Triple C Night Cream
Triple C Night Cream
Product Description
Product overview
Mad Hippie's Triple C Night Cream is a luxurious, whipped night treatment powered by three stabilized, bioavailable forms of vitamin C — Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, and Ascorbyl Glucoside — combined with adaptogenic mushrooms, cloudberry, turmeric, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid. This rich yet non-greasy formula works overnight to visibly brighten skin tone, fade discoloration, smooth fine lines, and deeply replenish moisture — all in one clean, cruelty-free, vegan jar.
Triple Vitamin C Complex
Three bioavailable forms of vitamin C — oil-soluble Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, water-soluble Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, and enzyme-converted Ascorbyl Glucoside — work synergistically for maximum brightening and antioxidant protection.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Vitamin C Complex
Three bioavailable forms of vitamin C — oil-soluble Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, water-soluble Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, and enzyme-converted Ascorbyl Glucoside — work synergistically for maximum brightening and antioxidant protection.
Adaptogenic Mushroom Duo
Chaga (Inonotus Obliquus) and Reishi (Ganoderma Lucidum) mushroom extracts deliver powerful antioxidant defense, help reduce oxidative stress, and support overnight skin recovery and barrier resilience.
Cloudberry & Blackcurrant Antioxidants
Nordic cloudberry fruit extract and Ribes Nigrum (blackcurrant) seed oil are packed with omega fatty acids and rejuvenating antioxidants, helping visibly even skin tone and protect against environmental damage.
Ceramide + Hyaluronic Acid Barrier Repair
Ceramide 3 restores the skin's lipid barrier to lock in moisture, while Sodium Hyaluronate draws water deep into skin layers — together preventing overnight moisture loss and plumping the appearance of fine lines.
Calendula & Allantoin Soothing Complex
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract calms and soothes sensitized or reactive skin, while Allantoin promotes gentle cell renewal and reduces irritation, making this formula suitable for sensitive skin types.
Turmeric, Chlorella & Vitamin E Renewal
Curcuma Longa (turmeric) root extract and Chlorella Pyrenoidosa microalgae provide potent antioxidants and brightening support, while Tocotrienols (vitamin E) protect cell membranes and help reduce the visible signs of aging.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, and no chemical sunscreens. The three vitamin C derivatives (Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbyl Glucoside) are all considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Isopropyl Palmitate (a C16 fatty acid ester) and Glyceryl Stearate (a C18 fatty acid), which are known to feed Malassezia yeast. Those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis should patch test carefully or consult a dermatologist before use.
Shea butter rates 0 on most comedogenicity scales. Safflower seed oil rates 0–1. The overall formula is considered low-comedogenic. As confirmed by Mad Hippie, shea butter in this formula does not clog pores for most skin types.
No synthetic fragrance or dyes are used. The mild sweet cocoa scent comes naturally from Theobroma Cacao and the blend of botanical actives. The scent fades quickly after application, making it suitable for most fragrance-sensitive users.
Contains no retinol or retinoids. Can be safely layered with your retinol or vitamin A serum on alternating nights, or after your vitamin C serum. Wait 10 minutes if applying over a serum to ensure full penetration.
Mad Hippie is certified cruelty-free. The Triple C Night Cream uses plant-derived and vegan squalane, with no animal-derived ingredients. Non-GMO, free of parabens, petrochemicals, phthalates, SLS, silicones, and PEGs.
Unlike L-Ascorbic Acid (pure vitamin C), all three forms used — Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, and Ascorbyl Glucoside — are highly stable derivatives that do not oxidize easily, making this product suitable for use both morning and night without light sensitivity concerns.
Formulated without known sensitizers. Calendula extract and allantoin provide soothing support. The WIMJ Science Review rates this product as having medium irritation potential, primarily due to phenethyl alcohol, which is a mild preservative. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C) ~2–3%Proven
An oil-soluble, highly stable form of vitamin C that penetrates the lipid-rich skin barrier more effectively than water-soluble L-Ascorbic Acid. Considered one of the most bioavailable vitamin C derivatives available, it converts to active ascorbic acid within the skin.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals caused by UV exposure and environmental pollution, protecting collagen and elastin from oxidative degradation.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity, reducing melanin synthesis and visibly fading hyperpigmentation and dark spots over time.
- Anti-aging: Stimulates collagen I and III synthesis, reducing the visible depth of fine lines and improving overall skin firmness.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C) ~1–2%Proven
A water-soluble, highly stable vitamin C derivative that is gentle enough for sensitive skin. It is converted to ascorbic acid by skin phosphatases upon absorption, providing lasting antioxidant activity throughout the skin layers.
- Stability: Far more stable than L-Ascorbic Acid — does not oxidize upon air exposure or pH fluctuation, ensuring consistent efficacy throughout the product's shelf life.
- Skin Brightening: Clinical studies show it effectively inhibits melanin formation, reducing uneven skin tone and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Hydration Bonus: Unlike pure vitamin C, MAP has a documented moisturizing effect, supporting skin hydration alongside its antioxidant function.
Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C) ~1%Promising
A water-soluble vitamin C derivative formed by bonding ascorbic acid with glucose. Converted to pure vitamin C by skin enzymes (glucosidase) after absorption, providing sustained vitamin C release. Highly stable and well-tolerated by all skin types.
- Conversion: In-vitro studies confirm ascorbyl glucoside penetrates the skin and converts to free ascorbic acid, delivering classic antioxidant and collagen-boosting vitamin C benefits.
- Brightening: Demonstrated ability to inhibit tyrosinase, reducing hyperpigmentation and supporting a more even skin tone over consistent use.
- Gentleness: One of the most skin-friendly vitamin C forms available — zero irritation risk, suitable for all skin types including highly reactive skin.
Inonotus Obliquus (Chaga) Extract trace–0.5%Promising
Chaga mushroom, harvested from birch trees in northern climates, is one of the most antioxidant-rich substances in nature. Its ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) value vastly exceeds that of most known botanicals. Used in skincare for its adaptogenic and skin-recovery properties.
- Antioxidant Power: Contains melanin, polysaccharides, betulin, and betulinic acid, which collectively neutralize reactive oxygen species and support the skin's defense network.
- Adaptogenic: Helps skin adapt to and recover from environmental stressors, supporting overnight barrier regeneration and cellular repair cycles.
Ganoderma Lucidum (Reishi) Extract trace–0.5%Promising
Known in traditional Chinese medicine as the "mushroom of immortality," Reishi mushroom extract is a powerful adaptogen prized for its polysaccharide-rich composition. In skincare, it helps calm inflammation, enhance hydration, and support healthy-looking skin renewal.
- Anti-inflammatory: Beta-glucans and ganoderic acids in reishi extract have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity, helping to reduce redness and soothe reactive skin.
- Hydration: Polysaccharides act as natural humectants, binding moisture to the skin surface to enhance hydration levels.
Rubus Chamaemorus (Cloudberry) Fruit Extract trace–0.5%Promising
Cloudberry grows in harsh Arctic conditions and produces extraordinarily high concentrations of vitamin C, vitamin E, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in response to environmental stress. Prized in Scandinavian skincare for its regenerative and antioxidant properties.
- Omega Fatty Acids: Contains a unique balance of omega-3 and omega-6 in a 1:1 ratio, supporting healthy skin barrier function and reducing transepidermal water loss.
- Antioxidant Richness: Exceptionally high in natural vitamin C and ellagic acid, helping to protect against UV-induced oxidative damage and visible signs of premature aging.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter ~1–3%Proven
Cold-pressed from the nuts of the African shea tree, shea butter is one of the most effective natural emollients in cosmetics. Rich in oleic acid, stearic acid, vitamins A and E, and cinnamic acid (a natural UV filter), it provides deep, long-lasting moisturization.
- Emollient & Occlusive: Creates a protective barrier over skin that reduces moisture evaporation while softening the skin surface — leaving skin noticeably smoother overnight.
- Anti-inflammatory: Triterpene alcohols (lupeol, butyrospermol) have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, supporting calm, healthy-looking skin.
- Non-Comedogenic: Despite its richness, shea butter rates 0 on most comedogenicity scales and is widely considered safe for most skin types.
Ceramide 3 trace–0.5%Proven
Ceramide 3 (also known as Ceramide NP) is one of the key ceramide types naturally found in human skin. It forms an essential part of the intercellular lipid bilayer in the stratum corneum, acting as the biological "glue" that keeps skin cells bound together and prevents moisture loss.
- Barrier Repair: Topical ceramides have been clinically shown to repair compromised skin barriers, reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and improve hydration in dry and eczema-prone skin.
- Aging Defense: Natural ceramide levels decline with age. Supplementing with topical Ceramide 3 helps restore the skin barrier, reducing fine lines caused by dehydration and improving overall skin resilience.
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) trace–0.5%Proven
The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, Sodium Hyaluronate has a smaller molecular size than standard HA and is able to penetrate the outer skin layers more effectively. It is one of the most powerful humectants known, capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
- Deep Hydration: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, plumping the appearance of fine lines and restoring skin's youthful volume.
- Barrier Support: Works synergistically with ceramides to maintain optimal skin hydration and support a healthy, intact skin barrier overnight.
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil ~5–10%Proven
Organic safflower seed oil is the second ingredient in this formula — present at a notably high concentration. High in linoleic acid (omega-6), it is a lightweight, non-greasy oil that is absorbed quickly and helps restore the skin's lipid barrier without feeling heavy.
- Linoleic Acid Rich: High linoleic acid content supports ceramide synthesis in the skin, strengthening the natural barrier and reducing moisture loss.
- Emollient: Softens and conditions skin overnight, improving overall texture and reducing the feeling of tightness in dry or dehydrated skin.
- Comedogenicity: Rates 0–1 on the comedogenic scale — considered safe for most skin types including acne-prone skin.
Sodium PCA ~0.5–1%Proven
Sodium PCA (Sodium Pyroglutamate) is a naturally occurring component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). As a powerful humectant, it draws water into the outer layers of skin, dramatically improving hydration and helping skin feel soft and supple.
- Natural Moisturizing Factor: Naturally present in healthy skin. Levels decrease with age and UV exposure, making topical supplementation particularly beneficial for mature and dehydrated skin.
- Immediate Hydration: Demonstrated to increase skin moisture content rapidly and maintain elevated hydration levels over sustained periods.
Squalane ~1–2%Proven
Vegan squalane (derived from olives or sugarcane, not shark liver) is one of the most skin-compatible emollients available. It closely mimics squalene, a lipid naturally produced by human sebaceous glands, making it exceptionally well-tolerated by all skin types.
- Emollient & Occlusive: Fills in microscopic gaps in the stratum corneum to seal in moisture, prevent TEWL, and leave skin silky-smooth without greasiness.
- Antioxidant: Acts as a free-radical scavenger, protecting skin lipids from oxidative damage and supporting overnight regeneration.
- Universal Compatibility: Rates 0–1 on comedogenicity scales. Safe for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types. Fungal acne safe.
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract trace–0.3%Promising
Turmeric root extract contains curcumin, a well-researched polyphenol with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Used in skincare for its ability to reduce redness, calm irritation, and support a more even, radiant complexion.
- Anti-inflammatory: Curcumin inhibits NF-κB signaling pathways involved in skin inflammation, helping to reduce redness and visible irritation over time.
- Brightening: Has demonstrated tyrosinase inhibition activity, supporting a more even skin tone and reducing the appearance of dark spots.
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract trace–0.5%Proven
Calendula has been used in healing preparations for centuries. Rich in flavonoids, triterpene saponins, and polysaccharides, the flower extract is clinically recognized for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties in dermatology.
- Soothing: Reduces skin redness, irritation, and sensitivity — particularly beneficial for compromised or reactive skin types.
- Healing Support: Supports the skin's natural overnight regeneration cycle by promoting healthy cell turnover and reducing signs of environmental stress.
Allantoin ~0.1–0.5%Proven
Allantoin is a well-established, multifunctional skincare ingredient derived from the comfrey plant. It promotes cell proliferation and exfoliation of dead surface cells, while simultaneously calming irritation and reducing redness — making it a favorite in formulas targeting sensitive or reactive skin.
- Keratolytic: Gently promotes the shedding of dead skin cells without causing irritation, supporting cell renewal and a smoother skin surface.
- Soothing: Reduces the signs of skin irritation and discomfort, complementing the calming action of calendula extract in this formula.
33 ingredients · Source: Mad Hippie / Ulta Beauty (verified 2026)
Water (Aqua), Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Isopropyl Palmitate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Inonotus Obliquus Extract, Ganoderma Lucidum Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Phenethyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Rubus Chamaemorus Fruit Extract, Ribes Nigrum Seed Oil, Squalane, Sodium PCA, Xanthan Gum, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocotrienols, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Chlorella Pyrenoidosa Extract, Allantoin, Ceramide 3, Riboflavin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after serums and before eye cream or facial oils. If layering over a vitamin C serum, wait 10 minutes before applying. If using during the day, always follow with SPF. Suitable for both AM and PM routines.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat skin dry with a clean towel. For best results, follow with a toner to balance skin pH before applying actives.
Apply Serums First (Optional)
If using Mad Hippie's Vitamin C Serum or Vitamin A Serum, apply these first and allow 10 minutes for full absorption before applying the Triple C Night Cream on top.
Scoop Out a Pea-Sized Amount
Use the included wooden spoon or your fingertip to scoop a pea-sized amount of cream. A small amount goes a long way — avoid over-applying to prevent pilling or a heavy feeling on skin.
Massage Gently Into Skin
Apply to face, neck, and décolletage using gentle upward circular motions. Gently massage into the skin to ensure the actives fully penetrate. Focus on areas of discoloration, fine lines, or dryness.
Follow with Eye Cream or Facial Oil (Optional)
Finish with Mad Hippie's Eye Cream or Antioxidant Facial Oil if desired. If using during the day, apply SPF as the final step — vitamin C derivatives support but do not replace UV protection.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, normal, mature, or sensitive skin
- You want to visibly brighten and even out skin tone overnight
- You're looking for a stable, non-irritating vitamin C moisturizer
- You want an all-in-one cream with hydrators + antioxidants + barrier support
- You prefer clean, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and want a safe vitamin C option
- You're starting Tretinoin and need a rich, barrier-supporting moisturizer
- You want a luxurious texture without harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrance
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) — contains C16/C18 esters
- You have very oily or acne-prone skin — the rich texture may feel heavy
- You need high-dose L-Ascorbic Acid (10–20%) for aggressive hyperpigmentation treatment
- You prefer a completely fragrance-free formula (contains sweet orange and cacao natural scent)
- You are strictly avoiding all fatty acid esters (Isopropyl Palmitate)
- You want a daytime-only SPF-inclusive moisturizer
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal choice. The rich whipped texture, shea butter, ceramide, sodium hyaluronate, and sodium PCA deliver deep overnight moisture replenishment. Customers with severe dryness report visibly softer, plumper skin after a single use.
Works beautifully as an overnight brightening and maintenance moisturizer. The formula absorbs without leaving residue, making it suitable for both day and night use on normal skin types.
Highly recommended for mature skin. Triple vitamin C supports collagen synthesis, ceramide 3 restores age-depleted barrier lipids, and tocotrienols protect against free radical damage. Reviewers in their 60s and 70s report visible improvements in skin radiance and smoothness.
Well-tolerated by most sensitive skin types thanks to stable vitamin C derivatives, soothing calendula, and allantoin. Phenethyl alcohol (preservative) may cause minor sensitivity in the most reactive individuals — patch test recommended.
Mad Hippie themselves recommend their Vitamin C Serum over this cream for oily or acne-prone skin. The rich texture may feel heavy on very oily T-zones. Can be used sparingly on drier areas of combination skin.
Contains Isopropyl Palmitate and fatty acid emulsifiers that may trigger breakouts in highly acne-prone individuals. Not fungal acne safe. Some reviewers noticed increased breakouts, while others had no issues. Patch test strongly recommended before full-face use.
Results timeline
8–12 WEEKSImmediate Hydration & Softness
Skin feels immediately softer, plumper, and more deeply moisturized upon waking. The ceramide and hyaluronic acid complex begins working overnight to restore moisture balance and reduce the feeling of tightness in dry skin.
~85% noticedVisible Brightening & Even Tone
The triple vitamin C complex begins to visibly improve skin radiance and luminosity. Early reduction in uneven tone and mild hyperpigmentation becomes noticeable with consistent nightly use. Skin texture begins to feel smoother and more refined.
~70% noticedReduced Discoloration & Smoother Texture
Visible fading of dark spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and sun discoloration becomes more pronounced. Fine lines appear softened due to improved hydration and early collagen support from vitamin C derivatives. Skin barrier feels noticeably stronger.
~60% noticedSustained Radiance & Anti-Aging Benefits
With consistent daily use, skin demonstrates sustained improvements in luminosity, tone evenness, and texture. Deeper fine lines and wrinkles appear visibly reduced due to ongoing collagen synthesis support from the triple vitamin C complex. Skin barrier function is significantly improved.
~50% noticedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Three stable, bioavailable forms of vitamin C that don't irritate skin
- Rich, whipped texture that absorbs beautifully without greasiness
- Visible brightening and hydration results from first use
- Comprehensive formula with 19 actives — mushrooms, cloudberry, ceramide, HA
- Clean, vegan, cruelty-free, and free of synthetic fragrance
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Effective for mature and very dry skin types
- Good value for the density of actives at $33.99 for 60g
- A little goes a long way — jar lasts 2–3+ months with nightly use
Criticized
- Not ideal for oily, acne-prone, or fungal acne-prone skin types
- Natural cocoa/botanical scent is polarizing — not truly fragrance-free
- Contains Isopropyl Palmitate which may trigger breakouts in sensitive, pore-prone skin
- Vitamin C derivative concentrations are not disclosed on label
- Jar packaging (vs. airless pump) exposes product to air and bacteria during use
- Wooden spoon applicator considered impractical by some users
- Only available in 2.1 oz — no larger size option
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Features vitamin C (ascorbic acid), retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E in a rich cream base. Less complex formula with fewer botanical actives than Triple C Night Cream, but provides comparable brightening and anti-aging effects at nearly half the price. Available on Amazon with 20,000+ reviews.
Single-use capsules containing pure vitamin C and retinol SA for brightening and tone correction. Fresher delivery format minimizes oxidation, but lacks the adaptogenic mushrooms, ceramides, and comprehensive botanical complex of Mad Hippie. Better for oily-prone skin due to lighter serum texture.
A clean beauty vitamin C moisturizer that shares Mad Hippie's vegan, cruelty-free, and synthetic fragrance-free positioning. Contains vitamin C and niacinamide for brightening, but the formula is lighter and less concentrated in actives. Good entry-level option for those new to vitamin C moisturizers.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic (Serum, not cream)
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Night Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The stable vitamin C derivatives (Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, MAP, Ascorbyl Glucoside) do not oxidize easily, maintaining efficacy throughout the PAO period. Discard if the product changes color significantly (yellowing to brown may indicate oxidation).
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Room temperature storage (up to 25°C / 77°F) is ideal. Refrigeration is not required but may extend freshness and prolong the potency of the vitamin C actives, particularly in warm climates.
Glass jar with a wooden scoop applicator. Boxes are printed with soy inks on FSC-certified paper; wooden bamboo spoons are compostable. Always use the provided scoop (or a clean spatula) to avoid introducing bacteria into the jar. Do not use fingers to scoop product.
Yes — the 2.1 oz (60g) size is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit, making it carry-on compliant for air travel. The glass jar is sturdy but pack securely to avoid breakage. Consider decanting a small amount into a travel container for shorter trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — Mad Hippie Triple C Night Cream is considered pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. It contains no retinoids (retinol, tretinoin), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, and no chemical sunscreens. The three vitamin C forms used (Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, and Ascorbyl Glucoside) are all stable, non-irritating derivatives that are widely considered safe during pregnancy. As with any skincare product during pregnancy, we recommend consulting your OB-GYN or midwife before introducing new products into your routine.
Caution is advised. The Triple C Night Cream contains Isopropyl Palmitate (a C16 fatty acid ester) and Glyceryl Stearate (a C18 fatty acid emulsifier), both of which are known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast, the organism responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you have confirmed fungal acne or are highly prone to it, we recommend opting for Mad Hippie's Vitamin C Serum instead, which has a lighter, more fungal-acne-friendly formula. Always patch test and consult a dermatologist if you have a history of fungal acne.
Yes — this cream is formulated to layer well with a variety of actives. Mad Hippie specifically recommends using it over their Vitamin C Serum or Vitamin A Serum (allow 10 minutes between layers). It contains no L-Ascorbic Acid (the form that conflicts with pH-sensitive retinoids), so it can be safely used alongside retinol products. It does not contain AHAs or BHAs, so layering with exfoliant serums is possible — apply exfoliants first, then this cream on top. For retinol nights, use this cream as the moisturizing final step after your retinol serum has absorbed.
Mad Hippie Triple C Night Cream is ideal for dry, normal, mature, and sensitive skin types. The rich, deeply hydrating formula with ceramides, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid is especially well-suited for those who need extra moisture overnight, have a compromised skin barrier, or are experiencing dryness from Tretinoin use. It is not recommended as a first choice for oily or acne-prone skin, as the rich texture may feel heavy. Mad Hippie themselves recommend their Vitamin C Serum as a better daily choice for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Results vary by skin type and concern, but many customers report softer, more nourished skin after the very first night of use. Visible brightening and improvement in skin radiance are typically seen within 1–2 weeks of consistent nightly use. Noticeable reduction in hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and fine lines usually becomes apparent after 4–8 weeks of regular application. For full anti-aging and barrier-repair benefits, consistent use over 8–12 weeks is recommended. Vitamin C results are cumulative — the longer you use it, the more pronounced the improvements.
The Triple C Night Cream is applied as your moisturizer step — after toner and serums, but before eye cream or facial oil. The recommended order is: Cleanser → Toner → Vitamin C Serum or Vitamin A Serum (optional, wait 10 minutes) → Triple C Night Cream → Eye Cream → Facial Oil (optional). While designed for nighttime use, it can also be used during the day — just be sure to apply SPF as your final step, as vitamin C supports but does not replace sun protection.
The Triple C Night Cream has a low overall comedogenic rating of 1/5. Mad Hippie confirms on their website that shea butter in this formula does not clog pores for most people — shea butter consistently rates 0 on most comedogenicity scales. Safflower seed oil also rates 0–1. However, the formula contains Isopropyl Palmitate, which has a comedogenic rating of 4 in some references and may trigger breakouts in pore-prone individuals. Those with a history of breakouts from fatty acid esters should patch test for 1–2 weeks before applying to the full face.
The Triple C Night Cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Because it uses stable vitamin C derivatives (not pure L-Ascorbic Acid), the formula does not oxidize quickly — meaning it maintains efficacy throughout the year-long PAO. A pea-sized amount is all that is needed per use, so the 2.1 oz (60g) jar typically lasts 2–4 months with regular nightly use, making it excellent value. Always use the included wooden scoop rather than fingers to maintain hygiene and extend shelf life.
Verdict: The Mad Hippie Triple C Night Cream is a standout value in the clean beauty vitamin C space. By combining three stabilized, non-irritating vitamin C derivatives with adaptogenic mushrooms, ceramide 3, cloudberry, hyaluronic acid, and a full suite of botanical antioxidants, it delivers a level of formula complexity typically seen in products priced two to three times higher. It excels as a deep-hydration overnight treatment for dry, normal, mature, and sensitive skin — delivering visible brightening, smoother texture, and a restored skin barrier without harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrance, or animal-derived ingredients. It falls short for oily, acne-prone, or fungal-acne-prone skin types due to its rich texture and fatty acid emulsifiers. If you prioritize clean, vegan ingredients, stable vitamin C, and genuine multi-tasking performance in a single jar, this cream delivers exceptional results at a fair 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
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil
Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Isopropyl Palmitate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Binding Agent, Binding, Masking
|
|
|
| 1 |
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Redness
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Antioxidant
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Redness
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Ascorbyl Glucoside
Antioxidant
|
Brightening
Redness
Texture
Pores
|