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Neutrogena Collagen Bank 15% Vitamin C Glow Serum
Neutrogena

Neutrogena Collagen Bank 15% Vitamin C Glow Serum

Efficacy93/100IrritancyMedium
See all ingredients

Works for

Exfoliation
Gluconolactone
Works well
What the product description says
“Formulated with 2% PHA, a breakthrough, derm-discovered exfoliant and hydrator for younger looking skin without the irritation.”
Source: Neutrogena

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: gluconolactone.

GluconolactoneKey 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 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~3.3–5%
Evens skin tone
Ascorbic acid, Gluconolactone + 1 more
Works well
What the product description says
“Derm grade, high-potency formula dramatically evens skin tone & leaves skin looking glowy & plumper.”
Source: Neutrogena

This product can help reduce hypepigmentation and even out the skin tone because it contains the following effective ingredients: ascorbic acid.

In addition, this product contains gluconolactone. This ingredient (ingredients) might help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the effect, if any, is likely to be small.

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: epigallocatechin gallate.

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.

Ascorbic acidHeroEffect: HighThe 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~5.3–8%
GluconolactoneKey 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 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~3.3–5%
Epigallocatechin gallateKey activeEffect: MediumA polyphenol found in tea. This particular compound abbreviated EGCG is the most powerful antioxidant among those extracted from tea (usually green tea). Unfortunately, EGCG is unstable, requires a low pH (below 4) to prevent quick degradation, and does not penetrate the skin very well. This is why the full anti-oxidant effect of EGCG is typically not realized when it is added to topical skincare~0.3–0.75%
Anti-aging
Ascorbic acid, Gluconolactone + 1 more
Works well
What the product description says
“Collagen Bank 15% Vitamin C Glow Serum”
From product name

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

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

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.

Ascorbic acidHeroEffect: HighThe 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~5.3–8%
GluconolactoneKey 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 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~3.3–5%
Epigallocatechin gallateKey activeEffect: MediumA polyphenol found in tea. This particular compound abbreviated EGCG is the most powerful antioxidant among those extracted from tea (usually green tea). Unfortunately, EGCG is unstable, requires a low pH (below 4) to prevent quick degradation, and does not penetrate the skin very well. This is why the full anti-oxidant effect of EGCG is typically not realized when it is added to topical skincare~0.3–0.75%
Moisturizing
Gluconolactone, Hydrolyzed collagen + 2 more
Works
What the product description says
“Formulated with 2% PHA, a breakthrough, derm-discovered exfoliant and hydrator for younger looking skin without the irritation.”
Source: Neutrogena

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: hydrolyzed collagen, 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: hydrolyzed collagen, caprylyl glycol.

GluconolactoneKey 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 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~3.3–5%
Hydrolyzed collagenKey active· Humectant, EmollientEffect: HighA typically plant-derived compound that is supposed mimic human collagen. Cannot penetrate the skin barrier so is not particularly useful in skincare products beyond attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~1.6–2.4%
Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.45–1%
Epigallocatechin gallateEffect: LowA polyphenol found in tea. This particular compound abbreviated EGCG is the most powerful antioxidant among those extracted from tea (usually green tea). Unfortunately, EGCG is unstable, requires a low pH (below 4) to prevent quick degradation, and does not penetrate the skin very well. This is why the full anti-oxidant effect of EGCG is typically not realized when it is added to topical skincare~0.3–0.75%
Anti-oxidation
Side benefit · Ascorbic acid, Gluconolactone + 1 more
Works well

This product contains antioxidants (ascorbic 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 - epigallocatechin gallate, gluconolactone also can have an antioxidant effect, but there is less evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin.

Ascorbic acidHeroEffect: HighThe 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~5.3–8%
GluconolactoneKey activeEffect: MediumA 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~3.3–5%
Epigallocatechin gallateKey activeEffect: MediumA polyphenol found in tea. This particular compound abbreviated EGCG is the most powerful antioxidant among those extracted from tea (usually green tea). Unfortunately, EGCG is unstable, requires a low pH (below 4) to prevent quick degradation, and does not penetrate the skin very well. This is why the full anti-oxidant effect of EGCG is typically not realized when it is added to topical skincare~0.3–0.75%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
1 strong irritant: Chrysanthemum parthenium extract
Medium risk
We flagged 4 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~5.3–8%est.
Chrysanthemum parthenium extractCould have anti-inflammatory effect on skin, but can be irritating as well. Can be added to products for its smellHigh~1.3–2%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~3.3–5%est.
Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.45–1%est.
Comedogenic
Clean of flagged comedogenic ingredients
None flagged
Alternatives
Cheaper, or higher on efficacy
Enlighten Serum 15% Vitamin C + PHA
NEOSTRATA Enlighten Serum 15% Vitamin C + PHA
Higher efficacy · 100/100100% match
$53.60
Natural Majik Vitamin C, E, White Peony Tea Serum
The Garden Of Wisdom Natural Majik Vitamin C, E, White Peony Tea Serum
Cheaper86% match
$15.25
View all alternatives

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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Propanediol~23–34%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

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

More about Propanediol
Water~13–19%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Ascorbic acid~5.3–8%
Hero · Anti-aging, Anti-oxidation, Evens skin toneIrritant · 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
Gluconolactone~3.3–5%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
ExfoliationEvens skin toneAnti-agingMoisturizingAnti-blemishAnti-oxidation

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
Acetyl dipeptide-31 amide~2.2–3.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Acetyl dipeptide-31 amide
Chrysanthemum parthenium extract~1.3–2%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Could have anti-inflammatory effect on skin, but can be irritating as well. Can be added to products for its smell

More about Chrysanthemum parthenium extract
Hydrolyzed collagen~1.6–2.4%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A typically plant-derived compound that is supposed mimic human collagen. Cannot penetrate the skin barrier so is not particularly useful in skincare products beyond attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrolyzed collagen
Epigallocatechin gallate~0.3–0.75%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-agingEvens skin toneAnti-blemishMoisturizing

A polyphenol found in tea. This particular compound abbreviated EGCG is the most powerful antioxidant among those extracted from tea (usually green tea). Unfortunately, EGCG is unstable, requires a low pH (below 4) to prevent quick degradation, and does not penetrate the skin very well. This is why the full anti-oxidant effect of EGCG is typically not realized when it is added to topical skincare

More about Epigallocatechin gallate
Caprylyl glycol~0.45–1%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol
Phenoxyethanol~0.1–0.35%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Sodium hydroxide~0.05–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the product's pH

More about Sodium hydroxide
Ingredient list view

Propanediol, Water, Ascorbic acid, Gluconolactone, Acetyl dipeptide-31 amide, Chrysanthemum parthenium extract, Hydrolyzed collagen, Epigallocatechin gallate, Caprylyl glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium hydroxide

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Amazon USPrice as of 11/10 21:22 GMT
$19.97
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Neutrogena0.5 Fl. Oz
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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
NeutrogenaCollagen Bank 15% Vitamin C Glow SerumYOUR PRODUCTNEOSTRATAEnlighten Serum 15% Vitamin C + PHAThe Garden Of WisdomNatural Majik Vitamin C, E, White Peony Tea SerumECO Tanhttps://ecotan.com.au/products/serum-of-plenty
Match—100%86%83%
Price$19.97$53.60+$33.63$15.25−$4.72—
Shared key ingredients—3 of 42 of 42 of 4
Key difference——Ferulic AcidGlycerin
Irritancy Medium Low Low Medium
Drying alcohol————
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Product summary

"Neutrogena - Collagen Bank 15% Vitamin C Glow Serum" is effective for: Exfoliation, Evens skin tone and Anti-aging

This product could be helpful for: Moisturizing, but its actives are not the most effective or are not well-studied.

Ingredient callouts

  • This product contains acids (gluconolactone 3.30% - 5.00%). Their concentration is low, and they will not have a strong exfoliating effect. Instead, they work to support the skin natural acid mantle and to attract water (as humectants). PHAs (gluconolactone) especially are great for improving skin hydration. They might be even able to stimulate the production of skin's natural humectants and support the healthy skin microbiome.
  • This product also contains Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) 5.30% - 8.00% It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production, neutralizing free radicals in skin and improving pigmentation marks. We recommend to use up this product quickly after opening: Ascorbic Acid degrades fast when it gets in contact with air and light. The moment the product turns orange, it is a sign that a significant share of the vitamin C in it is no longer effective.
  • Humectants (hydrolyzed collagen 1.60% - 2.40%). These ingredients help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and improve the skin hydration.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 14 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    A comparative study of gluconolactone versus benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acnencbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. 2
    The Polyhydroxy Acid Gluconolactone Protects Against Ultraviolet Radiation in an In Vitro Model of Cutaneous Photoagingonlinelibrary.wiley.com
  3. 3
    Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivityncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. 4
    The efficacy of glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene vs adapalene monotherapy in mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris: a double-blinded within-person comparative studydovepress.com
  5. 5
    A polyhydroxy acid skin care regimen provides antiaging effects comparable to an alpha-hydroxyacid regimenncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. 6
    The use of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) in photoaged skin
Neutrogena Collagen Bank 15% Vitamin C Glow Serum
NeutrogenaCollagen Bank 15% Vitamin C Glow Serum
Buy on Amazon$19.97 · as of 11/10 21:22 GMT

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

Buy on Amazon$19.97 · as of 11/10 21:22 GMT

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.