Vitamin C + Arbutin Brightening Serum
Vitamin C + Arbutin Brightening Serum
Product Description
A medical-grade brightening serum combining 10% L-Ascorbic Acid with Arbutin to target dark spots, uneven skin tone, and signs of aging. Dermatologist-developed formula delivers visible results in as little as 24 hours with continued use for a radiant, youthful complexion.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Dual Brightening Action
Combines L-Ascorbic Acid and Arbutin for powerful two-pronged approach to dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Clinically Proven Formula
89% of users reported brighter, revived skin in a 4-week double-blind consumer study.
Fast-Acting Results
Noticeable improvements in skin radiance and texture within 24 hours of first use.
Antioxidant Protection
Shields skin barrier against environmental aggressors and oxidative stress with cloudberry-derived antioxidants.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Arbutin which some dermatologists recommend avoiding during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Vitamin C is considered safe. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates. Safe for those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Rated 0/5 on comedogenic scale. Will not clog pores or cause breakouts. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Allergy-tested formula free from common irritants. Contains no synthetic fragrances, parabens, or hydroquinone.
Contains Alcohol Denat. and SLS. May cause slight tingling on very sensitive skin. Patch test recommended for reactive skin types.
Vitamin C can increase photosensitivity. Always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during daytime use.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 10% Proven
The purest and most potent form of Vitamin C. This gold-standard antioxidant brightens skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, and stimulates collagen production for anti-aging benefits.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show 5-20% L-Ascorbic Acid boosts collagen production and reduces photodamage
- Mechanism: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to prevent melanin formation and fade existing dark spots
- Antioxidant Power: Neutralizes free radicals from UV exposure and environmental pollution
πΏ Arbutin Nature-Identical Proven
A plant-derived brightening agent from bearberry leaves. Works synergistically with Vitamin C to target hyperpigmentation through a different mechanism for enhanced results.
- Source: Derived from bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) and pear tree leaves
- Mechanism: Inhibits melanin-forming activity of tyrosinase without blocking the enzyme itself
- Safety Profile: Gentler alternative to hydroquinone with comparable brightening effects
π« Hydroxyacetophenone Antioxidant Promising
A nature-identical antioxidant found in cloudberry. Helps strengthen the skin barrier against environmental aggressors while providing preservative benefits to maintain formula stability.
- Function: Provides antioxidant protection and enhances formula preservation
- Benefit: Supports skin barrier integrity against UV damage and pollution
9 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Propylene Glycol, Alcohol Denat., Dipropylene Glycol, Ascorbic Acid, Arbutin, Propylene Carbonate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Hydroxyacetophenone
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Best used in your AM routine. Apply after water-based toners and before heavier serums/moisturizers. Always follow with SPF during the day.
π How to Use
Cleanse Thoroughly
Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and prepare skin for optimal absorption.
Apply 5-7 Drops
Dispense 5 to 7 drops onto fingertips. Apply to entire face and neck, avoiding the delicate eye area.
Massage Gently
Using upward, circular motions, massage the serum into skin until fully absorbed. Wait 1-2 minutes before next step.
Follow with Moisturizer & SPF
Apply your preferred moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dark spots, sun spots, or hyperpigmentation
- You want to brighten dull, uneven skin tone
- You're looking for anti-aging benefits
- You prefer medical-grade, dermatologist-developed products
- You have normal, oily, or combination skin
- You want a hydroquinone-free brightening option
- You need a fungal acne-safe vitamin C serum
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You have extremely sensitive or reactive skin
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You prefer oil-based or silicone-based vitamin C formulas
- You need a higher vitamin C concentration (15-20%)
- You have an alcohol sensitivity
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, water-based formula absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness. May help control excess oil.
Provides brightening benefits but lacks heavy hydration. Pair with a rich moisturizer for best results.
Balances well across different face zones. Light enough for T-zone without drying cheeks.
Contains alcohol and SLS which may irritate very reactive skin. Patch test first. 10% Vitamin C is gentler than higher concentrations.
Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe formula. Won't clog pores. May help fade post-acne dark marks.
π Results Timeline
Immediate Radiance Boost
Skin appears more luminous and refreshed. Antioxidant protection begins immediately. Some users report visible brightening within days.
89% noticed revived skin appearanceSmoother, More Even Texture
Skin texture improves and feels smoother to touch. Dark spots begin to fade. Overall skin tone appears more even and healthy.
89% felt smoother skinVisible Dark Spot Reduction
Noticeable fading of hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and post-acne marks. Continued improvement in skin radiance and clarity.
87% reported healthier-looking skinSignificant Brightening & Anti-Aging
Maximum brightening benefits achieved. Fine lines appear softer. Collagen-boosting effects become more apparent with continued use.
Optimal results with consistent daily useβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Visible brightening results within 1-4 weeks
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula
- Clinically proven 10% L-Ascorbic Acid
- Dual-action with Arbutin for enhanced results
- Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe
- Fragrance-free and hydroquinone-free
- Dermatologist-developed medical-grade formula
- Works well for all skin tones (Fitzpatrick tested)
β Criticized
- Premium price point ($92 for 1 oz)
- Contains Alcohol Denat. and SLS
- May tingle on sensitive skin initially
- Small bottle size relative to cost
- Not recommended during pregnancy
- Requires consistent sunscreen use
- Some found results took longer than expected
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same key actives (Vitamin C + Arbutin) at lower concentrations. Water-free formula may feel oily. 8% vs 10% Vitamin C. Lacks the clinical backing but exceptional value.
Higher Vitamin C concentration (15%) with added Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, and peptides. No arbutin but includes other brightening support. Water-based like Obagi.
Popular CE Ferulic dupe with higher 20% Vitamin C. No arbutin, but stabilized with Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid. Great value for antioxidant protection.
π Comparison with Competitors
Obagi Vitamin C + Arbutin (This Product)
$92.00SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic
$185.00The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin
$11.00Paula's Choice C15 Super Booster
$55.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
6-12 months after opening. Vitamin C oxidizes over time; use within 3 months for optimal potency.
Store at controlled room temperature 15Β°-25Β°C (59Β°-77Β°F). Keep out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
Glass dropper bottle with UV-protective packaging. Dropper design allows precise 5-7 drop application.
Yes, under 100ml TSA limit. Glass bottle - pack carefully. Consider refrigerating during extended travel.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. While Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, Arbutin is a skin-lightening agent that some dermatologists recommend avoiding during pregnancy and nursing. There is limited research on topical arbutin during pregnancy. We strongly recommend consulting with your healthcare provider or dermatologist before using this product if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.
Yes! This serum is fungal acne safe. It contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed malassezia yeast. The water-based formula with only 9 ingredients is free from common fungal acne triggers. This makes it an excellent choice for those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis or fungal acne who want the benefits of Vitamin C brightening.
Yes, but with careful timing. Vitamin C works best at a low pH, while retinol and some acids work at different pH levels. For best results: Use Vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night. If using AHAs/BHAs, apply them at a different time or alternate days. Avoid mixing directly with strong acids like glycolic or benzoyl peroxide. Start slowly if combining actives to avoid irritation. Always use sunscreen when using these actives together.
This serum is best suited for normal, oily, and combination skin types. It's excellent for acne-prone skin due to its non-comedogenic, fungal acne-safe formula. Those with dry skin can use it but should follow with a rich moisturizer. Sensitive skin types should patch test first as the formula contains Alcohol Denat. and SLS. The 10% Vitamin C concentration is gentler than higher-strength formulas, making it a good entry point for Vitamin C beginners.
Results vary by individual, but clinical studies show: 24 hours to 1 week for initial radiance boost. 2-4 weeks for improved skin texture and smoothness (89% of users). 4-8 weeks for visible fading of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. 8-12 weeks for optimal brightening and anti-aging benefits. Consistency is key - use daily in the morning followed by sunscreen for best results.
Apply this serum as Step 3 in your morning routine: 1) Cleanser, 2) Toner (optional), 3) This Vitamin C Serum, 4) Other serums/treatments (thicker consistency), 5) Moisturizer, 6) Sunscreen SPF 30+. Apply 5-7 drops to clean, dry skin and allow to absorb for 1-2 minutes before the next step. Best used in the morning for antioxidant protection throughout the day.
No, this serum is non-comedogenic and will not clog pores. It has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The lightweight, water-based formula is free from oils, silicones, and pore-clogging ingredients. It's hypoallergenic and allergy-tested, making it safe for acne-prone and sensitive skin. The formula is also fungal acne safe, so it won't trigger breakouts related to malassezia overgrowth.
The serum has a PAO (Period After Opening) of approximately 6-12 months. However, L-Ascorbic Acid is notoriously unstable and oxidizes when exposed to air, light, and heat. For optimal potency and effectiveness, we recommend using the serum within 3 months of opening. Signs of oxidation include color change from clear/light to yellow, orange, or brown. If the serum darkens significantly, it has lost efficacy and should be replaced.
Verdict: The Obagi Clinical Vitamin C + Arbutin Brightening Serum is a premium, medical-grade option for those serious about tackling hyperpigmentation and achieving brighter skin. The combination of 10% L-Ascorbic Acid with Arbutin provides a powerful dual-action approach to fading dark spots, while the clean, minimal 9-ingredient formula is refreshingly simple. Clinically proven with 89% of users seeing visible improvements in 4 weeks, it delivers on its promises. The fungal acne-safe, non-comedogenic formula makes it suitable for acne-prone skin. However, the premium $92 price point and caution needed during pregnancy may not suit everyone. For those who want dermatologist-developed quality and can commit to daily sunscreen use, this serum offers excellent brightening results with a gentler 10% concentration that minimizes irritation risk.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|