The base of the formula, dissolving other ingredients.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A humectant and solvent that can improve product texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Humectant
Pentylene Glycol
A hydrating ingredient that also acts as a preservative booster.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Active
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
A stable, water-soluble form of Vitamin C that helps brighten skin and reduce inflammation.
Usually helps with
Brightening, acne-prone skin
Watch for
Can be less potent than other Vitamin C forms.
Active
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
A stable derivative of Vitamin C that penetrates the skin well, offering antioxidant protection and brightening effects.
Usually helps with
Brightening, anti-aging
Watch for
Can cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
A solvent and humectant that can also have antimicrobial properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A derivative of Vitamin C that is slowly released into the skin, providing antioxidant benefits and brightening.
Usually helps with
Brightening, sensitive skin
Watch for
May take longer to show results compared to more potent forms.
Antioxidant
Triethyl Citrate
A derivative of citric acid that can help stabilize the formula and provide antioxidant benefits.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A classic humectant that draws moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated and soft.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emulsifier
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
A surfactant and emulsifier used to help mix oil and water components. Can be a skin irritant for some.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Potential for irritation in very sensitive skin.
Emulsifier
Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate
A gentle emulsifier derived from glycerin and lauric acid.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Thickener
Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum
A natural gum that helps thicken the serum and provides a smooth texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emollient
Glyceryl Caprylate
A skin-conditioning agent and emulsifier with antimicrobial properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Chelating Agent
Phytic Acid
A natural chelating agent that can help improve skin tone and texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be mildly exfoliating.
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that can help exfoliate the skin and adjust the pH of the formula.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Can cause irritation or increased sun sensitivity.
Chelating Agent
Sodium Gluconate
A chelating agent that helps stabilize the formula.
Usually helps with
All skin types
pH Adjuster
Sodium Hydroxide
Used to adjust the pH of the formula to ensure optimal performance and stability.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be irritating in high concentrations.
Preservative
Sodium Metabisulfite
A preservative that can also act as an antioxidant. It is a sulfite, which can be problematic for some.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Sulfites can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that protects skin from environmental damage and works with Vitamin C.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Preservative
Sodium Dehydroacetate
A preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetic products.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Can be a skin irritant for some.
Antioxidant
Chlorella Vulgaris Extract
An extract from algae that contains antioxidants and can help improve skin hydration.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Skin Conditioning Agent
Capsicum Annuum Fruit Extract
Derived from chili peppers, it can provide antioxidant benefits and a warming sensation, but may be irritating for sensitive skin.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Potential for irritation and redness.
Emollient
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
A rich emollient that is high in linoleic acid, helping to support the skin barrier.
Usually helps with
Dry, normal skin
Watch for
Can be comedogenic for some acne-prone individuals.
Antioxidant
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
A botanical extract with antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types