ascorbic acid.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. The anhydrous formula is highly stable, but heat and light can still degrade vitamin C over time.
Glass dropper bottle with pipette. Bottle and cardboard carton are recyclable. Pipette is mixed materials (general waste).
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml liquid carry-on limit. Glass bottle — pack carefully to avoid breakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. FaceTheory confirms this product is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The active ingredient, ethyl ascorbic acid, is a stable vitamin C derivative with no known risks during pregnancy. However, always consult your doctor or midwife before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
Use with caution. The formula contains Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-4 Esters, an olive oil-derived ester that some sources flag as potentially feeding malassezia yeast. While the overall formula is minimal and free from common fungal acne triggers like polysorbates and fermented ingredients, those with active fungal acne or a history of malassezia folliculitis should patch test first or consult a dermatologist.
Yes, but with care. Vitamin C (ethyl ascorbic acid) can be used alongside retinol — apply vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night to avoid potential irritation. With AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid), it is best to alternate usage times or days rather than layering directly. If you experience any tingling, redness, or irritation, reduce frequency. Always introduce new combinations gradually.
This serum is suitable for all skin types, as confirmed by FaceTheory. It works particularly well for dry, combination, and normal skin types due to its nourishing, oil-based gel texture. Those with oily skin may find the dewy finish slightly heavy. Sensitive skin types can use it but should patch test and build tolerance gradually due to the high 30% concentration.
Most users notice an immediate glow and improved radiance from the first application. Visible improvements in skin tone evenness typically appear within 3–4 weeks. Significant fading of dark spots and hyperpigmentation is usually seen at the 6–8 week mark. For long-term anti-ageing benefits like improved firmness and reduced fine lines, consistent use for 12+ weeks is recommended.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before your moisturiser. The order is: Cleanser, Toner, Regena C30 Serum, Moisturiser, SPF (morning only). The brand recommends using it both morning and evening for best results. In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to protect against UV-induced pigmentation.
This serum has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. The formula is free from known pore-clogging ingredients and contains only 5 lightweight components. It is considered non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin. However, as with any new product, monitor your skin for the first few weeks of use.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Because it is an anhydrous (water-free) formula, it is far more stable than water-based vitamin C serums and will not oxidise or change colour under normal storage conditions. Store in a cool, dark place and keep the cap tightly closed after each use for optimal longevity.
Verdict: FaceTheory Regena C30 Pro is a standout choice for anyone seeking a high-strength, stable vitamin C serum with an ultra-clean ingredient list. The 30% ethyl ascorbic acid concentration in an anhydrous base means this serum delivers potent brightening and antioxidant protection without the oxidation headaches of L-ascorbic acid formulas. Its minimalist 5-ingredient formula is a major advantage for those who want transparency and reduced irritation risk. The trade-offs are a thicker-than-expected texture, a compact 30ml size, and the absence of supporting actives like ferulic acid or vitamin E. It is best suited for experienced vitamin C users who prioritise stability and simplicity. Excellent value for the quality of the active ingredient, especially at the brand's direct price point.
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 skin’s 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 «promises» 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
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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Film Forming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-4 Esters
|
|