Vitamin C 15% Serum
Vitamin C 15% Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A potent yet gentle brightening serum featuring 15% Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (a stable Vitamin C derivative), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), and Sodium Hyaluronate. This minimalist 11-ingredient formula targets dullness, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines while boosting collagen production for a visibly brighter, more even complexion.
15% Stabilized Vitamin C
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) delivers potent antioxidant protection without the irritation and instability of pure ascorbic acid. Proven to brighten skin and fight free radical damage.
Texture & feel
SENSORY15% Stabilized Vitamin C
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) delivers potent antioxidant protection without the irritation and instability of pure ascorbic acid. Proven to brighten skin and fight free radical damage.
Brightens & Evens Skin Tone
Effectively targets dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and discoloration for a more radiant, uniform complexion with regular use.
Collagen Production Boost
Stimulates natural collagen synthesis to improve skin firmness and elasticity, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Minimalist 11-Ingredient Formula
A streamlined ingredient list free from parabens, silicones, sulfates, and harsh alcohols. Dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Niacinamide are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Contains fragrance (parfum) — consult your doctor if you prefer fragrance-free options.
Contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, an ethoxylated fatty acid derivative that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives without PEG esters.
The formula contains no heavy oils, silicones, or known pore-clogging ingredients. Lightweight gel texture is unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types.
Fragrance is listed near the end of the INCI list, suggesting a low concentration. However, those with very sensitive or reactive skin may want to patch test first.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a stable, pH-neutral derivative of Vitamin C. Unlike pure ascorbic acid (L-AA), it is far less likely to cause irritation, stinging, or redness, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
The brand recommends performing a sensitivity test before first use. Apply a small amount to the inner forearm and wait 24 hours before full facial application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C) 15%Proven
A salt-form derivative of ascorbic acid that is significantly more stable and gentler than pure Vitamin C (L-AA). It converts to active ascorbic acid in the skin, delivering brightening, antioxidant, and collagen-boosting benefits without the common irritation associated with L-AA.
- Stability: Remains effective at pH levels up to 7, unlike L-AA which degrades rapidly above pH 3.5.
- Acne benefits: A 2005 study showed 5% SAP was comparable to 5% benzoyl peroxide in reducing acne lesions, with antimicrobial activity against P. acnes bacteria.
- Brightening: In-vivo data confirms SAP can fade brown spots and improve overall skin clarity with consistent use.
- Collagen: In-vitro studies show SAP supports collagen synthesis, though slightly less potent than pure ascorbic acid.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Listed 3rdProven
A multifunctional skincare powerhouse that strengthens the skin barrier, reduces pore appearance, regulates oil production, and fades dark spots. Well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive skin.
- Barrier support: Increases ceramide production in the skin, strengthening the protective barrier.
- Brightening synergy: Works synergistically with Vitamin C to enhance skin tone correction and reduce hyperpigmentation.
- Anti-aging: At 4–5% concentration, proven to reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity.
- Oil control: Helps regulate sebum production, beneficial for oily and combination skin types.
Sodium Hyaluronate Listed 6thProven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid with a lower molecular weight, allowing better skin penetration than standard HA. Attracts and retains moisture to plump and hydrate the skin.
- Hydration: Can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, providing deep hydration to the skin.
- Penetration: Smaller molecular size than hyaluronic acid allows it to reach deeper layers of the epidermis.
- Anti-aging support: Plumps fine lines by attracting water to the skin surface and dermis.
Propylene Glycol Listed 4thSupportive
A widely used humectant and penetration enhancer that helps the skin retain moisture and aids in delivering active ingredients deeper into the skin. Also contributes to product preservation.
- Humectant: Draws moisture from the environment to the skin, boosting hydration.
- Penetration enhancer: Helps active ingredients like Vitamin C absorb more effectively into the skin.
11 ingredients
Water/Aqua, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Niacinamide, Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Xanthan Gum, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance/Parfum, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEBest used in the morning (AM). Apply after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer. Always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day — Vitamin C enhances sun protection but does not replace sunscreen.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with clean, dry skin. Use your regular cleanser and toner. Pat face dry — Vitamin C serums absorb best on dry skin.
Apply 2–3 Drops
Dispense 2–3 drops onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way — the dense gel texture spreads easily across the entire face and neck.
Gently Massage
Press and pat the serum into the skin using upward motions. Avoid the eye area. Allow 30–60 seconds for full absorption before the next step.
Follow with Moisturizer & SPF
Layer your moisturizer on top, then apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+). Vitamin C boosts sun protection but never replaces sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to brighten dull, tired-looking skin
- You have dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or uneven skin tone
- You want a gentle Vitamin C that won't irritate sensitive skin
- You prefer a minimalist formula with few ingredients
- You want an affordable entry into Vitamin C skincare
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe brightening serum
- You have acne-prone skin (SAP has antimicrobial benefits)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil)
- You need maximum anti-aging potency (pure L-AA may be stronger)
- You are extremely sensitive to fragrance/parfum
- You want a completely fragrance-free product
- You need a very lightweight, watery texture (this is a dense gel)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESNiacinamide helps regulate oil production. Gel texture absorbs well but may leave a slight dewy layer. No heavy oils or silicones to clog pores.
Sodium Hyaluronate and Propylene Glycol provide hydration. May feel slightly tight on very dry skin — pair with a richer moisturizer on top for best results.
Ideal match. Niacinamide balances oil in the T-zone while hyaluronic acid hydrates drier cheek areas. Lightweight enough to layer without feeling heavy.
SAP is one of the gentlest Vitamin C forms available — well-suited for sensitive skin. Contains fragrance, so patch test first. No harsh acids or retinoids.
SAP has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against P. acnes bacteria. Combined with niacinamide for pore refinement and oil control. Low comedogenic rating (1/5).
Results timeline
MONTHS 2–3+Immediate Glow & Hydration
Skin appears brighter and more hydrated immediately after application. The luminous finish gives an instant healthy-looking glow. Texture feels smoother to the touch.
70% noticed an instant glowVisible Brightening & Tone Improvement
Dark spots and hyperpigmentation begin to visibly lighten. Skin tone looks more even and radiant. Fine lines appear softer as collagen production ramps up.
60% noticed improved skin toneSignificant Dark Spot Reduction
Post-acne marks and sun spots continue fading. Skin firmness improves as cumulative collagen-boosting effects become more apparent. Overall complexion clarity increases noticeably.
55% reported reduced dark spotsTransformed, Even Complexion
With consistent daily use, expect substantially minimized hyperpigmentation, improved texture and firmness, and a visibly brighter, healthier-looking complexion.
50% achieved their target skin clarityRatings by platform
200+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally affordable for a 15% Vitamin C serum
- Visibly brightens skin within the first week of use
- Gentle SAP form suitable for sensitive skin
- Minimalist 11-ingredient formula — easy to layer
- Cruelty-free, vegan, paraben-free, silicone-free
- Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid add extra skin benefits
- A little goes a long way — great value per application
- ISO 9001 and GMP certified manufacturing
Criticized
- Dense gel texture can feel thick and hard to spread evenly
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) — not ideal for ultra-sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne safe (PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil)
- May feel slightly tight on very dry skin without moisturizer
- Can make makeup slide if not fully absorbed first
- SAP is less potent than pure L-ascorbic acid for anti-aging
- Small 30 ml bottle — may run out quickly with daily use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses a different Vitamin C derivative (Ascorbyl Glucoside instead of SAP) at 12%. Fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free. Thinner, watery texture. No niacinamide or hyaluronic acid included — simpler formula for purists.
Lower Vitamin C concentration (3.5% vs 15%). Contains niacinamide and salicylic acid for extra pore-clearing benefits. More widely available. Better for beginners who want a milder introduction to Vitamin C.
Also uses SAP as the Vitamin C form. Richer formula with botanical extracts (Aloe Vera, Gotu Kola, Jojoba), Vitamin E, and MSM for enhanced penetration. Fragrance-free. Larger bottle (1 fl oz). More extensive ingredient list (18 ingredients).
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. SAP is highly stable, but replace the serum if the color turns dark brown or develops an off-putting smell.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. While SAP is more stable than L-ascorbic acid, refrigeration can further extend shelf life.
Dropper bottle with screw cap. The yellowish tinted glass helps protect the formula from light degradation.
Yes — 30 ml is well under the 100 ml / 3.4 oz TSA liquid limit for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This serum contains Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (a stable Vitamin C derivative), Niacinamide, and Sodium Hyaluronate — all considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. The only minor consideration is the added fragrance (Parfum) listed near the end of the ingredients; consult your healthcare provider if you prefer to avoid all fragranced products during pregnancy.
No. This serum contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, an ethoxylated fatty acid derivative that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast, which causes fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%, which has a simpler, fungal acne-safe formula.
Yes, but with caution. SAP (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate) is far gentler than L-ascorbic acid and can generally be combined with other actives. However, to minimize irritation, consider using this Vitamin C serum in the morning (AM) and retinol or exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) in the evening (PM). If you want to layer them together, introduce one product at a time and monitor your skin's response for at least two weeks before combining.
This serum is formulated for all skin types. It is particularly well-suited for combination and acne-prone skin thanks to the antimicrobial properties of SAP and the oil-regulating effects of Niacinamide. It works well for sensitive skin since SAP is one of the gentlest Vitamin C forms. Dry skin types may benefit from layering a richer moisturizer on top, as the gel formula alone may not provide sufficient hydration.
Many users report an immediate brightening glow after the first application. Visible improvements in skin tone and reduced dullness typically appear within 1–2 weeks of daily use. Significant reduction in dark spots and hyperpigmentation generally takes 4–8 weeks of consistent application. Full collagen-boosting and anti-aging results become more apparent after 2–3 months of regular use.
Apply this serum as Step 3 in your morning routine: after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. The general rule is thinnest to thickest consistency. Apply 2–3 drops to clean, dry skin, gently massage until absorbed (30–60 seconds), then follow with your moisturizer and SPF 30+ sunscreen. Vitamin C works synergistically with sunscreen to boost photoprotection.
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It does not contain heavy oils, silicones, or known pore-clogging ingredients. The lightweight gel formula is unlikely to cause breakouts for most people. Additionally, Niacinamide in the formula actually helps minimize pore appearance and regulate sebum production, making it a good choice for those concerned about clogged pores.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is one of the most stable Vitamin C derivatives, so it won't oxidize as quickly as serums containing pure ascorbic acid. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the serum changes to a dark brown color or develops an unusual odor, it has degraded and should be replaced.
Verdict: The Revuele Vitamin C 15% Serum is an outstanding budget-friendly option for anyone seeking a gentle yet effective Vitamin C serum. Its 15% concentration of Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) — one of the most stable and skin-friendly Vitamin C derivatives — combined with Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid delivers visible brightening, tone-evening, and anti-aging benefits without the irritation risk of pure ascorbic acid. The minimalist 11-ingredient formula is refreshingly transparent, and the cruelty-free, vegan credentials add appeal. Points deducted for the added fragrance, the thick gel texture that may not suit all preferences, and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe. Overall, it punches well above its price point and is especially recommended for Vitamin C beginners, sensitive skin types, and acne-prone individuals looking for an affordable daily brightening serum.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.