Medicube

Medicube Deep Vita C Capsule Serum

Name: Medicube - Deep Vita C Capsule Serum
Brand: Medicube

Efficacy100/100IrritancyHigh

See all ingredients

Works for

Moisturizing

Niacinamide, Glycerin + 20 more

Works well

What the product description says

“Smooths texture and enhances the skin's natural radiance.”

Source: Lila Beauty

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: arginine, glycerin.

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: arginine, caprylic/capric triglyceride.

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~5.1–7.7%

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~3.5–5.2%

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~1.4–2.1%

ArginineKey active· Humectant, OcclusiveEffect: HighAn amino acid that is naturally present in skin and helps keep it hydrated. When used together with AHAs, it can reduce their irritating effect on the skin~0.45–1.05%

Ricinus communis seed oilKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA plant oil that can help soften the skin. It might be helpful in calming down inflammation, but solid research is lacking. Is often used in lip products to create the needed product consistency~0.4–0.95%

CholesterolKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that is naturally found in skin~0.3–0.75%

Helianthus annuus seed oilKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA great emollient due to its high linoleic acid content. One of the most effective plant oils in helping skin hydration and repairing skin barrier function~0.2–0.8%

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)~0.2–0.7%

Olea europaea fruit oilKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumAn emollient that helps soften the skin but is not effective for restoring its barrier function. Might be helpful to calm down inflammation~0.2–0.75%

GlutathioneKey activeEffect: HighA peptide that can help neutralize free radicals in skin and reduce melanin production resulting in skin lightening effect and reduction in hyperpigmentation. It can also help attract moisture to the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.65%

Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acidKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin. A version of it is naturally present in skin~0.15–0.55%

Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.65%

GlucoseKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Could be helpful in restoring the skin barrier function~0.15–0.65%

Sodium acetylated hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighA type of hyaluronic acid that works as an excellent moisturizer by attracting water into the upper layer of the skin. Is typically feels less sticky on the skin compared to the usual hyaluronic acid~0.1–0.4%

Diphenylsiloxy phenyl trimethiconeEffect: LowHelp improve the product's texture~1.7–2.5%

Isononyl isononanoate· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: LowForms a protective film on the surface of the skin to prevent moisture loss. Gives a velvety feel to products while reducing tackiness~1–1.5%

Dibutyl ethylhexanoyl glutamideEffect: LowHelps improve the product texture and soften the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.65%

Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateEffect: Low, below effective doseA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~0.2–0.75%

TocopherolEffect: Low, below effective dosePure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.15–0.7%

GluconolactoneUnder-dosedA 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 improved hydration levels. It has been shown to be helpful against acne and clogged pores if used consistently (e.g over a period of 12 weeks) in high enough concentration. It can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin tone with long-term application. Can help neutralize free radicals~0.35–0.8%

AllantoinUnder-dosedHelps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated~0.2–0.75%

PanthenolUnder-dosedHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function~0.15–0.65%

Evens skin tone

Niacinamide, Glutathione + 5 more

Works well

What the product description says

“DESCRIPTION Medicube Deep Vita C Capsule Serum helps brighten and refresh the skin tone with every use.”

Source: Lila Beauty

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

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.

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~5.1–7.7%

Magnesium ascorbyl phosphateEffect: Low, below effective doseA derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very high~0.15–0.7%

Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateUnder-dosedA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~0.2–0.75%

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~0.15–0.65%

3-o-ethyl ascorbic acidUnder-dosedA 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~0.15–0.65%

Anti-blemish

Side benefit · Niacinamide, Allantoin + 2 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.

AllantoinEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated~0.2–0.75%

Sodium ascorbyl phosphateUnder-dosedA stable derivative of vitamin C. It is oil-soluble which means it is more likely to penetrate the skin compared to the pure form of vitamin C (which is water-soluble), but it is less bio-available and is way less effective in stimulating collagen and reducing wrinkles compared to the pure form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and its other derivatives (for example, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate). At the same time, this vitamin C derivative has been shown in studies to be effective in reducing acne, blemishes and clogged pores. It is less irritating then the pure form of vitamin C~0.15–0.7%

Anti-oxidation

Side benefit · Glutathione, Adenosine + 8 more

Works well

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

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)~0.2–0.7%

Rosmarinus officinalis leaf oilEffect: Low, below effective doseA plant oil with high content of volatile compounds that can irritate the skin. Can be used as a fragrance. Has anti-bacterial properties and might help neutralize free radicals on the surface of the skin~0.15–0.65%

TocopherolUnder-dosedPure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.15–0.7%

Anti-aging

Side benefit · Niacinamide, Adenosine + 7 more

Works well

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

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)~0.2–0.7%

3-o-ethyl ascorbic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseA 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~0.15–0.65%

Sodium ascorbyl phosphateEffect: Low, below effective doseA stable derivative of vitamin C. It is oil-soluble which means it is more likely to penetrate the skin compared to the pure form of vitamin C (which is water-soluble), but it is less bio-available and is way less effective in stimulating collagen and reducing wrinkles compared to the pure form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and its other derivatives (for example, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate). At the same time, this vitamin C derivative has been shown in studies to be effective in reducing acne, blemishes and clogged pores. It is less irritating then the pure form of vitamin C~0.15–0.7%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy

6 strong irritants: Citrus medica vulgaris peel oil, Rosmarinus officinalis leaf oil + 4 more — patch-test recommended

High risk

We flagged 28 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~0.15–0.65%est.

Citrus medica vulgaris peel oil—High~0.15–0.65%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~0.15–0.65%est.

Rosmarinus officinalis leaf oilA plant oil with high content of volatile compounds that can irritate the skin. Can be used as a fragrance. Has anti-bacterial properties and might help neutralize free radicals on the surface of the skinHigh~0.15–0.65%est.

Litsea cubeba fruit oilAn essential oil with a lemon-like smell that is extracted from a fruit grown in Asia. Used as a fragranceHigh~0.15–0.6%est.

Foeniculum vulgare oil—High~0.3–0.7%est.

Coriandrum sativum fruit oilA plant oil that is used as a fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.15–0.6%est.

Mentha arvensis leaf oilUsed as a fragrance and can be irritatingHigh~0.15–0.6%est.

Hippophae rhamnoides waterA plant-infused water. The concentration of compounds with potential skin benefits is unlikely to be effectiveMedium~23–34%est.

1,2-hexanediolA preservativeMedium~0.9–1.35%est.

Benzyl glycolHelps dissolve other ingredients and preserve productsMedium~1.4–2.1%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~1.4–2.1%est.

Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymerMaintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.5–1.15%est.

Ricinus communis seed oilA plant oil that can help soften the skin. It might be helpful in calming down inflammation, but solid research is lacking. Is often used in lip products to create the needed product consistencyMedium~0.4–0.95%est.

GluconolactoneA 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 improved hydration levels. It has been shown to be helpful against acne and clogged pores if used consistently (e.g over a period of 12 weeks) in high enough concentration. It can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin tone with long-term application. Can help neutralize free radicalsMedium~0.35–0.8%est.

EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.35–0.75%est.

Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.2–0.7%est.

Dextrin palmitateHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.2–0.7%est.

Olea europaea fruit oilAn emollient that helps soften the skin but is not effective for restoring its barrier function. Might be helpful to calm down inflammationMedium~0.2–0.75%est.

Dibutyl ethylhexanoyl glutamideHelps improve the product texture and soften the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.15–0.65%est.

GlutathioneA peptide that can help neutralize free radicals in skin and reduce melanin production resulting in skin lightening effect and reduction in hyperpigmentation. It can also help attract moisture to the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.15–0.65%est.

Dibutyl lauroyl glutamideHelps improve the product texture and soften the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.3–0.75%est.

XanthophyllsA yellow colorantMedium~0.15–0.65%est.

Magnesium ascorbyl phosphateA derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very highMedium~0.15–0.7%est.

Sodium ascorbyl phosphateA stable derivative of vitamin C. It is oil-soluble which means it is more likely to penetrate the skin compared to the pure form of vitamin C (which is water-soluble), but it is less bio-available and is way less effective in stimulating collagen and reducing wrinkles compared to the pure form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and its other derivatives (for example, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate). At the same time, this vitamin C derivative has been shown in studies to be effective in reducing acne, blemishes and clogged pores. It is less irritating then the pure form of vitamin CMedium~0.15–0.7%est.

Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)Medium~0.2–0.75%est.

Polyglyceryl-10 laurateHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.15–0.6%est.

Hydrogenated phosphatidylcholineHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.1–0.45%est.

Comedogenic

Clean of flagged comedogenic ingredients

None flagged

Alternatives

Cheaper, or higher on efficacy

VT Cosmetics Vitamin C Astaxanthin Serum

Cheaper86% match

$18.47

SKIN&LAB Vitamin C Brightening Serum

Cheaper86% match

$12.69

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.

Hippophae rhamnoides water~23–34%

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

Glycereth-26~5.4–8.1%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps create a thicker product consistency

More about Glycereth-26

Niacinamide~5.1–7.7%

Hero · Moisturizing, Anti-blemish

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-agingAnti-blemishEvens skin toneMoisturizingReduces irritationAntibacterialAnti-inflammatoryReduces redness

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

Glycerin~3.5–5.2%

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

Water~2.7–4.1%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Plain old water

More about Water

1,2-hexanediol~0.9–1.35%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol

Diphenylsiloxy phenyl trimethicone~1.7–2.5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Help improve the product's texture

More about Diphenylsiloxy phenyl trimethicone

Benzyl glycol~1.4–2.1%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Helps dissolve other ingredients and preserve products

More about Benzyl glycol

Caprylic/capric triglyceride~1.4–2.1%

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

Isononyl isononanoate~1–1.5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Forms a protective film on the surface of the skin to prevent moisture loss. Gives a velvety feel to products while reducing tackiness

More about Isononyl isononanoate

Diethoxyethyl succinate~0.55–1.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps dissolve other ingredients in the formulation

More about Diethoxyethyl succinate

Arginine~0.45–1.05%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

An amino acid that is naturally present in skin and helps keep it hydrated. When used together with AHAs, it can reduce their irritating effect on the skin

More about Arginine

Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer~0.5–1.15%

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

C12-14 alketh-12~0.45–1%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about C12-14 alketh-12

Octyldodeceth-16~0.35–0.85%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

More about Octyldodeceth-16

Ricinus communis seed oil~0.4–0.95%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-inflammatory

A plant oil that can help soften the skin. It might be helpful in calming down inflammation, but solid research is lacking. Is often used in lip products to create the needed product consistency

More about Ricinus communis seed oil

Gluconolactone~0.35–0.8%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-agingEvens skin toneExfoliationAnti-oxidationAnti-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 improved hydration levels. It has been shown to be helpful against acne and clogged pores if used consistently (e.g over a period of 12 weeks) in high enough concentration. It can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin tone with long-term application. Can help neutralize free radicals

More about Gluconolactone

Ethylhexylglycerin~0.35–0.75%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin

Allantoin~0.2–0.75%

Under-dosed

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-inflammatoryMoisturizingReduces irritationReduces rednessAnti-blemishExfoliation

Helps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated

More about Allantoin

Xanthan gum~0.2–0.8%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum

Adenosine~0.2–0.7%

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

Disodium edta~0.2–0.7%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta

Panthenol~0.15–0.65%

Under-dosed

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingReduces rednessReduces irritation

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function

More about Panthenol

Dextrin palmitate~0.2–0.7%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Dextrin palmitate

Hydrogenated lecithin~0.2–0.7%

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

Olea europaea fruit oil~0.2–0.75%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin but is not effective for restoring its barrier function. Might be helpful to calm down inflammation

More about Olea europaea fruit oil

Cholesterol~0.3–0.75%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that is naturally found in skin

More about Cholesterol

Dibutyl ethylhexanoyl glutamide~0.15–0.65%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps improve the product texture and soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Dibutyl ethylhexanoyl glutamide

Carbomer~0.15–0.65%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps create a thicker or gel-like product texture. It is not a surfactant but can be used in gentle cleansing formulations

More about Carbomer

Helianthus annuus seed oil~0.2–0.8%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

A great emollient due to its high linoleic acid content. One of the most effective plant oils in helping skin hydration and repairing skin barrier function

More about Helianthus annuus seed oil

Glutathione~0.15–0.65%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidationMoisturizingEvens skin tone

A peptide that can help neutralize free radicals in skin and reduce melanin production resulting in skin lightening effect and reduction in hyperpigmentation. It can also help attract moisture to the upper layer of the skin

More about Glutathione

Ascorbic acid~0.15–0.65%

Under-dosedIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-agingEvens skin toneAnti-oxidation

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

Dibutyl lauroyl glutamide~0.3–0.75%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Helps improve the product texture and soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Dibutyl lauroyl glutamide

Citrus medica vulgaris peel oil~0.15–0.65%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

More about Citrus medica vulgaris peel oil

3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid~0.15–0.65%

Under-dosedIrritant · 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

Glucose~0.15–0.65%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Could be helpful in restoring the skin barrier function

More about Glucose

Xanthophylls~0.15–0.65%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A yellow colorant

More about Xanthophylls

Propanediol~0.15–0.7%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

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

More about Propanediol

Rosmarinus officinalis leaf oil~0.15–0.65%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

AntibacterialAnti-oxidation

A plant oil with high content of volatile compounds that can irritate the skin. Can be used as a fragrance. Has anti-bacterial properties and might help neutralize free radicals on the surface of the skin

More about Rosmarinus officinalis leaf oil

Litsea cubeba fruit oil~0.15–0.6%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Antibacterial

An essential oil with a lemon-like smell that is extracted from a fruit grown in Asia. Used as a fragrance

More about Litsea cubeba fruit oil

Foeniculum vulgare oil~0.3–0.7%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

More about Foeniculum vulgare oil

Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate~0.15–0.7%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-agingEvens skin toneAnti-oxidation

A derivative of vitamin C that is more stable, but less bioavailable than the pure form of vitamin C. It does not penetrate the skin well, but has been shown to convert to pure vitamin C once in skin. It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production and lightening the skin tone, but the required concentration is likely to be very high

More about Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate

Sodium ascorbyl phosphate~0.15–0.7%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-blemishAnti-oxidationAnti-aging

A stable derivative of vitamin C. It is oil-soluble which means it is more likely to penetrate the skin compared to the pure form of vitamin C (which is water-soluble), but it is less bio-available and is way less effective in stimulating collagen and reducing wrinkles compared to the pure form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and its other derivatives (for example, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate). At the same time, this vitamin C derivative has been shown in studies to be effective in reducing acne, blemishes and clogged pores. It is less irritating then the pure form of vitamin C

More about Sodium ascorbyl phosphate

Sodium hyaluronate~0.15–0.65%

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

Tocopherol~0.15–0.7%

Under-dosed

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-oxidationMoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryAnti-aging

Pure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself

More about Tocopherol

Coriandrum sativum fruit oil~0.15–0.6%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

A plant oil that is used as a fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Coriandrum sativum fruit oil

Dipropylene glycol~0.15–0.55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps to dissolve other ingredients in a formulation. Slows down the rate of product drying

More about Dipropylene glycol

Mentha arvensis leaf oil~0.15–0.6%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Used as a fragrance and can be irritating

More about Mentha arvensis leaf oil

Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate~0.2–0.75%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidationAnti-agingEvens skin toneMoisturizing

A vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)

More about Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate

Polyglyceryl-10 laurate~0.15–0.6%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Polyglyceryl-10 laurate

Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid~0.15–0.55%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin. A version of it is naturally present in skin

More about Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid

Glycine max oil~0.2–0.8%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Glycine max oil

Hydrogenated phosphatidylcholine~0.1–0.45%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Hydrogenated phosphatidylcholine

Sodium acetylated hyaluronate~0.1–0.4%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

A type of hyaluronic acid that works as an excellent moisturizer by attracting water into the upper layer of the skin. Is typically feels less sticky on the skin compared to the usual hyaluronic acid

More about Sodium acetylated hyaluronate

Ingredient list view

Hippophae rhamnoides water, Glycereth-26, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Water, 1,2-hexanediol, Diphenylsiloxy phenyl trimethicone, Benzyl glycol, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Isononyl isononanoate, Diethoxyethyl succinate, Arginine, Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, C12-14 alketh-12, Octyldodeceth-16, Ricinus communis seed oil, Gluconolactone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Xanthan gum, Adenosine, Disodium edta, Panthenol, Dextrin palmitate, Hydrogenated lecithin, Olea europaea fruit oil, Cholesterol, Dibutyl ethylhexanoyl glutamide, Carbomer, Helianthus annuus seed oil, Glutathione, Ascorbic acid, Dibutyl lauroyl glutamide, Citrus medica vulgaris peel oil, 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid, Glucose, Xanthophylls, Propanediol, Rosmarinus officinalis leaf oil, Litsea cubeba fruit oil, Foeniculum vulgare oil, Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, Sodium ascorbyl phosphate, Sodium hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Coriandrum sativum fruit oil, Dipropylene glycol, Mentha arvensis leaf oil, Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, Polyglyceryl-10 laurate, Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, Glycine max oil, Hydrogenated phosphatidylcholine, Sodium acetylated hyaluronate

Compare prices

Retailers ranked by price — lowest first.

Find on Amazon

🇦🇺 Lila Beauty (AU)30 ml

≈ $20.32

Buy

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
	MedicubeDeep Vita C Capsule SerumYOUR PRODUCT	VT CosmeticsVitamin C Astaxanthin Serum	SKIN&LABVitamin C Brightening Serum	Make P:remGlutamin Antioxidant Radiance Serum
Match	—	86%	86%	86%
Price	—	$18.47	$12.69	$28.25
Shared key ingredients	—	11 of 16	8 of 16	8 of 16
Key difference	—	Ferulic Acid	Retinol	Fructooligosaccharides
Irritancy	High	High	Medium	Medium
Drying alcohol	—	—	—	—
	View product	Shop	Shop	Shop

More alternatives: Jin Jung sung Omega Vegan Vita Serum FULLight Re:dence Hyaluron Ectoin Serum

Cheaper alternatives? See how this stacks up against similar formulas.

We compare ingredient profiles across our catalog — pick the closest match for your budget.

Open dupe finder

Product summary

"Medicube - Buy Medicube Deep Vita C Capsule Serum in Australia - Korean Skincare Online Store" is effective for: Anti-blemish, Moisturizing, Evens skin tone and Anti-aging

Ingredient callouts

A good concentration of Niacinamide (5.10% - 7.70%). 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 (0.15% - 0.65%) it cannot have a noticeable benefit for the skin.
Adenosine 0.20% - 0.70%. 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 (sodium acetylated hyaluronate 0.10% - 0.40%, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid 0.15% - 0.55%, sodium hyaluronate 0.15% - 0.65%, arginine 0.45% - 1.05% and glycerin 3.50% - 5.20%). These ingredients help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and improve the skin hydration.