What's In My Jar
Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Vitamin B3 + Vitamin C Serum
Kate Somerville

Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Vitamin B3 + Vitamin C Serum

Efficacy100/100IrritancyMedium
See all ingredients

Works for

Moisturizing
Niacinamide, Glycerin + 11 more
Works well
What the product description says
“Vitamins B + C work together to target discoloration and unevenness, improving radiance and luminosity.”
Source: Katesomerville

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, caprylyl glycol.

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: caprylic/capric triglyceride, ethyl linoleate.

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: niacinamide

NiacinamideHeroEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~2.7–3.2%
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~4.5–5.5%
Caprylic/capric triglycerideKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin~3.6–4.4%
Coconut alkanesKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumAn emollient that helps soften the skin~2–2.5%
Corallina officinalis extractKey activeEffect: HighRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants~0.6–0.9%
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)~0.6–0.9%
Cetearyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture~0.5–0.8%
Coco-caprylate/caprateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps to soften the upper layer of the skin without creating a greasy texture~0.5–0.75%
Glycine soja seed extractKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.~0.5–0.75%
Ethyl linoleateKey active· EmollientEffect: HighHelps reduce acne and blemishes. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce inflammation. Might be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and evening out the skin tone, but evidence of effectiveness in skin are lacking~0.45–0.7%
Glyceryl stearate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together~0.55–0.8%
Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.25–0.5%
Stearic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient~0.6–0.85%
Evens skin tone
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, Niacinamide + 5 more
Works well
What the product description says
“Vitamins B + C work together to target discoloration and unevenness, improving radiance and luminosity.”
Source: Katesomerville

This product can help reduce hypepigmentation and even out the skin tone because it contains the following effective ingredients: niacinamide, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate

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: ethyl linoleate, glycine soja seed extract, hexylresorcinol, resveratrol.

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.

Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateKey activeEffect: HighBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.~7.6–9.2%
NiacinamideKey activeEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~2.7–3.2%
HexylresorcinolEffect: LowMight be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and neutralizing free radicals in skin~1.2–1.4%
Glycine soja seed extractEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.~0.5–0.75%
ResveratrolEffect: LowHelps neutralize free radicals in skin and might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as even out the skin tone~0.5–0.75%
Ethyl linoleateEffect: LowHelps reduce acne and blemishes. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce inflammation. Might be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and evening out the skin tone, but evidence of effectiveness in skin are lacking~0.45–0.7%
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~0.95–1.15%
Anti-oxidation
Side benefit · Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, Hexylresorcinol + 8 more
Works well

This product contains antioxidants (resveratrol, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate) 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 - hexylresorcinol also can have an antioxidant effect, but there is less evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin.

Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateKey activeEffect: HighBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.~7.6–9.2%
HexylresorcinolKey activeEffect: MediumMight be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and neutralizing free radicals in skin~1.2–1.4%
ResveratrolKey activeEffect: HighHelps neutralize free radicals in skin and might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as even out the skin tone~0.5–0.75%
Hydrangea arborescens root extractEffect: LowPlant extract that might help neutralize free radicals, but evidence of effectiveness in skin is lacking~0.65–0.95%
Melia azadirachta flower extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skin~0.6–0.9%
Corallina officinalis extractEffect: LowRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants~0.6–0.9%
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)~0.6–0.9%
Glycine soja seed extractEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.~0.5–0.75%
Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect in skin, but evidence is lacking~0.5–0.7%
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~0.95–1.15%
Anti-aging
Side benefit · Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, Niacinamide + 4 more
Works well

This product can help reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and firmness because it contains adenosine, niacinamide, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate.

These ingredients in the product can also be helpful, even though there is less evidence for their effectiveness: resveratrol.

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.

Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateKey activeEffect: HighBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.~7.6–9.2%
NiacinamideKey activeEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~2.7–3.2%
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)~0.6–0.9%
ResveratrolKey activeEffect: MediumHelps neutralize free radicals in skin and might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as even out the skin tone~0.5–0.75%
Glycine soja seed extractEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.~0.5–0.75%
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~0.95–1.15%
Anti-blemish
Side benefit · Niacinamide, Ethyl linoleate + 1 more
Works well

This product can help reduce breakouts and clogged pores because it contains the following ingredient: niacinamide. This ingredient is used for treating acne and can have a noticeable effect.

In addition, this product contains ethyl linoleate. It can help in reducing blemishes, even though it is less effective.

NiacinamideHeroEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~2.7–3.2%
Ethyl linoleateKey activeEffect: HighHelps reduce acne and blemishes. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce inflammation. Might be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and evening out the skin tone, but evidence of effectiveness in skin are lacking~0.45–0.7%
Melia azadirachta leaf extractEffect: LowA plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritating~0.5–0.75%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
2 strong irritants: Ocimum basilicum flower/leaf extract, Microcitrus australasica fruit extract
Medium risk
We flagged 26 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
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~0.95–1.15%est.
Hydrangea arborescens root extractPlant extract that might help neutralize free radicals, but evidence of effectiveness in skin is lackingHigh~0.65–0.95%est.
Ocimum basilicum flower/leaf extractUsed as a fragrance. Canbe irritatingHigh~0.55–0.85%est.
Curcuma longa root extractA plant extract that can contain an active compound curcumin, that may have some anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, but solid research is lacking and the typical concentration used in skincare products is too low. Can be an irritantHigh~0.5–0.75%est.
Melia azadirachta leaf extractA plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritatingHigh~0.5–0.75%est.
Microcitrus australasica fruit extractMost likely used for its fragrance. Can be irritating and lead to photosensitivityHigh~0.45–0.65%est.
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.Medium~7.6–9.2%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~3.6–4.4%est.
Coconut alkanesAn emollient that helps soften the skinMedium~2–2.5%est.
Potassium cetyl phosphateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~1.4–1.7%est.
HexylresorcinolMight be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and neutralizing free radicals in skinMedium~1.2–1.4%est.
Melia azadirachta flower extractA plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skinMedium~0.6–0.9%est.
ResveratrolHelps neutralize free radicals in skin and might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as even out the skin toneMedium~0.5–0.75%est.
Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect in skin, but evidence is lackingMedium~0.5–0.7%est.
1,2-hexanediolA preservativeMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
Polyglyceryl-6 polyricinoleateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.5–0.75%est.
Glycine soja seed extractAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.Medium~0.5–0.75%est.
Ethyl linoleateHelps reduce acne and blemishes. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce inflammation. Might be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and evening out the skin tone, but evidence of effectiveness in skin are lackingMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
Sodium lauroyl glutamateUsed as a cleansing agent. It creates foamMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymerA gelling agent that thickens the product consistency and leaves the skin with a velvety finishMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Caprylhydroxamic acidA preservativeMedium~0.35–0.65%est.
Hexylene glycolHelps create a more spreadable product textureMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.2–0.4%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.2–0.35%est.
Potassium sorbateA preservativeMedium~0.2–0.35%est.
Comedogenic
3 ingredients rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
3 flagged
These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.
IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount
Corallina officinalis extractRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants3/5~0.6–0.9%est.
Coconut alkanesAn emollient that helps soften the skin2/5~2–2.5%est.
Cetearyl alcoholA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture2/5~0.5–0.8%est.
Alternatives
The closest match we found
Vitamin C 6% & Alpha Arbutin 1.5% Serum
Skin Republic Vitamin C 6% & Alpha Arbutin 1.5% Serum
Closest match76% match
View all alternatives

User reviews

Would you recommend?
No community reviews yet.

Be the first — your take helps the next person decide.

Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~45–55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate~7.6–9.2%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Evens skin toneAnti-agingAnti-oxidation

Being a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.

More about Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate
Glycerin~4.5–5.5%
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
Caprylic/capric triglyceride~3.6–4.4%
Key activeIrritant · 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
Niacinamide~2.7–3.2%
Hero · Moisturizing, Anti-blemish
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-agingEvens skin toneAnti-blemishReduces irritationReduces rednessAntibacterialAnti-inflammatory

Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production

More about Niacinamide
Ppg-24-glycereth-24~2–2.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing
More about Ppg-24-glycereth-24
Coconut alkanes~2–2.5%
Key activeComedogenic 2/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin

More about Coconut alkanes
Propanediol~1.7–2.1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Acts as a solvent for other ingredients. Speeds up the absorption of other ingredients into the skin

More about Propanediol
Potassium cetyl phosphate~1.4–1.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Potassium cetyl phosphate
Hexylresorcinol~1.2–1.4%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidationEvens skin tone

Might be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and neutralizing free radicals in skin

More about Hexylresorcinol
Ascorbic acid~0.95–1.15%
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
Pentapeptide-21~0.75–1.1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Pentapeptide-21
Morus alba root extract~0.7–1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Morus alba root extract
Hydrangea arborescens root extract~0.65–0.95%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

Plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals, but evidence of effectiveness in skin is lacking

More about Hydrangea arborescens root extract
Melia azadirachta flower extract~0.6–0.9%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skin

More about Melia azadirachta flower extract
Corallina officinalis extract~0.6–0.9%
Key activeComedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Red algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants

More about Corallina officinalis extract
Adenosine~0.6–0.9%
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
Ocimum basilicum flower/leaf extract~0.55–0.85%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance. Canbe irritating

More about Ocimum basilicum flower/leaf extract
Curcuma longa root extract~0.5–0.75%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-inflammatory

A plant extract that can contain an active compound curcumin, that may have some anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, but solid research is lacking and the typical concentration used in skincare products is too low. Can be an irritant

More about Curcuma longa root extract
Melia azadirachta leaf extract~0.5–0.75%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
AntibacterialAnti-blemish

A plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritating

More about Melia azadirachta leaf extract
Scutellaria lateriflora extract~0.5–0.75%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Scutellaria lateriflora extract
Resveratrol~0.5–0.75%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-agingEvens skin tone

Helps neutralize free radicals in skin and might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as even out the skin tone

More about Resveratrol
Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extract~0.5–0.7%
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
Microcitrus australasica fruit extract~0.45–0.65%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Most likely used for its fragrance. Can be irritating and lead to photosensitivity

More about Microcitrus australasica fruit extract
Coco-caprylate/caprate~0.5–0.75%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin without creating a greasy texture

More about Coco-caprylate/caprate
1,2-hexanediol~0.45–0.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol
Glyceryl stearate~0.55–0.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together

More about Glyceryl stearate
Cetearyl alcohol~0.5–0.8%
Key activeComedogenic 2/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture

More about Cetearyl alcohol
Polyglyceryl-6 polyricinoleate~0.5–0.75%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Polyglyceryl-6 polyricinoleate
Glycine soja seed extract~0.5–0.75%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-agingAnti-oxidationReduces rednessEvens skin tone

An emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.

More about Glycine soja seed extract
Ethyl linoleate~0.45–0.7%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-blemishMoisturizingEvens skin toneAnti-inflammatory

Helps reduce acne and blemishes. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce inflammation. Might be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and evening out the skin tone, but evidence of effectiveness in skin are lacking

More about Ethyl linoleate
Stearic acid~0.6–0.85%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient

More about Stearic acid
Sodium lauroyl glutamate~0.45–0.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Used as a cleansing agent. It creates foam

More about Sodium lauroyl glutamate
Peg-7 trimethylolpropane coconut ether~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing
More about Peg-7 trimethylolpropane coconut ether
Xanthan gum~0.45–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum
Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer~0.45–0.65%
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
Caprylhydroxamic acid~0.35–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Caprylhydroxamic acid
Polyisobutene~0.4–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to improve the product consistency

More about Polyisobutene
Polysorbate 20~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Polysorbate 20
Hexylene glycol~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps create a more spreadable product texture

More about Hexylene glycol
Caprylyl glycol~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol
Disodium edta~0.2–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Citric acid~0.2–0.35%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Can work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pH

More about Citric acid
Phenoxyethanol~0.2–0.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Potassium sorbate~0.2–0.35%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Potassium sorbate
Sodium benzoate~0.15–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative

More about Sodium benzoate
Ingredient list view

Water, Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, Glycerin, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Niacinamide, Ppg-24-glycereth-24, Coconut alkanes, Propanediol, Potassium cetyl phosphate, Hexylresorcinol, Ascorbic acid, Pentapeptide-21, Morus alba root extract, Hydrangea arborescens root extract, Melia azadirachta flower extract, Corallina officinalis extract, Adenosine, Ocimum basilicum flower/leaf extract, Curcuma longa root extract, Melia azadirachta leaf extract, Scutellaria lateriflora extract, Resveratrol, Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extract, Microcitrus australasica fruit extract, Coco-caprylate/caprate, 1,2-hexanediol, Glyceryl stearate, Cetearyl alcohol, Polyglyceryl-6 polyricinoleate, Glycine soja seed extract, Ethyl linoleate, Stearic acid, Sodium lauroyl glutamate, Peg-7 trimethylolpropane coconut ether, Xanthan gum, Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer, Caprylhydroxamic acid, Polyisobutene, Polysorbate 20, Hexylene glycol, Caprylyl glycol, Disodium edta, Citric acid, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium sorbate, Sodium benzoate

Compare prices

Retailers ranked by price — lowest first.

Amazon US
Price unavailable Out of stock
Check

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

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
Kate SomervilleKx Active Concentrates Vitamin B3 + Vitamin C SerumYOUR PRODUCTSkin RepublicVitamin C 6% & Alpha Arbutin 1.5% SerumVitabrid13 YEARS YOUNGER WRINKLE SERUM PROFESSIONAL: REGULAR PRICE | Vitabrid USNorevaIklen+ [Pure-C-Reverse] Regenerating & Perfecting Booster Serum
Match—76%75%74%
Price———$50.01
Shared key ingredients—2 of 114 of 113 of 11
Key difference—PanthenolCopper Tripeptide-1Sunflower Seed Oil
Irritancy Medium Medium Medium Medium
Drying alcohol——— Contains drying alcohol
View product Shop Shop Shop
  • matches yours
  • differs
  • cheaper

More alternatives: skinmade Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C serumBiobare Vitamin C, B, E & Ferulic Serum

Cheaper alternatives? Browse formulas in the same category.
We compare ingredient profiles across our catalog — pick the closest match for your budget.
Open dupe finder

Product summary

"Kate Somerville - Kx Active Concentrates Vitamin B3 + Vitamin C Serum" is effective for: Moisturizing, Evens skin tone, Anti-aging and Anti-blemish

Ingredient callouts

  • A good concentration of Niacinamide (2.70% - 3.20%). Niacinamide is a well-studied multi-tasking active. It is stable, and can work well in almost any hydrating formulation. There is solid evidence that Niacinamide can help support skin barrier, regulate oil production and reduce acne and clogged pores. It also helps to fight photodamage and improve the skin tone, reducing pigmentation marks.
  • 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 product it is used for stabilizing other ingredients in the formulation. In this concentration (0.95% - 1.15%) it cannot have a noticeable benefit for the skin.
  • Adenosine 0.60% - 0.90%. 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).
  • Humectants (glycerin 4.50% - 5.50%). These ingredients help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and improve the skin hydration.

About the brand

According to Cruelty-Free Kitty "Kate Somerville" is cruelty free, but its parent company is not.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 22 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    Double-blind, half-face study comparing topical vitamin C and vehicle for rejuvenation of photodamagencbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. 2
    Application of tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid in cosmetic formulations: Stability studies and in vivo efficacysciencedirect.com
  3. 3
    Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. 4
    Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatologyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. 5
    Gehring, W. (2004). Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3(2), 88–93. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00115.x ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. 6
    POSSIBLE TOXICITY OF HERBAL REMEDIESjournals.sagepub.com
Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Vitamin B3 + Vitamin C Serum
Kate SomervilleKx Active Concentrates Vitamin B3 + Vitamin C Serum
Find on Amazon

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Find on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.