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Why is Vitamin C so common in skincare products?
With all the recent hype surrounding retinol and retinal, many people seem to have forgotten about vitamin C. However, there are plenty of reasons why vitamin C remains one of the most valuable active ingredients in skincare. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from oxidative stress. It stimulates the production of collagen types I and III, helping to maintain firmer, healthier-looking skin, while also supporting the skin's natural repair processes. Regular use can help prevent premature photoaging caused by UV exposure. One of vitamin C's greatest advantages is that it complements sunscreen. While it doesn't increase your sunscreen's SPF, it provides additional protection against UV-induced free radical damage, making it an excellent ingredient for your morning skincare routine. Vitamin C can also help improve both post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and post-inflammatory erythema (PIE). Although PIH is generally easier to target, PIE often requires ingredients with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties rather than relying solely on tyrosinase inhibitors. This is an area where many skincare brands could do a better job of educating consumers. Another benefit of vitamin C is how well it pairs with other active ingredients. It works especially well with vitamin E and ferulic acid, which enhance its stability and antioxidant performance. It can also be combined with niacinamide, despite the persistent myth that the two ingredients should not be used together. Finally, it's important to remember that not all forms of vitamin C are the same. Pure L-ascorbic acid is the most extensively studied form, but many stable derivatives are available as well. Each form differs in terms of stability, penetration, potency, and suitability for different skin types, so choosing the right one can make a significant difference in your skincare routine.Vitamin C forms in skincare
Vitamin C in skincare comes in different forms. The most common one is ascorbic acid, also known as L-ascorbic acid. It is a water-soluble ingredient that requires a pH lower than 3.5 to remain effective. It is usually used in concentrations of up to 20% and is a great ingredient for supporting collagen production in the skin. If you had to choose between a collagen product and vitamin C, I would generally choose vitamin C - but it really depends on your skin needs and goals. This antioxidant helps enhance the skin’s natural defense against UV-induced damage, which is why we like to use it in the morning before applying sunscreen. Vitamin C works especially well when combined with ingredients such as niacinamide, vitamin E, or ferulic acid. It is also a great option for helping to reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone. However, L-ascorbic acid is an unstable form of vitamin C. It is best stored in a dark glass container and, ideally, kept in the refrigerator. Once opened, it is usually recommended to use it within a few months. It oxidizes quickly, and if the product changes to a brownish color, it is better not to use it. Unfortunately, due to its low pH, L-ascorbic acid may not be the best choice for very sensitive skin. Other popular forms of vitamin C include Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) and Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP). Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a more stable and less irritating form of vitamin C compared to L-ascorbic acid. However, it has weaker antioxidant activity. It can be a better choice for sensitive skin, especially for those who cannot tolerate low-pH vitamin C products. Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is also a more stable derivative of vitamin C and is typically used in formulas with a higher pH, which makes it gentler on the skin. It can help improve the appearance of pigmentation and support collagen production. It is also a great option for acne-prone skin due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ascorbyl Glucoside are other forms of vitamin C. Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is an oil-soluble derivative, while Ascorbyl Glucoside is a water-soluble derivative. Both are more stable than L-ascorbic acid and can work very effectively in skincare formulas. 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is another stable form of vitamin C that can be used in both water- and oil-based formulations. It is a great option for sensitive skin because it is generally well tolerated. It works very well for my skin too, but it is not the most affordable vitamin C derivative.
Meet the brand: Arencia
Arencia is a relatively young brand, but it has already gained a lot of love from skincare enthusiasts. The brand was established in 2017 by Joohyun Lim. Its story began at a small orphanage in Panama, where children were struggling with skin irritation. The solution to this problem was handcrafted cleansing bars made with natural ingredients. Arencia uses many ingredients that may be unfamiliar to you, but they have been valued in traditional medicine for centuries - such as hyssop. The brand also incorporates various artisanal techniques, including the kneading method used in its cleansers, to help preserve the nutrients and beneficial properties of the ingredients throughout the production process. One of Arencia’s biggest successes is the Rice Mochi series, which has become a favorite among many skincare lovers.
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot is a serum packed with vitamin C, glutathione, and niacinamide. It’s primarily focused on addressing pigmentation and uneven skin tone, while also supporting the skin barrier with ingredients like panthenol and allantoin to help maintain hydration and reduce irritation.Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot - Packaging
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot comes in a paper box containing a plastic tube with 30 ml of product. What I love is that the packaging includes both English and French names, as well as the product’s functions listed on the back, which makes me think the brand is preparing to enter Sephora. The serum comes with a pointed applicator tip that makes it easier to apply the product directly to the skin.
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot - Texture & Scent
The texture of Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot is like a yellow gel. It’s not very sticky, which makes it pleasant to use. It doesn’t have a strong vitamin C or citrus scent because Arencia didn’t add any fragrance ingredients to the formula. However, if you have a sensitive nose like mine, you might notice a very subtle chemical scent from the formula. For many people, though, I believe this product won’t have any noticeable scent at all.Is Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot cruelty-free and vegan-friendly?
There is no information indicating whether Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot is cruelty-free or suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot - Ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid(50,000ppm), Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Cetearyl Olivate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Diisostearyl Malate, Sodium Polyacrylate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sorbitan Olivate, Arginine, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dextrin, Adenosine, Allantoin, Ascorbic Acid(10ppm), Glutathione, Panthenol, Pyridoxine, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Water is typically listed in cosmetic products as "Aqua" or "Eau". It's a solvent, but it's not your regular drinking water. In skin care products, water must meet specific purity standards to ensure it is clean and free of impurities, including minerals, microorganisms, and other substances. Water usually makes up the majority of the product's content. Glycerin or Glycerol is a humectant. Depending on the product, its origin can be natural or synthetic. It protects against TEWL (transepidermal water loss), a natural process that occurs in the skin. It's one of the NMFs and a natural moisturizing factor. It's practical in hair care. Glycerin won't clog your skin or irritate it - just the opposite - it protects your skin from irritation.
Methylpropanediol is a solvent with antimicrobial properties. 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (50,000ppm/5%) or Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a form of Vitamin C. This form is very stable in both oil and water. It's an antioxidant and skin-brightening ingredient. It stimulates collagen (type I and III) and elastin production. 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid helps with PIE & PIH pigmentation - this form shows the best effects on pigmentation and post-UV-exposure skin discolouration. It's better to use Vitamin C during the morning routine because it boosts the efficiency of sunscreen. We consider 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid to be the most stable form of vitamin C in skincare, and this version is suitable for sensitive skin. It's good to mix it with niacinamide and vitamin E. This form has weak points - it's the most expensive form of vitamin C.
Butylene Glycol is a common ingredient in products. It's not only a solvent. We use butylene glycol because it helps the active ingredients penetrate, protects products from drying, and moisturises the skin and hair. This ingredient can prevent hair loss and strengthen hair. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a combination of coconut oil and glycerin. It's a notable emollient that is quite common in skincare. It leaves a protective film on the surface of the epidermis to save your cutis from dehydration. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride has a significant role in skin care products - it makes the application process effortless. Some people might experience pore-clogging after using Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, but pore-clogging and skin reactions to ingredients are individual. What works for you might not work for someone else.
1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic solvent and preservative. It protects products from microorganisms by boosting other preservatives. At the same time, it can moisturize the skin and has no unpleasant effects on the epidermis. Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, a water-soluble vitamin. It helps address issues such as wrinkles, acne, uneven skin texture, and enlarged pores, while promoting collagen synthesis. Niacinamide makes the skin barrier stronger. It might be handy in cellulite treatments. Do you want to fight pigmentation or uneven skin? Try mixing niacinamide with Kojic Acid, Arbutin, Vitamin C, Tranexamic Acid, or Retinol. Cetyl Ethylhexanoate is an emollient that leaves a velvet layer on the surface of the skin. It appears in cleansing products, and it makes brushing and detangling your hair easier.
Olivem 1000 is a combination of Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate. It's a natural emulsifier, and beauty companies use it to create an oil-in-water emulsion. Worth mentioning, it's a biodegradable formula. Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate is an emulsifier. Diisostearyl Malate is an emollient, soluble in oils. Sodium Polyacrylate is a thickener with a strong ability to absorb water. It helps with texture, and it can create film on the skin to prevent TEWL (transepidermal water loss). Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic polymer and quite a large molecule. It works as a thickener and emulsion stabiliser. Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract adds scent and colour to the product, but it also can work as an antioxidant and humectant.
Xanthan Gum is a polysaccharide that works as a thickener. Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative with subtle moisturizing and antimicrobial properties. Dextrin is an emulsifier with stabilizing properties. Adenosine naturally occurs in the skin. One of the roles of adenosine in the body is that of a neurotransmitter. In skin care, we use adenosine for its anti-wrinkle properties. Adenosine is an anti-inflammatory ingredient. It can boost collagen production. At the same time, it speeds up the healing process. Adenosine can have positive effects on reducing redness. In hair care, adenosine can help with hair loss.
Allantoin is an ingredient that naturally occurs in the human body, but brands typically use the synthetic form of this substance. It is derived from comfrey or soybean roots and serves as a humectant with soothing and wound-healing properties. Ascorbic Acid (10ppm) is an antioxidant that stimulates collagen (type I and III) and elastin production. It helps with pigmentation - both PIE & PIH. It is better to use vitamin C during the morning routine because it boosts the efficiency of sunscreen. Ascorbic Acid can fix what free radicals destroy. Brands recommend mixing ascorbic acid with ferulic acid and vitamin E. Vitamin C has a cardinal role in strengthening the blood vessels and boosting wound healing. Ascorbic Acid in a concentration above 10% might be too irritating for sensitive skin or rosacea - even some acne-prone skin might not enjoy it.
Glutathione is an antioxidant that naturally occurs in the skin. It's a tripeptide made out of glutamic acid, glycine and cysteine. It helps with free radical damage and it inhibits melanin which makes it a powerful ingredient to treat pigmentation. Because of the sulfur amount in glutathione, you can use it to moderate sebum production in acne-prone and oily skin types. It speeds up the skin healing process and supports vitamin C and vitamin E, so it's good to use it with both these ingredients. Panthenol is a humectant. It prevents skin from TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss). Panthenol is also known as vitamin B5, and it helps with inflammation. Panthenol can soothe the skin irritated by preservatives, scent ingredients, and chemical sunscreens - it might have a meaning for lipids in our skin and skin barrier. It speeds up the healing process. It's good to use it after sunbathing. In hair care, Panthenol has moisturizing properties. If you have problems detangling your hair or hair growth go for Panthenol. It is good to mix it with niacinamide and zinc oxide. You can see it in products for atopic dermatitis or psoriasis. Pyridoxine or Vitamin B6 has antistatic properties. It moderates sebum production.
Tocopherol is an antioxidant known as Vitamin E. It's an oil-soluble vitamin that fights free radicals and makes UVB protection and natural lipid barrier stronger. It's good to mix it with vitamin C for better effects. Oily skin might react with pore-clogging to vitamin E. It is not true that vitamin E works as a preservative or helps with scars. Ascorbyl Glucoside is a form of Vitamin C. It's an antioxidant and skin-brightening ingredient - it stimulates collagen (type I and III) and elastin production. Ascorbyl Glucoside helps with pigmentation - both PIE & PIH. It's better to use Vitamin C during the morning routine because it boosts the efficiency of sunscreen. Ascorbyl Glucoside is one of the best forms of vitamin C in skincare since it can penetrate the skin deeper. It's good to mix ascorbyl glucoside with niacinamide. Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate or SAP is an antioxidant and a water-soluble form of Vitamin C. SAP is more stable than ascorbic acid, but its penetration skills are weaker. It stimulates collagen (type I and III) and elastin production. It helps with pigmentation - both PIE & PIH, but this one also does a great job with acne due to its antimicrobial properties. It is better to use vitamin C during the morning routine because it boosts the efficiency of sunscreen. It's good to mix it with ferulic acid and vitamin E. Vitamin C has a cardinal role in strengthening the blood vessels and boosting wound healing. This form of Vitamin C is recommended during pregnancy.
How to use Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot?
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot should be applied between toner and moisturizer. Vitamin C serums are often a good addition to a morning routine because vitamin C provides antioxidant protection and can complement your sunscreen.
The brand recommends introducing this serum gradually and avoiding combining it with strong active ingredients. If you want to use both retinol and vitamin C, try applying Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot in the morning and your retinol or retinal serum in the evening.
How does Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot work?
Vitamin C serums can be a tricky topic, since there’s a group of people whose skin doesn’t tolerate vitamin C well. Thankfully, my skin is a fan of vitamin C, but niacinamide is a problem for me. The tricky thing about testing vitamin C is that you need at least three months of consistent use to see its full effects. Did I use it for three months? Yes, but I’m an idiot who forgot to take photos to track the results. That’s one thing I need to start doing - taking proper before-and-after photos.
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot is a product that won me over because it contains 5% 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, the form of vitamin C I like the most. However, it’s not the only vitamin C derivative in this formula. There’s one thing I have to point out, though: it’s a vitamin C serum with a relatively long PAO of 6 months.
The formula contains no added fragrance ingredients, which is great for people who are sensitive to scents and may also make the formula less irritating. The texture feels really nice, even though the color reminds me a lot of retinol. In the long term, it does help with pigmentation, but I don’t agree with influencers who claim that 7 or 14 days is enough to see significant results - it’s simply not enough time. Give it a longer period, such as 3 to 6 months, to see the full effects.
I tried applying it both all over my face and just to specific spots, and I think both methods work well. It can also be applied under makeup, so you don’t have to worry about that. The texture leaves the skin with a dry finish without any yellow tint. Overall, I think it’s a really interesting vitamin C serum.
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot - Skin Compatibility
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot is recommended for all skin types.
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot - Pros & Cons
Pros
+ Contains 5% 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, a stable vitamin C derivative
+ Contains additional brightening ingredients, including glutathione and niacinamide
+ Helps improve the appearance of pigmentation and uneven skin tone with consistent use
+ Contains panthenol and allantoin to support the skin barrier and help soothe the skin
+ Fragrance-free, making it a good option for people who are sensitive to added fragrance
+ Lightweight, non-sticky, pleasant gel texture
+ Suitable for all skin types, according to the brand
+ 6-month PAO, which is relatively long for a vitamin C serum with Ascorbic Acid
Cons
- Niacinamide may be problematic for people who are sensitive to it
- There is no clear information indicating whether the product is cruelty-free or vegan/vegetarian-friendly
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot - Alternatives
If you want a product with a lightweight texture, Laneige Radian-C Double Active Brightening Essence* is a great option. I’m already on my second bottle! It also contains 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, but Laneige uses several additional technologies and ingredients that you won’t find in Arencia. The formula combines a vitamin essence with a collagen essence, along with ingredients such as Melasolv, licorice root extract, carnosine, and adenosine.
Another serum I really enjoyed is 107 Soseo VINBIOME Vitamin C Serum. It might be a bit more expensive than Arencia, but I think it’s worth it. It contains 15% 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, along with arbutin, fermented ingredients, panthenol, and multiple forms of hyaluronic acid. The full review is available on Kherblog.
COSRX The Vitamin C 13 Serum* is a very classic but safe choice that is loved by many. I also reviewed the old version of Neogen Dermalogy Real Vita C Serum*, and I think the new version is worth checking out, too.
If you want a really potent vitamin C formula, the IOPE Expert Vitamin C 25% Antioxidant Serum for Brightening* would be my pick. It contains 25% pure vitamin C alongside 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and other antioxidants.
How much does Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot cost, and where to buy it?
Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot is available at YesStyle*, where it costs around $22 for 30 ml. You can use my referral code BETWEENDOTS to save on your order. At Jolse*, the regular price is $24, but if the serum isn’t on sale, you can use my affiliate code BETWEEND0 to save on your purchase. Olive Young Global* also carries Arencia Vitamin C Booster Shot for $24/30 ml, and you can use my affiliate code BETWEEND0 there as well.
Arencia’s Booster line is really interesting. While Vitamin C Booster Shot is probably the most popular product from the line, you might want to check out some of the other boosters, too. The current range also includes PDRN, Retinal, TXA, NAD+, and glycolic acid boosters.
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