Vitamin C Anti Aging Serum
Vitamin C Anti Aging Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A brightening vitamin C serum infused with Ferulic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Peptides to help visibly improve uneven skin tone, reduce the appearance of dark spots, and reveal a more radiant, refreshed complexion. This lightweight gel formula absorbs quickly for instant hydration.
Stable Vitamin C Derivative
Uses Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate, a stable and water-soluble form of Vitamin C that resists oxidation better than pure ascorbic acid.
Texture & feel
SENSORYStable Vitamin C Derivative
Uses Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate, a stable and water-soluble form of Vitamin C that resists oxidation better than pure ascorbic acid.
Multi-Acid Brightening Complex
Combines Glycolic and Lactic Acid (AHAs) for gentle exfoliation to improve skin texture and enhance radiance.
Peptide-Infused Formula
Contains Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Tetrapeptide-7 to support skin firmness and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Ferulic Acid Stabilizer
Ferulic Acid works synergistically with Vitamin C and E to boost antioxidant protection and enhance brightening effects.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEVitamin C is safe during pregnancy. However, contains AHAs (Glycolic & Lactic Acid) which are generally considered safe in low concentrations but consult your doctor before use.
NOT safe for fungal acne. Contains Polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne conditions.
Water-based formula with minimal pore-clogging ingredients. Rating 1/5 - unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types.
Contains AHAs that increase photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen when using this product. Limit sun exposure for 2 weeks after discontinuing.
Does not contain retinoids. However, avoid using alongside Retinol products. Use Vitamin C in AM and Retinol in PM if combining.
Contains fragrance and fragrance compounds (Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol). Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate Undisclosed %Promising
A stable, water-soluble vitamin C derivative that provides antioxidant protection and brightening benefits without the instability issues of pure L-ascorbic acid.
- Study: 0.5% AAP showed 29-33% reduction in hyperpigmentation after 8 weeks
- Benefit: Helps neutralize free radicals and even out skin tone
- Stability: More stable than L-ascorbic acid in water-based formulas
Ferulic AcidProven
A powerful plant-derived antioxidant that stabilizes Vitamin C and enhances its photoprotective effects when combined with Vitamins C and E.
- Research: 0.5% Ferulic Acid doubles photoprotection of Vitamin C + E formula
- Function: Neutralizes free radicals and protects against UV damage
- Synergy: Works best when combined with Vitamins C and E
Glycolic Acid AHAProven
The smallest alpha-hydroxy acid that penetrates deeply to exfoliate dead skin cells, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin texture.
- Mechanism: Breaks bonds between dead skin cells for gentle exfoliation
- Benefits: Reduces fine lines, improves texture, fades dark spots
- pH Dependent: Most effective at pH 3.5-4.0
Lactic Acid AHAProven
A gentle alpha-hydroxy acid derived from milk that exfoliates while also providing hydrating benefits due to its humectant properties.
- Gentler: Larger molecule than glycolic acid, less irritating
- Hydrating: Acts as a humectant to attract moisture
- Brightening: Helps fade hyperpigmentation over time
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 & Tetrapeptide-7Promising
Signal peptides that communicate with skin cells to support collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve skin firmness.
- Matrixyl 3000: This peptide combination is often marketed as Matrixyl 3000
- Clinical Study: Shown to improve skin firmness by 33% in 4 weeks at 4%
- Anti-Aging: Helps reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes, supports skin barrier function, and works synergistically with Vitamin C.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals and prevents oxidative damage
- Moisturizing: Helps strengthen skin barrier and reduce moisture loss
- Synergy: Enhances Vitamin C stability and effectiveness
27 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ferulic Acid, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Glycerin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Parfum/Fragrance, Sodium Hydroxide, Carbomer, Sodium Lactate, Polysorbate 20, Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEBest used in your AM routine. Apply before moisturizer. Always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen. Do not use with Retinol at the same time.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use your preferred cleanser and gently pat face dry with a clean towel.
Apply 3-5 Drops
Dispense a few drops onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Gently Pat Into Skin
Apply to face and neck, focusing on areas with dark spots or uneven tone. Gently pat (don't rub) until absorbed.
Wait 1-2 Minutes
Allow the serum to fully absorb before applying the next step in your routine.
Follow With Moisturizer & SPF
Apply your favorite moisturizer, then finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen (AM only). Use daily for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to brighten dull, uneven skin tone
- You have dark spots, age spots, or sun damage
- You're looking for an affordable Vitamin C serum
- You prefer lightweight, gel-based textures
- You want antioxidant protection from environmental damage
- You're new to Vitamin C and want a gentle introduction
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20)
- You're sensitive to fragrance or essential oils
- You want a high-concentration L-ascorbic acid serum
- You need exact ingredient percentages disclosed
- You're looking for a completely fragrance-free option
- You want clinical-strength results comparable to professional serums
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel formula absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness. AHAs help control oil and refine pores.
AHAs may feel slightly drying. Layer with a rich moisturizer. Some users report tightness after application.
Balances well across different face zones. Helps with oily T-zone while brightening overall complexion.
Contains AHAs and fragrance. Patch test first. Start with every other day use and build tolerance gradually.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). AHAs help with texture and scarring. NOT suitable for fungal acne.
Peptides and Vitamin C support collagen production. Helps with age spots and fine lines. Consider adding a richer moisturizer.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12Immediate Hydration & Glow
Skin feels more hydrated and looks brighter immediately after application. You may notice a subtle glow and smoother texture.
85% noticed improved radianceTexture Improvement
AHAs begin to show effects. Skin texture feels smoother, pores may appear refined, and overall complexion becomes more even.
70% reported smoother skinDark Spot Reduction
Noticeable fading of dark spots and hyperpigmentation begins. Studies show 29-33% reduction in age spots with consistent use.
65% saw lighter dark spotsFirmer, More Even Tone
Peptides show cumulative effects on firmness. Significant improvement in overall skin tone and reduction in fine lines with continued use.
60% noticed firmer skinRatings by platform
21K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent value for money at under $15
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel texture
- Contains multiple beneficial actives (AHAs, peptides, Ferulic Acid)
- Visible brightening results within weeks
- Stable Vitamin C derivative that won't oxidize quickly
- Generous 1.75 oz size lasts months
- Paraben-free and cruelty-free formula
- Works well under makeup
Criticized
- Vitamin C concentration not disclosed
- Uses derivative form, not pure L-ascorbic acid
- Contains fragrance (potential irritant)
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Polysorbate 20)
- Can feel drying on some skin types
- Results slower than clinical-strength alternatives
- Some report slight stickiness after application
- Price has increased over the years
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses a different stable Vitamin C derivative (Ascorbyl Glucoside). Simpler formula without AHAs or peptides. Fragrance-free option for sensitive skin.
Contains 20% Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E. Higher disclosed concentration. Popular Amazon alternative with similar target audience.
Uses 20% pure L-ascorbic acid with Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid. Closer to the SkinCeuticals gold standard formula. More potent but may oxidize faster.
Uses Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate with Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, and Hyaluronic Acid. More natural/clean formula positioning. Good for sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDESkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The stable Vitamin C derivative resists oxidation better than pure ascorbic acid formulas.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Refrigeration not required but can extend potency.
Glass bottle with dropper applicator. Tinted bottle helps protect from light degradation.
Yes, under 100ml TSA limit. Glass bottle - handle with care during travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. While topical Vitamin C is generally considered safe during pregnancy, this serum contains Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid (AHAs). These are typically considered safe in low concentrations but always consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The formula is free from retinoids and hydroquinone.
No, this serum is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, an emulsifier that can feed Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, avoid this product and look for serums specifically formulated to be malassezia-safe.
This serum already contains AHAs (Glycolic and Lactic Acid), so avoid layering additional AHA/BHA products to prevent over-exfoliation. Do NOT use with Retinol at the same time - use Vitamin C in the morning and Retinol at night. You can use other Vitamin C products, but it's unnecessary as this formula already contains it.
This serum works best for oily, combination, and normal skin types. The lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without greasiness. Those with dry or sensitive skin may find it slightly drying due to the AHAs - in that case, layer with a rich moisturizer. Not recommended for those with fungal acne or extreme fragrance sensitivity.
Most users notice an immediate brightening glow and hydration boost. Texture improvements typically appear within 2-4 weeks. Dark spot reduction usually becomes visible after 4-8 weeks of consistent daily use. Full results, including firmness improvements from peptides, may take 8-12 weeks or longer.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. Best used in your morning routine since Vitamin C provides antioxidant protection against daytime environmental damage. Always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen as the AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The water-based gel formula is unlikely to clog pores for most people. The AHAs actually help with pore clarity by gently exfoliating. However, individual results vary - if you're highly acne-prone, patch test first.
The serum has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). The Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate used is more stable than pure L-ascorbic acid, so it won't oxidize as quickly. If the serum changes color to dark brown or smells off, discard it. Store away from direct sunlight and heat to maximize shelf life.
Verdict: Advanced Clinicals Vitamin C Anti-Aging Serum offers exceptional value for budget-conscious skincare enthusiasts seeking a multi-tasking brightening serum. The combination of stable Vitamin C, AHAs, peptides, and Ferulic Acid delivers visible results for dark spots and uneven skin tone at a fraction of prestige brand prices. While it won't match the potency of clinical-strength L-ascorbic acid serums like SkinCeuticals, it's an excellent entry point for Vitamin C beginners or those maintaining their routine on a budget. The main drawbacks are the undisclosed Vitamin C percentage, presence of fragrance, and unsuitability for fungal acne sufferers. For the price, it's hard to find a more feature-rich 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
Anti-Aging from 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Aminopropyl Ascorbyl Phosphate
Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant
|
Brightening
Redness
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 2 |
Ferulic Acid
Antimicrobial, Uv Absorber, Antioxidant, Preservative
|
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 0 |
Lactic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|