Vit C Collagen Serum
Vit C Collagen Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight brightening serum with Triple Brightening Power — combining 2% Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate), 2% Niacinamide, and Red Algae Extract — plus Hydrolyzed Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid for plumper, more hydrated, and visibly brighter skin. BPOM-registered and pregnancy safe.
Triple Brightening Power
Combines 2% Vitamin C, 2% Niacinamide, and Red Algae Extract for synergistic skin brightening and dark spot reduction.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Brightening Power
Combines 2% Vitamin C, 2% Niacinamide, and Red Algae Extract for synergistic skin brightening and dark spot reduction.
Collagen + Hyaluronic Acid
Hydrolyzed Collagen plumps skin while Sodium Hyaluronate attracts and locks in moisture for all-day hydration.
Clean & Minimal Formula
Only 14 ingredients — free from parabens, silicones, oils, fragrances, sulfates, and common allergens. Gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Pregnancy & Nursing Safe
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Confirmed safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women by the brand.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The brand confirms this serum is safe for pregnant and nursing women.
Contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Confirmed fungal acne safe by SkinSort.
Oil-free and silicone-free formula with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5.
Allergen-free, fragrance-free, and alcohol-free. Uses gentle Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (a stable, non-irritating vitamin C derivative).
Contains no oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other reef-harmful chemicals. Safe for marine environments.
Registered and approved by BPOM (Indonesia's National Agency of Drug and Food Control), ensuring product safety and quality standards.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C) 2%Proven
A stable, water-soluble vitamin C derivative that provides antioxidant protection, supports collagen synthesis, brightens skin tone, and helps fade dark spots and post-acne marks.
- Stability: Stable up to pH 7 with excellent thermal stability, making it more shelf-stable than pure ascorbic acid.
- Anti-Acne: A 2005 study showed 1% SAP has strong antimicrobial activity against acne-causing P. acnes bacteria.
- Brightening: In-vivo data confirms SAP can fade brown spots and even skin tone with regular use.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 2%Proven
A multi-tasking powerhouse that brightens skin, minimizes pores, strengthens the skin barrier, regulates oil production, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and dark spots.
- Brightening: Clinically shown to reduce hyperpigmentation at 4-5% concentration; 2% still provides visible brightening over time.
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide synthesis for a stronger, healthier skin barrier and better moisture retention.
- Multi-Condition: Effective for acne, rosacea, and atopic dermatitis according to multiple clinical studies.
Hydrolyzed CollagenPromising
Collagen broken down into smaller peptides that act as humectants and emollients. These peptides attract and hold water in the skin, helping to improve hydration, plumpness, and smoothness.
- Moisturizing: Works as a humectant to bind water in the skin, keeping it hydrated throughout the day.
- Smoothing: Creates a thin film on skin surface for an emollient effect, making skin feel softer and smoother.
- Note: Topical collagen primarily works as a surface moisturizer; it cannot replace or directly boost the body's own collagen production.
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular size for better skin penetration. Attracts and holds up to 1000x its weight in water for deep, lasting hydration.
- Hydration: Penetrates deeper than standard hyaluronic acid due to its smaller molecular weight.
- Plumping: Fills skin with moisture from within, temporarily reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Kappaphycus Alvarezii Extract (Red Algae)Promising
A natural extract from red seaweed rich in carrageenan, minerals, and antioxidants. Helps hydrate, soothe, and brighten the skin while addressing hyperpigmentation.
- Natural Brightener: Contains bioactive compounds that help reduce melanin production and even out skin tone.
- Hydration: Rich in polysaccharides that form a moisture-retaining film on the skin surface.
14 ingredients
Aqua, Niacinamide, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Cellulose Gum, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Triethylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Kappaphycus Alvarezii Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening after cleansing and toning. Layer with Viva Gold Whitening Serum for enhanced brightening results. Always follow with sunscreen in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a clean face. Use your favorite gentle cleanser and pat skin dry with a soft towel.
Dispense the Serum
Using the dropper, take an adequate amount of serum. Avoid letting the dropper tip touch your skin to maintain hygiene.
Apply Evenly
Spread the serum evenly across your face and neck using gentle upward strokes.
Pat Until Absorbed
Gently pat your face with your fingertips until the product is fully absorbed. Wait a few seconds before the next step.
Follow Up
Apply moisturizer and sunscreen (AM). Use twice daily — morning and evening — for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want an affordable, beginner-friendly vitamin C serum
- You have dull, uneven skin tone or post-acne dark spots
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe brightening serum
- You have fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe product
- You prefer a short, clean ingredient list with no fragrances
- You want a lightweight serum that layers well under makeup
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a high-potency vitamin C (10-20% L-ascorbic acid) for advanced anti-aging
- You have very dry skin and need a richer, more moisturizing formula
- You want visible results in under 2 weeks — this serum works gradually
- You prefer a larger bottle size (this is only 20ml)
- You need targeted anti-wrinkle treatment with retinol or peptides
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWatery, oil-free formula absorbs in seconds without adding shine. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production.
Provides hydration via hyaluronic acid and collagen but may need a richer moisturizer on top for very dry skin types.
Lightweight enough for oily zones, hydrating enough for dry areas. Balances well across different face zones.
Fragrance-free, allergen-free, and uses a gentle vitamin C derivative (SAP). Multiple reviewers with sensitive skin report no irritation.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe, oil-free. SAP has shown antimicrobial activity against acne-causing bacteria.
Results timeline
WEEKS 8-12Improved Hydration & Smoothness
Skin feels softer, more hydrated, and smoother to the touch. Hyaluronic acid and collagen provide an immediate moisture boost. Some users notice a subtle glow.
70% noticed improved hydrationVisible Brightening & Plumper Skin
Skin tone starts to look more even and radiant. Dullness diminishes and skin appears healthier. In Viva's clinical study, 86% agreed their skin was brighter, plumper, and more moisturized after 4 weeks.
86% reported brighter, plumper skinDark Spot Reduction
Post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation begin to fade. Niacinamide and vitamin C work together to inhibit melanin transfer and even out skin tone progressively.
65% noticed fading dark spotsCumulative Anti-Aging Benefits
With consistent daily use, expect improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, and a more resilient skin barrier. Many reviewers recommend using 2-3 bottles for full brightening results.
Optimal results with continued useRatings by platform
650+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable — under $2 USD for a quality vitamin C serum
- Clean, minimal 14-ingredient formula free from common irritants
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe (brand confirmed)
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic (0/5)
- Lightweight watery texture absorbs instantly, no stickiness
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin and vitamin C beginners
- 86% clinically reported brighter, plumper, more moisturized skin
- No breakouts reported even by acne-prone users
Criticized
- Small 20ml bottle size — runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- Brightening results are gradual (may need 2-3 bottles)
- Low vitamin C concentration (2%) compared to competitors
- Dropper hole is oversized, causing product to drip out
- Not moisturizing enough alone for very dry skin
- Slight medicinal/herbal scent noted by some reviewers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar concept — vitamin C + niacinamide + collagen at a comparable price point. Contains fragrance and a slightly longer ingredient list. Also from Indonesia.
Uses 2% Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (a more potent vitamin C derivative) with additional skin-barrier ingredients. Slightly higher price but stronger brightening claims.
Combines 3 types of vitamin C with 5 types of hyaluronic acid and a flower blend. More complex formula, slightly higher price. No collagen component.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Garnier Bright Complete Vit C 30X
Somethinc Lemonade Waterless Vit C
Wardah 10% Vitamin C + Ferulic Acid
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The dark glass bottle helps protect vitamin C from light degradation.
Dark blue glass dropper bottle — protects light-sensitive vitamin C from oxidation and UV degradation.
Yes — 20ml is well under the 100ml carry-on limit. Glass bottle requires careful packing.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Viva Cosmetics explicitly states this serum is safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — all ingredients commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. It uses Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (a gentle vitamin C derivative) and niacinamide, both considered safe during pregnancy by dermatologists.
Yes. This serum is confirmed fungal acne (malassezia) safe by SkinSort. The formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed malassezia yeast. Its clean, oil-free formulation makes it one of the safest vitamin C serums for those dealing with fungal acne.
This serum already contains vitamin C and niacinamide, so there is no need to layer additional vitamin C. You can safely combine it with AHA/BHA products, but introduce them gradually to avoid irritation. For retinol, use this serum in the morning and retinol at night to minimize the risk of sensitivity. Always wear sunscreen when using any active ingredients.
This serum is formulated for all skin types and works especially well for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin thanks to its lightweight, oil-free, fragrance-free formula. Dry skin types can use it too but may want to follow with a richer moisturizer. It is an excellent choice for vitamin C beginners and those with reactive skin.
Most users notice improved hydration and smoother skin within the first week. Visible brightening typically appears after 2-4 weeks of consistent use. In Viva's clinical study on 35 women, 86% reported brighter, plumper, and more moisturized skin after 4 weeks. For dark spot reduction, expect 4-8 weeks. Many reviewers recommend using 2-3 bottles for full brightening results.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer and sunscreen. The routine order is: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Use twice daily, morning and evening. The brand recommends layering with Viva Gold Whitening Serum for enhanced brightening results.
No. This serum has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. It is completely oil-free and silicone-free with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Multiple reviewers with acne-prone skin confirm it does not cause breakouts. It is also fungal acne safe, making it one of the safest serums for congestion-prone skin.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. However, since the bottle is only 20ml and recommended for twice-daily use, most users will finish it within 3-4 weeks. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The dark glass bottle helps protect the vitamin C from light-induced degradation. If the serum changes color to dark brown or develops an off smell, discard it.
Verdict: Viva Vit C Collagen Serum is an exceptional value proposition — a clean, gentle, and effective brightening serum for under $2. Its minimal 14-ingredient formula is pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic, making it safe for virtually everyone. The Triple Brightening Power of 2% Vitamin C, 2% Niacinamide, and Red Algae Extract delivers gradual but real brightening results, backed by clinical data showing 86% satisfaction after 4 weeks. The main trade-off is its gentle potency — the 2% vitamin C concentration is lower than competitors, so results take patience. The small 20ml bottle size also means frequent repurchasing. For skincare beginners, pregnant women, sensitive skin, budget-conscious shoppers, and anyone wanting a clean vitamin C serum without the guesswork, this is a standout pick from Indonesia's legendary Viva Cosmetics brand.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Antioxidant
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Redness
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|