Common Labs

Common Labs Vitamin C Brightening Gel Cream

Name: Common Labs - Vitamin C Brightening Gel Cream
Brand: Common Labs

Efficacy100/100IrritancyHigh

See all ingredients

Works for

Moisturizing

Lactobionic acid, Ceramide np + 13 more

Works well

What the product description says

“This is a moist gel cream, a combination of pure vitamin C and 30% vitamin tree water, provides rich moisturization and radiance to dull skin.”

Source: Yesstyle

This product can help improve hydration of the skin with the two types of ingredients.

The first type is called “humectants”:
these ingredients help attract water. When humectants are on the surface of the skin, they “pull in” the moisture from the outside environment, or from within deeper layers of the skin. The following ingredients in this product do the job: glycerin, sodium hyaluronate.

This product also contains ingredients called “occlusives”. They help reduce the speed with which our skin loses moisture to the outside environment. These ingredients also help soften the upper layer of the skin, so it feels less tight and nicer to the touch. The following ingredients in this product do the job: squalane, phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate.

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: ceramide np, lactobionic acid

Lactobionic acidHeroEffect: HighA polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that helps shed dead cells from the surface of the skin revealing a smoother, more even skin. PHAs tend to be gentler on the skin compared to AHAs (for example, glycolic acid). It also has hydrating properties and helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. It can help calm down inflammation in skin and support restoration of the barrier function. It has an anti-oxidant effect as well. It can help reduce fine line, wrinkles and improve skin elasticity~0.05–0.25%

Ceramide npHero· EmollientEffect: HighA type of lipid similar to ceramides naturally present in skin. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier function to keep it hydrated. Can help to prevent inflammation in skin~0.05–0.2%

GlycerinKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant~1.7–2.5%

TrehaloseKey active· HumectantEffect: HighA sugar that attracts water to the upper layer of the skin~0.35–0.85%

SqualaneKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighAn oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.~0.3–0.75%

Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.1–0.45%

Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamateKey active· EmollientEffect: HighA mix of amino acids and plant-based lipids. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss over time~0.1–0.35%

AdenosineKey activeEffect: MediumMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.1–0.35%

Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymerKey active· HumectantEffect: HighAttracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.05–0.2%

Gluconic acidKey activeEffect: HighA polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that helps shed the dead cells from the skin surface revealing smoother skin. Is believed to be genter than AHAs. It helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can stimulate production of skin's own hyaluronic acid resulting in imporved hydration levels. It has been shown to be helpful against acne and clogged pores. Might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin tone with long-term application. Can help neutralize free radicals~0.05–0.25%

Butylene glycol· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~3.3–4.9%

Glyceryl caprylate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that can also help water and oil mix together, as well as prevent bacteria growth in products~0.05–0.3%

Dextrin· HumectantEffect: LowA sugar that is used to stabilize the product formulation. Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.05–0.2%

Caprylic/capric triglycerideUnder-dosedA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin~0.1–0.3%

Pyrus malus fruit extractUnder-dosedCan have some moisturizing properties due to its sugar content~0.1–0.35%

Evens skin tone

3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid, Mandelic acid + 3 more

Works well

What the product description says

“Vitamin C Brightening Gel Cream”

Source: Yesstyle

This product can help reduce hypepigmentation and even out the skin tone because it contains the following effective ingredients: gluconic acid, lactobionic acid, mandelic acid

The following ingredient (ingredients) in this product might be helpful, but there is no evidence to confirm that it actually can help even out the skin tone: 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid.

Keep in mind that you would need to apply any topical skincare targetted at hypigmentation consistently for a couple of months to get a result. No topical skincare product can help get rid of hyperpigmentation (including post-acne marks and age spots) instantly.

3-o-ethyl ascorbic acidKey activeEffect: MediumA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Can help neutralize free radicals and help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products~1.3–2%

Mandelic acidKey activeEffect: HighHelps shed the upper layer of dead cells from the surface of the skin revealing smoother, brighter skin. It can help to reduce hyperpigmentation. It has anti-bacterial properties, and might help to reduce blemishes, as well as fine lines and wrinkles. It is considered to be gentler than glycolic acid~0.05–0.3%

Lactobionic acidKey activeEffect: HighA polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that helps shed dead cells from the surface of the skin revealing a smoother, more even skin. PHAs tend to be gentler on the skin compared to AHAs (for example, glycolic acid). It also has hydrating properties and helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. It can help calm down inflammation in skin and support restoration of the barrier function. It has an anti-oxidant effect as well. It can help reduce fine line, wrinkles and improve skin elasticity~0.05–0.25%

Ascorbic acidUnder-dosedThe most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of aging~1.2–1.8%

Anti-aging

Side benefit · Adenosine, Lactobionic acid + 3 more

Works well

This product can help reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and firmness because it contains adenosine, gluconic acid, lactobionic acid.

Keep in mind that it typically takes at least 6 weeks to notice any results because the changes that are needed to improve fine lines and elasticity happen in the deeper layers of the skin. No topical anti-aging product can “erase” wrinkles or fully reverse signs of aging.

AdenosineKey activeEffect: HighMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.1–0.35%

3-o-ethyl ascorbic acidEffect: LowA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Can help neutralize free radicals and help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products~1.3–2%

Exfoliation

Side benefit · Lactobionic acid, Gluconic acid + 1 more

Works well

This product can help exfoliate the skin. In other words, it helps break down the bonds between dead cells on the surface of the skin and speed up the skin turnover. Skin often appears softer and brighter after exfoliation, but overdoing it can result in disrupted skin barrier. The following ingredient is doing the exfoliating job in this product: gluconic acid, lactobionic acid, mandelic acid.

Anti-oxidation

Side benefit · 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid, Lactobionic acid + 9 more

Works well

This product contains antioxidants (gluconic acid, lactobionic acid) that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. By doing so, they can lessen the damage the skin gets from the UV light (sun).

The following ingredients - 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid also can have an antioxidant effect, but there is less evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin.

Citrus reticulata peel extractEffect: LowA likely irritant. Might have some anti-oxidant activity, but is mostly used as a fragrance in cosmetic products~0.9–1.35%

Myrciaria dubia fruit extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin, but research on its effectiveness is lacking~0.1–0.35%

AdenosineEffect: LowMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.1–0.35%

Punica granatum fruit extractEffect: LowA fruit extract that is used to add a fragrance to the product. It might have some antioxidant properties~0.1–0.35%

Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamateEffect: LowA mix of amino acids and plant-based lipids. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss over time~0.1–0.35%

Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect in skin, but evidence is lacking~0.1–0.4%

Pyrus malus fruit extractEffect: Low, below effective doseCan have some moisturizing properties due to its sugar content~0.1–0.35%

Anti-blemish

Side benefit · Gluconic acid, Mandelic acid + 1 more

May help

This product might be able to help reduce blemishes and clogged pores because it contains gluconic acid.

The following ingredient (ingredients) in this product might be helpful, but there is no evidence to confirm that it actually works: lactobionic acid, mandelic acid

Mandelic acidKey activeEffect: MediumHelps shed the upper layer of dead cells from the surface of the skin revealing smoother, brighter skin. It can help to reduce hyperpigmentation. It has anti-bacterial properties, and might help to reduce blemishes, as well as fine lines and wrinkles. It is considered to be gentler than glycolic acid~0.05–0.3%

Lactobionic acidKey activeEffect: MediumA polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that helps shed dead cells from the surface of the skin revealing a smoother, more even skin. PHAs tend to be gentler on the skin compared to AHAs (for example, glycolic acid). It also has hydrating properties and helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. It can help calm down inflammation in skin and support restoration of the barrier function. It has an anti-oxidant effect as well. It can help reduce fine line, wrinkles and improve skin elasticity~0.05–0.25%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy

5 strong irritants: Citrus reticulata peel extract, Citrus aurantium dulcis fruit extract + 3 more — patch-test recommended

High risk

We flagged 22 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.

IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount

Sodium methyl cocoyl taurateHelps oil and water mix together. Can be used as cleansing agentHigh~3.3–4.9%est.

3-o-ethyl ascorbic acidA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Can help neutralize free radicals and help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in productsHigh~1.3–2%est.

Ascorbic acidThe most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of agingHigh~1.2–1.8%est.

Citrus reticulata peel extractA likely irritant. Might have some anti-oxidant activity, but is mostly used as a fragrance in cosmetic productsHigh~0.9–1.35%est.

Punica granatum fruit extractA fruit extract that is used to add a fragrance to the product. It might have some antioxidant propertiesHigh~0.1–0.35%est.

Citrus aurantium dulcis fruit extractA plant extract that is used as a fragrance. Can be irritating and lead to photosensitivityHigh~0.1–0.3%est.

Mandelic acidHelps shed the upper layer of dead cells from the surface of the skin revealing smoother, brighter skin. It can help to reduce hyperpigmentation. It has anti-bacterial properties, and might help to reduce blemishes, as well as fine lines and wrinkles. It is considered to be gentler than glycolic acidHigh~0.05–0.3%est.

Gardenia florida fruit extractUsed as a fragrance. Can be irritating.High~0.05–0.25%est.

Citrus aurantium dulcis peel oilAn essentil oil from orange peel. Potential allergen and can be irritatingHigh~0.01–0.05%est.

LimoneneA common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heatHigh~0.01–0.05%est.

Hippophae rhamnoides waterA plant-infused water. The concentration of compounds with potential skin benefits is unlikely to be effectiveMedium~4.2–6.3%est.

1,2-hexanediolA preservativeMedium~1.1–1.7%est.

Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect in skin, but evidence is lackingMedium~0.1–0.4%est.

Myrciaria dubia fruit extractA plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin, but research on its effectiveness is lackingMedium~0.1–0.35%est.

Pyrus malus fruit extractCan have some moisturizing properties due to its sugar contentMedium~0.1–0.35%est.

Gluconic acidA polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that helps shed the dead cells from the skin surface revealing smoother skin. Is believed to be genter than AHAs. It helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can stimulate production of skin's own hyaluronic acid resulting in imporved hydration levels. It has been shown to be helpful against acne and clogged pores. Might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin tone with long-term application. Can help neutralize free radicalsMedium~0.05–0.25%est.

Lactobionic acidA polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that helps shed dead cells from the surface of the skin revealing a smoother, more even skin. PHAs tend to be gentler on the skin compared to AHAs (for example, glycolic acid). It also has hydrating properties and helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. It can help calm down inflammation in skin and support restoration of the barrier function. It has an anti-oxidant effect as well. It can help reduce fine line, wrinkles and improve skin elasticityMedium~0.05–0.25%est.

Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymerAttracts water into the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.05–0.2%est.

Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymerMaintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.05–0.25%est.

Caprylic/capric triglycerideA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerinMedium~0.1–0.3%est.

Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymerA gelling agent that thickens the product consistency and leaves the skin with a velvety finishMedium~0.05–0.2%est.

EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.05–0.25%est.

Comedogenic

Clean of flagged comedogenic ingredients

None flagged

Alternatives

The closest match we found

Image skincare Iluma Intense Brightening Creme

Closest match67% match

$70.27

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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~40–60%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Plain old water

More about Water

Hippophae rhamnoides water~4.2–6.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A plant-infused water. The concentration of compounds with potential skin benefits is unlikely to be effective

More about Hippophae rhamnoides water

Butylene glycol~3.3–4.9%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol

Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate~3.3–4.9%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together. Can be used as cleansing agent

More about Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate

1,2-hexanediol~1.1–1.7%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol

Glycerin~1.7–2.5%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant

More about Glycerin

3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid~1.3–2%

Key activeIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidationEvens skin toneAnti-aging

A vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Can help neutralize free radicals and help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products

More about 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid

Ascorbic acid~1.2–1.8%

Under-dosedIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidationEvens skin toneAnti-aging

The most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of aging

More about Ascorbic acid

Citrus reticulata peel extract~0.9–1.35%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A likely irritant. Might have some anti-oxidant activity, but is mostly used as a fragrance in cosmetic products

More about Citrus reticulata peel extract

Xylitol~0.5–1.15%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrier function

More about Xylitol

Trehalose~0.35–0.85%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

A sugar that attracts water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Trehalose

Squalane~0.3–0.75%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

An oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.

More about Squalane

Sodium hyaluronate~0.1–0.45%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

More about Sodium hyaluronate

Adenosine~0.1–0.35%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-agingMoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Might help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)

More about Adenosine

Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extract~0.1–0.4%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect in skin, but evidence is lacking

More about Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extract

Myrciaria dubia fruit extract~0.1–0.35%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin, but research on its effectiveness is lacking

More about Myrciaria dubia fruit extract

Malpighia emarginata fruit extract~0.1–0.35%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Malpighia emarginata fruit extract

Pyrus malus fruit extract~0.1–0.35%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Can have some moisturizing properties due to its sugar content

More about Pyrus malus fruit extract

Punica granatum fruit extract~0.1–0.35%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A fruit extract that is used to add a fragrance to the product. It might have some antioxidant properties

More about Punica granatum fruit extract

Citrus aurantium dulcis fruit extract~0.1–0.3%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

A plant extract that is used as a fragrance. Can be irritating and lead to photosensitivity

More about Citrus aurantium dulcis fruit extract

Gluconic acid~0.05–0.25%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-agingMoisturizingEvens skin toneAnti-oxidationExfoliationAnti-blemish

A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that helps shed the dead cells from the skin surface revealing smoother skin. Is believed to be genter than AHAs. It helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can stimulate production of skin's own hyaluronic acid resulting in imporved hydration levels. It has been shown to be helpful against acne and clogged pores. Might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin tone with long-term application. Can help neutralize free radicals

More about Gluconic acid

Mandelic acid~0.05–0.3%

Key activeIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

ExfoliationEvens skin toneAnti-blemishAntibacterial

Helps shed the upper layer of dead cells from the surface of the skin revealing smoother, brighter skin. It can help to reduce hyperpigmentation. It has anti-bacterial properties, and might help to reduce blemishes, as well as fine lines and wrinkles. It is considered to be gentler than glycolic acid

More about Mandelic acid

Lactobionic acid~0.05–0.25%

Hero · MoisturizingIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Evens skin toneExfoliationAnti-agingMoisturizingAnti-oxidationAnti-blemishAnti-inflammatory

A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that helps shed dead cells from the surface of the skin revealing a smoother, more even skin. PHAs tend to be gentler on the skin compared to AHAs (for example, glycolic acid). It also has hydrating properties and helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. It can help calm down inflammation in skin and support restoration of the barrier function. It has an anti-oxidant effect as well. It can help reduce fine line, wrinkles and improve skin elasticity

More about Lactobionic acid

Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer~0.05–0.2%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

More about Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer

Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer~0.05–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Maintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix together

More about Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer

Tromethamine~0.05–0.25%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps adjust pH in products

More about Tromethamine

Caprylic/capric triglyceride~0.1–0.3%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

A good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin

More about Caprylic/capric triglyceride

Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer~0.05–0.2%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A gelling agent that thickens the product consistency and leaves the skin with a velvety finish

More about Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer

Glyceryl caprylate~0.05–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that can also help water and oil mix together, as well as prevent bacteria growth in products

More about Glyceryl caprylate

Hydrogenated lecithin~0.05–0.2%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps to retain moisture by creating a protective barrier on the skin. Rich in fatty acids. Improves product texture and helps with the penetration of other ingredients.

More about Hydrogenated lecithin

Ethylhexylglycerin~0.05–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin

Gardenia florida fruit extract~0.05–0.25%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Used as a fragrance. Can be irritating.

More about Gardenia florida fruit extract

Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate~0.1–0.35%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

A mix of amino acids and plant-based lipids. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss over time

More about Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate

Sorbitan isostearate~0.05–0.25%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Sorbitan isostearate

Dextrin~0.05–0.2%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

A sugar that is used to stabilize the product formulation. Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Dextrin

Ceramide np~0.05–0.2%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingReduces irritationAnti-inflammatory

A type of lipid similar to ceramides naturally present in skin. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier function to keep it hydrated. Can help to prevent inflammation in skin

More about Ceramide np

Citrus aurantium dulcis peel oil~0.01–0.05%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

An essentil oil from orange peel. Potential allergen and can be irritating

More about Citrus aurantium dulcis peel oil

Sodium hydroxide~0.01–0.05%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Used to adjust the product's pH

More about Sodium hydroxide

Limonene~0.01–0.05%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

A common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heat

More about Limonene

Ingredient list view

Water, Hippophae rhamnoides water, Butylene glycol, Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, 1,2-hexanediol, Glycerin, 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid, Ascorbic acid, Citrus reticulata peel extract, Xylitol, Trehalose, Squalane, Sodium hyaluronate, Adenosine, Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extract, Myrciaria dubia fruit extract, Malpighia emarginata fruit extract, Pyrus malus fruit extract, Punica granatum fruit extract, Citrus aurantium dulcis fruit extract, Gluconic acid, Mandelic acid, Lactobionic acid, Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, Tromethamine, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer, Glyceryl caprylate, Hydrogenated lecithin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Gardenia florida fruit extract, Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate, Sorbitan isostearate, Dextrin, Ceramide np, Citrus aurantium dulcis peel oil, Sodium hydroxide, Limonene

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Worth comparing, line by line.

Match % combines shared ingredients, the first five ingredients, shared actives and hero ingredients, irritancy (lower counts in the alternative's favour), texture and body area. Only products in the same routine step are compared.

Side-by-side comparison of this product against its closest alternatives
	Common LabsVitamin C Brightening Gel CreamYOUR PRODUCT	Image skincareIluma Intense Brightening Creme	Wander BeautyHidden Glow Brightening Cream	SkinCeuticalsAnti-Aging System
Match	—	67%	62%	62%
Price	—	$70.27	—	$391.00
Shared key ingredients	—	2 of 13	4 of 13	4 of 13
Key difference	—	Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate	Madecassoside	Niacinamide
Irritancy	High	Medium	High	High
Drying alcohol	—	—	—	Contains drying alcohol
	View product	Shop	Shop	Shop

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Product summary

Based on the ingredient list, "COMMONLABS - Vitamin C Brightening Gel Cream" can work well for skin moisturization. To work well, any moisturizer needs to include a combination of water-binding and emollient ingredients. COMMONLABS - Vitamin C Brightening Gel Cream ticks this box. Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, trehalose, butylene glycol and dextrin in this product (humectants) attract water molecules to the upper layer of the skin (the water comes from the outside air or from the deeper layers of the skin if the air is dry). Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate, squalane and glyceryl caprylate in this product help decrease the water evoporation from the skin, so that it stays hydrated for longer. These ingredients also soften the skin and take away the feeling of tightness and dryness.

Ingredient callouts

This product also contains Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid). It can be an effective active for anti-aging and evening out the skin tone, but in this moisturizer it is used for stabilizing other ingredients in the formulation. In this concentration (1.20% - 1.80%) it cannot have a noticeable benefit for the skin.
As a plus, this moisturizer also contains Ceramides (ceramide np 0.05% - 0.20%). Ceramides are a type of lipids that our skin produces itself. They are a building block of the skin's barrier. Ceramides used in skincare are synthetic or extracted from plants. They work well for softening the skin surface and "patch holes" in the skin's barrier.
Adenosine 0.10% - 0.35%. It is a chemical present inside our skin cells. A clinical trial confirmed that topical application of Adenosine in a low concentration can reduce dynamic wrinkles (these are the wrinkles that appear with age in a places where our mimic is the most active, for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead).

This product contains ingredients that could be beneficial, but their concentrations are too low in this formulation: caprylic/capric triglyceride and vitamin c

Irritation risk

There are quite a few common irritants in this product, including ingredients without particular skin benefits. We would not recommend it for sensitive skin. We assess the overall irritancy of this moisturizer to be high. For a detailed overview of all potential irritants: click here

You can see the detailed formula review with the breakdown of all actives in the product and the full ingredient list with estimated concentrations in the tables below.