COSRX The Vitamin C 23 serum

COSRX

The Vitamin C 23 serum

face serum

Added Last edited

Fit by skin type

General, ingredient-based — not your personalized match.

Dry
60%
Combination (dry)
60%
Balanced
90%
Combination (oily)
80%
Oily
80%

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34
Ingredients
7
Benefits
4
Actives
Find Dupes

The COSRX Vitamin C 23 serum is a highly concentrated serum that contains 23% pure vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals, while also brightening and evening out the skin tone. In addition to vitamin C, this serum also contains hyaluronic acid, tocotrienol, and allantoin. Which work together to soothe, promote collagen production, and hydrate the skin. This lightweight formula of the Vitamin C 23 serum makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Key Insights

Benefits

7
Anti-Aging
Dark Spot Fading
Evens Skin Tone
Hydration
Oil Control
Pore Minimizer
Soothing

Active Ingredients

4
Hyaluronic acid Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) Vitamin B5 (panthenol) Vitamin C

Risks

2
Alcohol
Silicone

About The Vitamin C 23 serum

Overview

The Vitamin C 23 serum is a lightweight serum from COSRX, a brand based in Korea. The formula is built mainly around hydration. The ingredient list runs to 34 ingredients, each broken down in full below.

Texture and finish

By its ingredient list the formula reads as light: water and humectants lead, with emollients kept lower in the order. It contains both silicones and oils, a combination that usually finishes smooth and slightly satin and sits well under makeup. Hydration is handled by Propanediol, Panthenol and Sodium Hyaluronate, humectants that pull water into the upper layers of skin rather than sealing it there.

What the formula does

Hydration: High. Ingredients that pull and hold water in the upper layers of skin, and here that comes from Propanediol, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate and Butylene Glycol.

Brightening: Moderate. Ingredients that act on uneven tone and post-inflammatory marks, and here that comes from Ascorbic Acid, Niacinamide, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract and Acetyl Glucosamine.

Soothing: Moderate. Ingredients aimed at visible redness and reactivity, and here that comes from Panthenol, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate and Adenosine.

Antioxidant support: Moderate. Ingredients that mop up free radicals from UV and pollution, and here that comes from Ascorbic Acid, Glutathione and Tocopherol.

Who it suits

On richness alone it suits Balanced skin best, and is the least natural fit for Dry and Combination (dry) skin. Nothing in the list is flagged as a common irritant, which is a reasonable starting point for reactive skin — though a patch test is still the only way to know.

What it does not target

The formula contributes little or nothing on cell renewal and firmness signalling. That is not a fault — most products are not meant to do everything — but if one of those is your priority, this is not the product that will address it.

What is not in it

Reading the full list, the formula is fragrance-free, essential-oil-free, paraben-free, microplastic-free, sulfate-free and dye-free. Those claims come from the ingredient list itself, not from the packaging. It does contain drying alcohol, worth knowing if your skin reacts to any of them.

Where it fits in a routine

It can be used morning and evening. In a routine it goes after toner, before moisturiser. Apply to clean, dry skin and give it a minute to absorb before the next layer. Introduce one new treatment at a time so you can identify what is working.

This summary is generated from the product's ingredient list. It is not a review, it is not the brand's own marketing claims, and it does not replace advice from a dermatologist.

Pros and cons

Drawn purely from the ingredient list

Pros

  • No fragrance or declared allergens
  • No essential oils
  • No microplastics
  • Strong humectant content for hydration
  • No common irritants flagged in the list

Things to know

  • Contains drying alcohol high in the list
  • 3 ingredients could feed malassezia (fungal acne)

Which skin types it suits

Scored on how rich or light the formula reads from its INCI order.

Suitable for

  • Balanced skin

May suit

  • Combination (oily) skin
  • Oily skin

Less suitable for

  • Dry skin
  • Combination (dry) skin

Sensitive skin

No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.

Skin concerns

Based on the curated benefits documented for this product's ingredients.

Helps with

  • Hydration 13 ingredients

    Attracts and locks in moisture to keep skin plump and dewy

  • Anti-Aging 12 ingredients

    Boosts collagen and cell turnover to reduce fine lines and wrinkles

  • Soothing 8 ingredients

    Calms redness, irritation, and inflammation for sensitive skin

  • Evens Skin Tone 4 ingredients

    Brightens and balances complexion for a more uniform appearance

  • Dark Spot Fading 1 ingredient

    Fades hyperpigmentation and evens out dark spots over time

  • Oil Control 1 ingredient

    Regulates sebum production to reduce shine and greasiness

  • Pore Minimizer 1 ingredient

    Tightens and refines the look of enlarged pores

Does not target

Anti-Acne Blackhead Reducing Smooths Bumpy Skin

None of the ingredients in this formula are associated with these benefits. This is not unusual, as most products are designed to target a limited number of concerns.

Key ingredients

The actives, UV filters and benefit-carrying ingredients in this formula, in the order they are listed.

1st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 30–80% of the formula.

Aqua (EU),Deionized Water,Distilled Water,Micromatrix Fractile AN,Onsen-Sui (JPN),Purified Water

Hydration
Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C

2nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Ascorbic acid

Anti-Aging Dark Spot Fading Evens Skin Tone

3rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

1,3-dihydroxypropane

Hydration

4th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Dimethicone

Hydration
Panthenol Vitamin B5 (panthenol)

6th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Butanamide, 2,4-dihydroxy-N-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,3-dimethyl-, (2R)-; dl-Panthenol

Hydration Soothing

8th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

2,6,10,15,19,23-Hexamethyltetracosane

Hydration Anti-Aging

9th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

1H-Purine-2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-1,3,7-trimethyl-

Anti-Aging
Sodium Hyaluronate Hyaluronic acid

11th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Hyaluronic acid, sodium, salt

Hydration Anti-Aging Soothing

14th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Glycine, N-(N-L-.gamma.-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl)-

Anti-Aging

15th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

6-Amino-9-beta-D-ribofuranosyl-9H-purine

Soothing

16th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

N-acetyl-.alpha.-D-glucosamine

Hydration Soothing Evens Skin Tone

18th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Urea, (2,5-dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl)-

Soothing

Formula analysis

Each axis is scored from the ingredients present and how high up the list they sit.

Hydration High

Ingredients that pull and hold water in the upper layers of skin

Barrier support Moderate

Lipids and repair signals that support skin barrier integrity

Antioxidant support Moderate

Ingredients that mop up free radicals from UV and pollution

Oil control Low

Ingredients that moderate sebum or absorb shine

Brightening Moderate

Ingredients that act on uneven tone and post-inflammatory marks

Soothing Moderate

Ingredients aimed at visible redness and reactivity

Cell renewal None

Retinoids, acids and enzymes that speed surface turnover

Firmness signalling None

Peptides and growth factors that signal for collagen support

Active and supporting ingredients

"Active" here means an ingredient carrying a recorded active type or a recognised UV filter.

Active ingredients (4)

Supporting ingredients (30)

Solvents, emollients, texture agents and preservatives — the formula that carries the actives.

Water Propanediol Dimethicone Tromethamine Ethyl Ether Squalane Caffeine Sodium Chloride Sodium Sulfite Disodium Edta Glutathione Adenosine Acetyl Glucosamine Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract Allantoin Dextrin Tocotrienols Tocopherol Elaeis Guineensis Oil Butylene Glycol Arginine Pentylene Glycol Alcohol Denat. Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Methyl Trimethicone Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil Camellia Japonica Seed Oil Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract Beta-carotene

What is and is not in it

Read from the full ingredient list. A brand's own claim may differ.

Free from

  • Fragrance-free
  • Essential-oil-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Microplastic-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Dye-free
  • No animal-derived ingredients

Contains

  • Drying alcohol

    Alcohol Denat.

  • Silicones

    Dimethicone, Methyl Trimethicone

  • Facial oils

    Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil

What to layer it with

Judged by the same curated rules our routine checker uses. It reads the ingredients, not the label.

Compatible with

  • Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)
  • PHAs (gluconolactone)
  • Azelaic acid
  • Copper peptides
  • Bakuchiol
  • Niacinamide
  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Ceramides
  • Signal peptides
  • Panthenol
  • Sunscreen

Use with caution

  • Benzoyl peroxide

    Best kept to separate routines — one in the morning, one at night, or on alternate days.

  • Retinoids (retinol, retinal)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • AHAs (glycolic, lactic)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • BHA (salicylic acid)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

Where it fits in a routine

Morning Evening
  1. Cleanse
  2. Toning
  3. Treat
  4. Moisturise
  5. Protect

This product is the "Treat" step.

  • Apply to clean, dry skin and give it a minute to absorb before the next layer.
  • Introduce one new treatment at a time so you can identify what is working.

Safety and suitability

Flags to check, not verdicts. None of this is medical advice — if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or treating a skin condition, ask a doctor.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Nothing in this formula is on the standard pregnancy-caution list. That is not clearance — ask your doctor about anything you use daily.
Fungal acne (malassezia)
3 ingredients could feed malassezia: Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil. That is about the yeast's food supply, not a prediction that you will break out.
Sensitive and reactive skin
No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.
Recorded ingredient risks
Alcohol, Silicone

Ingredients by function

Most ingredients do more than one job, so these counts add up to more than the 34 ingredients on the label.

7
Solvent

Dissolves and carries everything else

6
Emollient

Softens and smooths by filling gaps between skin cells

6
Texture agent

Sets the thickness, spread and stability of the formula

4
Active

Changes how skin behaves rather than how it feels

3
Antioxidant

Neutralises free radicals from UV and pollution

3
Plant extract

Botanical material, usually for antioxidants or scent

2
Soothing

Calms visible redness and irritation

2
Humectant

Draws water into the upper layers of skin

2
Occlusive

Forms a film that slows water loss

2
pH adjuster

Sets the acidity the formula needs to work

2
Preservative

Keeps the product free of microbial growth

1
Chelator

Binds trace metals that would otherwise spoil the formula

1
UV filter

Absorbs or scatters ultraviolet light

Ingredient breakdown

Every ingredient on the label, in order, with what it does and roughly how much of it is likely to be there.

1 Water Solvent
Estimated level
30–80%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

1st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 30–80% of the formula.

Aqua (EU),Deionized Water,Distilled Water,Micromatrix Fractile AN,Onsen-Sui (JPN),Purified Water

Hydration
3 scientific references
  • Skin Research and Technology, May 2015, pages 131-136
  • Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, November-December 1999, pages 344-351
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, September-October 1993, pages 249-262
Estimated level
5–20%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Active, Antioxidant, pH adjuster

2nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Ascorbic acid

Anti-Aging Dark Spot Fading Evens Skin Tone
12 scientific references
  • Drug Delivery, February 2021, pages 445-453
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, December 2020, pages 3, 262-3, 269
  • Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, May-August 2020, pages 374-382
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, March 2020, pages 671-676
  • Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, July 2017 pages 14-17
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, July 2016, pages 863-867
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, September 2015, pages 463-470
  • Indian Dermatology Online Journal, April-June 2013, pages 143-146
  • AAPS PharmSciTech, July 2011, pages 917-923
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, July 2008, Supplement, pages s2-s6
  • International Journal of Toxicology, Supplement 2, March 2005, pages 51-111
  • Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, July-August 2004, pages 200-206
3 Propanediol Texture agent
Estimated level
5–20%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Solvent

3rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

1,3-dihydroxypropane

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • PubChem Compound Summary, April 2021, ePublication
  • SpecialChem, Accessed April 2021, ePublication
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, June 2018, pages 1-73
  • Cosmetics & Toiletries, May 2013, pages 81-86
4 Dimethicone Emollient
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Occlusive

4th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Dimethicone

Hydration Silicone
7 scientific references
  • FDA Code of Federal Regulations, April 2020, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2014, pages 65S-115S
  • The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, May 2014, pages 36-44
  • Dermatologic Therapy, May 2012, pages 229-233
  • Clinics in Dermatology, May-June 2012, pages 345-348
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, January 2008, pages 19-33
  • Skin Research and Technology, May 2000, pages 77-80
5 Tromethamine pH adjuster
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
pH adjuster

5th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

1,3-Propanediol, 2-amino-2-(hydroxymethyl)-

6 Panthenol Active
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Active

6th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Butanamide, 2,4-dihydroxy-N-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,3-dimethyl-, (2R)-; dl-Panthenol

Hydration Soothing
7 scientific references
  • The Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Accessed April 2021, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2019, pages 534-547
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, January 2019, pages 346-354
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, March 2018, pages 1-51
  • The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, August 2017, pages 173-180
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2011, pages 361-370
  • American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, Volume 3, 2002, pages 427-433
7 Ethyl Ether Solvent
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

7th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Ethane, 1,1'-oxybis

8 Squalane Emollient
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

8th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

2,6,10,15,19,23-Hexamethyltetracosane

Hydration Anti-Aging
9 scientific references
  • Cosmetics Ingredient Review, 2019, ePublication
  • ACS Open, July 2017, pages 3, 989–3, 996
  • Indian Journal of Dermatology, May-June 2016, pages 279-297
  • The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, June 2014, pages 25-32
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, January-February 2013, pages 59-66
  • Advances in Food and Nutrition Research, 2012, pages 223-233
  • Molecules, January 2009, pages 540-554
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, November 2006, pages 2, 430-2, 437
  • Free Radical Research, April 2002, pages 471-477
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

9th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

1H-Purine-2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-1,3,7-trimethyl-

Anti-Aging
10 Sodium Chloride Texture agent
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

10th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Sodium chloride

Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Active

11th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Hyaluronic acid, sodium, salt

Hydration Anti-Aging Soothing
5 scientific references
  • Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und Verwandte Gebiete, December 2017, pages 987-993
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, July 2014, pages 277-287
  • Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, October 2012, pages 20-23
  • DermatoEndocrinology, July-December 2012, pages 253-258
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, September 2011, pages 990-1000
12 Sodium Sulfite Antioxidant
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant, Preservative

12th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Sodium sulphite

13 Disodium Edta Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Chelator

13th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Disodium dihydrogen ethylenediaminetetraacetate

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

14th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Glycine, N-(N-L-.gamma.-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl)-

Anti-Aging
8 scientific references
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2019, pages 728–737
  • Clinical Cosmetic and Investigative Dermatology, April 2017, pages 147-153 and October 2014, pages 267-274
  • Nutrients, August 2017, pages 1-27
  • DermatoEndocrinology, July 2012, pages 308-319
  • Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2011, pages 3, 940-3, 949
  • The Dermatologist, October 2011, volume 19, issue 10
  • Journal of Dermatologic Science, May 2010, pages 85-90
  • Free Radical Biology and Medicine, October 1994, pages 333-349
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

15th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

6-Amino-9-beta-D-ribofuranosyl-9H-purine

Soothing
8 scientific references
  • PubChem, Accessed May 2021, ePublication
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, September 2020, pages 1-38
  • Experimental Dermatology, August 2014, pages 553-554
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, August 2011, pages 526-546
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2006, pages 447-451
  • British Journal of Pharmacology, October 2008, issue 4, pages 475-486
  • PloS One, May 2008 (ePublication)
  • >International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2006, pages 447-451
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

16th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

N-acetyl-.alpha.-D-glucosamine

Hydration Soothing Evens Skin Tone
6 scientific references
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, July 2022, pages 1-25
  • International Journal of Pharmaceutics, March 2020, pages 1-10
  • Life Sciences, May 2016, pages 21-29
  • Drug Design, Development and Therapy, August 2014, pages 1, 923-1, 928
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2013, pages 96-102; and December 2006, pages 309-315
  • Dermato-endocrinology, July 2012, pages 253-258
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

17th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract is an extract of the fruit of the Cape Jasmine, Gardenia Florida L., Rubiaceae

18 Allantoin Occlusive
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Occlusive, Soothing

18th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Urea, (2,5-dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl)-

Soothing
8 scientific references
  • Chemistry Series, March 2020, pages 7-21
  • Molecules, June 2019, pages 1-33
  • European Journal of Pharmacology, February 2018, pages 68-78
  • Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, June 2017, Volume 76, Issue 2, Supplement 1
  • Pharmacognosy Review, Volume 5, July-December 2011
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2010, Supplement, pages 84S-97S
  • Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, October 2008, ePublication
  • https://wwwaccessdatafdagov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearchcfm?CFRPart=347&showFR=1
19 Dextrin Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

19th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Dextrin

Oil Control
8 scientific references
  • Oil-Absorbing Ingredients
  • Help for Oily Skin
  • Salicylic Acid for Skin
  • How BHA Exfoliants Work
  • Which BHA Exfoliant is Right for Me?
  • Niacinamide Benefits: What Does Niacinamide Do for Skin?
  • The Best Toners for Oily Skin
  • The Best Moisturizers for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin
20 Tocotrienols UV filter
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
UV filter

20th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Tocotrienol

Anti-Aging Evens Skin Tone Soothing
11 scientific references
  • Plants, May 2021, pages 1-10
  • https://wwwdeepdyvecom/lp/pubmed-central/red-raspberry-rubus-idaeus-l-seed-oil-a-review-OuvirNhxkE?articleList=%2Fsearch%3Fquery%3Dtocotrienols%2Bcosmetics
  • Herba Polonica, December 2018, pages 63-70
  • https://wwwdeepdyvecom/lp/de-gruyter/oils-from-fruit-seeds-and-their-dietetic-and-cosmetic-significance-WFZr5c5AfV?articleList=%2Fsearch%3Fquery%3Dtocotrienols%2Bcosmetics
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2018, pages 61S-94S
  • https://wwwdeepdyvecom/lp/sage/safety-assessment-of-tocopherols-and-tocotrienols-as-used-in-cosmetics-NE9VU0e0X0?articleList=%2Fsearch%3Fquery%3Dtocotrienols%2Bcosmetics
  • Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology & Venereology, November 2012, pages 1, 449-1, 453
  • https://wwwdeepdyvecom/lp/wiley/clinical-evaluation-of-photoprotective-effect-by-a-topical-zqajFtTpEY?articleList=%2Fsearch%3Fquery%3Dtocotrienols%2Bcosmetics%26page%3D2
  • Journal or Agricultural and Food Chemistry, June 2010, pages 7, 013–7, 020
  • Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, April 2008, pages 117–123
  • Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2003, pages 355-362
21 Tocopherol Antioxidant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

21st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-2H-benzopyran-6-ol; .alpha.-tocopherol; Vitamin E

Anti-Aging Evens Skin Tone Soothing
4 scientific references
  • Journal or Agricultural and Food Chemistry, June 2010, pages 7013-7020
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, November 2001, pages 1212-1217
  • Canadian Family Physician, July 2006, pages 855-856
  • Dermatologic Surgery, April 1999, pages 311-315
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

22nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Elaeis Guineensis Oil is a natural oil obtained from the fruits of the Palmoil Tree, Elaeis guineensis, Palmaceae

Hydration Anti-Aging
23 Butylene Glycol Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Texture agent, Solvent

23rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Butane-1,3-diol (CAS No. 107-88-0/ EC No. 203-529-7) (R)-(-)-butane-1,3-diol” (CAS No. 6290-03-5/ EC No. 228-532-0)

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • CosmeticsInfoorg, Accessed March 2021, ePublication
  • US Food and Drug Administration Code of Federal Regulations</em>, Accessed March 2021, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2011, pages 5S-16S
  • Skin Research and Technology, November 2007, pages 417-24
  • Journal of the American College of Toxicology, September 1985, pages 223-248
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

24th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

L-Arginine

Hydration Anti-Aging
6 scientific references
  • Biobased Surfactants (Second Edition), 2019, pages 413-445
  • Scientific Reports, February 2016, pages 1-10
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, October 2012, pages 1-35
  • Journal of Advanced Research, July 2010, pages 169–177
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2005, page 139
  • Wound Repair and Regeneration, November-December 2003, pages 419-423
25 Niacinamide Active
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Active

25th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a gentle skincare active that repairs the skin barrier, calms redness, controls oil and evens tone at 2–5%. Official IUPAC name: **3-Pyridinecarboxamide**

Soothing Anti-Aging Pore Minimizer
15 scientific references
  • International Journal of Dermatology, February 2021, pages 166-173
  • Biomolecules & Therapeutics, July 2019, pages 562-569
  • Experimental Dermatology, February 2019, pages 15-22
  • Dermatologic Therapy, September 2017, ePublication
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, May 2017, page S116
  • International Journal of Pharmaceutics, March 2017, pages 158-162
  • Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America, May 2016, pages 145-152
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, July 2015, pages 405-412
  • Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, June 2014, pages 311-315
  • International Journal of Pharmacy, January 2013, pages 192-201
  • Dermatoendrocrinology, July 2012, pages 308-319
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2005, pages 1-31
  • Dermatologic Surgery, July 2005, pages 860-865
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2004, pages 231-238
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, April 2004, pages 88-93
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

26th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,2-Dihydroxypentane

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • https://thedermreviewcom/pentylene-glycol/
  • Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, July 2017, pages 106-111
  • Prospector, June 2015, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, October 2012, pages 147S-168S
27 Alcohol Denat. Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Solvent, Preservative

27th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Alcohol Denat. is ethyl alcohol that is denatured with one or more denaturing agents in accordance with the national legislation of each European Community (EU) country.

Alcohol
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

28th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil is the oil expressed from the seeds of the Sunflower, Helianthus annuus L., Compositae

Anti-Aging Hydration
4 scientific references
  • Pediatric Dermatology, August 2018, ePublication; and January-February 2013, pages 42-50
  • Chemicke Zvesti, May 2018, pages 2, 607-2, 615
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, December 2017, ePublication
  • Dermatology, October 2014, pages 230-239
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Soothing, Plant extract

29th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract is an extract of the roots of the Licorice, Glycyrrhiza glabra L., Leguminosae

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

30th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,1,1,3,5,5,5-Heptamethyl-3-(trimethylsilyloxy)trisiloxane

Hydration Silicone
8 scientific references
  • Supercharged Hydration
  • How Hyaluronic Acid Benefits Skin
  • What is Dehydrated Skin & How to Choose the Best Products
  • What Your Moisturizer Must Contain
  • Moisturizer Myths You Should Stop Believing Now
  • The Benefits of Glycerin in Skin Care
  • The Best Face Oils for Skin
  • How Facial Oils Help Skin
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

31st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil is the oily liquid obtained from the seeds of Safflower, Carthamus tinctorius L., Compositae. It consists principally of the triglycerides of linoleic acid

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

32nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Camellia Japonica Seed Oil is the fixed oil expressed from the seeds of the Camellia, Camellia japonica L., Theaceae

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

33rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract is an extract of the roots of the Carrot, Daucus carota L. var. sativa, Umbelliferae

Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

34th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

.beta.,.beta.-carotene

Anti-Aging

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Frequently asked questions

What ingredients are in The Vitamin C 23 serum?

WATER, ASCORBIC ACID, PROPANEDIOL, DIMETHICONE, TROMETHAMINE, PANTHENOL, ETHYL ETHER, SQUALANE, CAFFEINE, SODIUM CHLORIDE, SODIUM HYALURONATE, SODIUM SULFITE, DISODIUM EDTA, GLUTATHIONE, ADENOSINE, ACETYL GLUCOSAMINE, GARDENIA FLORIDA FRUIT EXTRACT, ALLANTOIN, DEXTRIN, TOCOTRIENOLS, TOCOPHEROL, ELAEIS GUINEENSIS OIL, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, ARGININE, NIACINAMIDE, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, ALCOHOL DENAT., HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL, GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA ROOT EXTRACT, METHYL TRIMETHICONE, CARTHAMUS TINCTORIUS SEED OIL, CAMELLIA JAPONICA SEED OIL, DAUCUS CAROTA SATIVA ROOT EXTRACT, BETA-CAROTENE.

What are the active ingredients in The Vitamin C 23 serum?

ASCORBIC ACID, PANTHENOL, SODIUM HYALURONATE, NIACINAMIDE.

How do I use The Vitamin C 23 serum?

After cleansing, during the serum phase, shake the bottle lightly once or twice from side to side. Apply a few drops to the skin. Use fingertips to gently massage and absorb the serum, starting from the inside of the face working towards the edges.

What skin types is The Vitamin C 23 serum good for?

Judged on how rich the formula reads from its ingredient list, it suits Balanced skin best. It is the least natural fit for Dry, Combination (dry) skin.

Is The Vitamin C 23 serum good for sensitive skin?

No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.

Is The Vitamin C 23 serum fungal acne safe?

3 ingredients could feed malassezia: Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil. That describes the yeast's food supply, not a prediction that they will cause a breakout.

Can I use The Vitamin C 23 serum while pregnant?

Nothing in this formula is on the standard pregnancy-caution list. That is not medical clearance — check anything you use daily with your doctor or midwife.

Is The Vitamin C 23 serum fragrance free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is fragrance-free.

Does The Vitamin C 23 serum contain alcohol?

Yes — it contains Alcohol Denat..

Is The Vitamin C 23 serum silicone free?

No — it contains Dimethicone, Methyl Trimethicone.

Does The Vitamin C 23 serum contain essential oils?

No. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is essential-oil-free.

Is The Vitamin C 23 serum paraben free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is paraben-free.

What can I layer with The Vitamin C 23 serum?

It layers well with Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), PHAs (gluconolactone), Azelaic acid, Copper peptides, Bakuchiol, Niacinamide. Take more care combining it with Benzoyl peroxide, Retinoids (retinol, retinal), AHAs (glycolic, lactic), BHA (salicylic acid) — use them in separate routines or on alternate days.

When should I apply The Vitamin C 23 serum?

Use it morning and evening, after toner, before moisturiser.

How many ingredients does The Vitamin C 23 serum have?

It lists 34 ingredients, of which 4 are recorded as actives.

Who makes The Vitamin C 23 serum?

COSRX, a brand based in Korea.

Brand
COSRX
Country
Korea

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