Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C Serum
Product Description
An award-winning glow-boosting serum featuring 10% Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (a stable, gentle form of Vitamin C) clinically proven to brighten, smooth, and reduce discoloration. Supercharged with Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, and Hyaluronic Acid for powerful antioxidant protection without irritation.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Clinically Proven Brightening
94% of users saw softer, brighter skin with less discoloration after 8 weeks of consistent use.
Stable Vitamin C Formula
Uses Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate - a stable, non-oxidizing form that won't turn brown or lose potency.
C+E+Ferulic Complex
The gold-standard antioxidant trio that doubles UV protection and fights free radical damage.
Gentle Acne Fighter
SAP has antimicrobial properties that reduce P. acnes bacteria and help fade acne scars without irritation.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients of concern. Vitamin C is considered safe and beneficial during pregnancy.
Free from fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast.
Lightweight, oil-free formula that won't clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Rated "Super Safe" by the Environmental Working Group with lowest hazard rating possible.
SAP is gentler than L-ascorbic acid with same efficacy. No stinging or irritation for most users.
May cause photosensitivity in rare cases. Always use sunscreen during the day.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% Proven
A stable, water-soluble derivative of Vitamin C that converts to ascorbic acid in the skin. Less irritating than L-ascorbic acid while providing similar brightening and anti-aging benefits.
- Clinical Study: Shown to reduce sebum oxidation by up to 40%, making it particularly effective for acne-prone skin
- Stability: Doesn't oxidize or turn brown like pure Vitamin C - maintains potency throughout product life
- Antimicrobial: Proven to kill P. acnes bacteria, the primary cause of inflammatory acne
πΎ Ferulic Acid Proven
A plant-derived antioxidant found in cell walls of grains like rice and wheat. Creates a synergistic effect when combined with Vitamins C and E.
- Research: 2005 Duke University study found 0.5% ferulic acid doubles the photoprotective effects of Vitamin C
- UV Protection: Helps shield skin from environmental damage and sun-induced aging
- Stability Booster: Helps stabilize Vitamin C and prevents oxidation
π« Vitamin E (Tocotrienols) Proven
A potent antioxidant that works synergistically with Vitamin C - referred to as "network antioxidants" that regenerate each other.
- Synergy: Vitamin C regenerates oxidized Vitamin E, extending its protective benefits
- Skin Barrier: Helps maintain skin's moisture barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss
- Anti-Aging: Shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and discoloration
π§ Hyaluronic Acid Proven
A humectant naturally found in skin that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, providing deep hydration and plumping fine lines.
- Hydration: Draws moisture from the environment into the skin
- Plumping: Temporarily fills in fine lines by hydrating the skin's surface
- Skin-Identical: Naturally occurs in skin - won't cause sensitivity
πΈ Konjac Root Powder Promising
A nutrient-rich botanical containing vitamins A, C, D, E, B, minerals, and fatty acids that forms a protective barrier while softening skin.
- Barrier Support: Creates a lightweight protective film on skin
- Nutrient Rich: Contains copper, zinc, phosphorus, iron, and more
- Smoothing: Helps soften and smooth skin texture
πΌ Chamomile Extract Promising
A calming botanical known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, perfect for sensitive or reactive skin.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Helps calm redness and irritation
- Soothing: Provides comfort to sensitive skin types
- Protective: Creates a thin shield against environmental stressors
17 ingredients
Water (Deionized), Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate), Alkyl Benzoate, Vegetable Glycerin, Water, Glycerin, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Anisate, Clary Sage (Salvia Sclarea), Grapefruit (Citrus Grandis), Hyaluronic Acid, Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, Vitamin E (Tocotrienol), Ferulic Acid, Chamomile Flower Extract (Recutita Matricaria), Sodium Phytate, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply in the AM for maximum antioxidant protection. Can also be used at night if not layering other treatment serums.
π How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser and pat dry with a clean towel.
Apply 2-3 Drops
Dispense a small amount (about a dime-size) onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way!
Massage Into Skin
Gently massage into face and neck using upward motions. Ensure product fully penetrates the skin.
Wait 1-2 Minutes
Allow the serum to absorb before applying your next product to prevent pilling.
Follow with Moisturizer & SPF
Layer your moisturizer and always finish with broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want to brighten dull, uneven skin tone
- You have acne-prone or oily skin
- You're sensitive to traditional Vitamin C serums
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have hyperpigmentation or dark spots
- You want anti-aging benefits without irritation
- You prefer clean, vegan skincare
- You struggle with fungal acne
β Consider alternatives if:
- You want the most potent L-ascorbic acid formula
- You need immediate, dramatic results
- You prefer fragrance-free products (has faint botanical scent)
- You want a larger bottle size for the price
- You need a heavier, more hydrating serum
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel texture won't add shine. SAP helps balance oil production and reduce breakouts.
Contains hyaluronic acid for hydration, but may need a richer moisturizer on top for very dry skin types.
Balances well across T-zone and cheeks. Non-greasy formula works perfectly for mixed skin concerns.
SAP is much gentler than L-ascorbic acid. Chamomile and aloe provide soothing benefits. No stinging reported.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe. SAP has antimicrobial properties that actively fight acne-causing bacteria.
Provides antioxidant protection and mild collagen support. For advanced anti-aging, consider pairing with retinol (PM).
π Results Timeline
Immediate Hydration & Glow
Skin feels softer and more hydrated. Many users notice an immediate subtle radiance and improved skin texture.
70% noticed instant glowVisible Brightening
Noticeable improvements in overall skin tone, reduced redness, and beginning of dark spot fading. Skin appears healthier.
85% saw brighter skinSignificant Improvement
Meaningful reduction in hyperpigmentation and discoloration. Skin texture is smoother with diminished acne scars.
94% saw less discolorationFull Results
Maximum benefits achieved with continued daily use. Even skin tone, reduced fine lines, and continued protection from environmental damage.
Long-term maintenanceβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Gentle formula doesn't sting or irritate
- Stable Vitamin C that won't oxidize quickly
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Fungal acne and acne-prone skin friendly
- Clean, vegan ingredients with EWG score of 1
- Absorbs quickly without greasy residue
- Effective for brightening and dark spots
- Great base for makeup application
- Contains C+E+Ferulic antioxidant trio
β Criticized
- Small bottle (1 oz) for the price point
- Results take longer than potent L-ascorbic acid
- May pill under certain products
- Faint botanical scent not truly fragrance-free
- Not the most hydrating - needs moisturizer
- Some users see no visible improvement
- Dropper packaging less hygienic than airless pump
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Uses pure Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) instead of SAP, so more potent but less stable. Includes alpha arbutin for extra brightening. Water-free formula in oily base.
Similar gentle approach with Vitamin C, E, and Hyaluronic Acid. Uses SAP like Mad Hippie but simpler formula without ferulic acid. Thicker gel texture.
Uses 20% L-ascorbic acid - more potent but may irritate sensitive skin. Same C+E+Ferulic combo. SkinCeuticals dupe at a fraction of the price. Better for advanced users.
The gold standard that inspired many dupes. Uses 15% L-ascorbic acid with patented formula. More potent with faster results, but much higher price and less suitable for sensitive skin.
π Comparison with Competitors
Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum
$33.99The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin
$11.00Timeless 20% Vitamin C + E + Ferulic
$24.95SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
$182.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. SAP is more stable than L-ascorbic acid and maintains potency longer.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration not required but can extend freshness.
Glass bottle with dropper dispenser. Natural yellow tint is normal - due to botanical extracts, not oxidation.
Yes, under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit. Compact size perfect for travel skincare routines.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients that are flagged for pregnancy concerns. Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate) is a safe, beneficial ingredient during pregnancy. Many users specifically choose this serum because it's one of the few effective products they can use while pregnant. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes! This serum is fungal acne safe. It's free from the ingredients that feed malassezia yeast, including fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients. Multiple ingredient analysis sites (SkinSort, Folliculitis Scout, SkinCarisma) confirm it contains zero fungal acne triggers. This makes it an excellent choice for those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis or seborrheic dermatitis.
Yes, but use them at different times. Apply Vitamin C in the morning for antioxidant protection and UV defense. Use retinol or AHAs/BHAs at night. Many users successfully alternate: Vitamin C every morning, and retinol or chemical exfoliants on different evenings. If you want to use them closer together, wait 15-30 minutes between applications. Mad Hippie themselves recommend their Vitamin C for AM and their Super A Serum (retinoid) for PM on alternate nights.
This serum excels for sensitive, acne-prone, and combination skin types. The stable SAP form of Vitamin C is much gentler than L-ascorbic acid, making it ideal for those who experience irritation from potent Vitamin C serums. It's particularly excellent for acne-prone skin due to SAP's antimicrobial properties. Oily skin types appreciate the lightweight, non-greasy texture. Dry skin types should follow with a good moisturizer as the serum alone may not provide enough hydration.
Most users notice improvements in skin texture and a subtle glow within 1-2 weeks. Visible brightening and reduced redness typically appear around weeks 4-6. Significant improvement in dark spots and discoloration occurs between weeks 8-12. In Mad Hippie's clinical study, 94% of participants saw softer, brighter skin with less discoloration after 8 weeks. Full results with continued daily use take about 3 months. Because SAP is gentler than L-ascorbic acid, results may take slightly longer but are achieved without irritation.
Apply after cleansing (and toning if you use one) but before moisturizer and sunscreen. In the morning: Cleanser β Toner (optional) β Vitamin C Serum β Moisturizer β Sunscreen. At night: You can use it if you're not applying other treatment serums, or skip it in favor of retinol/AHA products. Mad Hippie recommends applying in the AM for maximum antioxidant protection against daily environmental stressors and UV damage.
No, Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum is non-comedogenic with a rating of 0/5. The lightweight, oil-free gel formula absorbs quickly and won't clog pores. It's specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and is even recommended by dermatologists for those with active breakouts. The SAP form of Vitamin C actually helps reduce sebum oxidation (a cause of blackheads) by up to 40% and has antimicrobial properties against acne-causing bacteria.
The serum has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. One of the key advantages of Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is its stability - unlike pure Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), it doesn't oxidize quickly and turn brown. The natural yellow tint of the serum is due to botanical extracts, not oxidation. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best results. The 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with daily use.
Verdict: Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a gentle yet effective Vitamin C serum - especially those with sensitive, acne-prone, or reactive skin. The stable SAP formula provides reliable brightening and antioxidant protection without the irritation common with L-ascorbic acid serums. While it may not deliver the fastest results compared to potent alternatives, the trade-off is a product that works well for virtually all skin types, is safe during pregnancy, and won't feed fungal acne. The clean, vegan formula with C+E+Ferulic antioxidant complex offers impressive value for its performance. Best suited for those prioritizing skin tolerance and clean ingredients over maximum potency.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Antioxidant
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Redness
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antimicrobial
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Levulinate
Skin Conditioning
|
|