Super Nova 5% THD Vitamin C + Caffeine Brightening Eye Cream
Super Nova 5% THD Vitamin C + Caffeine Brightening Eye Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, silky brightening eye cream from Herbivore Botanicals, powered by 5% THD Vitamin C, caffeine, and turmeric to visibly de-puff, smooth, and revive tired under-eyes. Clinically shown to brighten the look of dark circles in just 7 days, with a fast-absorbing finish that wears seamlessly under concealer.
5% Stable Vitamin C
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THD) is an oil-soluble, ultra-stable form of vitamin C that brightens and supports the look of fine lines.
Texture & feel
SENSORY5% Stable Vitamin C
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THD) is an oil-soluble, ultra-stable form of vitamin C that brightens and supports the look of fine lines.
Caffeine De-Puff
Caffeine helps visibly energize and de-puff the eye area on contact for an instantly more awake, refreshed look.
Turmeric Glow
Antioxidant-rich Curcuma Longa root extract helps even tone and lend a healthy, radiant finish under the eyes.
Hydrate & Protect
Hyaluronic acid, CoQ10 (ubiquinone), and vitamin E deliver lasting hydration and antioxidant defense.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. THD vitamin C, caffeine, and turmeric are generally considered low-risk. Always confirm with your doctor.
Contains shea butter, jojoba, safflower oil, fatty esters, polyglyceryl emulsifiers and a ferment. Not considered malassezia-safe.
Pairs well with niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and most moisturizers. THD vitamin C is gentle and non-pH-dependent.
Generally compatible with retinol and AHA/BHA, but on the delicate eye area introduce one active at a time to avoid irritation.
Formulated and tested for safe use around the delicate eye area.
No synthetic fragrance, parabens, sulfates, silicones, phthalates, mineral oils, or harsh drying alcohols.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTHD Vitamin C (Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate) 5%Proven
An oil-soluble, highly stable derivative of vitamin C. Because it is lipid-soluble, it penetrates deeper into the skin's fatty layers than pure ascorbic acid while delivering similar brightening and antioxidant benefits.
- Brightening: Concentrations of 5% or more are typically used to target dark spots and uneven tone.
- Stability: More resistant to oxidation than L-ascorbic acid, though still best protected from light and heat.
- Antioxidant: Shows meaningful antioxidant activity even at low percentages, helping defend against pollution and UV stress.
Caffeine ActivePromising
A vasoconstricting antioxidant that helps temporarily de-puff and energize the eye area by supporting microcirculation and reducing the look of fluid retention.
- De-puffing: Widely used to reduce the appearance of under-eye bags and puffiness.
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals and is being studied for photoprotective benefits.
Turmeric (Curcuma Longa Root Extract) ExtractPromising
Rich in curcumin, a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It helps soothe the skin and may support a more even, radiant under-eye tone.
- Antioxidant: Curcumin helps neutralize free radicals linked to premature aging.
- Tone: Studied for helping reduce the look of hyperpigmentation from sun exposure.
Hyaluronic Acid HumectantProven
A powerful humectant that binds water to the skin, helping the delicate eye area look plumper, smoother, and more hydrated.
- Hydration: Capable of holding many times its weight in water to soften fine, dehydration lines.
- Soothing: High-molecular-weight HA has anti-inflammatory, comforting properties.
Ubiquinone (CoQ10) + Vitamin E AntioxidantsProven
A pair of fat-soluble antioxidants. Ubiquinone replenishes the skin's natural levels of CoQ10, while tocopherol (vitamin E) nourishes the lipid barrier and amplifies vitamin C's antioxidant action.
- Defense: Protects upper skin layers from oxidative damage that breaks down collagen.
- Synergy: Vitamin C + E together are shown to be more protective than either alone.
40 ingredients
Water, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Triheptanoin, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Propanediol, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Stearyl Stearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Glycerin, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Behenyl Alcohol, Caffeine, Ganoderma Lucidum Extract, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Astragalus Membranaceus Root Extract, Spilanthes Acmella Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Ubiquinone, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Sclerotium Gum, C9-12 Alkane, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Anisate, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Sodium Phytate, Ocimum Basilicum Flower/Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Xanthan Gum, Bacillus Ferment, Glyceryl Caprylate, Citric Acid.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEHerbivore recommends applying Super Nova after cleansing and toning, butbefore your serum and moisturizer. Best used in the AM as a smooth canvas under concealer, but it can be used both morning and night.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with freshly cleansed skin. Follow with toner or essence if you use one.
Dispense a Pea-Size Amount
A little goes a long way. Pick up a pea-size amount with your ring finger (the gentlest finger).
Tap Around the Orbital Bone
Gently tap (don't drag) around the entire orbital bone until absorbed. Avoid getting it directly in the eye.
Follow With Serum & Moisturizer
Layer your treatment serum and moisturizer on top to seal everything in.
Prep for Makeup
Once absorbed, it creates a smooth base for concealer. Best for AM, but suitable for AM + PM.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to brighten the look of dull, dark under-eyes
- You deal with morning puffiness and want a de-puffing boost
- You wear concealer and need a smooth, fast-absorbing base
- You prefer vegan, cruelty-free, fragrance-free clean beauty
- You want a gentle, non-acidic vitamin C for the eye area
Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (malassezia) breakouts
- You want a fragrance-free formula with zero botanical scent
- You're after a budget option (15ml at $48 is premium)
- You expect dramatic dark-circle erasing — results are gradual
- You need a heavy, occlusive cream for very dry, mature lids
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight and fast-absorbing, though the emollient-rich base may feel slightly more than needed for very oily lids.
Shea butter, jojoba, and hyaluronic acid deliver comforting hydration to dry, crepey under-eyes.
Balances hydration and a smooth finish well, making it a versatile daily eye cream.
Fragrance-free and ophthalmologist-tested, but the botanical extracts mean a patch test is wise for very reactive skin.
Low comedogenic risk overall, but the oils and ferment are not fungal-acne safe, so malassezia-prone users should be cautious.
Results timeline
6–8 WEEKSDe-Puffed & Smooth
Caffeine helps visibly de-puff and the cream leaves a smooth, hydrated canvas that wears well under concealer.
Reported on contactBrighter Under-Eyes
In a consumer study of 37 women aged 30–60, under-eyes were clinically shown to look brighter.
Brand consumer studyImproved Dark Circle Tone
With consistent daily use, THD vitamin C and turmeric help fade the appearance of discoloration over time.
Gradual improvementSmoother, Firmer Look
Changes to fine lines and firmness happen in deeper layers and typically take six weeks or more to become noticeable.
Best with continued useRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight, silky texture that absorbs quickly
- Excellent, non-slip base under concealer
- Visible instant de-puffing from caffeine
- Gentle, stable, non-acidic vitamin C
- Clean, vegan, cruelty-free, sustainable glass packaging
Criticized
- Dark circle results are gradual and subtle for some
- Premium price for a small 15ml jar
- Light natural turmeric scent and warm tint
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe
- Jar packaging is less ideal for vitamin C stability than airless
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESThe closest ingredient match — also vegan, cruelty-free, and built around vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. A lighter serum texture rather than a cushiony cream, at well under half the price.
A water-light serum that matches the 5% caffeine for de-puffing and adds EGCG for dark circles. No THD vitamin C or rich emollients, but unbeatable value for the puffiness benefit.
A refreshing caffeine + hyaluronic acid gel-cream targeting dark circles and puffiness. Praised for absorbing well and great value, though it lacks the vitamin C and turmeric actives.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEHerbivore Super Nova (Featured)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat to protect the vitamin C from degrading.
Recyclable glass jar with an FSC-certified paper carton.
Yes — 15ml is well under the 100ml carry-on limit. Pack the glass jar with care.
Frequently asked questions
FAQIt contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the actives most often flagged during pregnancy. Its key ingredients (THD vitamin C, caffeine, turmeric, hyaluronic acid) are generally considered low-risk for topical use. That said, no skincare can be guaranteed universally safe, so always check with your OB-GYN or doctor before adding any product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No. The formula contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including shea butter, jojoba seed oil, safflower oil, fatty esters (such as coco-caprylate/caprate and bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-2), polyglyceryl emulsifiers, and Bacillus Ferment. If you are prone to fungal acne, this is one to approach with caution or patch test first.
Yes, generally. The THD vitamin C in Super Nova is gentle and non-acidic, so it layers well with most actives. Because it already contains vitamin C, you don't need another C product on the eye area. When combining with retinol or AHA/BHA, introduce one active at a time on the delicate under-eye skin to minimize the risk of irritation.
It performs best on normal, dry, and combination skin thanks to its hydrating, emollient-rich base. Oily skin types will still enjoy the lightweight feel. Sensitive skin is generally well tolerated since it's fragrance-free and ophthalmologist-tested, though a patch test is recommended. Fungal-acne-prone users should be cautious due to the oils and ferment.
De-puffing and a smoother canvas are often visible right away thanks to caffeine. The brand's consumer study (37 women, ages 30–60) showed brighter-looking under-eyes in just 7 days. Improvements to dark circle tone build gradually over about 4 weeks, while fine-line and firmness benefits from vitamin C typically take six weeks or more of consistent daily use.
Apply it after cleansing and toning, but before your serum and moisturizer. Tap a pea-size amount gently around the orbital bone with your ring finger. It's best used in the morning as a smooth base under concealer, but it can be applied both AM and PM.
It has a relatively low comedogenic rating (around 2/5). The oils it uses — jojoba, safflower, and shea butter — are generally low-to-moderate on the comedogenic scale, and it's formulated for the eye area. Most people won't experience clogging, but those very prone to milia or fungal acne around the eyes should monitor how their skin responds.
Around 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Because vitamin C is sensitive to light and heat, store the jar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and close it tightly after each use to keep the formula fresh and effective.
Verdict: Herbivore's Super Nova is a beautifully formulated, clean eye cream that excels as a lightweight, makeup-friendly brightener. The 5% THD vitamin C, caffeine, and turmeric trio reliably delivers instant de-puffing and a gradual, gentle brightening effect, all wrapped in vegan, sustainable packaging. The trade-offs are a premium price for a small 15ml jar, subtle (not dramatic) dark-circle results, and a formula that isn't fungal-acne safe. For anyone wanting a gentle, plant-based vitamin C eye cream that wears flawlessly under concealer, it's an easy recommendation.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your 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
Anti-Aging from 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Redness
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Triheptanoin
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
Hydrating
|